नेशनल बोर्ड फॉर वाइल्डलाइफ की स्टैंडिंग कमेटी की 47वीं बैठक के मिनट्स, 25/01/2018

Government of India Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (Wildlife Division) 6th Floor, Vayu Wing

Indira Paryavaran Bhawan Jor Bag Road, Aliganj New Delhi 110 003 F.No. 6-4/2018 WL

Date: 07.02.2018

To All Members Standing Committee of NBWL

Sub: Minutes of 47th Meeting of the Standing Committee of NBWL- reg.

Sir/Madam, Kindly find enclosed copy of the Minutes of 47th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 25th January 2018 at 01.00 PM in Teesta Conference Hall, I Floor, Vayu Block, Indira Paryavaran Bhavan, New Delhi under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Yours faithfully,

(Dr. Pasupala Ravi) Scientist C E-mail: ddwlmef@gmail.com

Encl: As above
Distribution

(1) Secretary, MoEF&CC (2) DGF&SS, MoEF&CC (3) Member Secretary, NTCA (4) ADGF(FC), MoEF&CC (5) ADGF(WL), MoEF&CC (6) Director, WII, Dehradun (7) Director, GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, Gujarat (8) Prof. R. Sukumar, Member, NBWL (9) Dr. H.S. Singh, Member, NBWL (10) Pr. Secretary (Dept. of Envi., Forest, Science & Tech.), Govt. of Andhra Pradesh

Copy to (1) PS to Hon’ble MoEF&CC (2) PPS to DGF&SS, MoEF&CC (3) PPS to Addl.DGF(WL), Member Secretary, NBWL (4) PPS to IGF(WL)/PS to DIG(WL)/PS to JD(WL)

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The 47th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife was held of 25th January 2018 in the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change. List of participants is at ANNEXURE- I. Hon’ble Chairman welcomed all the participants to the 47th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife and asked the DIGF(WL) to initiate the discussions on the Agenda Items.

AGENDA ITEM No. 1 Confirmation of the minutes of the 46th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 8th December 2017 The DIGF(WL) mentioned that the minutes of the 46th meeting of the Standing Committee of NBWL held on 8th December 2017 were circulated to all members of the Standing Committee on 4th January 2017. He stated that no comments / suggestions were received and accordingly the minutes of 46th meeting were confirmed.

AGENDA ITEM No. 2 (ACTION TAKEN REPORT)

40.3.2.2 Proposal for bauxite mining lease area 206.37 ha at village Talagaon in Taluka Radhanagari and village Baveli in Taluka Gaganbawada, Dist Kolhapur, Maharashtra The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the Order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 24.04.2016 and 06.09.2016 wherein the Standing Committee of NBWL was directed to consider the proposal on its merits in accordance with law and intimate decision to the petitioners. He stated that the Standing Committee of NBWL in its 42nd meeting held on 15.05.2017 had decided that the Secretary, MoEF&CC would convene a meeting of project MINUTES OF 47th MEETING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF NATIONAL BOARD FOR WILDLIFE HELD ON 25th JANUARY 2018

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proponent, State Government and NTCA to take a decision on the proposal. A meeting in this regard was held on 2nd August 2017 under the Chairmanship of Secretary, MoEF&CC. It was decided that a committee comprising of DIG(NTCA), DIG(WL), representative from IA Division and a representative of Maharashtra Govt., in the presence of project proponent would visit the site and submit a report within 15 days from the date of issue of letter from the Wildlife Division. The Committee visited the site and submitted site inspection report.
The Committee report has mentioned that at Durgmanwadi located adjoining the Radhanagri Wildlife Sanctuary, bauxite mining has been in operation by M/s. Hindalco Industries since 1994. The said unit has been operating without obtaining Wildlife Clearance from the National Board for Wildlife. Another unit of M/s. Hindalco Industries located in village Dhangarwadi, mines of M/s. Bhartesh Constructions Co., located in Sahuwadi, M/s. Shivram Minerals located in Shahuwadi and M/s. Pandirao Mines & Minerals have been operating in the landscape at different distances from the connecting corridor between Chandoli National Park and Radhanagri Sanctuary without obtaining Wildlife Clearance from the National Board for Wildlife. The proposed site of M/s. Punthembikar Minerals is located at a distance of 2.26 km from the boundary of Radhanagri Sanctuary and is at 5.88 km away from the edge of the indicative corridor mentioned above.
After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the bauxite mining proposal of M/s. Punthembikar Minerals. Further, the Committee asked the State Govt. of Maharashtra to initiate immediate action against the mining units operating without obtaining the Wildlife Clearance from the National Board for Wildlife.

46.3.1 Order of the Hon’ble High Court of Madras, Madurai bench dated 22-08-2017 in Writ Petition (MD) No. 7349/2016 and Writ Petition (MD) No. 6174 of 2016 regarding stone quarries operating near Megamalai Wildlife Sanctaury

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the Order of the Hon’ble High Court of Madras, Madurai bench and stated that the District Collector, Theni District of Tamil Nadu forwarded the representations of the petitioners to the Standing Committee of NBWL. The Hon’ble High Court directed the Standing Committee to pass suitable orders within a period of 4

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weeks and intimate decision to the petitioners. He mentioned that the proposal involves the extension of mining lease of the petitioners (two associations by name Sangili Karadu Kalludaikkum Mahalir Nala Sangam and K K Patty Kalludaikkum Mahalir Nala Sangam) for stone quarry in 2.50 ha, each in Kamayagoundapatty village, Uthamapalayam Taluk, Theni District. The mines are located within 5 km from the boundary of Megamalai WLS and require the recommendation of the Standing Committee of NBWL as part of Environmental Clearance.
The proposal was considered by the Standing Committee in its 46th meeting held on 8th December 2017. Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that this Ministry’s letter vide dated 17.10.2017, has requested the State CWLW to furnish his comments. However, so far no response has been received. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

46.3.2 Judgement of the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal, Chennai dated 24-10-2017 in Appeal no. 30 of 2015( SZ) titled Bimal Gogoi & Anr. vs. Union of India & Ors

