राष्ट्रीय बोर्ड फॉर वाइल्डलाइफ की 13वीं बैठक की मिनट्स, 12 दिसंबर, 2008 को माननीय राज्य मंत्री (पर्यावरण और वन) के अध्यक्षता में

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Ministry of Environment and Forests Wildlife Section

Minutes of the 13th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 12th December, 2008 in Paryavaran Bhavan under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister of State(Forests and Wildlife.)

The 13th meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) was convened on 12th December, 2008 in Room No.403, Paryavaran Bhavan, under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister of State (Forests and Wildlife). A list of those who attended the meeting is enclosed.

At the outset, Hon’ble Chairman welcomed all the members. It was followed by discussion on the agenda items as follows :- Agenda Item No.1: Confirmation of the Minutes of the 12th meeting of Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 18th August, 2008

Member Secretary informed that in the last meeting, all decisions were taken unanimously and the same were reflected in the Minutes. However, the Secretariat has received two dissent notes viz; one from Dr. Divyabhanu Sinh Chavda and the other from Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh, Members, in connection with item No.3.3(iv) of the last meeting related to the Zinc Plant at Hardwar. Both the members have informed that approval of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was sought for Zinc Dust Plant followed by reconsideration of the same by the Standing Committee of NBWL in the next meeting. Member Secretary informed that it was not correct. In fact, this matter was discussed in detail for a very long time in the last meeting and at last the unanimous decision was to convey no objection of the Committee to the project with the observation that confirmation of CPCB should be obtained by the project proponents to the effect that there will be no pollution to air and water quality. There was no decision to call back the proposal for reconsideration of the Standing Committee. This decision was recorded in the minutes and both the members were informed in writing by the Secretariat of Standing Committee. But, Shri Divyabhanusinh Chavda had again reiterated his earlier stand. Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh who came to the meeting, at later stage, also reiterated his stand. However, after

2 clarification by the Member Secretary, the Committee unanimously confirmed the minutes of the last meeting without making any change. Agenda Item No.2: Action Taken report on the recommendations of the Standing

Committee of NBWL meeting held on 18th August, 2008. 2(3.2): Diversion of Tale Sanctuary for Lower Subhansri Hydro Electric Project by NHPC

While apprising the members about the discussions held in the last meeting, Member Secretary clarified that this proposal was already approved by the Standing Committee of NBWL in its meeting held on 6th May, 2003 with 12 conditions. However, the State Government has filed a Writ Petition in the Hon’ble Supreme Court to review two conditions viz; (i) Banning of upstream H.E. Projects on Subhansri River; and (ii) Declaration of whole catchment of Subhansri as Protected Area. Therefore, the deliberations were confined only to these two conditions. NHPC has already given in writing that present project was viable economically independent of other projects in the upstream of Subhansiri and State Government of Arunachal Pradesh has offered to declare 168 sq. kms of Reserve Forest as Sanctuary. Dr. Asad Rehmani, Member, informed that these conditions were reviewed by the inspecting team and it was agreed that any proposal in the upstream Subhansri river should be considered independently strictly on merits. However, minimum 500 sq. kms of reserved forests should be declared as Protected Area in consultation with Ministry of Environment and Forests. Responding to Dr. Rehmani, Shri Paliwal, Secretary (Power), Arunachal Pradesh, informed that a thread-bare analysis of the area was made by the State Government and it was found possible to declare only 168 sq. kms of the reserved forests as Sanctuary immediately. The rest of the area could not be declared as Sanctuary, because of implementation of Scheduled Tribes and Other Forests Dwellers (Recognition of Forests Rights) Act, 2006 and other constraints. Prof. Chander Kumar. Hon’ble M.P. stated that power was very important for a developing country like India and the clearance of the project has been delayed inordinately.
Dr. B. Talukdar, Member suggested that strict compliance of all the conditions given in the clearance must be made by NHPC. He also requested that the State of Assam was the

3 affected party and should be taken into confidence while clearing the project. On this, Member Secretary suggested that the mandate of the Committee was limited only for consideration of these two conditions against which State Government has approached Hon’ble Supreme Court

Observing that power was very important for developing country like India, inordinate delay in finalizing recommendation and need of conservation, Committee unanimously decided to recommend the proposal modifying the two conditions as follows :- i) Any proposal in the upper stream of Subhansri river would be considered independently on its merit by the Standing Committee as and when submitted by the proponents. ii) State Government would declare 168 sq. kms immediately as Sanctuary and make serious efforts to bring additional 332 sq km reserved forests under the category of Conservation Reserve in consultation with MoEF. The recommendation is subject to the compliance of all other conditions, which have been made in the clearance by Supreme Court as well as in the environmental clearance given by the Ministry.

3.3.21: Proposal for construction of new alignment of NH-1A from K.195.200 to Km 199.100 by NHAI in Jammu and Kashmir.

Member Secretary informed that this proposal could not be considered in the last meeting
due to want of opinion of Ministry of Law and Justice. Now, the opinion has been received and the Solicitor General of India has opined that the matter could be dealt with by the Standing Committee of NBWL.

CWLW, Jammu and Kashmir informed the Committee that it involved only 8.97 ha of the Conservation Reserve and was in no way causing any adverse impact on the wildlife. He also clarified that through this area a tunnel would be made and upper surface in long term will remain un affected. Considering the submissions of CWLW and the recommendation of the

4 Ministry of Law and Justice, Committee unanimously approved the proposal subject to the compliance of conditions made by CWLW, which are as follows:

The user agency should follow the Eco-Friendly Engineering Practices during construction. 2. User Agency should regularly monitor the ambient Air Quality and Noise Levels at the construction site and at two locations in the Conservation Reserve to be finalized with officials of the Department of Wildlife Protection monthly and should submit results to Department of Wildlife Protection. 3. The construction site should be covered from all the four sides which will reduce air pollution by windborne constructing material and reduce noise levels. 4. Regular Sprinkling of water should be carried out on site for dust suppression and construction material will be kept moist wherever possible. 5. User agency should while implementation of Environment Management Plan abide by the orders issued by Court and follow provisions of Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Act 1978 (Amended 2002). 6. National Highway Authority of India will report compliances regularly to Department of wildlife Protection. 7. Local People should be given preference in employment to minimize the impact on Wildlife due to influx of people. 8. All the staff involved in the construction will be informed about the do’s and don’t in Jawahar Tunnel Conservation Reserve. 9. Environment monitoring committee should be formed consisting of NHAI’s representative and wildlife officials under the chairmanship of Regional Wildlife Warden. 10. No construction debris or Muck generated due to the construction of road and Tunnel should be temporarily stored/disposed in the Conservation Reserve. 11. User Agency should pay 5% of the cost of the Project to the Department of Wildlife Protection. Jammu & Kashmir for Conservation and Preservation of Wildlife and its habitat. 12. A fixed percentage of Toll revenue collected by User Agency from the users passing through the diverted area of Jawahar Tunnel Conservation Reserve should be paid to Department of Wildlife Protection Jammu & Kashmir to meet the recurring cost of maintenance and protection of Jawahar tunnel Conservation Reserve.

