IN FORCE undated

राष्ट्रीय बोर्ड फॉर वाइल्डलाइफ की 17वीं बैठक की मिनट्स, 22 दिसंबर, 2009 को पर्यावरण भवन में माननीय राज्य मंत्री (स्वतंत्र प्रभार) पर्यावरण और वन के अध्यक्षता में

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1 Ministry of Environment and Forests Wildlife Division .....

Minutes of the 17th Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife(NBWL) held on 22nd December, 2009 in Paryavaran Bhavan, CGO Complex, Lodi Road, New Delhi-110003.

The 17th meeting of Standing Committee of NBWL was held on 17th December 2009 in Room No. 403, Paryavaran Bhawan, New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment & Forests. A list of delegates who attended the meeting is at Annexure.

At the outset, Hon’ble Chairman welcomed all the Members of the Standing Committee for National Board for Wildlife (NBWL). Hon’ble Chairman hoped for a fruitful discussions during the meeting. It was followed by discussion on agenda items.

AGENDA ITEM NO. 1

Confirmation of the minutes of the 16th meeting of Standing Committee of National Board for Wild Life held on 16th September 2009.

The minutes of the last meeting of Standing Committee of National Board for Wild Life held on 16th September 2009 were confirmed while agreeing to the suggestion of Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda with respect to the agenda item no.3 regarding translocation of lions.

AGENDA ITEM NO. 2

It was followed by discussion on the Action Taken Report on the decisions of the Standing Committee of NBWL taken in its 16th meeting held on 16.09.2009 as given below:

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

The Member-Secretary informed that comments were sought from the Chief Wildlife Wardens on deletion of Plant species from the Schedule-VI of the Wildlife

2 (Protection) Act, 1972. It was decided that, since most of the State Governments, from whom comments were received, have not favoured for deletion of species, no species shall be deleted from the Schedule-VI of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

2(4.11): Permission to carry out study for Environmental Impact Assessment and risk assessment for establishment of Port at Poshitra Distt. Jamnagar.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that the Report of the Committee constituted by the Ministry to study the impact of the proposed ports on the Indian Coast line, has been submitted to the Ministry. The Addl. Secretary (I.A. Division) informed that recommendation of the Committee have been accepted by the Ministry. An O.M has also been issued by the Ministry in this regard on 3rd November 2009. As per the said report and the O.M, water bodies with high bio-diversity and locations identified within 10 Kms on either side of the eco-sensitive areas shall not be considered for locating ports. Dr. M. K. Ranjitsinh and Dr. Asad Rahmani observed that this proposal was falling within the Marine National Park, as well as within 10 Kms from the Marine National Park and therefore, may not be agreed to. It was further clarified that as per the site inspection report conducted by Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh and Dr. Asad Rahmani, the proposed area was very rich in marine biodiversity and also had a fragile coral habitat and proposed port site was coming in the same vicinity.

The Poshitra Port Authorities mentioned that they had forwarded a detailed point-wise comments on the said Site Inspection Report, to the Ministry. It was informed that since the observations had been received in the Ministry only recently, the comments on the observations could not be finalized.

After detailed deliberations, it was decided to finalize the comments on the observations of the Port Authorities with inputs of the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat and take a final decision in the next meeting.

2(6.8.): Agenda item proposed by Dr. Asad Rahmani :

(a) Nowapada Swamps:

The Member-Secretary informed that Dr. Asad Rahmani and Dr. Asha Rajvanshi, Scientist, Wildlife Institute of India had conducted site inspection of Nowapada Swamps in Andhra Pradesh and the report had been circulated amongst the members. Hon’ble Chairman, thereafter, requested Dr. Asad Rahmani to brief on the site inspection report. Dr. Rahmani mentioned that the Nowapada Swamp area was an

3 excellent habitat for migratory birds, and was classified as Important Bird Area. The entire are within the bounds of the projects starting from the approach road to project site is a marshland. State Forest Department has erected a watch tower and bird observatory after acquiring land. Environment Impact Assessment report has ignored the bio-diversity value of the area. Presently, project authorities have brought down their land requirement to 1995 acres excluding some marsh lands. While Andhra Pradesh Industrial infrastructure Corporation Ltd. has identified about 3409 acres out of which 2500 acres is allotted to East Coast Energy for Thermal Power Project which
have been reduced to 2050 acres, out of which 1000 acres was earmarked for raising & filling for power plant block, ash pond and auxiliary structures. Visiting team has recommended that no additional infrastructure should be planned in this area for receiving coal and proposal for constructing a Jetty should be dropped.