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the Order of the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal, Chennai and stated that the 1750 MW Demwe Lower project, proposed to be constructed in the Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh, is being executed jointly by Athena Energy Ventures and the State Government of Arunachal Pradesh. The Environment Clearance to the project was granted by MoEF&CC in 2010 and the project site is 8.5 km from the Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary. The Standing Committee of NBWL in its 23rd Meeting held on 14th October 2011 wherein it was decided that a site inspection be carried out by Dr Asad Rahmani, Member NBWL and Shri Pratap Singh, CCF(WL), Arunachal Pradesh. After site inspection, two different reports were submitted to the Standing Committee of NBWL. The matter was thereafter considered by the Standing Committee in its 24th meeting held on 13th December 2011, wherein it was decided that The Chairperson thanked the non-official members for their comments, and also the State Government officials for their comments and clarifications. She further said that she will look into all the comments and views of the members of the committee, and then take an appropriate decision on the agenda item. She, however, remarked that the matter could not be delayed any further. The proposal was subsequently approved by the Chairperson, Standing Committee of NBWL with conditions. However the Forest Clearance of the project was challenged in the

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National Green Tribunal. Hon’ble National Green Tribunal, Chennai bench in its judgment dated 24-10-2017 in Appeal no. 30 of 2015 (SZ) titled Bimal Gogoi & Anr. vs. Union of India & Ors. directed that
In the absence of any reason but only to reject the majority of the non-official members who happened to be experts in the field….we have no hesitation to hold that the decision of the minister as if it is the decision of the Standing Committee of NBWL, which forms the basis of the granting of FC in this case under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, is not sustainable in law. The Hon’ble National Green Tribunal has directed the Standing Committee of NBWL to reconsider the issue and pass appropriate orders within six months. Until then, Stages I and II Forest Clearances issued in March 2012 and May 2013 respectively and the consequential order of the State Government allowing diversion of 1415.92 ha forest land for the hydel project, would stand suspended.
Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that in the 46th meeting, it was decided by the Standing Committee that a Committee comprising of Prof R Sukumar, Member NBWL, one representative of WII and one representative of NTCA would visit the site and submit the detailed report to the Ministry within 30 days for further consideration. However, Prof. R. Sukumar informed through e-mail about his inability to conduct site inspection and requested to nominate another member for the site inspection.
After discussions, the Standing Committee decided that the Director, GEER Foundation, Member NBWL, would replace Prof. R Sukumar in the aforesaid Committee and requested it to complete site inspection and submit a detailed report to the Ministry within 30 days for further consideration.

46.4.1.21 Construction of third railway track including electrification, signaling and telecommunication between Barkhera km 789.430 to Budni km 770.040 passing through Ratapani WLS in Districts Raisen and Sehore The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal involves the diversion of 268.27 ha (100.54 ha forestland + 4.2 ha non-forestland from Ratapani WLS and 108.42 ha of forestland + 55.11 ha of revenue land from Sehore Forest Division) for the construction of third railway track including electrification, signaling and

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telecommunication between Barkhera (789.430 km) to Budni (770.040 km). The project would improve the transportation facility in the State.
Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that in the 46th meeting of the Standing Committee, it was
decided that a Committee comprising of a non-official member of NBWL, one representative of WII and one representative of NTCA would visit the site and submit the detailed report to the Ministry within 30 days for further consideration. However the Site Inspection Report has not been received. Consequently, the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

AGENDA ITEM No. 3 47.3. Court Matters and Policies 47.3.1. Order of the Hon’ble High Court of Madras dated 27-10-2017 in Writ Petition nos. 26106 to 26108 of 2017 title A. Gopinath vs. Union of India & Ors, Gopinath granite quarry operating near Cauvery wildlife sanctuary

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the Order of the Hon’ble High Court of Madras and mentioned that the said Court has directed the Secretary, MoEF&CC to consider the application of the petitioner dated 12.01.2016 for seeking Wildlife Clearance on merits and in accordance with law within a period of 8 weeks and intimate decision to the petitioners. He also stated that the granite quarries are located within 10 km deemed ESZ from the boundary of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in Hosur Division Krishnagiri District of Taminlnadu and require the recommendation of the Standing Committee of NBWL as part of Environment Clearance. The online application of the petitioner seeking Wildlife Clearance from the Standing Committee of NBWL dated 12.01.2016 has been pending at the State level.
Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that this Ministry’s letters vide dated 24.11.2017 and 18.12.2017 has requested the State CWLW to furnish his comments in Part IV. However, no response has been received from the State Government. Consequently, the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

47.3.2. De-notification of Abubshehar Wildlife Sanctuary, District Sirsa

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee and stated that the Standing Committee of NBWL in its 31st meeting had recommended the de-notification of Abubshehar Wildlife

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Sanctuary, District Sirsa with the condition that it be notified as a Community Reserve. However the Hon’ble Supreme Court vide order dated 13.11.2000 directed that no de-reservation of forest / Sanctuaries / National Parks shall be effected. In the pursuance of the said order, any proposal for diversion of forestland from Sanctuaries & National Parks used to seek final approval from the Hon’ble Supreme Court. The DIGF(WL) stated that the State Government had filed an Interim Application no. 186 & 187 of 2015 in W.P.( C) 337/1995, which the Hon’ble Supreme Court disposed of vide its order dated 05.10. 2015 and referred the matter again to the Standing Committee of NBWL. As per Section 26 (A) (3) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, no alteration of the boundaries of a sanctuary shall be made by the State Government except on a recommendation of the National Board for Wildlife. The said proposal is placed again before the Standing Committee for its kind information.

47.3.3. Hon’ble Supreme Court order dated 19-01-2018 in Writ Petition (C) no. 275 of 2015
titled Vidya Athreya & Anr. Vs. Union of India Ors

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the above cited case wherein, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change is made respondent no. 1 and the National Board for Wildlife is made respondent no. 21, it has directed this Ministry and NBWL to look into the suggestions of the petitioners. The petition is highlighting the issue of absence of an effective policy and programme to save critically endangered species like Great Indian Bustards, snow leopards, the Himalayan Brown Bear and Indian wolves, which are on the verge of extinction. The petition has requested the apex court to formulate a policy on protecting wildlife outside Protected Areas (National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves) and reducing human – wildlife conflict and to constitute an expert committee to make recommendations w.r.t. restoring the population of critically endangered species and for the purpose of ensuring the protection and preservation of wildlife outside Protected Areas.