3.2(6-7): Seismic Survey for oil exploration by ONGC and Focus Energy Limited

Introducing the agenda, Member Secretary informed that a site inspection has been carried out by Dr. Asad Rehmani. Dr. Rehmani was requested to brief the Committee about his inspection.

5 Dr. Rehmani while apprising the members informed that the Desert National Park (DNP)is having an area of 3162 sq. kms and has been divided into three zones for oil exploration by three different companies namely; Northern portion (765 sq. kms) by Focus Energy Limited; Middle portion (400 sq. kms) by ONGC; and Southern portion by ENI (an Italian Company).
While Focus Energy Limited was going to use a technique known as Accelator Wave Drops (AWD), which appears to be less intrusive and less impacting on environment, ONGC is going to use Vibrosis technology which sends high sound waves for 8-10 seconds to the ground. A number of heavy equipments were to be used in the Vibrosis technology which with the labour camps of the ONGC, in the area would cause negative impact on the vegetation of DNP. It was also clear that the vegetation above ground would also be disturbed heavily due to the movement of heavy instruments and bulldozers. Further, there would be long term impact on the vegetation and its growth in the area along with deleterious effect on fauna. These observations of Dr. Rehmani were also confirmed by the representatives of the project proponents. Another concern was impact of strong vibration on the Burrow Dwelling animals such as Spiny-tailed Lizard, Jerbils, Lizards Snakes etc. Therefore, there was a need to conduct a detailed scientific study prior to the survey. It is important to mention that this seismic survey is to be done at over 300 meters.

Taking into consideration these observations, Committee unanimously decided that before giving any recommendation in the matter, it was necessary to carry out a study on the impact of seismic survey on flora and fauna in particular reference to burrowing animals, outside DNP, where work of exploration of oil is already in progress and study should be funded by the project proponents to be carried out by a reputed institute in the field of wildlife conservation.

3.2(8-18): Proposals for diversion of forest land from Desert National Park for construction of Gravel Roads for connecting different villages.

Member Secretary informed that there were11 proposals for diversion of small pieces of forests for construction of gravel roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. In this connection, the site inspection was made by IGF (WL). IGF (WL) apprised the members about his site inspection and informed that 9 roads out of the proposed 11 roads could be recommended subject to the compliance of conditions given by CWLW in his recommendation. However, in

6 two cases viz; Natur to Chouhani and Zinzinyali – Satto – Tegrawa, recommendation has been made with the reduced width of road to 12 meters only.

Agreeing to the recommendation of the inspecting team, Committee recommended the proposal unanimously subject to the conditions stipulated by CWLW and reduction in the width of two roads as advised during inspection.

At this juncture, Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh sought clarification regarding agenda item No.3.2(23) which was discussed in the last meeting. Member Secretary informed that it was about diversion of 0.6708 ha of forest land from Mt. Abu Wildlife Sanctuary for parking facilities at Mt. Abu. In this connection, a clarification from the State Government about denotification of Mt. Abu Sanctuary was to be obtained. However, this matter could not be incorporated in the present agenda due to want of receipt of clarification from the State Government. CWLW, Rajasthan informed that the clarification by Government of Rajasthan has already been sent. Member Secretary informed that it would be put up for consideration of the Standing Committee of NBWL in the next meeting.

3.2(24): Diversion of 2.2 ha of forest land from Sawai Man Singh Wildlife

Sanctuary for construction of B.T. Road to Neemli Kalam from

Sawai Man Singh Sanctuary.

Since this area is a part of core critical Tiger habitat, comments of NTCA were sought.
Member Secretary, NTCA has not recommended the proposal, as the area was sensitive habitat of tiger. Taking into consideration the recommendation of Member Secretary, NTCA, Committee unanimously rejected the proposal.

3.2(25) : Diversion of 4.17 ha of forest land from Jamwa Ramgarh Wildlife

Sanctuary for construction of missing link of National Highway-11

(Dausa – Manoharpur), Rajasthan

The proposal was considered by the Standing Committee in its meeting held on 18th August, 2008 in which it was decided to expedite the site inspection in this case. As the site inspection report was still awaited, it was decided to consider the proposal in the next meeting of the Committee.

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3.2(30): Survey and investigation for construction of four Hydropower projects on Chambal under Chambal development scheme, Rajasthan.

The proposal was considered by the Standing Committee in its meeting held on 18th August, 2008 but could not be discussed in the absence of site inspection report. Member Secretary informed that in this case a site inspection has been made by Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh and Sh. B.C. Choudhary of WII. Dr. Ranjitsinh briefed the members about his visit and informed that this proposal was for survey for construction of four dams at Chambal. No environmental impact assessment has been carried out so far. It was a package deal, in the sense that viability of four hydropower projects was interlinked and no project was economically viable independently. However, if the proposal is permitted after survey for implementations, it would lead to loss of 197 kms of Gharial and Dolphin habitats, both of which are most endangered species not only in the country but internationally also. It is important to mention that these species require running water as their habitats and not stagnant water or reservoir as in the case of crocodiles. He further, informed that in the three dams, which have been constructed on Chambal during last 50 years, Dolphins and Gharials have been wiped out. The Committee also observed that the total output from these four dams was only about 430 MW. Taking into consideration the site inspection report, observations of Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh and deliberations thereafter, the Committee unanimously recommended to reject the proposal.