After discussions, the Committee unanimously approved the recommendations and decided to forward the suggestions and conditions proposed by the Site Inspection Team to the State Government for consideration including declaring the area as Conservation Reserve.

(b) Lankamalleswara Sanctuary:

The Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh informed the Committee that the State Government had already acquired an area to the extent of 3263.75 acres which had been handed over to the Divisional Forest Officer, Kaddappa and that the State Government has fully complied to the directions of the Central Empowered Committee. There was no obligation on State Government to provide additional land. He also requested to delink this proposal from other proposals.

The Committee after discussion, decided to go by the information provided by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh and to drop this agenda item.

(c) Kolleru Lake:

The Member Secretary informed the Committee that the report of the State Chief Wildlife Warden had been received and was circulated to the members. Hon’ble Chairman desired as to whether the letter regarding use of CAMPA money for land acquisitions had been issued or not. The Member Secretary informed that a letter from the Forest Conservation Division had already been sent. Thereafter, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh informed that the proposal for reduction of boundary of Kolleru Sanctuary from +5 contour to +3 contour was considered by the State Board for Wildlife wherein it was decided that if it was not possible for the Government of India to provide funds for compensation against land to be acquired, then it should allow to reduce the Sanctuary from +5 to +3 contours as per the Assembly resolution.

4 The Chairman decided to visit the site before taking a final view in the matter.

(d) Balpakram Complex:

The Member-Secretary informed that the site inspection report was still awaited. It was, therefore, decided to defer the matter.

2[5.2(1)] Diversion of 1016 ha of forestland from Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary for Somasila Dam, Andhra Pradesh.

The Member-Secretary informed that the site inspection report for the said proposal was considered during the last meeting. However, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh had taken objection to the condition no. (i) regarding addition of equal amount of land to the Sanctuary for conservation of the Jerdon’s Courser.

The Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh informed the Committee that this matter was linked with the earlier discussed issue of Lankamalleswara Sanctuary. He reiterated that the State Government had already acquired an area to the extent of 3263.75 acres and has been handed over to the Divisional Forest Officer, Kaddappa and that further addition was not required at this point.

The Committee, after discussions, decided to recommend the proposal with conditions as approved by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

2[5.2(4)] Proposal for 2D seismic survey for an area of (158 sq. km), from Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, Gujarat.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda and Dr. Bilal Habib, Scientist, Wildlife Institute of India had conducted the site inspection and the report has been circulated amongst the members.

Dr. Chavda informed the Committee that the team had not recommended the 2D seismic survey as such activity would have detrimental effects on local geography, flora & fauna of the area.

Hon’ble Chairman, thereafter, sought the comments of the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat on the recommendations of the site inspection team. The Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat sought time to comment on the recommendations of the inspecting team.

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After discussions, the Committee decided that the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat, may communicate his comments on the site inspection report to the Ministry within two weeks time. Thereafter, a final view would be taken on the matter in the next meeting.

2[5.2(5) to 5.2(14)] Diversion of Forestland for construction of roads from Jessore Wildlife Sanctuary and Balram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that Site inspection by the team comprising of Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda and Dr. Bilal Habib, Scientist, Wildlife Institute of India was conducted and the report had been circulated amongst the members. He also mentioned that there were three proposals for construction of road within Jessore Wildlife Sanctuary and eight proposals for construction of road within Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary. The site inspection team had not recommended three proposal of Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary while it had recommended six proposals, both within Jessore & Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary. However, there was no recommendation with respect to one road proposal in Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary.

