IN FORCE undated

नेशनल बोर्ड फॉर वाइल्डलाइफ की स्टैंडिंग कमेटी की 43वीं बैठक के मिनट्स, 27 जून 2017

Subject

Minutes of 43rd Minutes of Standing Committee of NBWL

Document text

6th Floor, Vayu Wing Indira Paryavaran Bhawan Jor Bag Road, Aliganj New Delhi 110 003 F.No. 6-119/2107 WL

      Date: 21st July 2017

To All Members Standing Committee of NBWL

Sub: Minutes of 43rd Minutes of Standing Committee of NBWL Sir/Madam, Kindly find enclosed copy of the Minutes of 43rd Meeting of the Standing Committee of National board for Wildlife held on 27th June 2017 at 12.00 PM in Teesta Conference Hall, I Floor, Vayu Block, Indira Paryavarn Bhavan, New Delhi under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Yours faithfully,

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

Encl: As above
Distribution

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

Copy to (1) PS to Hon’ble MoEF&CC (2) PPS to DGF&SS, MoEF&CC (3) PPS to Addl.DGF(WL), Member Secretary, NBWL (4) PPS to IGF(WL)/PS to DIG(WL)/PS to JD(WL) Government of India Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (Wildlife Division)

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MINUTES OF 43rd MEETING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF NATIONAL BOARD FOR WILDLIFE HELD ON 27th JUNE 2017 The 43rd Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife was held on 27th June 2017 in the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change. List of participants is at ANNEXURE-I. Hon’ble Chairman welcomed all the participants to the 43rd Meeting and asked the IGF(WL) to initiate the discussions on the Agenda Items.

AGENDA ITEM No. 1 Confirmation of the minutes of the 42nd Meeting of Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 15th May 2017 The IGF(WL) informed the Committee that the minutes of the 42nd meeting of the Standing Committee of NBWL held on 15th May 2017, were circulated to all members of the Standing Committee on 30th May 2017. The DGF&SS mentioned that HOECL has represented against the discussions which did not take place in 42nd meeting of the Standing Committee but were minuted in the records. Accordingly, the minutes of 42nd meeting excepting the portion related to HOECL (Agenda Item 42.4.2.1 & 42.4.2.2) were confirmed.

AGENDA ITEM No. 2 ACTION TAKEN REPORT
36.4.2.1 Setting up 5.25 MTPA Development of Floating storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) facilities for import of LNG within the existing deep water port at Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. The proposed site is 2.5 km away from the boundary of Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that the proposal was discussed in the 40th Meeting of SC-NBWL. He also mentioned that according to Terms of

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Reference (TOR) for EC, impact on Marine Life would be assessed. Since the project site is located 2.5 km away from Coringa WLS, Impact Mitigation and Wildlife Conservation Plan is required to be submitted. A report on impact and other aspects related to marine life has been pending for one year and a half year. No response has been received from the State Government and therefore the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

36.4.2.12.
Construction of Singoli-Bhatwari Hydroelectric Project 99 MW by M/s L&T Uttaranchal Hydropower Limited. The proposed site falls within 10 km from the boundary of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary 36.4.2.13.
Construction of 171 MW Lata Tapovan Hydro Power Project of NTPC Ltd,

Uttarakhand 36.4.2.14.
Construction of 520 MW (4 X 130) Tapovan Vishnugad Hydroelectric Project of NTPC Ltd., Uttarakhand. The proposed site falls outside Nanda Devi National Park at a distance of 7.5 km

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the above proposals and mentioned that the proposals were considered by the SC-NBWL in its 39th meeting held on 23rd August 2016.
During the said meeting, it was decided by the Standing Committee to seek the comments of Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (MoWRD&GR) on the proposed projects. A letter was sent to Ministry of Water Resources on 23rd September 2016 for seeking its comments. Reminder letters were sent to Ministry of Water Resources on 31.03.2017 and 05.05.2017 respectively. However, no comments have been received from Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation. He also mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of SC-NBWL, the Chair suggested to the Chief Wildlife Warden to ask the State Government to take up the matter with the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation.
The State CWLW stated that a response has not been received from the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation. Accordingly, the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal pending receipt of comments from MoWRD&GR.