5.00:
Delisting of Edible Nest Swiftless from Schedule I of the Wildlife

Protection) Act, 1972

Member Secretary informed that response from CWLW detailing the modalities of implementation of the decision of the Standing Committee for delisting of Edible Nest Swiftlets from Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act was still awaited. The Committee, therefore, decided to consider the matter in the next meeting.

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6.00:
Rationalization of boundaries of Protected Areas – Proposals of

Himachal Pradesh

Member Secretary informed that during last meeting, it was decided to seek comments of the members on the inspection reports of Rationalization Committee in connection with Protected Areas of Himachal Pradesh. However, no comments from any member had been received so far. He also informed that there were six cases where complete denotifiation was recommended while in remaining cases some additions and deletion of areas have been proposed. Prof. Chander Kumar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), suggested that the matter was agreed in the last meeting unanimously and a final decision should be taken at the earliest. However, after detailed discussions, it was decided that before final recommendation is made by the Committee, a team of members of the Standing Committee comprising of Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh and Director, WII would visit the six sites where complete denotification of sanctuaries has been proposed by the State Government and submit their report.

6(II):
Diversion of 21 ha of forest land from Desert National Park for

construction of road Khabdala to Bachiya.

Member Secretary informed that site inspection was yet to be carried out. Therefore, it was decided to discuss the matter in the next meeting.

5(2): Deletion of Plant Species from the Schedule of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

In the last meeting, it was decided to send a copy of the recommendation of Plant Committee to all the Members seeking their comments and copies were circulated. However, no comments have been received so far. Prof. Chander Kumar, Member of Parliament, suggested that the present system should be permitted to continue with respect of Kuth where cultivation of Kuth is checked by the forest department and appropriate permission is given as per laid down process. However, CWLW, Uttarakhand informed that in his State i.e. Uttarakhand, no Kuth was found in the natural areas and a large area was under Kuth cultivation by farmers who face a lot of problems in its sale/ export. Member Secretary informed the committee about the case of

9 illegal export of Kuth to Hungary where local C ITES authorities had seized the same. He also pointed out that Kuth was in Appendix I of CITES. Therefore, it was not appropriate to exclude Kuth from the list of Scheduled plants.

After detailed deliberations, it was decided to consider the matter in the next meeting after receiving comments of all the CWLWs.

5(3): Improvement and strengthening of existing road passing through Borail

Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam and laying of optical cable over a length of 8

Km adjacent to National Highway

Member Secretary informed that in the last meeting it was decided to carry out site inspection in this case. The site inspection had been carried out by DIG (WL). DIG (WL) briefed the Members about the site inspection. He informed that in case of laying of optical cable through Kaziranga National Park, the cable was to be laid on the extreme on the periphery of the Park and not causing any damage. Similarly the road passing through Borail Wildlife Sanctuary was an existing road badly in need of repair and upgradation. The proposal was to upgrade/repair the road on the existing width only.

The Committee after discussion, unanimously recommended both the proposal subject to the compliance of conditions stipulated by CWLW, Assam in his recommendation which are as follows : -

(a) For laying of Optical Cable :-

(i) The Bharati Airtel Ltd. may provide monetary contribution of Rs. 20.00 lakhs (Rupees twenty lakhs only) as one time assistance for computerization of Divisional and Range Offices through LAN and construction of Anti-poaching camps at strategic locations in Kaziranga National Park and its Addition areas. Further, they may provide regular assistance by providing and maintaining one V-SET and running cost of Airtel Mobile

10 Sets (10 nos) with monthly ceiling for official use by the Park authorities like DFO, ACFs, WLRO, FVO, FRO etc. (ii) The work is to be undertaken during dry season only for proper stabilization of earth before the onset of monsoon.

(b) For upgradation of the road passing through Borail Wildlife Sanctuary.

(i) Speed breakers at the entry points to the Sanctuary at an interval of about 500 m in the portion within the Sanctuary may be installed to reduce the speed of the vehicles for avoiding any hitting of any animal crossing the road.

Agenda Item No.3: Presentation by Shri Biswajit Mohanty, Member, NBWL on impact of

Dhamra Port on Olive Ridley Turtles.

While introducing the Agenda, Member Secretary reminded the members that in the last meeting a letter from Shri Biswajit Mohanty, Member, NBWL, was circulated in which he proposed to discuss the impact of Dhamra Port on conservation of Olive Ridley Turtles. Since Mr. Mohanty himself wanted to make a presentation before the Committee, the matter could not be discussed in the last meeting and it was postponed for the next meeting. Mr. Mohanty was present in the meeting for presentation. However, Member Secretary also apprised the Committee that as per the letter received on 11th December, 2008 from Principal Secretary/Commissioner (Forests), Government of Orissa, Mr. Mohanty had already filed a Writ Petition, in this regard, before the Hon’ble High Court of Orissa and the Court had already issued notices to all the parties. Therefore, the matter was subjudice. Mr. Mohanty informed that the case was filed in 2000 and so far the Court has not taken any decision and many developments have taken place in the intervening period. Taking a note of the facts, as briefed by Member Secretary, Hon’ble Chairman observed that Mr. Mohanty should have approached the Hon’ble Court with the new information/developments for appropriate orders as the case was already before the Hon’ble Court. Therefore, it was decided that, in the light of matter being sub-judice,

11 even permitting Mr. Mohanty to make a presentation on the same subject would not be appropriate.

Agenda Item No.4 :Fresh Proposals for diversion of National Parks and Sanctuaries.

4.1: Diversion of 7.76 ha of forest land of Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife Sanctuary, Kondalwal Minor Irrigation Project, Maharashtra. (IA

Nos.67 and 76 in W.P. No.337/1995)

Member Secretary informed that the present proposal was referred by Hon’ble Supreme Court to the Standing Committee of NBWL involving diversion of 7.76 ha of forest land of Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary for a minor irrigation project. The matter was earlier considered by the Committee in its meeting on 10th September, 2007. At that time, no detailed proposal in appropriate proforma was submitted by the project proponents before the Standing Committee of NBWL. Therefore, it was not discussed and the State Government was informed accordingly. Now the State Government has submitted the proposal in the prescribed proforma which was placed before the Standing Committee for consideration. CWLW, Maharashtra informed that in the instant case, the major part of the project has already been completed in violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. He further mentioned that the issue of violation in the instant case is already before the Apex Court.
While discussing the proposal, all the members unanimously felt that such cases of violation should be dealt very strictly and strong penalties against the violators should be imposed

In view of foresaid, the Committee while recommending the proposal subject to compliance of conditions proposed by CWLW, Maharashtra, also recommended that such cases of violations should not be condoned without levying severe penalty on the violators so as to give a strong message to all agencies.