The Petitioner had handed over a list of suggestions under five heads: (a) Human-animal conflict, (b) Securing of elephant corridors to minimize human - elephant conflict, (c) Mitigation

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measures for reducing animal deaths on roads/highways, (d) Animal deaths due to electrocution, and (e) Recovery plans for critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB). Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that Hon’ble Supreme Court has asked the Standing Committee of NBWL to consider the suggestions of the petitioner referred in its order dated 19.01.2018. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided that a Committee chaired by the ADGF(WL) and comprising of representative of WII, representative of NTCA, two PCCFs of
States where human - wildlife conflict is maximum and IGF(WL) as member secretary would consider the suggestions of the petitioner and submit a report to the Ministry within two months for further consideration.

47.3A. Agenda Items Proposed by Dr H S Singh, member NBWL 47.3A1. Monitoring Terms and Conditions Mentioned while Approving Projects The DIGF(WL) briefed the Committee and stated that the Standing Committee of NBWL considers and recommends the developmental activities / projects inside the Protected Areas along with site specific mitigation measures to safeguard the interest of wildlife. During the field visits by different Committees constituted by the Standing Committee of NBWL, it has been observed that such projects were implemented without implementing some of the terms and conditions. In other words, the interests of wildlife conservation were ignored sometimes intentionally. The conservationists are of the view that the Protected Areas (PAs) have suffered due to sanctioning of the developmental projects inside the PAs in the recent years while the project proponents ignored the conditions mentioned for protection of wildlife while recommending the projects.
Dr. H S Singh, Member, NBWL was of considered view that there is a need to establish a mechanism of monitoring to ensure that the development activities / projects are taken up inside the Protected Areas only after implementing the terms and conditions. In the background of this fact, it is necessary to develop a format of the certificate from the Chief Wildlife Wardens of the States for each project for fulfilling the terms and conditions as mentioned in the approval before implanting the project. It should be mandatory for submitting the certificate for each such project by the State Chief Wildlife Warden in time so that the interests of wildlife are secured fully.

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The Member Secretary, NBWL mentioned that in case of diversion of forestland for non- forestry uses and in case of Environmental Clearances a condition is being stipulated that annual compliance report of the compliance of the stipulated conditions shall be submitted by the user agency. Further in the green portal of the Ministry software is under development which will help in monitoring the implementation of terms and conditions stipulated in approval / recommendations given under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980, Environmental (Protection) Act 1986 and Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided that in the online of approval / recommendations given under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980, Environmental (Protection) Act 1986 and Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 a condition should be stipulated that annual compliance report on the stipulated conditions shall be submitted by the user agency to the State CWLW.

47.3A2. Strengthening the Network of Protected Areas The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee and stated that India has constituted about 4.9 % of the total terrestrial land and inland waters under the network of Protected Area (including MPA) under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 which is far below the Aichi Target of 17 % of the terrestrial land. Some of the states such as Uttar Pradesh (2.4 %), Rajasthan (2.8 %), Jharkhand (2.7 %), West Bengal (3.2 %), Bihar (3.4 %), Madhya Pradesh (3.5 %), Tamil Nadu (4.1 %) and some others have contribution less than the national average to the Network of Projected Area. These States may be requested to achieve the average national target (at least 5 % of their geographical area) under the four categories of Protected Area. If it is not possible to declare area under National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary, adequate areas should be covered under Conservation Reserve and Community Reserve to achieve the target.
Dr H S Singh stated that it may not be possible to achieve Aichi target of Protected Area by 2020 in India due to high population but the country should aim to reach at least the half of the target. The Member suggested to create more Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves with the participation of local people in the States / UTs to achieve Aichi target of Protected Area by 2020 in India due to high population but the country should aim to reach at least the half of the target.

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After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that Ministry would issue an advisory to States / UTs to make sincere efforts to declare more Conservation and Community Reserves and progress made in this regard would be reviewed by the Standing Committee periodically.

47.3A3. Creating Network of Marine Protected Areas The DIGF(WL) requested Dr. H S Singh, Member, NBWL to brief the Standing Committee on the policy item.
Dr H S Singh stated that at present about 0.3 % of EEZ is under Marine Protected Areas (MPA) in India, which is far below the Aichi Target of 10%. Some of the critical marine area within Territorial Water of India can be considered for declaring as sanctuaries whereas a large marine area can be covered under Conservation Reserve. Conservation Reserve does not restrict activities such as fisheries, navigation, activities of Navy and other sustainable industrial development. In fact declaring area of EEZ or Continental Shelf under Conservation Reserve may strengthen sovereign power of the country. The imminent scientists, institutions may be engaged to identify such areas for considering for declaring MPAs. After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that the Ministry would issue an advisory to the States / UTs to make sincere efforts to explore possibilities of bringing more marine areas under Conservation Reserves to conserve and protect the marine biodiversity with peoples’ participation.

47.3A4. Wildlife Passage Plan with a Proposal of Linear Projects (roads, canal and railway) Dr. H S Singh, Member, NBWL while briefing the Standing Committee about this agenda mentioned that high speed and multiple lane roads, wide canals and railways lines not only cause deaths of animals however they also block wildlife movement completely thereby fragmenting the habitat. The nature of the linear projects is changing fast, leaving no scope of movement of wildlife from one side to other. In some cases, it is impossible for wild animals and reptiles to cross high speed multiple lane roads or wide canals. Practically, such linear projects fragment habitats totally, blocking genetic flow of the fauna in the nature. Over a period, such projects cause loss or extinction of the wildlife. Any linear proposal for approval by the Standing

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Committee of NBWL should invariably contain a master plan for passage of the wildlife. Although WII, Dehradun has prepared the guidelines on mitigation measures for linear infrastructure passing through Protected Areas and some of the proposals mention passage plan however these are not adequate or perfect. The project proponent always tries to avoid such components in the plan to minimize expenditure, although the cost of the passage plan is small fraction of the total cost of the project. The size of wildlife passage should be adequate so that wild animal cross the site without fear and hesitation. The society still does not accord importance to wildlife which is against the principle of sustainable development. In the background of this fact, every such proposal should contain one page passage plan with location of wildlife passages on map, duly examined on the ground and approved by the State Chief Wildlife Warden. The Director, Wildlife Institute of India intimated that the guidelines named “Eco-friendly Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Linear Infrastructures on Wildlife” provides required modifications in the infrastructure designs to mitigate the impact of the infrastructure on the wildlife. After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that in future when user agencies involved in linear infrastructure development should take in to consideration the advisory made in the guidelines of the Wildlife Institute of India while designing the linear infrastructures inside the Protected Areas, notified ESZ area around PAs. Hence linear infrastructure proposals would be accompanied by an animal passage plan, if required, by the project proponent on the basis of these Wildlife Institute of India guidelines and in consultation with the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