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34.4.2.11
Proposal of Ms Stone International Pvt. Ltd Chechat for expansion and renewal of Kotah Stone (Building) production in Mining lease no.22/92 situated in village Chechat in Tehsil Ramganj Mandi, District Kota which lies at about 6.4 km aerial distance from the Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary/ Mukundra Hills National Park 34.4.2.12
Proposal for renewal of existing lime stone mining lease no.24/87 in village Pipakhedi, Tehsil Ramganj Mandi District Kota near Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan by M/s Zahoor Ahmed, Abdul Majid. The proposed mining lease 8.5 km away from Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary 34.4.2.13
Proposal of M/s Associated Stone Industries (Kota) limited for expansion and renewal of Kotah Stone production in mining lease No. 1/89 situated in Tehsil Ramganj mandi, District Kota, Rajasthan

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that a committee of NTCA had visited the site and accorded concurrence to the proposal. In the 39th meeting, the Standing Committee had decided to defer the proposals in view of non-finalization of ESZ proposal of Mukundra Hills TR by the State Government. He also mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of SC-NBWL, the state Chief Wildlife Warden informed that ESZ proposals would be finalized and submitted to the Ministry in one month. He mentioned that no response has been received from the State Government. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

39.4.2.5
Proposal for International Amusement & Infrastructures Ltd for Jaipur Mega Tourism City, a Recreational Project at village Daulatpura Kotra, Tehsil Amer District Jaipur, Rajasthan

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that the proposal was considered by the SCNBWL in its 39th meeting held on 23rd August 2016. During the said meeting, the Chief Wildlife Warden mentioned that the Environment Clearance for the project is under consideration of SEIAA. He also mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of SC-NBWL the State CWLW informed that the Environment Clearance of project shall be submitted in 2-3

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months. He mentioned that no response has been received from the State Government. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

40.3.2.1
Diversion of 9.94 ha of forest land from Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary for construction of New Railway Line Broad Gauge (BG) between Agartala to Sabroom, Tripura

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that the proposal was considered by the SC-NBWL in its 31st Meeting held during 12th - 13th August 2014. He mentioned that the State Government has stated that there are difficulties in implementation of the condition of declaring Bhairabnagar Bison Conservation Reserve (BBCR) area as a part of the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary. He also mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of SC-NBWL the DGF&SS suggested that a Committee comprising of the Chief Wildlife Warden of Tripura, Dr. R. Sukumar, member, one representative of WII and one person from Wildlife Division would visit the site and submit a report to the Ministry for further consideration within June 2017. The site inspection report has not been received. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal and ask the members to furnish the report within 15 days. It was also decided to assign site visits based on the availability of members to ensure timely submission of reports.

32.4.2(19) Proposal for Lakheri Chamovali mining lease of M/s ACC Limited, Lakheri Cement Works, Lakheri, Dist. Bundi (Rajasthan) for mining purpose of limestone, Rajasthan

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that the proposal was considered by the SC-NBWL in its 40th meeting held on 3rd January 2017. A meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Secretary, MoEF&CC to discuss the aforesaid matter on 6th March 2017. The Secretary, MoEF&CC requested for the mining plan for 201.88 ha and 208 ha. He also enquired about the EC and FC clearance for the project from the ACC representatives. He also enquired on the requirement of law on de-notification as well as clarification on the conflicting stands taken by NTCA vis-à-vis this project. He mentioned that requiste information has been provided by the project proponent and NTCA. He mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of

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SC-NBWL, the Chair suggested that the DGF&SS, MoEF&CC would take a decision by convening meeting with the project proponent and the NTCA. Accordingly, a meeting was held on 1st June 2017 under the chairmanship of DGF&SS.
After discussions, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Rajasthan was requested to furnish additional information clarifying the mistake of facts committed while notifying the area of 409.88 ha as buffer of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in the year 2012. No response on the mistake of facts has been received from the State Government. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