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4.2: Diversion of 750 ha of forest land within the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary

in district Pithoragarh for implementing the proposed Bokang Bailing

330 M.W. Hydroelectric Project on river Dhauliganga (IA No.107 in W.P.

No.337/95), Uttrakhand.

It was informed that the proposal was referred by Hon’ble Supreme Court for consideration of the Standing Committee of NBWL and it was for permission to carry out survey and investigation. At this point, Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh, Member, raised the point that the proposal was not approved by the State Board for Wildlife but only had the approval of Chief Minister of the State. CWLW, Uttrakhand who is also a Member of the Committee clarified that all the proposals of State Government of Uttrakhand to be discussed in the meeting (S.No.2-9) have been approved by the State Wildlife Board in its meeting held on 8th December, 2008.

Taking into consideration the recommendation of CWLW and the fact that the proposal was only for survey/feasibility study, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of the conditions envisaged by the CWLW in his recommendations.
However, it was clarified by the Standing Committee that the permission for survey should not be construed by any stretch of imagination as permission for the project.

4.3: Diversion of 8.199 ha of forest land from Gangotri National Park for construction of road from Sumla, PDA Uttrakhand to be used by ITBP.

4.4: Diversion of 9.90 ha of forest land from Gangotri National Park for construction of road from Naga to Jadhang, Uttarakhand to be used by ITBP.

4.5: Diversion of 7.20 ha of forest land from Gangotri National Park for construction of road from PDA to Mandi, Uttarakhand – to be used by ITBP.

4.6: Diversion of 24.30 ha of forest land from Gangotri National Park for construction of road from Sonam to PDA, Uttarakhand to be used by ITBP.

Member Secretary apprised that all these proposals were for diversion of 8.199 ha, 9.90 ha, 7.20 ha and 24.30 ha of forest land respectively from Gangotri National Park for construction of road from PDA to Sumla, Naga to Jadhang, PDA to Mandi and Sonam to PDA, Uttrakhand, to

13 be used by Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Considering the fact that the all the proposals were related to the defence of the country and were recommended by the CWLW, Uttarakahand, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposals subject to the compliance of the conditions envisaged by CWLW in his recommendations (enclosed separately Annexure-I) and also following the guidelines issued by WII, Dehradun in this matter. These guidelines are available on the website of WII, Dehradun.

4.7: Permission for survey in Rajaji National Park for proposed bridge on River

Beenj, Uttrakhand.

This proposal is for survey in Rajaji National Park for a proposed bridge on River Beenj, Uttrakhand. This project needs to be constructed to cope up with huge traffic flow during Kumbh Mela in 2010. After deliberations, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal for survey subject to the compliance of conditions envisaged by CWLW in his recommendation which are as follows :-

1. The height of the bridge should at least be 12 mts above the level of the service road that run along the power channel to ensure free and undisturbed movement of wild animals, specially elephants, under it along the river bed.

2. In order to ensure movement of wild animals including elephants, mitigation measures as recommended by the Forest Department shown below, should be included during the formal submission of the proposal for land transfer. These measures are shown below-

a) Widening of Sonisot bridge to at least 25 mts coupled with the construction of a fly- over perpendicular to it to allow elephants to cross the service road. b) Similar increase in the width of the existing bridge on Mundal sot should also be done along with a fly over for passage of traffic on the service road as elephants use this passage frequently to cross the road. c) Suitable restrictions will be placed on movement of traffic on the power channel service road after the Kumbh mela is over as is expected from traffic passing through a National Park.

4.8: Permission to carry out survey of the proposed road between Ramnagar

and Kotdwar inside the Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand.

The proposal was for permission to carry out survey for the proposed road between Ramnagar and Kotdwar inside the Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand. Secretary, PWD,

14 Uttrakhand emphasized great need of this road as a connecting road between two administrative areas of Uttrakhand State which are otherwise linked by a road passing through Uttar Pradesh causing lot of hardship to the local population. Since the area is a part of important critical tiger habitat, views of Member Secretary, NTCA were also sought. Member Secretary, NTCA strongly opposed the permission for survey for this road. He informed that there have been a number of deaths of tigers and several other animals because of road accidents in Corbett area.
State Government has also not complied with the advice of the NTCA for declaration of Buffer areas around the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Further, Hon’ble Supreme Court had approved an alternative alignment for this road which should be followed by the State Government. His views were supported by other members also.

Considering the views of Member Secretary, NTCA and other Members and need of providing full support to the cause of tiger conservation, the Committee unanimously recommended to decline the permission for survey of this road.

4.9: Diversion of 2.00 ha of forestland from Rajaji National Park for

extension of Haridwar bye pass road, Uttrakhand.

Member Secretary apprised the Committee that the proposal was for diversion of 2.00 ha of forestland from Rajaji National Park extending Haridwar bye pass road in the light of Maha Kumbh Mela to be held in Haridwar and Rishikesh in 2010. The proposal has been recommended by CWLW.

After deliberations, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the conditions envisaged by CWLW in his recommendations (as given below) and adherence to the general guidelines issued by WII, Dehradun in such matters: A wall at least 7 feet high be constructed for demarcation of the boundary along the proposed extensions of the road with the boundary of Rajaji National Park..

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4.10: Diversion of 2.00 ha of land in Marine Sanctuary for laying intake

water channel for Thermal Power Station.

Member Secretary informed that the proposal was for post-facto approval for laying intake water channel for Thermal Power Station involving diversion of 2 ha of land in the Marine Sanctuary at Jamnagar. Briefing the Members, CWLW, Gujarat informed that it was constructed in 1984-1987 when there were no strict restrictions on diversion even within the Sanctuary areas.
This proposal was in fact for regularization of action taken in past without any malafide intention. It was not having any negative impact on the flora and fauna of marine sanctuary.