Hon’ble Chairman, thereafter, sought the comments of the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat on the recommendations of the site inspection team. The Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat informed that since the site inspection report was not made available to him, he could not comment on the recommendations.

After discussion, the Committee decided to recommend the following six road proposals falling within Jessore & Balaram Ambaji Sanctuaries, with the conditions as stipulated by the Government of Gujarat and the site inspection team:

i) Diversion of 2.50 ha of forest land from Jessore Sanctuary for Dery Vaydhara road. ii) Diversion of 2.90 ha of forest land from Jessore Sanctuary for Kahara Karza (Zalara) approach road. iii) Diversion of 0.390 ha of forest land from Jessore Sanctuary for Sonwadi- Iswani Causeway. iv) Diversion of 2.650 ha of forest land from Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary for Dungarpur Khapa road. v) Diversion of 2.300 ha of forest land from Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary for Rampur Bangalo Udavas road. vi) Diversion of 2.450 ha of forest land from Balaram Ambaji Sanctuary for
Pansa-Jambera road.

Conditions:

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  1. The road development shall be carried out with utmost care
  2. The material required shall be obtained from outside Sanctuary area.
  3. It shall be ensured that no damage is caused to the Wildlife and Sanctuary
  4. Amount from the tree felling would be deposited in advance
  5. For movement of runoff water and wildlife, minimum of one subway per 3 kms, 1 culvert per every 8 meter for maintaining continuity of water and speed breakers at suitable distance for safety of wildlife shall be provided.
  6. Construction material will be brought from outside the sanctuary and no digging for extraction material will be done in the sanctuary.
  7. All the conditions let down by Government of Gujarat, GFD or any agency shall be binding on the user agency.
  8. No further works would be approved on the above roads.

The Committee also decided that the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat, communicate his comments on the site inspection report with respect to those proposals that have not been recommended by the Site inspection team, to the Ministry within two weeks time. Thereafter, a final view would be taken on those proposals in the next meeting.

2[5.2(20)] Diversion of 0.3 ha of Forestland from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary Rajasthan, for Dholpur lift irrigation project

It was informed by the Member-Secretary that a report in this context has been submitted by the Director, Wildlife Institute of India and had been circulated amongst the members. The Chairman, requested the Director, Wildlife Institute of India to brief the Committee regarding his report.

The Director, Wildlife Institute of India mentioned that the exact data of water availability vis a vis minimum water flow required for the aquatic fauna in Chambal river, was not available with the irrigation Department, Rajasthan. He also mentioned that in order to ascertain the facts, a detailed study covering at least one year needs to be undertaken. Until such exhaustive data is available, it would not be possible to comment on the impact of the proposed lift irrigation on the aquatic fauna. He however, suggested that it was important to maintain the minimum water depth at a little over 10 m in all seasons in all alternating pools of the river that are critical habitats of aquatic fauna.

Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh, however, mentioned that Chambal river was the habitat for the critically endangered Gangetic river Dolphins and therefore, any project hampering its habitat should not be approved. The Committee, after discussion, decided to take a final view in the next meeting.

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2(3) Technical discussions on the translocation of Lion from Gujarat to Madhya Pradesh

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that the draft affidavit to be filed before Hon’ble Supreme Court on the issue of translocation of lion was circulated amongst the members of the Standing Committee and comments were only received from Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda.

The Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat informed that a copy of the draft affidavit was not forwarded to the Gujarat State. The Member-Secretary clarified that during the earlier discussions on the issue, the Committee had heard the plea of both the State Governments of Madhya Pradesh as well as Gujarat. The draft affidavit had covered the views of the Ministry based on past discussions, etc. need not be shared with State Government at this stage.

The Committee, after discussions, decided that the Ministry could file the affidavit before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, after incorporation of the comments received from Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda and Dr. Ranjitsinh.

4.2(1): Diversion of 144.50 ha of forestland in Kangudi R Chittor Divison for
formation of Reservoir across Palar river near Ganeshpuram- Kangundi(V) in Kuppam (M), Andhra Pradesh for irrigation and drinking water purposes.