40.3.2.2 Proposal for bauxite mining lease area 206.37 ha at village Talagaon in Taluka Radhanagari and village Baveli in Taluka Gaganbawada, Dist Kolhapur, Maharashtra

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and mentioned that the proposal was considered by the SC-NBWL in its 40th meeting held on 3rd January 2017. The PCCF, Maharashtra has not recommended the proposal. He added that the proposal has also not been recommended by the State Board for Wildlife. He also mentioned that in the 42nd meeting of SC- NBWL the representative of CWLW mentioned that meeting of State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) will be convened in 1-2 months and accordingly its decision on the aforesaid proposal shall be communicated to the Ministry. No response on the recommendation of SBWL has been received from the State Government. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal.

41.4.2.1
Proposal for CAPFIMS Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science (along with R&R Hospital and allied Institutes), New Delhi. The proposed site is 200 metres from the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal was recommended by the Standing Committee in its 41st meeting held on 2nd March 2017. He added

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user agency has requested to waive deposit of 5% of total project cost for undertaking soil- moisture conservation works as stipulated by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.
After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that the matter be examined by a Committee headed by Dr. H. S. Singh and comprising of one representative from Wildlife Division and one representative from the State of Delhi and submit the report within a fortnight for further consideration.

42.4.1.8
Proposal for Garh Mukteshwar as Religious and Hi-Tech Smart City on both bank of River Ganga falling within the boundary of Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary in district Hapur & Amroha, Uttar Pradesh The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal involves the development of Garh Mukteshwar as Religious Hi-Tech Smart City on both bank of River Ganga falling within the notified boundary of Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. An area of 7395 ha of non-forest land (6227 ha agricultural land, 1168 ha other Govt. land) would be developed under the Project. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures and conditions:

  1. Protection & Mitigation measures for wild life should be ensured as per guidelines of Government of India.
  2. A detailed impact assessment study will be carried out by a nationally reputed institute/organization having experiences and expertise in wildlife related issues suggested in col.(7), or as per guidelines of Government of India.
  3. User agency/concerned Department (Upper Ganga Canal Modernization Division, Hapur, Irrigation & Water Resources Dept.) should provide the funds for the following mitigation measures and for the conservation and Eco-development activities of wildlife and its habitat as per guidelines of Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India. (i) Habitat improvement work e.g., Gross land management/pasture development, creation of water holes, plantation, etc., in 1500 ha area to counter the loss of habitat for herbivores in the sanctuary.

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(ii) Boundary demarcation/solar fencing of the reserve forest block which is likely to be fragmented due to such diversion. (iii) 50 km fire line management along the forest boundary to enforce strict fire protection work. (iv) Construction of check chowkies and residential staff quarters. (v) Procurement of two vehicles and four motor boats for patrolling in the area and other equipment such as tranquilizing equipment, cages, field equipment, spotting scopes, camera traps, etc. shall be borne by the project proponent. (vi) Establishing a Nature Interpretation Centre in the area to educate and sensitize the tourists about conservation of the wildlife. 4. Labour camp during construction stage shall be kept away from any sensitive place/passage of the wild animal in the said forest & sanctuary area. 5. Necessary fuel wood for the labourers shall be met with purchase from market. No quarrying/mining/borrowing of soil/operations shall be carried within the other sanctuary accept project site. 6. Any form of poaching or forest offence, particularly by the construction workers, will be strictly prevented. In the event of any case of poaching noticed during the construction of project, user agency would be held responsible. 7. A survey/study shall be conducted for the critically endangered species of Amphibians & Reptiles such as gangetic dolphin, water lizard, otters, crocodiles, ganges soft shelled turtle and other wildlife species found in river ganga from Ramnagar to Balia and other Ramser site wetland which is situated within the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. The expert body for survey will be decided by the competent authority of Forest Department and Wild Life Institute, Dehradun. According to the survey report a conservation plan shall be prepared in consultation of WII/expert for preparation of Wild Life Management Plan. The user agency shall provide funds for the above activities. 8. Any other condition stipulated by Standing Committee of National board for Wildlife, Government of India will be complied with by user agency. The IGF(WL) also stated that a decision was taken in the 42nd meeting of SC-NBWL that
a committee comprising of Dr. H. S. Singh, member, one representative of WII and one person