Considering the above facts, after deliberations, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of conditions envisaged by CWLW in his recommendation which are as follows: -

1. To avoid adverse effect on the fauna and flora of the area due to dredging, a detailed study report in form of EIA should be prepared and got approved from CWLW before commencing the work.
2. To avoid impact of hot water released in the sea, the temperature of the water released will be maintained as per the norms of GPCB.
3. To prevent the ingress of aquatic animals into intake channel water, it is proposed to provide adequate four stage screening of different size sieves at the intake channel and at the fag end of sea water a fine mesh screen to be provided. The screens so provided shall have regularly maintained.
4. The land [26.5 ha] under Marine Sanctuary earlier included in Ash-pond bund area, and dropped from the proposal, the same land shall be reclaimed and be handed over to department. The expenditure for reclaiming the area shall be borne by the GSECI.
5. Plantation of mangrove and other suitable trees along the cooling water channel and Ash dyke area shall be raised in addition to the compensatory afforestation at the cost of the CSECI.
6. The hot water released in the sea after cooling shall be analyzed with respect to its chemical components and will be treated at par to bring it to the normal level if required. No ash/ash slurry shall be allowed to be released in the sea directly.
7. To monitor the ecology of the area, complete study in respect to environment be carried out, once in the year, by National Institute of Oceanography or any such organization to be identified in consultation with the CWLW. The expenditure towards such study shall be borne by GSECL. The air, water, soil and other pollution shall be kept with in the permissible limit and monthly report shall be submitted to Forest Department.
8. The proposal is being forwarded for the existing capacity together with the environmental clearance given by the MoEF, GOI for establishing 2x250 MW units vide its letter no. J-

16 13011/2/2003.IA-II(T) dated 24/05/05. Any further increase in the capacity shall require fresh clearance. 9. A separate laboratory with full facilities be set up to monitor and cross check the land, water and air pollution parameters and ensure compliance with the norms fixed by GPCB. One full flagged observatory has to be established in the power house premises for keeping permanent weather records. 10. All the conditions laid from time to time by the State Government, Central Government, CRZ. (Coastal Regulatory Zone Authority) shall be binding to GSECI. 11. In case of any ecological disturbance/disaster in the near by areas, GSECL shall take corrective actions for eco-development and periodical studies at an interval of preferably every 5 years at the cost of GSECL shall be carried out. 12. Authorized Forest Staff visit the unit at any time; the user agency shall facilitate such visit/inspection and shall cooperate during such visit. 13. No permission for dredging shall be accorded in Marine National Parks.

4.11: Permission to carry out study for Environmental Impact Assessment and

risk assessment for establishment of Port at Poshitra Distt. Jamnagar.

It was apprised that this proposal was to carry out study for environmental impact assessment and risk assessment to establish a Port at Poshitra district Jamnagar. During deliberations, the Committee members observed that this proposal was very sensitive, as creation of new Port in the Marine Sanctuary could cause lot of adverse impact on the marine environment and marine biodiversity. Therefore, Committee unanimously decided to carry out an inspection of the area before taking a final view in the matter. It was decided that Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh and Dr. Asad Rehmani would carry out the inspection.

4.12: Permission for removal of wind fallen trees due to Cyclone from the

area of Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat.

Briefing the Members, CWLW, Gujarat informed that about 9414 trees in the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary have been uprooted during cyclone. The rooted trees belong to Teak; Eucalyptus, Terminalia, Butea monosperma, Madhuka indica and other miscellaneous species.

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After deliberations, Committee unanimously decided to recommend the proposal as per the provisions of Section 29 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, with strict compliance of the provisions of this Section.

4.13: Diversion of 0.0604 ha of forest land falling in National Chambal

Ghariyal Sanctuary at Kota for laying pipeline from Chambal river to

Titanium Dioxide plants of M/s Agarwal Pigments Pvt. Ltd. near village

Shambhu Pura, Tehsil Ladpura, Kota, Rajasthan.

While briefing the members, Member Secretary informed that this proposal was being considered as per the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court issued on 17th September, 2008. The proposal was for diversion of 0.0604 ha of forest land of National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary for laying pipeline from Chambal river to the factory of M/s Agarwal Pigments Pvt. Ltd. for taking water from Chambal for their Titanium Dioxide Plants. This proposal was earlier rejected on the grounds that the project was not site specific and used water could cause water pollution in Chambal river. However, the project proponents informed the Committee that the water used in the plant would not be released back in the Chambal river and would be used for irrigation of Jatropha within the factory premises.

The Committee deliberated the matter in detail and observed that the proposal was not site specific and recommending any such proposal would be a bad precedent paving way for numerous other such requests for withdrawal of valuable water from Chambal Sanctuary for private purposes. Therefore, the Committee unanimously decided not to recommend the proposal.

4.14: Diversion of 2.025 ha of forest land from Phulwari Ki Nal in Pradhan

Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana for construction of gravel road from Ambasa

to Chhali Bokra 0/0 to 6/500, Rajasthan.

The proposal is for diversion of 2.025 ha of forest land from Phulwari Ki Nal Sanctuary for construction of gravel road under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. CWLW, Rajasthan, has recommended the proposal. Observing that the proposal was for construction of gravel road for

18 rural connectivity involving minimal area and CWLW has recommended the proposal, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to compliance of conditions laid down by CWLW which are as follows :

1. No night camping shall be allowed during the construction of road by labour and construction activity will be permitted only during daytime only.
2. Speed breakers will be constructed at an interval of 500 mts. in Sanctuary area by user agency.
3. Construction of two check post at the entry point of Ambasa & Patwel by User Agency.
4. No tree cutting should be allowed.
5. The construction material for road will be brought from the area outside the Sanctuary.
6. User agency will clear all the debris left after construction activity.
7. The user agency will put and maintain sign board at every entry point on both sides of the sanctuary road mentioning that the road is passing through wildlife Sanctuary and drivers should be watchful about wildlife and drive cautiously.
8. In order to avoid accident of Wildlife, suitably designed under passes shall be constructed.

4.15: Diversion of 3.375 ha of forest land from Phulwari Ki Nal WLS in Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana for construction of gravel road from Som to Sarean 2/0 to 9/500, Rajasthan.