It was informed by the Member-Secretary that as per the decisions of the Standing Committee, site inspection had been conducted by Dr. B. Talukdar and the report had been circulated amongst the members of the Committee. It was also informed that there was a representation from the Government of Tamil Nadu indicating that the matter was sub-judice as it was pending before Hon’ble Supreme Court.

The Committee therefore, unanimously decided to defer the matter as it was sub-judice.

4.2(2): Clearance for expansion of Cement Plant from 0.297 MTPA to 1.26 MTPA and Lime Stone Mining to produce Lime Stone from 0.45 MTPA to 1.8 MTPA in an area falling within 10Kms from the boundary of Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh by M/s Parasakti Cement Pvt. Ltd.

The Member-Secretary informed that the proposal was with in 10 Kms from the boundary of Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. Since there was huge increase proposed in the existing capacity of Cement Plant, in the last meeting it was decided to re-consult the Impact Assessment Division before taking a final view.

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The Addl. Director(CRZ), who was representing the Impact Assessment Division mentioned that the proposal had the Environmental Clearance and a condition was stipulated that the proposal be referred to standing Committee in view of the order of Hon’ble Supreme Court. He also mentioned that all due procedures under the EIA notification had been complied by the project proponents, including that of Public hearing and submission of complete EIA report.

The Committee after discussions, decided to recommend the proposal.

4.2(4): Diversion of 7.2871 ha of forestland for construction of Ropeway from Bhavnath Taleti to Ambaji Temple in Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary by Usha Breco Ltd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

The Member-Secretary informed that during the last meeting Hon’ble Chairman had decided to visit the site before taking a decision. Hon’ble Chairman, reiterated that he would visit the site and thereafter, a final view would be taken on the proposal.

4.2(5): Proposals for drawing water from Majthal Wildlife Sanctuary and laying of pipeline for carrying this water for the expansion of Cement Plant by M/s Ambuja Cement Pvt. Ltd.

The Member-Secretary informed that during the last meeting, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Himachal Pradesh was requested for providing a technical note to the Standing Committee on the observations of the Central empowered Committee along with additional information on quantity of water provided by the project proponents to the public in the past, institutional mechanism ensuring distribution of water to public, availability of water at the source etc.. He informed that the Chief Wildlife Warden had submitted a detailed note which has been circulated to the members.

The Chairman, requested the Chief Conservator of Forests (PA & Biodiversity), who was representing the Chief Wildlife Warden, Himachal Pradesh for briefing the Committee. The CCF, Himachal Pradesh informed that due to increase in population, more water was required for drinking water supply. It would also help in seeking support of people for conservation. Project proponents informed that out of additional quantity proposed to be lifted, 75-80% would go for drinking water supply and only 20-25% would be used by the Cement Plant.

While the Committee observed that using water from Sanctuary for commercial purpose amounts to violation of Section 29 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the CCF (WL) suggested that water supply could have been made from the

9 Satluj River which was nearby. The Committee in view of this suggestion did not favour the proposal of extracting additional water from the Sanctuary source as the project authorities could not justify any benefit to the habitat of the Sanctuary due to such additional extraction of water.

4.2(7): Diversion of 36 ha of forestland for construction of Chumsule-Demchok Road in Ladakh region.

The Member-Secretary informed that Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh had conducted the site inspection of the proposed road and had submitted his report. The report has been circulated amongst the members of the Committee.

Dr. Ranjitsinh informed the Committee that he had recommended the proposed road with certain conditions. He however, suggested that the road from Kalak-Tartar should be stopped. He also informed that the proposal was not yet cleared by the State Board for Wildlife.

The Committee after discussions, decided to recommend the road proposal subject to the compliance of the conditions envisaged by Dr. Ranjitsinh in his site inspection report and clearance of the State Board for Wildlife.

4.2(11): Diversion of 11.76 ha of Forestland for Naga Nilapani Road from 0.00Km to 9.800 Km passing through Gangotri National Park.

4.2(12): Diversion of 13.98 ha of Forestland for Naga- Sonam road from 0.00Km to 11.650 Km passing through Gangotri National

4.2(13): Diversion of 38.052 ha of Forestland for Bharionghati-Nelong Naga Road from 0.00Km to 31.710 passing through Gangotri National Park.