47.3B. Agenda Items Proposed by Prof. R Sukumar, member NBWL 47.3B1. Policy Framework on Wildlife-Human Conflicts

The DIGF(WL) stated that Prof R Sukumar, Member of NBWL has proposed a policy agenda wherein he desired to have a deliberation on policy framework on wildlife - human conflicts. It has been mentioned that the conflict has been escalating in recent years due to a complex set of factors including habitat transformation, land use change outside forests, adverse climate events, behavioral ecology of animals, etc. It has been requested that a sub-committee of members which can hold wider consultative meeting for preparing policy document on the

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framework of wildlife - human conflicts and frame the guidelines to implement Landscape Conservation. After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that the Committee chaired by the ADGF(WL) and comprising of representative of WII, representative of NTCA, two PCCFs of States where human - wildlife conflict is maximum and IGF(WL) as the Member Secretary, constituted in agenda item 47.3.3, would also hold wider consultation with different stakeholders
and submit a report to the Ministry within two months for further consideration.

47.3B2. Policy Framework on Landscape Scale Conservation The DIGF(WL) stated that Prof R Sukumar, Member, NBWL has proposed a Policy Agenda wherein he desired to have a deliberation on landscape level conservation. The member has stressed the need to shift from protected area centric approach to landscape based conservation. It has been requested that a sub-committee of members may hold wider consultation with different stakeholders for preparing policy document on landscape scale conservation. After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that the Committee chaired by ADGF(WL) and comprising of representative of WII, representative of NTCA, two PCCFs of
States where human wildlife conflict is maximum and IGF(WL) as the Member Secretary constituted in Agenda Item 47.3.3 would also hold wider consultation on landscape scale conservation with different stakeholders and submit a report to the Ministry within two months for further consideration.

47.3C. Policy Item Proposed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change 47.3C1. Review of procedure adopted by the State Board for Wildlife It was briefed the Standing Committee that Section 6 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
provides for constitution of the State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) with the Chief Minister of the State or Administrator of the UT as its chairperson. Section 7 provides that at least two meetings of the board should be held per year. However as per the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s directions the proposals for development projects falling within Eco-sensitive Zones of the Pas shall also be

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referred to the NBWL through SBWL. This has increased the flow of proposals to the SBWL and NBWL. Keeping this fact in mind there is a need to adopt a mechanism which can ensure speedy disposal of the proposals by these boards. Unlike NBWL no provision has been made in the Act to constitute the Standing Committee to assist the SBWL. However, Section 7 (2) of The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 confers powers upon the State Board for Wildlife to regulate its own procedure (including the quorum). Some States have utilized this provision to adopt a mechanism to expedite the disposal of proposals. Further the ADGF(WL) mentioned that the States / UTs may use this provision to constitute the Standing Committee for State Board for Wildlife and other procedure related matters. Some Members were of the view that while utilizing the provision of the Act for expediting the disposal of the work it should be ensured by the State Government that regular meetings of the SBWL are held as per the provision of the Act.
After the discussions, the Standing Committee decided that an advisory may be issued to States / UTs to make use of this statutory provision under Section 7 (2) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for devising a mechanism which can expedite the disposal of the proposals and while such mechanism is devised it should be ensured that regular meetings of the SBWL, at least at the frequency prescribed in the Act, are held to discuss the outstanding policy issues related to wildlife in the stands. Hon’ble Minister, EF&CC will write to all State Chief Ministers and DGF&SS will write to all the CWLWs in this regard.

47.3C2. Strengthening of existing highways includes the change of surface of roads The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee and mentioned that the Standing Committee in its 28th meeting had constituted a sub-committee chaired by Dr M K Ranjitsinh to frame Guidelines for roads in Protected Areas. Based on the recommendations of the Sub- Committee, Ministry issued Guidelines for roads in Protected Areas vide its letter dated 22.12.2014. In the said Guidelines it was mentioned that for resurfacing and strengthening of existing roads, project proposals need not be referred to the Standing Committee of NBWL.
However, cases of widening of existing roads would need to be placed before the Standing Committee. It is clear that that there exists a dichotomy between two. After discussions, the Standing Committee was of the view that there appears to be no dichotomy in the guidelines. In case of resurfacing and strengthening the existing roads no additional land of the PA is required and therefore provision is made for not referring the

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proposals to the Standing Committee of the NBWL. On other hand in case of widening of the existing roads diversion of additional land of PA is involved. Therefore approval of the Standing Committee of NBWL has been made mandatory. However in view of recent developments in evolving of the mitigative measures for linear infrastructures inside PA done by the Wildlife Institute of India there is a need to review these guidelines.

AGENDA ITEM No. 4 47.4.1 Proposals within 10 km from the boundaries of Protected Areas 47.4.1.1 Rehabilitation and up-gradation of NH-12A from Design Ch.191.422 to 242.300 (Chilpi - Kawardha, Section Package I), Kabirdham District project involves the change of land use of 4.00 ha of revenue land from the Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary for the rehabilitation and upgradation of NH-12A from Chilpi to Kawardha (Cha.191.422 to Cha. 242.300). This project will improve the existing transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal without imposing conditions. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the condition that the Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost and standard mitigation measures suggested by the by the WII in its document named “Eco-friendly Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Linear Infrastructures on Wildlife” should be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.2 Proposal for construction of Ekal - Bambhanka road

project involves the diversion of 23.40 ha of forestland from the Kutch Desert Sanctuary for the construction of road from Ekal to Bambhanka (Cha. 45/00 to Cha. 64.500 km). This project will improve the existing transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:

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[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section 9, 17, 27, 29, 30, 31 & 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Acct, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Kutch Desert Sanctuary. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Kutch Desert Sanctuary. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Kutch Desert Sanctuary. [6] All the material required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the daytime from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit NPV for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall create a speed breaker at a distance of every 500 m. [11] The User Agency shall create underpasses /overpasses at strategic locations in consultation with an as per approval by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the CWLW with the condition that Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost and standard mitigation measures suggested by the by the WII in its document named “Eco-friendly Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Linear Infrastructures on Wildlife” should be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.3
Proposal for widening of existing Kheroj – Ambaji road and making it four lane road

project involves the diversion of 12.2407 ha of forestland from the Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary for widening of existing 2-lane road to 4-lane road from Kheroj to Ambaji. This project will

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improve the existing transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The user agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section 9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. [2] The user agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary. [3] The user agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The user agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Wild Ass Sanctuary. [5] The user agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Wild Ass Sanctuary.
[6] All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The user agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The user agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work.

be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.4 Proposal for change of surface of Gidardi – Bhaniya road

project involves the diversion of 3.45 ha of forestland from the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary for the upgradation of existing metal road by laying B T road from Gidardi to Bhaniya (Cha. 12/400 km

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to 14/00 km). This project will improve the existing transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary.
[6] All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall create a speed breaker at a distance of every 500 m.

be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.5 Proposal for change of surface of Sadaddevi – Kalaamba road

project is for the upgradation of existing metal road by laying B T road from Sadaddevi to Kalaamba of 2.10 km length and 3 m width passing through the Vansada National Park. This

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project will improve the existing transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17, 27, 29, 30, 31 & 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Acct, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Vansada National Park. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Vansada National Park. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Vansada
National Park. [6] All the material required for the work shall be prepared outside the National Park. [7] The work in the National Park will be allowed only in the daytime from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit NPV for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall create a speed breaker at a distance of every 250 m.

be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.6 Proposal for laying of Bhaniya – Gidardi electric line project involves the diversion of 3.71 ha from the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of 11 KV transmission line from Gidardi to Bhaniya. The project would provide electricity to the

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households and for irrigation purpose in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary.
[6] All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work.

After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal for laying 11 KV transmission line of coated aerial bunch cable along with the conditions and mitigation measures imposed by the State CWLW with the condition that Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost and standard mitigation measures suggested by the by the WII in its document named “Eco-friendly Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Linear Infrastructures on Wildlife” should be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.7 Proposal for repair and strengthening of 66 KV Vansda-Waghai transmission line project is for the strengthening of existing 66 KV transmission line of 3.043 km from Vansada to Waghai passing through Vansada National Park. The project would provide electricity to the households and for irrigation purpose in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:

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[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17, 27, 29, 30, 31 & 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Acct, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Vansada National Park. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Vansada National Park. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Vanasda National Park. [6] All the material required for the work shall be prepared outside the National Park. [7] The work in the National Park will be allowed only in the daytime from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit NPV for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work.

be adopted by the user agency.

47.4.1.8 Proposal for laying of underground natural gas pipeline project involves the diversion of 5.675 ha from Wild Ass Sanctuary for underground laying of 35ʺ dia underground natural gas pipeline from Chotila of Surendranagar District to Anjar in Kachchh District. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The user agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 & 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

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[2] The user agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Wild Ass Sanctuary. [3] The user agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted. [4] The user agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Wild Ass Sanctuary. [5] The user agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Wild Ass Sanctuary.
[6] All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The user agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The user agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work.

the project.

47.4.1.9 Proposal for change of surface of Dhulda – Girmal road

project is for the strengthening by laying B T surface on existing forest road from Dhulda to Girmal of length 8.80 km and width 3.75 m passing through the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The User Agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section-9, 17, 27, 29, 30, 31 & 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Acct, 1972. [2] The User Agency shall not harm or destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. [3] The User Agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted.

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[4] The User Agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. [5] The User Agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. [6] All the material required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary. [7] The work in the National Park will be allowed only in the daytime from 8 AM to 6 PM. [8] Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland. [9] The User Agency shall deposit NPV for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates. [10] The User Agency shall create a speed breaker at a distance of every 500 m.

be adopted by the user agency in consultation with the CWLW.

47.4.1.10 Laying of ±320 kv HVDC underground power cable from Vadakkancherri to Thrissur

project involves the diversion of 0.098 ha forestland from the Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary for underground laying of power cable of 12ʺ diameter of length of 490 m and width of 2 m from Vadakkancherri to Thrissur. The project would provide electricity to the households and for irrigation purpose in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the condition that the project proponent would construct rail fence barrier in the stretch that is falling in the Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.

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the project cost and standard mitigation measures should be adopted by the user agency in consultation with the CWLW.

47.4.1.11 Construction of 27.5 km double railway line and its electrification in Katni – Singrauli Section of Sanjay Tiger Reserve

project involves the diversion of 27.5 ha of forestland from the Sanjay Tiger Reserve for the construction of railway line from Katni to Singrauli of length of 27.5 km and width of 10 m (km 1203/5 to km 1231/0). This proposed project would improve the railway connectivity in the State. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The project proponent shall ensure that minimum vehicular movement is done. Any consignment above 2.5 MT would be routed through railway line and not through road of the reserve. [2] No damage should be caused to flora and fauna of the said area by the project proponent. [3] During construction, the user agency shall not use noisy machinery. [4] The entire electric supply shall be insulated and with cable so as to avoid any electric shock. The electric cables shall be overhead. [5] The contracting agency of the project property will strictly follow the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. [6] The user agency and / or contractor will not use the area of the sanctuary which is not included in the project for the movement, transpiration and any other purpose of the construction and maintenance of the project. [7] The User agency will take utmost care and precaution so that no damage is caused to wildlife. [8] 5% of the project cost corresponding to the area falling in the protected area would be paid by the use agency for the purpose of development of Sanjay Tiger Reserve. [9] Considering the national interest, permission for construction of only crossing section by laying two additional lines (72 m length + 5.3 m width of either side0 shall be allowed on forestland already diverted in favour of railways and handed over to them in 1969. [10] No additional forestland should be demanded / diverted for ancillary activities like approach roads, construction of building, etc.