The proposal is for diversion of 3.375 ha of forest land from Phulwari Ki Nal Sanctuary for construction of gravel road under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. CWLW, Rajasthan, has recommended the proposal. Observing that the proposal was for construction of gravel road for rural connectivity involving small area and CWLW has recommended the proposal, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to compliance of conditions laid down by CWLW which are as follows :

1. No night camping shall be allowed during the construction of road by labour and construction activity will be permitted only during daytime only.
2. Speed breakers will be constructed at an interval of 500 mts. in Sanctuary area by user agency.
3. Barrier should be constructed at entry & exit point of Sanctuary by User Agency.
4. No tree cutting should be allowed.

19 5. The construction material for road will be brought from the area outside the Sanctuary. 6. The use agency will not create borrow pit in Sanctuary area, for the construction road. 7. User agency will clear all the debris left after construction activity. 8. The user agency will put and maintain sign board at every entry point on both sides of the sanctuary road mentioning that the road is passing through wildlife Sanctuary and drivers should be watchful about Wildlife and drive cautiously. 9. Digging and installation of Four hand pump along with water through as per approved designed by Dy. Chief Wildlife Warden, Udaipur in Sanctuary area. (Two each on either side).

4.16: Diversion of 1.2 ha of forest land from Jaisamand Sanctuary for Pradhan

Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana for construction of gravel road from A/R

Machikanta km.2 to Rahatguriya, Rajasthan.

The proposal is for diversion of 1.2 ha of forest land from Jaisamand Sanctuary for construction of gravel road under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. CWLW, Rajasthan, has recommended the proposal. Considering that the proposal was for construction of gravel road for rural connectivity involving small area and CWLW having recommended the project, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to compliance of conditions laid down by CWLW which are as follows :

No night camping shall be allowed during the construction of road by labour and
construction activity will be permitted only during daytime only. 2. Speed breakers will be constructed at an interval of 500 mts. in Sanctuary area by user agency. 3. Construction of 1.2 mts. High Pucca store wall followed by mts Angle iron barbed wire fencing along the road. 4. No tree cutting should be allowed. 5. The construction material for road will be brought from the area outside the Sanctuary. 6. The user agency will not create borrow pit in Sanctuary area, for the construction road. 7. User agency will clear all the debris left after construction activity.

20 8. The user agency will put and maintain sign board at both side on entry point of the sanctuary
and on both sides of the road mentioning that the road is passing through wildlife Sanctuary and drivers should be watchful about wildlife and drive cautiously. 9. In order to avoid accident of wildlife, suitably designed under passes shall be
constructed.

4.17: Diversion of 2.07 ha of forest land from Jamwa Ramgarh Wildlife Sanctuary for upgradation of Raisar road to Bamanvati, Rajasthan

The proposal was for upgradation of existing road from Raisar to Bamanvati in Rajasthan involving diversion of 2.07 ha forest land. During deliberations, Member Secretary, NTCA informed that it is a part of the proposed tiger buffer area and was very important for long term conservation of tiger in Sariska. Therefore, no upgradation of road should be permitted.

Considering these facts into consideration, the Committee unanimously rejected the proposal for upgradation and recommended that only existing road should be maintained without any upgradation.

4.18: Maintenance of Border roads from Shiv to Harsani Gadra, Munabav to Myajlar, Jaisalmer to Khuri to Myajlar, Harsani Myajlar, and Pabusariya Road passing through Desert National Park, Rajasthan.

It was informed that all these roads were important from defence point of view and were passing through Desert National Park. Considering the importance of connectivity at the border areas and the fact that proposal was only for maintenance, Committee after deliberations unanimously recommended the proposal for maintenance of these border roads i.e. Shiv to Harsani Gadra, Munabav to Myajlar, Jaisalmer-Khuri-Myajlar, Harsani Myajlar, Pabusariya Road passing through Desert National Park, Rajasthan subject to compliance of the conditions envisaged by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Rajasthan in his recommendation. These conditions are as follows :-

1. Construction of speed breakers at regular interval of 1 km distance.
2. Erection of permanent signboards showing instruction/slogan for speed limit such as protected areas for wildlife. Controlled horn blowing, speed limit 40 km./hr. etc. at every 1 km interval.

21

4.19: Diversion of 2.7 ha of forest land from Jamwa Ramgarh Wildlife Sanctuary for upgradation of existing WBM road to BT status connecting Nimla to Dagota, Rajasthan.

The proposal was for upgradation of existing WBM road to BT road connecting Nimla to Dagota, Rajasthan, involving diversion of 2.07 ha forest land in the Jamwa Ramgarh Sanctuary. During deliberations, Member Secretary, NTCA informed that it is a part of the proposed tiger buffer area and was very important for long term conservation of tiger in Sariska.
Therefore, no upgradation of road should be permitted.

Taking these facts into consideration, the Committee unanimously rejected the proposal for upgradation and recommended that only existing road should be maintained without any upgradation subject to the conditions envisaged by CWLW in his recommendation which are as follows :-

No night camping shall be allowed during the construction of road by labour and construction activity will be permitted only during daytime only. 2. No tree cutting should be allowed. 3. The construction material for road will be brought from the area outside the
Sanctuary. 4. The user agency will not dig borrow pit in Sanctuary area, for the construction road. 5. User agency will clear all the debris left after construction activity. 6. The user agency will put and maintain sign board at every entry point on both sides of the sanctuary road mentioning that the road is passing through wildlife Sanctuary and drivers should be watchful about wildlife and drive cautiously. 7. All other paths, which pass through sanctuary for village Neemla & Dagota, will be restricted.

4.20: Diversion of 1.2705 ha of forest land from Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary for

laying of Optical Fibre Cable from Karanpur to Mandrayal, Rajasthan

This proposal was for laying of Optical Fibre Cable from Karanpur to Mandrayal, Rajasthan in Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary involving an area of 1.2705 ha of forest land.

22

Considering the fact that the proposal was only for laying optical cable in a very small area of the Sanctuary causing no negative impact on the habitat, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of conditions proposed by CWLW in his recommendations which are as follows :-

1. In order to control the poachers in the interest of wildlife conservation, four telephone connections at the cost of BSNL at Sapotra Range, Karanpur Range, Keladevi range and Baler Chowki.

2. The trench will be dug up by user agency in such a way that no tree should be cut.

3. No night camping should be allowed in Sanctuary area during digging the trenches and laying of OFC cable in sanctuary use.