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from Wildlife Division would visit the project site and submit a report to the Ministry for further consideration within June 2017. The site inspection report has not been received. Consequently the Standing Committee decided to defer the proposal and ask the members to furnish the report within 15 days. It was also decided to assign site visits based on the availability of members to ensure timely submission of reports.

42.4.1.13
Diversion of 9.1904 ha of forest land in Thally RF of Jawalagiri Range in Hosur Forest Division for construction of Dharmapuri (Salem)-Madhugiri 765 KV S/C transmission line in Thally Reserve Forest, Jwalagiri Range, Hosur Division under Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu involves the diversion of 9.1904 ha of forestland for construction of 765 KV transmission line through Cauvery North Wildlife sanctuary. He added that CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures: (1) The project proponent is requested to contribute under corporate social responsibilities (CSR) in the interest of Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary. (2) Considering the safety measures the project proponent may be directed to provide proper fencing around the tower area or electric power transmission (EPT) line wherever necessary and as directed by District Forest Officer. (3) The project proponent shall submit an undertaking stating that no disturbance will be caused to the wildlife during project implementation. (4) The project proponent shall submit an undertaking that the trees to be cleared due to this project the same will be handed over to Forest Department as directed by the District Forest Officer. (5) Any other condition stipulated by the Conservator of Forests/District Forest Officer shall be allowed.

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The IGF(WL) also stated that Prof. R. Sukumar inspected the project site and recommended the proposal subject to the conditions laid down by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Tamil Nadu, that are reasonable and adequate.
After discussions, considering the public utility, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, NTCA, and Prof. R. Sukumar.

42.4.1.15
Diversion of 96.65 ha (Reduced from 131.67 ha) in Muthinakoppa Minor Forest & Aramballi State Forest in Koppa Division for construction of a irrigation canal under the Bhadra Upper Project Package I, Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited, Division 1, Gajanur Shivamogga, Karnataka
& Diversion of 110.10 ha of forest land (reduced from 186.42 ha) in Bhadravathi Division for the construction of a lift irrigation canal under the Upper Bhadra Project Package II, (lifting of water from Bhadra Tiger Reserve at Ajjampura delivery Chamber) B R Project, Bhadravathi, Karnataka The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposals are for the construction of irrigation canals. He added that the Chief Wildlife Warden has recommended the proposal with the condition that the revised mitigation plan be prepared by the user agency in consultation with the Forest Department, Wildlife Expert and the concerned, etc., and implemented as per the resolution of the State Board for Wildlife. The site specific conditions if any as imposed/suggested by the jurisdictional officers shall have to be adhered to by the user agency. Further the IGF(WL) also stated that the NTCA has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures:

  1. Considering the significance of the landscape pertaining to tigers distribution/dispersal, leopards, elephants and other endangered species; it is recommended to propose retrofitting canal systems by closed conduit at ground level for UBP canals passing within the boundaries of Bhadra TR. Though initial installation of such underground pipeline system