The Member-Secretary informed that the three road proposals falling within Gangotri National Park had been recommended by the Standing Committee in its last meting subject to the safeguards to be recommended by Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh. It was also informed that Dr. Ranjitsinh had conducted the site inspection and had submitted his report. The report has been circulated to the members.

After discussions, the Committee decided that the conditions proposed by Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh in his site inspection report should be strictly complied by the project authorities.

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2(5.1): Rhino poaching in the Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Assam.

The Member-Secretary informed that a site inspection was conducted by Dr. B. Talukdar and Shri G.S. Bhardwaj, Scientist, Wildlife Institute of India, and the report has been circulated amongst the members. He informed that Dr. Talukdar had
recommended an Action Plan for the control of poaching in Assam.

After discussions, the Committee unanimously decided to accept the Action Plan suggested by site inspection team and also decided to forward the same to the State Government of Assam for consideration.

2(5.2): Illegal occupation in the Kokrajhar and Chirang Reserve Forest of Assam.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that Dr. Asad Rahmani had conducted the site inspection and the report has been circulated amongst the members of the Committee. He also opined that the matter was outside the purview of the Standing Committee of NBWL and mainly dealt with the action under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

The Committee, after discussions, unanimously decided to forward the Report to the Forest Conservation Division for the needful.

Agenda Item No. 3

3.1. Technical discussion on the issue of Translocation of Asiatic Lions from

Gir to Kuno Palpur.

The matter has already been discussed under Agenda item No. 2 (3) under the Action Taken Report.

3.2 Agenda item proposed by Dr. Asad Rahmani : Illegal order of the State of Andhra Pradesh directing the construction of a ‘Smruthi Vanam’ in memory of the Late Chief Minister in the notified Gundla Brameswaram Wildlife Sanctuary, in violation of law, procedures and prevailing Supreme Court Orders.

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After discussion, it was decided to defer the matter.

Agenda Item No. 4: Fresh proposals for diversion of National Parks &

Sanctuaries

4.1)
Diversion of 8.70 ha of forest land in Nidgul RF for formation of road about 5.60 Kms under RIAD programme on Dindi PWD road to Keharajpally from Km 25/4 to Km 31/0 and falling within part of the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that proposal had the recommendation of the State Board for Wildlife. It involves diversion of 8.70 ha of forestland and passes through the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve. The Chief Wildlife Warden opined that there was another alternative to the proposed road. The Committee, after discussions, unanimously decided that the project should be undertaken on the alternative route as suggested by the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State.

4.2) Diversion of forestland from Eturunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary for improvement of existing road from Km No. 215/0 Pasra to 231/0 Tadvai and 236/0 to 247/0 Eturnagram Checkpost of Hyderabad – Bhoopalpatnam section of National High Way 202 in Warangal District, in favour of EE (R&B) National High Ways Division, Warangal, Andhra Pradesh.

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that the proposal was earlier considered by the Standing Committee of NBWL in its meeting held on 10th September 2007, wherein, it was decided that the project proponents should revise the proposal in the light of the studies conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India.

The Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh mentioned that the proponents had revised the proposal in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Wildlife Institute of India.

The Committee, after discussions, unanimously decided to recommend the proposal subject to compliance of the conditions prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andhra Pradesh, i.e, widening of the road only upto 7 meter BT width and compliance of all the conditions detailed in the proposal of R & B Department.

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4.3) Diversion of 21.006 ha of Forestland in Wild Ass Sanctuary for obtaining permission to laid underground pipeline of Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Gujarat.

The Member-Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. During the discussions on the said proposal, Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda opined that while forwarding proposals for laying pipeline, etc, the State Governments should take a holistic view on the total number of such proposals for a particular Protected Areas rather than forwarding piece-meal proposals. The Project proponents who were present during the meeting informed that after laying the underground pipeline, the ground would be restored to its normal conditions.