4.21: Diversion of 12.88 ha of forest land from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary for 400 KV S/C line from Dahra to Bhilwara, Rajasthan.

Member Secretary informed that the proposal involves laying of 400 KV S/C line from Dahra to Bhilwara, Rajasthan passing through 12.88 ha of forest land from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary by Rajasthan Rajya Vidut Prasaran Nigam Ltd. Jaipur. CWLW, Rajasthan
has recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of the following four conditions:-

1. The establishment/construction of piers, will be done in the presence of local forest staff.

2. Tree felling/cutting of tree will not be allowed.

3. 5% of the total project cost will be deposited for the development of National Chambal Sanctuary.

4. No night camping should be allowed in sanctuary area.

After deliberations, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of the conditions proposed by CWLW, Rajasthan in his recommendation.

23 4.22: Diversion of 12.88 ha (11.73 ha Revenue land and 1.15 ha forest land) from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary for 400 KV S/C transmission line from Chhabra-TPS to Hindaun, Rajasthan.

The proposal involves laying of 400 KV S/C line from Chhabra TPS to Hindaun,
Rajasthan passing through 12.88 ha (11.73 ha Revenue land and 1.15 ha forest land) of forest land from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary by Rajasthan Rajya Vidut Prasaran Nigam Ltd. Jaipur. CWLW, Rajasthan has recommended the proposal subject to certain conditions.

After deliberations, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of the conditions proposed by CWLW in his recommendation which are as follows :-

1. The establishment/construction of piers will be done in the presence of local forest staff.
2. Tree felling/cutting of tree will not be allowed.
3. 5% of the total project cost will be deposited for the development of National Chambal Sanctuary.
4. No night camping should be allowed in sanctuary area.

Agenda Item No.5: Proposals pursuant to directions of Hon’ble Supreme Court pertaining to Eco-Sensitive Zones

While introducing the agenda, Member Secretary informed that Hon’ble Supreme Court while hearing the Writ Petition (Civil) No.460/2004 had directed the applicants (in IA Nos.170- 175) to approach the Standing Committee of NBWL for consideration of the feasibility of mining operations near the Sanctuary area. In this connection, three proposals from the State of Goa have been received for consideration of the Standing Committee of NBWL. These proposals are as follows :-

(i) Renewal of mining operation in the vicinity of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary by M/s V.M. Salgaocar and Bro. Pvt. Ltd. (ii) Mining operation in the vicinity of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollen National Park by Dr. Prafulla R. Hede;

24 (iii) Renewal of mining lease No.29/55 in the vicinity of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary by M/s Achuta V.S. Velingkar, Goa. (included in the additional agenda items)

Member Secretary also apprised the Committee that, Hon’ble Supreme Court in W.P. No.202/1995 has issued directions to stop mining operations within 1 km. from the boundary of the Protected Areas. But in the instant cases, matter has been referred to the Standing Committee of NBWL to consider the feasibility of mining operations closer to the Sanctuary area and the Committee may discuss the matter.

He also informed that CWLW, Goa has recommended the proposal. It was further informed that:

• In case of M/s V.M. Salgaocar & Bro Pvt. Ltd., the mining is 550 meters away from the boundary of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. It has about 49.735 ha of forest land partly broken for mining. It has been proposed to break further 8.627 ha of area for iron ore mining. • In case of second proposal, the mining is about 650 meters away from the boundary of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. It involves felling of 2128 trees of different species in 9 ha of land which is proposed to be broken for mining. • In the third case, the mining site is at a distance of 160-400 meters from the boundary of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. In this case, already opened area has been proposed for mining and no fresh breaking of land for mining has been proposed.

CWLW, Goa informed that all these proposals were old leases of the Portuguese time. In all these three cases, mining operators have taken all due care in past not to cause any negative impact on the environment and presently their operations were closed. He had recommended these proposals with certain conditions.

25 The Non official Members were of the opinion that no mining in such a close vicinity of Protected Area should be permitted. Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh suggested to reject all the proposal, as mining in vicinity of the Protected Area should not be permitted because of its ill affects on the environment. Dr. Rehmani and Dr. B. Talukdar also opined against the considerations of the proposals, as it will have great impact all over the country.

CWLW, Goa observed that irrespective of their order of not permitting any mining operation within 1 km from the boundary of Protected Area, Hon’ble Supreme Court in the instant case has referred it for consideration of the Standing Committee of NBWL and mining has been going on in these areas for a long time. Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh, Dr. Asad Rehamani and Dr. B.K. Talukdar conveyed their strong opposition to and with disagreement with the permission to allow mining within a radius of 1 kilometer of the Sanctuary. It was pointed out by them that mining constitutes a major source of disturbance and has deleterious impacts upon . protected areas and its fauna. The Supreme Court itself had not permitted mining within 1 kilometer of Protected Areas and though the apex court itself has referred the matter to the Standing Committee, the Committee should not give clearance to such mining because of the adverse impact, and that it would be a very dangerous precedent and opening of a “Pandora’s box” of such applications close to other protected areas. To the argument of the Chief Wildlife Warden of Goa that these mines existed before the declaration of the sanctuary in question, Dr. Ranjitsinh argued that a number of activities which had occurred in areas before they become parks and sanctuaries including utilization of forest produce by neighboring peoples and which had been curtailed or abolished following the establishment of Protected Areas, why cannot a destructive practice like mining, therefore, be stopped after the establishment of a Protected Area?. After deliberations and considering the recommendation of CWLW, Goa, the Committee took a majority view to recommend the mining on the already broken land for mining in all the three proposals without breaking any new land within 1 km from the boundary of Protected Area. However, the foresaid three Non official members did not agree to this recommendation of the Committee.

26 6.0 ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS

6.1 Diversion of 0.027 ha of forest land from Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary for construction of weir and chamber across Mudangiar river near Ayyarkoil for providing drinking water supply in Rajapalayam Taluk, Tamilnadu.

It was informed that the proposal was for construction of weir and chamber across Mudangiar river near Ayyarkoil for providing drinking water supply in Rajapalayam Taluk, Tamilnadu. The Committee deliberated the issue and observing that the proposal was for providing drinking water involving a very small area of forest land, recommended the proposal unanimously.