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would demand slightly higher financial investment and technological skills, the benefits for irrigation would be much greater in comparison to traditional open canal system with little loss of water by evaporation and seepage, low maintenance cost, long life, flexible to operate, less soil erosion and utilization of the maintenance cost for some other purposes such as plantations, etc. 2. Although the UBP aims at diversion of water from Bhadra reservoir only during the monsoon (June to October), however, large scale water abstraction for irrigation and drinking purposes might have severe repercussions on water availability within the river and survival of endangered species living therein. It is recommended to have rigorous monitoring of this large scale water abstraction by the user agency and concerned forest authorities. 3. Moreover, the following mitigatory measures are also recommended so as to ensure compliance during implementation of the UBP within Bhadra TR: (i) The legal status of the forest land shall remain unchanged and the implementation of the project should be in strict adherence to all the mitigation measures suggested by (a) the Regional Empowered Committee, MoEF&CC Regional office (SZ) Bengaluru and (b) Karnataka Forest Department in the revised Wildlife Management and Mitigation plan for Upper Bhadra lift irrigation scheme. (ii) The Irrigation pipeline passing through the Tiger Reserve should be at 1-2 meter depth under soil (depending upon the rock profile) and should be covered with native vegetation (plantation is to be carried at the cost of user agency). (iii)The user agency should ensure minimal disturbances to the forest during the construction phase. These include controlled blasting during daytime while absolutely needed, no construction work at night, no night labour camp within the forest, dumping of the construction debris should be outside the forest boundaries, monitoring of labourers for extraction of any forest product, etc. (iv) Local FRO should ensure that no additional tree (beyond permitted) is felled during the construction of the UBP canals within the Tiger Reserve. (v) An old canal is also running in parallel to the proposed packaged II alignment of UBO up to some distance. Cross over bridges, culvets, super passages (see Glossary of green smart infrastructure) etc. at regular intervals (30 meter wide at every 400 meter

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intervals) need to be constructed over this canal (as long as it passes through the WLS or ESZ) for permitting unhindered animal movements. The precise locations of these structures should be decided in consultation with local DFOs & Field Director at site where wildlife crossing is likely to happen. (vi) The old canal may get filled with water during the rainy season and in order to avoid accidental animal mortality by drowning, ramps of about 6 meter could be constructed at an interval of every 500 meter. (vii) Chain link fencing should be avoided as much as possible since it is likely to fragment the habitat and disrupt animal movements. Construction of the water holes near the proposed canal along the entire length of both the packages should be cautiously planned as those structures will attract animals to approach near the canal and may escalates conflicts. (viii) The State Govt. shall charge the Net Present Value of the forest land proposed for diversion from the user agency as per Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s order numbers IA 826 and 566 (dated 28.03.2008 and 09.05.2008) related to a Writ Petition (Civil) No 202/1995. Following are the observations and recommendations of Dr. R. Sukumar:

  1. The lift irrigation project comprised two packages (Package I involving diversion of 96.65 ha of forestland in Muthinakoppa Minor Forest and Armballi State Forest of Koppa Forest Division for a canal to lift 17.4 TMC water from Tunga River to Bhadra Reservoir and Package 2 involving diversion of 110.0 ha of forestland in Bhadravathi forest Division for a canal to lift 29.90 TMC water from Bhadra Reservoir to Ajjampura).
  2. The canals run through the Eco-sensitive zone of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve but are outside the core and buffer zone of TR.
  3. National Tiger Conservation Authority has carried out a site inspection during 16-17 March 2107 and submitted a report with detailed recommendations.
  4. Karnataka Forest department has also prepared a detailed revised Wildlife management and Mitigation Plan in the context of this project in April 2107.
  5. The main issue is the potential for habitat fragmentation the scale of the larger landscape around the Bhadra Tiger Reserve because of the proposed construction of two open cut