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[11] The entire length of crossing section (720 m) should be suitably fenced at the cost of the project. [12] Additional requirement of underpasses assessed and reviewed by team of expert (WII) Dehradun should be provided for the movement of wild animals at the cost of the project. Location and design will be decided in construction with Filed Director of the Tiger Reserve. [13] To minimize death of wild animals due to rail hit, the speed of all trains passing through STR area must be restricted to 15 km inside the Sanjay Dubari Tiger Reserve. [14] Electronic surveillance (24 X 7) should be installed for monitoring of movement of wild animals over the entire length of railway lien passing through the Sanjay Dubari Tiger Reserve at the cost of the project. NTCA will extend necessary guidance for this purpose and their adherence and compliance is mandatory. [15] The train frequency / density of the said railway line should not be increased in the interest of wildlife conservation. [16] Signages should be installed on both sides of the track to pre-warn the train drivers at identified locations. [17] Railways should advice IRCTC / pantry car staff not to throw edible waste on railway track inside Sanjay Dubari Tiger Reserve areas. [18] A Wildlife Conservation Awareness Programme for passenger should be launched. [19] Periodic workshops for railway personnel should be organized to sensitize them on tiger / wildlife conservation. [20] The NPV as per the rates prescribed for the use of the forestland falling within the sanctuary will be deposited in CAMPA Account. [21] For Wildlife Conservation Tourist Awareness Programme in collaboration with the Railway Department, a corpus of rupees of 10 lakh is to be created to meet the annual expenses incurred towards above said Programmme. [22] Sanjay Dubari Tiger Reserve, Sidhi Signages / bill boards will be installed by the Railway Department at Madwas, Beohari and Katni Railway Station. [23] Make a provision in project for providing a four wheeler Scorpio vehicle for ensuring patrolling along the railway track. Further, the DIGF(WL) stated that the NTCA has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures:

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[1] Construction of the new railway track should be subject to detailed hydrological, topographical and soil surveys by independent agencies. The project proponent should ensure that no existing drainage is blocked due to the construction. [2] The Elephant Task Force Report of Government of India has identified various contributing factors to train hit deaths: ecological (food, water, shelter, vegetation and movement routes), physical (steep embankments and turning), and technical (train speed, frequency and time, unmanaged disposal of edible waste), and lack of awareness among drivers, passengers, and planners (Rangarajan et al.2010). These factors need to be taken into account while implementing the project. [3] Considering the conservation significance of the area, the chain link fencing in the stretch of 3 km (2.5 m in height (both sides) at sensitive locations are proposed by the railway authority in this project so as to minimize animal mortality. Also, there are already existing culverts/ bridges along the track for allowing flow of river water to enter inside the forest. The GPS locations of these culverts have been mapped on the Google map which is annexed as Annexure VII. However, the topographic features, maximum animal movement area (s) and the existing drainages must be of prime consideration for locating the structures on the ground. It is recommended that at least 30% of the proposed third track alignment in the stretch of 27.5 km passing through the tiger reserve should be under mitigation measures (proposed here) so as to enable animal crossings and minimize animal mortality. [4] The underpasses (in addition to the existing culverts/bridges) should be structured in a manner so that they have heights at least equal to their width, and openings that allow unobstructed view of habitat so as to maximize their use by wildlife at cost of Railways. Since Sanjay Dubri does not have elephant or gaur but there have been certain instances where the wild elephants have come from Chhattisgarh side, a minimum span of 50 m with a height of 7 m and a width of 5-8 m would work for the railway track passing through the areas of the tiger reserve. The 50 m span refers to clear open passageways excluding the support pillars (WII guidelines, 2016). [5] The presence of embankments to make the track level, and even ballast (1 or 2 feet) in flat areas makes it difficult for large animals such as tigers to get off the track quickly when a train approaches. In order to circumvent this, level- crossing type Crosswalk approaches including ramps (Figure 1) may be constructed in place (at an interval of every 2 km) where such animals regularly cross railway tracks at the cost of Railway (WII guidelines, 2016).

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The identification of locations for these types of crosswalks should be in construction with the tiger reserve management. However, these crosswalks should not be considered as an alternative to the proposed underpasses and they should be created in addition to the above mentioned mitigation structures. [6] To prevent large animals from being trapped in railway tracks between steep embankments, their entry into such areas should be discouraged by installing cattle proof barriers of reinforced fences (rail tracks are most suitable for use as fence posts) at locations with the tiger reserve management. This will funnel animal movement through proposed mitigation structures. [7] Technology aided surveillance system such as infra- red camera based e-Eye, seismic and wireless sensor based monitoring systems developed by IIT Delhi and WII Dehradun should be implemented for minimizing animal- rail collisions in the track. The sensors should be placed on both sides of the track in the accident prone areas and should emit warring signals when being approached by animals. The NTCA and Madhya Pradesh Forest Department have already applied e-Eye in Ratapani and the same technology should be replicated for this purpose at the cost of Railways. Incidents of train- animal collisions in many areas of the county (like Rajaji TR) have already been minimized by using these technologies. [8] Steps should be taken for enhancing the visibility of train drivers along sensitive sections by clearing vegetation, leveling mounds (under supervision of Forest Department) and putting solar- light posts at appropriate places. [9] A joint team comprising of watchmen of forest and railway departments (equipped with wireless sets) should patrol critical sections of the track (24 x 7 basis) and warn the train drivers whenever necessary. [10] A separate team needs to be engaged for disposing food waste and other garbage from the tracks regularly which otherwise might attract animals to approach the track. Care should be taken in planning water points’ creations near the track as this might draw more animal movements near the track. [11] Both attacking and exit Speed of the passenger and goods trains (especially at night) inside the forest area should be decided after technical deliberations with the Tiger reserve management/Forest Department.