6.2
Diversion of 3.72 ha of forest land in Wild Ass Sanctuary for installation of

windmills by M/s Vestas Wind Technology India (P) Ltd., Gujarat.

It was informed that the proposal was for diversion of forest land in Wild Ass Sanctuary for installation of windmills. The site of the project is located in the western part of the Sanctuary. CWLW, Gujarat has recommended the proposal.

After deliberations, Committee unanimously decided to carry out a site inspection before taking a final view in the matter. It was decided that Dr. Asad Rehmani with a representative of Wildlife Division would carry out the inspection.

6.3
Diversion of 17.78 ha of forest land from Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary

for construction of Rambara Hydroelectric Project on river Mandakini,

Uttarakhand.

Member Secretary apprised the members about the proposal which was for diversion of 17.78 ha of forest land from Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary for construction of Rambara Hydroelectric Project on river Mandakini, Uttarakhand. It was also informed that this project had already been examined by WII, Dehradun and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Based on the

27 recommendations of these two institutions, the revised alignment was prepared and the same has
been proposed for consideration in the form of present proposal. In the modified proposal, the project alignment has been proposed along the right bank of the Mandakini River instead of the earlier proposed left bank. This has been done by partially clubbing the Rambara HEP (24 MW) and Gaurikund HEP (18.6 MW) so as to provide a cumulative potential of 76 MW on the right bank of the river, thereby also achieving a reduction in land requirement from 20 ha to 17.78 ha .
Out of the 17.78 ha of forest land, only 13.69 ha of forestland will be required at the surface of the area and about 4.09 has as sub surface area for construction of underground components.
This underground land will not have any adverse impact on forest and wildlife. The project has also been approved by the State Board for Wildlife. After deliberating the issue and taking into consideration the above mentioned facts, Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to compliance of conditions envisaged by Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun in their studies and conditions proposed by CWLW, Uttarakhand. Conditions prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden are as follows: -

1. It is emphasized that the stipulated flow of water in Mandikini river should be ensured even during lean season so that wildlife is not deprived of this life saving resource.
2. It shall be the responsibility of project proponent to ensure complete fire protection between Gaurikund and Rambara during the project period..
3. It shall be mandatory for the employees of the project to inform forest officers of any damage caused to wildlife and its habitat.
4. Any default of the prescribed conditions by the proponent shall be treated as a violation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, and Divisional Forest Officer, Kedarnath Wildlife Division shall be authorized to proceed in such manner.
5. Provisions of Wildlife (Protection) act 1972 will have to be strictly adhered to.

6.4
Mining lease No.29155 in the vicinity of Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary by

Shri Atchuta V.S. Velingkar, Goa

This item has already been discussed under Agenda item No.5.

6.5
Permission for Exploratory drilling for Uranium in Rongcheng Plateau of

Balpakram National Park, South Garo Hills, Meghalaya.

Since detailed proposal had not been received from the project proponents, the proposal was not discussed.

28 6.6
4/6 laning of National Highway No.7 from km.627 to 635.70 on the periphery

of
Mowgali Pench Sanctuary of Pench Tiger Reserve Seoni, Madhya

Pradesh.

The proposal was considered by the Standing Committee of NBWL in its 12th Meeting held on 18th August, 2008 wherein the Committee unanimously decided not to approve the proposal and recommended to maintain status quo i.e. to maintain only the existing road passing through the Protected Area. However, Hon’ble Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways has written to the Hon’ble Minister of State (F&WL) to reconsider the proposal. He has informed that if the proposals for diversion of forest land in Pench Tiger Reserve and South Seoni are not approved, the four laning of about 26 km in the portion from Seoni to MP/MH border will be adversely affected leaving a dangerous bottleneck with the Section remaining as the existing two lanes only. Likewise, if the proposal for diversion of forest land in the reach from MP/MH border to Mansar is not approved, this stretch would also be left without 4 lanning. Thus a total stretch of 62 kms would be left undeveloped on NH-7 under the North- South Corridor. This will be a severe bottleneck in the corridor connectivity and would also adversely affect the planned and approved road infrastructure development programme of Government in the aforesaid stretch. He has requested the following: -

(i) The proposal for diversion of forestland in Mowgali Pench Sanctuary of

Pench Tiger Reserve may accordingly be reviewed by the NBWL for

considered recommendation.

(ii) The proposals for diversion of forest land under the South Seoni Territorial

Division and Nagpur Forest Division may not be linked with the issue of Pench

Tiger Reserve and may be considered and approved independently by the Forest

Advisory Committee. Member Secretary informed that the Standing Committee was only concerned with the part of the proposal involving Pench Tiger Reserve. Member Secretary, NTCA, informed that an IA has been filed before Hon’ble Supreme Court in this connection. Hon’ble Court has referred the matter to the Central Empowered Committee. Notices in this regard have been issued to different parties and mater is under active consideration of the Court. The Committee may keep

29 it in mind while deliberating the matter. Under this background and taking a note of the fact that the proposal was subjudice under Hon’ble Court, Committee decided not to discuss the Pench Tiger Reserve portion any further at this stage. However, as far as diversion of forestlands in South Seoni Territorial Division and Nagpur Forest Division are concerned, the Committee agreed as requested by Hon’ble Minister at item (ii) above to refer these to Forest Conservation Division of the Ministry for appropriate action.

6.7 Proposal to use the 4.75 ha of forest area for the Kukdi project in Srigonda

taluka of Ahmednagar District and to allow rationalization of the boundaries

of Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Maharashtra.

Member Secretary briefed the members that there was a proposal from Govt of Maharashtra for denotifying certain areas of Maldhok Sanctuary. The Committee after deliberations unanimously decided to refer the matter to the Rationalization Committee for Protected Areas.

6.8 AGENDA ITEMS BY DR. ASAD REHMANI Member Secretary informed that Dr. Asad Rehmani, Member has submitted four items for discussion namely; Nowpada Swamps, Telgu Ganga Canal Vs Lankemaleswara WLS and Kolleru lake (all three in Andhra Pradesh) and Balpakram Complex in Meghalaya. He informed that these subjects were of immense importance from the point of view of conservation of bird species in India. Committee unanimously decided to seek comments of the respective CWLWs in all these matters and put up the same in the next meeting of the Standing Committee of NBWL for discussion.

Meeting ended with a vote of thanks to the Chair.

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