After discussions, the Committee unanimously decided to recommend the proposal subject to the conditions prescribed by the Government of Gujarat and Chief Wildlife Warden of Gujarat which are as follows:

  1. The enforcement of the condition prescribed (regarding the area shall be brought to the normal condition) shall be certified after the completion of the work.
  2. The area may be monitored annually to examine of Oil line and associated activities.
  3. All the debris generated as a result of construction works including waste material shall be removed immediately and the area shall be brought to the normal condition.
  4. Labour camp during construction stage shall be kept away from the sanctuary area and necessary fuel wood and other requirements shall be met with by purchase from market. In no case, the sanctuary shall be burdened with such requirements.
  5. Movement of the staff and vehicles shall be kept minimum in the area earmarked for minimum movement and use of area other than that shall not be permitted.
  6. The Use Agency shall strictly ensure that no damage is caused to flora and fauna in the area.
  7. All the activities pertaining to construction and laying of line shall be restricted to 18 mts. wide strip proposed and the forest land shall not be used for any purpose other than that specified in the project proposal. The material for the construction will be obtained from non-forest area falling outside the sanctuary.
  8. Any other conditions that may be imposed by the Chief Wildlife Warden/ Government and /or the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife will be strictly complied with.
  9. The legal status of the forest land shall remain unchanged.

13 10. During execution of work, no damage or disturbance to Wildlife Sanctuary and wildlife will be done and there shall not be any obstruction the flow of water. 11. Approval under Forest Conservation Act will be obtained separately for use of forest land. 12. User Agency shall contribute 5% of the project cost towards habitat improvement and wildlife conservation in the Wildlife Sanctuary Area. 13. The Chief Wildlife Warden or any officer authorized or working under him may monitor the compliance of conditions mentioned above and any non-compliance partly or wholly, may lead to cancellation of the permission for the oil line.

4.4.) Proposal seeking authorization of 0.315 ha land in Balaram-Ambaji Sanctuary for laying optical fibre cable by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd, Gujarat.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. After discussion, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal as only very little area was involved in the project subject to the compliance the conditions proposed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat and Government of Gujarat. These conditions are as follows:

  1. The enforcement of the condition prescribed (regarding area shall be brought to normal condition) shall be certified after the completion of the work.
  2. All the debris generated as a result of construction works including waste material shall be removed immediately and the area shall be brought to the normal condition.
  3. Labour camp during construction stage shall be kept away from the sanctuary area and necessary fuel wood and other requirements shall be met with by purchase from market. In no case, the sanctuary shall be burdened with such requirements.
  4. Movement of the staff and vehicles shall be kept minimum in the area earmarked for minimum movement and use of area other than that shall not be permitted.
  5. The Use Agency shall strictly ensure that no damage is caused to flora and fauna in the area.
  6. All the activities pertaining to construction and laying of line shall be restricted to 18 mts. wide strip proposed and the forest land shall not be used for any purpose other than that specified in the project proposal.

14 The material for the construction will be obtained from non-forest area falling outside the sanctuary. 7. Any other conditions that may be imposed by the Chief Wildlife Warden/ Government and /or the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife will be strictly complied with. 8. The legal status of the forest land shall remain unchanged. 9. During execution of work, no damage or disturbance to Wildlife Sanctuary and wildlife will be done and there shall not be any obstruction the flow of water. 10. Approval under Forest Conservation Act will be obtained separately for use of forest land. 11. The Chief Wildlife Warden or any officer authorized or working under him may monitor the compliance of conditions mentioned above and any non-compliance partly or wholly, may lead to cancellation of the permission for the oil line.

4.5) Diversion of 241.597 ha of forestland for Construction of 400 KV Transmission line from Mundra UMPP (400MW) to Jetpur, Limbdi and Vadavi, passing through Wild Ass Sanctuary, Gujarat.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. It involves diversion of 241.597 ha of forestland for erection of 400 KV transmission line from Mundra to Jetpur, Limbdi and Vadavi. The Power Grid Corporation has undertaken this work. It was also clarified by the project proponents that the present alignment involves minimum forestland of the Sanctuary. Approximately 200 trees of wild Babool are falling under the alignment but these would be maintained without any felling. After discussion, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal with conditions stipulated by Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat. The conditions are follows:

  1. A pre-project survey of the area, including 205 meters strips on both sides, for flora and fauna would be done to provide base line data.
  2. Annual survey to compare the present of flora and its regeneration and the used of the area by fauna so as to indicate the impact of the project would be done.