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[12] Standardized signages should be erected at appropriate places along the track sensitizing the drivers and guards. Regular awareness training programs for loco pilots, guards, caterers and other railway officials should be organized in collaboration with the state Forest Department for sensitizing them about the measures need to be taken for averting accidents. [13] A joint patrolling team comprising of Railway Protection Force, tiger reserve management/MP Forest Department and officials from regional centers of Wildlife Crime Control Bureau Should regularly conduct surprise checking in the trains plying in between Katni to Singrauli passing through wildlife areas. [14] Construction work should be done during daytime (6 AM-6 PM) and no night camp of labors and contractor/ user agency officials should be allowed within 3 km from the forest area. User agency should also pay regular and sudden visits to the construction sites for monitoring these. [15] The Forest Department and user agency should ensure that the construction period within the stretch of the tiger reserve in kept minimal since construction work continued for a longer duration might completely decimate the wildlife populations in the area. Use of pre- fabricated structures is recommended wherever feasible. [16] Light and sound barriers should also be created along the railway as per WII’s recommendations (WII guidelines, 2016). [17] The NPV amount deposited by the user agency should be used for mitigating already existing railway track (if not done earlier) as per the guidelines prescribed above. [18] CWLW, Madhya Pradesh should constitute a monitoring committee comprising of forest officials of Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve, NTCA, WII, Indian Railway and IRCON representatives to supervise the compliance of the conditions laid in this report during various phases of project implementation. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the CWLW and the NTCA with the condition that Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost and standard mitigation measures suggested by the by the WII in its document named “Eco-friendly Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Linear Infrastructures on Wildlife” should be adopted by the user agency in consultation with the CWLW.

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47.4.1.12 Diversion of 4.922 ha in Warangal rural (4.4031 ha) and Mulugu Forest Divisions (0.409 ha) for JCR Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme - Package V - Execution of laying of 1700 mm Dia MS pipeline to carry 5 Cumecs discharge from Ramappa Tank near Palampet (V), Venkatapur (M) of Jayashankar District to irrigate 32500 acres in Narsampet and Mulugu Constituencies and feed water to Pakhala lake through Dubbavagu

project involves the diversion of 4.922 ha (0.409 ha forestland falling in Pakhal WLS, Mulugu Division + 4.153 ha forestland falling in Pakhal WLS, Warangal Division) of forestland from the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary for underground laying of 1700 mm dia M S pipeline to carry 5 cumecs discharge to irrigate 32500 acres in Narasampet and Mulugu Constituencies. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
A. Mulugu Division: [1] User Agency shall supply water to wild animals in the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary from the proposed pipelines during the dry summer months at the locations indicated by the DFO. [2] The User Agency shall clear minimum forest growth and fell of trees while executing the work. [3] The works shall be carried out manually without disturbing or damaging flora, fauna or habitat of the area. [4] Work shall be carried out from 6 .00 AM to 6.00 PM only. [5] The material for carrying out the proposed works shall be kept outside the wildlife sanctuary only. As and when required they should be carried to the site during execution only. [6] No labour camp should be established inside the sanctuary during the execution of the work. [7] The debris formed due to the execution of the works shall be taken away from the sanctuary on day-to-day basis. [8] The User Agency shall construct Masonry pillars to demarcate the proposed project area at every 25 meter interval.

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[9] The User Agency shall provide fund for implementing the Wildlife Mitigation Plan as follows:

[10] This amount of Rs. 20.00 lakh meeting the cost of implementing Wildlife Mitigation Plan should be deposited in the BIOSOT Account of Chief Wildlife Warden, Telangana in Andhra Bank, Secretariat Branch, Hyderabad.

B. Warangal Rural Division: [1] User Agency shall supply water to wild animals in the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary from the proposed pipelines during the dry summer months at the locations indicated by the DFO. [2] The User Agency shall clear minimum forest growth and fell of trees while executing the work. [3] The works shall be carried out manually without disturbing or damaging flora, fauna or habitat of the area. [4] Work shall be carried out from 6 .00 AM to 6.00 PM only. [5] The material for carrying out the proposed works shall be kept outside the wildlife sanctuary only. As and when required they should be carried to the site during execution only. [6] No labour camp should be established inside the sanctuary during the execution of the work. [7] The debris formed due to the execution of the works shall be taken away from the sanctuary on day-to-day basis. S.No. Activity Amount (Rupees in Lakh) 1 Developing water source by creation of mini percolation tank 2 Nos (@Rs. 1.00 lakh each duly supported by 2 bore wells which are energized by solar power (@5 lakh each per unit) 12.00 2 Planting of dry evergreen bushy species like Caesalpinia, bonduc, Phyllanthus reticulates, Zizyphus oenoplea, etc. all along the line of 1646.84 m stretch in 2 staggered rows (over the filled up soil of the excavated trench) with 2 x 1 m spacing which will help the small reptiles and birds of Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary with tentative unit costs is 1 lakh per km. 2.00 3 Developing natural grass land over 20 ha areas by uprooting unwanted weeds and showing native grass and legume seeds @ Rs. 0.15 lakh per ha. 3.00 4 Awareness, publicity regarding antiencroachment activities, importance of Wildlife Conservation and ecosystem services. 3.00 Total 20.00

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[8] The User Agency shall construct Masonry pillars to demarcate the proposed project area at every 25 meter interval. [9] The User Agency shall provide fund for implementing the Wildlife Mitigation Plan as follows:

[10] This amount of Rs. 45.00 lakh meeting the cost of implementing Wildlife Mitigation Plan should be deposited in the BIOSOT Account of Chief Wildlife Warden, Telangana in Andhra Bank, Secretariat Branch, Hyderabad. with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the State CWLW.

47.4.1.13 Diversion of 4.500 ha of forestland from Kedarnath Musk Deer WLS for the construction of Triugnarayan - Toshi motor road

project involves the diversion of 4.50 ha from the Kedarnath Musk Deer Wildlife Sanctuary for construction of motor road from Triugnarayan to Toshi. This project will improve the existing S.No. Activity Amount (Rupees in Lakh) 1 Developing water source by creation of mini percolation tank 2 Nos (@Rs. 1.00 lakh each duly supported by 2 bore wells which are energized by solar power (@5 lakh each per unit) 12.00 2 Planting of dry evergreen bushy species like Caesalpinia, bonduc, Phyllanthus reticulates, Zizyphus oenoplea, etc. all along the line of 12,459.96 m stretch in 2 staggered rows (over the filled up soil of the excavated trench) with 2 x 1 m spacing which will help the small reptiles and birds of Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary with tentative unit costs is 1 lakh per km. 13.00 3 Developing natural grass land over 40 ha areas by uprooting unwanted weeds and showing native grass and legume seeds @ Rs. 0.15 lakh per ha. 6.00 4 Awareness, publicity regarding antiencroachment activities, importance of Wildlife Conservation and ecosystem services. 10.00 5 Miscellaneous and unforeseen expenditure 4.00 Total 45.00

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transportation system in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal and mentioned that the proposed project is of public interest. with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the CWLW and with the condition that be adopted by the user agency in consultation with the CWLW.