4.6) Proposal for Karnala Bird Sanctuary for seeking the approval of the National Board for Wildlife for four/six laning of NH-17 under NHDP

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. It involves diversion of 6.135 ha of Karnala Bird Sanctuary for National Highway

15 widening. During discussion, Dr. Asad Rahmani opined that the Karnala Sanctuary was a good bird habitat. It was also observed that the Chief Wildlife Warden had not recommended the proposal while the State Board for Wildlife has recommended it. During discussions, the Committee observed that there were alternative routes available avoiding the Sanctuary area. The Committee therefore, observed that the proposal was not site specific. Considering the small size of the Sanctuary and its bio- diversity and availability of three alternative routes, it was decided unanimously to reject the proposal and to advise the project proponent to take alternative alignment.

4.7)
Diversion of 0.552 ha forestland in Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary for construction of 400 KV D/C Baripada- Mendhasal transmission line by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd., Bhubaneswar, Orissa.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. The proposal is regarding erecting 400 KV D/C line involving utilization of 1242 ha of land. Only 0.552 ha of forestland in Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is involved in the project. As only very little area was involved in the project and transmission line are important for growth for economy, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal with conditions stipulated by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Orissa, which are as follows:

  1. The existing trenches along this strip of corridor may be renovated and a stone guard wall may be provided on both sides of this narrow strip of sanctuary to avoid straying of animals towards the nearby habitations and towards the towers/ Piers etc.

  2. Dwarf trees plantation may be taken up under conductors and dense plantation with suitable species may be taken up on this wildlife corridor of about 1 Km. length and 120Mtrs. width connecting two habitats.

  3. As already recommended a Site Specific Wildlife management Plan may be prescribed for preparation and implementation covering the entire stretch of transmission line passing through forest areas especially in the sanctuary and other Reserve Forests in view of large number incidences of electrocution of elephants in Orissa. This will also address the wildlife depredation issues highlighted in the bio-diversity report including providing depredation control measures like search lights, spot lights etc.

4.8) Diversion of 70 ha land for Nahargarh Sanctuary from Sanjay Bhatta Basti rehabilitation project.

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The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. It was informed that earlier the proposed area was part of reserve forest, but in 1971 this area was allotted to UIT for housing purpose. However the area came to fall inside the sanctuary boundary after the notification of Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 22/9/80. But this area is required for rehabilitation of 16 Katchi basti of 10171 survey holders which are residing in irregular manner adjoining to Nahargarh Sanctuary boundary. Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda informed that though the area is under the Sanctuary, but it is full of encroachments etc,. and has no bio-diversity value. It should not be part of the Sanctuary. Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh also supported his views. However, the Committee felt that equivalent area should be added to the Protected Area network either at Nahargarh Sanctuary or any other Protected Area. Thereafter the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the prior compliance of the condition of addition of equivalent area in the existing Protected Area network.

4.9) Diversion of 0.705 ha of forestland from existing road 8 mile to sone ka Gurja village km is passing through Vanvihar Sanctuary km 17/600 to 24/0 and Ram Sagar Sanctuary km 32/0 to 35/0.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. After detailed discussion, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal subject to compliance of the conditions stipulated by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Rajasthan which are given below and due approval of State Board for Wildlife:

  1. No night camping shall be allowed during the construction activity will be
    permitted only during day time only.
  2. Speed breakers will be constructed at an interval of 500 mts in Sanctuary areas by user agency.
  3. No tree cutting will allowed.
  4. User agency must ensure the fuel supply to the labour and there should not be removal of soil, stones and other materials for the work.
  5. User agency will be responsible for any damage or destruction due to the work done and will be done at the site.
  6. User agency will remove all debris from Sanctuary area after up gradation of the work.

4.10) Diversion of 16.09 ha of forestland from Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary for Dohari Minor Irrigation Project by Water Resource Department, Distt. Karauli, Rajasthan.

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The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. After discussion, the Committee decided that a site inspection be conducted by Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda and Shri S.P. Yadav, DIG, NTCA and submit a report, before taking a final view on the matter.

4.11) Reconstruction of the bridge at Km 16/10 of Papanasam Upper Dam road falls in Kalakad- Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve by high way Department.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal. It was informed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Tamil Nadu, that the existing bridge was washed away in floods. New bridge would have the same alignment and the same site without any additional area. Further, it was very important for the people. After considering these facts and the no objection of National Tiger Conservation Authority for the proposal, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal.

4.12) Diversion of forest land falling within Askot Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand for widening & improvement of Tawaghat- Zypti motor road by Border Roads Organization.

The Member Secretary briefed the Committee regarding the proposal which was for widening & improvement of Tawaghat- Zypti motor road by Border Roads Organization. Hon’ble Chairman observed that the area was a prime habitat of the endangered Musk Deer and all safeguard measures need to be taken to protect the species and its habitat.

After discussion and considering the importance of Border Roads and defence security of the country, the Committee decided to recommend the proposal with condition that the all necessary precautions would be taken to ensure the protection of the Musk Deer Habitat and also that the Border Roads Organization would consult the expert opinion of Dr. Asad Rahmani, Member, Standing Committee of NBWL and the State Government of Uttarakhand for formulating a Plan for conservation of Musk Deer. Dr. Asad Rahmani would inspect the area and his suggestions would be strictly adhered to by project proponents.

Agenda Item No. 5: Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

5.1. Agenda items proposed by Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda

The Member-Secretary informed the Committee that Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda has proposed two agenda items, viz, Trade of tiger parts by China and Conservation of Narcondam Hornbills in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It was also

18 informed by the Member-Secretary that action on tiger trade has already been taken up by the Ministry through the NTCA. Regarding conservation of Narcondam Hornbills, it was informed that the Andaman & Nicobar Islands had already forwarded their comments on the conservation of the species. However, the issues raised by Dr. Chavda could also be forwarded to the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andaman & Nicobar Islands for necessary consideration.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks from the Chair.

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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ATTENDING THE MEETING OF THE 17TH MEETING OF STANDING COMMITTEE OF NBWL HELD ON 22ND DECEMBER 2009

1 Shri Jairam Ramesh Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment & Forests Chairman 2 Shri Vijay Sharma Secretary, Environment & Forests Member 3 Shri M.B. Lal Addl. Director General of Forests (WL) Member-Secretary 4 Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh Member 5 Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda Member 6 Dr. Asad Rahmani Member 7 Dr. Bibhab Talukdar Member 8 Shri P. R. Sinha Director, Wildlife Institute of India Member 9 Shri J.M. Mauskar Addl. Secretary, MOEF Invitee 10 Dr.S.P. Nanda Principal Secretary (E&F), Govt. of Gujarat Invitee 11 Shri A. Chandrasekaran Special Secretary, PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu Invitee 12 Shri R. Sundara Raju, PCCF & CWLW, Govt. of Tamil Nadu Invitee 13 Shri A.K. Joshi, PCCF (WL), Govt. of Maharashtra Invitee 14 Shri Hitesh Malhotra, CWLW, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh Invitee 15 Shri A. N. Prasad, IGF & Director, Project Elephant, MOEF Invitee 16 Shri B. N. Srivastava, CWLW, Govt. of Gujarat

17 Shri Sanjeeva Pandey, CCF, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh Invitee 18 Dr. Anmol Kumar, IGF(WL), MOEF Invitee 19 Shri S. P. Yadav, DIG, (NTCA) Invitee 20 Shri P.S. Somashekhar, CCF(WL), Govt. of Rajasthan Invitee 21 Shri P. K. Mohan, Conservator of Forests Wildlife, Govt. of Orissa Invitee 22 Dr. V. K. Yadav, Addl. DG Border Roads, New Delhi Invitee 23 Dr. A. Senthilvel, Addl. Director, MOEF Invitee

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