47.4.1.14 (1) Electrification of Datmer under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi, Block -Mori (2) Electrification of Nuranu under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi, Block -Mori (3) Electrification of Hatwari – Estergard under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi,
Block - Mori (4) Electrification of Sewa under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi, Block - Mori (5) Electrification of Gangar, Pawani and Osla under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi, Block - Mori

The DIGF(WL) briefed the Standing Committee on the proposals and stated that the proposals involves the cumulative diversion of 6.23 ha of forestland from Govind Pashu Vihar National Park for the electrification of Datmer (of length 1.20 km), Nuranu (of length 2.82 km),
from Hatwari - Estergard (of length 2.89 km), Sewa (of length 0.6 km) and from Gangar - Pawani - Osla (of length 1.4 km) under Deen Dayal Upadhyaay Gram Jyoti Scheme. The project would provide electricity to the households and for irrigation purpose in the region. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal without imposing conditions and mentioned that the underground laying of electric lines should be explored as an alternative and more viable option than laying overhead wires. This would reduce felling and looping of trees and reduce the risk of accidental fire, electrocution of wildlife and possible future damage to the cables from falling branches and other reasons. The State CWLW requested the Standing Committee for an overhead laying of cable on tubular steel pole with 1 meter corridor.

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be adopted by the user agency in consultation with the CWLW.

47.4.2 Proposals for taking up activities within 10 km from the boundaries of Protected Areas 47.4.2.1 (1) Proposal for use of 4.50 ha land for mining activity within 10 km ESZ of
Kutch Desert Sanctuary (6.06 km away from the boundary) (2) Proposal for use of 4.50 ha land for mining activity within 10 km ESZ of Kutch Desert Sanctuary (6.17 km away from the boundary) (3) Proposal for use of 2.32 ha land for mining activity within 10 km ESZ of Kutch Desert Sanctuary (6.36 km away from the boundary) (4) Proposal for use of 4.50 ha land for mining activity within 10 km ESZ of Kutch Desert Sanctuary (5.99 km away from the boundary)

projects involve the mining of limestone on private revenue land of 4.5 ha, 4.5 ha, 2.32 ha and 4.5 ha respectively of Ratadiya village and are situated at the distances of 6.06 km, 6.17 km, 6.36 km, and 5.99 km respectively away from the boundary of Kutch Desert Sanctuary. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following conditions:
[1] The User Agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Kutch Desert Sanctuary. [2] The User Agency shall not take up any activity/dumping material/construction/filling of land in any manner which obstructs the natural flow of water. [3] The User Agency shall make permanent arrangement so that no polluted water enters sanctuary or any solid/liquid waste enters sanctuary area. [4] The User Agency will have to create 10 m wide green belt around mining area. [5] The User Agency shall prepare closure plan and ensure that the mining area is brought back to its original form on completion of mining activity. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the aforesaid four proposals along with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the State CWLW and if required Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost.

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47.4.2.2 Proposal for increasing capacity 1.25 to 3.00 MTPA of Bodali Daldali Bauxite Mines in Kawardha District located within 10 km of the Phen wildlife sanctuary

project involves increasing capacity of bauxite mine from 1.25 to 3.00 MTPA in Kawardha District located within 8.5 km of the Phen Wildlife Sanctuary (part of Kanha Tiger Reserve). He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal with the condition that the project proponent should ensure no damage to wildlife. The DIGF(WL) also stated that the NTCA has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures: [1] The mining operations shall not be permissible in the mining lease area of the entire Mundadar Village and Van Pahad Chhattan area, which is Van Nistar land of Mundadar Village & this area, may be acquired by the Forest Department for maintaining it for wildlife conservation purposes. [2] However, the mining Company can increase their capacity of production in other areas e.g. Rabda and Kesharmarda village with following conditions: [3] Since tiger corridor is on the Northern side of the mining lease area, development activities associated with mining should not be allowed towards Northern end of mining lease area. [4] The NPV amount deposited by the user agency should be used to manage and restore the weak links of the Kanha- Achanakmar Tiger reserve corridor. [5] No bio resources should be used from the neighbouring forests. [6] Laboures should strictly be prohibited from hunting. The mining company should be held responsible if poaching is reported by its labourer and personnel & necessary legal action shall be taken as per the provisions. [7] No labour settlements should be allowed in the forest. [8] No transportation or other infrastructure should be permitted to transverse the delineated Kanha- Achanakmar corridor. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the conditions and mitigation measures stipulated by the State CWLW and the NTCA with the condition that the Wildlife Mitigation Plan will be prepared and implemented by the CWLW / State Government at the project cost.

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47.4.2.3 Construction of Jetty along the west bank of Mattancherry Channel in Fort Kochi for Indian Coast Guard

project involves the construction of Jetty along the west bank of Mattancherry Channel in the Kochi Fort for Indian Coast Guard located at 3.3 km away from boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. He added that the proposal requires the recommendation of Standing Committee as part of Environment Clearance. He added that the State CWLW has recommended the proposal without imposing conditions. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal.

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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 1 Shri Harsh Vardhan
Hon’ble Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change

Chairman 2 Shri C K. Mishra, Secretary, MoEF&CC Member 3 Shri Siddhanta Das, DGF&SS, MoEF&CC Member 4 Shri Manmohan Singh Negi, ADGF(WL), MoEF&CC Member Secretary 5 Dr V B Mathur, Director, WII, Dehradun Member 6 Dr H S Singh, Member, NBWL Member 7 Shri R D Kamboj, Member, NBWL Member 8 Shri Debabrata Swain, ADGF, Member Secretary, NTCA Invitee 9 Shri Nishant Verma, DIGF, NTCA Invitee 10 Shri S S Bajaj, APCCF(WL), Chhattisgarh Invitee 11 Shri G V Reddy, APCCF & CWLW, Rajasthan Invitee 12 Shri D V S Khati, PCCF&CWLW, Uttarakhand Invitee 13 Shri V Saibaba, DFO, Andhra Pradesh Invitee 14 Shri S P Vashishth, DIGF(WL), MoEF&CC Invitee 15 Dr Pasupala Ravi, Scientist (WL), MoEF&CC Invitee

ANNEXURE I