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canals passing through the forest areas mentioned above. This region harbors a fairly intact fauna typical of the Western Ghats: tiger, leopard, elephant and several ungulates have been recorded in the forest areas around Bhadra Tiger Reserve through which the canals would pass. 6. The management plan of Karnataka Forest Department lays stress on construction of single lane bridges, box culverts / underpasses and super passages for animal crossing at various places. 7. The NTCA report on the other hand observes that “the canals might redefine the spatial distribution of wildlife species in the region and thereby might escalate conflicts with human communities and that they proposes retrofitting canal systems by closed conduit at ground level for UBP canals passing within the boundaries of Bhadra TR.” 8. There is merit in the NTCA’s recommendation that a part of the canal should be underground sp as to minimize habit fragmentation. In particular the canal under Package I running through Aramballi State Forest has the potential to fragment the broader landscape. From discussions with various officials and conservationists, it seems that there is scope of an underground canal under package I between the 2nd Pumphouse point eastward to the Bhadra Reservoir, a distance of about 2 km to 2.5 km with gentle slope. The project proponents should consider this recommendation seriously. 9. The proposed canal under Package II runs initially outside the tiger Reserve and reserve forests parallel to an existing canal. It then cuts through the Gurupur State Forest. Construction of bridges across the canal would suffice in this sector as the area of Gurupur State Forest to the north of the canal is relatively small. This area is also a heavily populated and cultivated. It may not be advisable for large mammals such as elephant to move into northern part and cause conflicts. This aspect may be examined in more detail. 10. Locations and dimensions of bridges across the canals should be decided in consultation with Karnataka Forest Department and conservationists working in around the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. The project may be cleared subject to the above recommendations, NTCA’s observations as well as conditions imposed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Karnataka.

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After discussions, considering the public utility, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, NTCA, and Dr. R. Sukumar.

42.4.3.1
Diversion of 1007.29 ha of forest land from Palamau Tiger Reserve for construction of North Koel Reservoir Project, Dist. Latehar, Jharkhand The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal involves the diversion of 10007.29 ha of forestland from Palamau Tiger Reserve for construction of North Koel Reservoir. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. During construction or installation of gates, the project authorities should construct Jetty at important locations. Motor boat as well as paddle boat should also be made available to monitor and control illicit fishing and birds poaching.
  2. The total number of trees to be felled is approx. 3,44,644 as per joint enumeration of trees.
    Such loss of trees should be compensated by planting same numbers of trees through Jan Van Yojana, Kisan nursery, etc., within Project Tiger jurisdiction.
  3. The height of gates was initially proposed as 367.28 m FRL and accordingly compensation has been paid to villages of 13 villages against their land holdings. The new Khatiyan has been created and all land has been shown in Nadi Ghati Pariyojana land. The Govt. may consider transferring all such land to Palamau Tiger Reserve.

Further the IGF(WL) stated that the site inspection committee has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures:

  1. The project mentions that the maximum water level exceeding the crest height of the dam is very rare. If water level reaches to the present crest height of the dam during exceptionally high rains, it will be brought down at 341.0 m level within 5 days by allowing the water to pass through the existing sluices and power intakes. However, if water discharge capacity of these sluices and power intake gates is not enough to maintain

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the ponding level at 341.0 m during very heavy rains, some arrangements should be made so that effective submergence area does not exceed 1007.29 ha. 2. The bed level of the river is about 305 m and Dead Storage Level (DSL) at 330 m. Thus, the discharge of water should be strictly stopped when the water level reaches the DSL.
3. By the time sluice gates are readied for installation, the submergence villages should be shifted out of the tiger reserve. As per the project proponents, all the affected families have been given relief and rehabilitation assistance at the time of construction of the dam. However, many of them still reside in the same villages inside the tiger reserve. Keeping the interests of local people, the observation of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and to avoid agitation of the people, a comprehensive plan should address grievances of all families in these villages. If necessary, funds from other sources may be made available to settle these people under an attractive settlement plan. If it is not done properly, some of the families may move into the upper catchment of the PTR after submergence of the villages. In such a situation, the loss of tiger habitat would be multiplied, causing enormous pressure on the PTR in future. The non-forest land in these 15 villages may be notified as forest land. 4. After ponding at 341.0 m, the linear water lake will partly fragment the PTR. This may compel elephants, tiger and other wildlife species to shift their movement/dispersal routes through other villages (such as the 13 Lat group of villages). As a good elephant population would continue to survive in the PTR after completion of the project, the conflicts between local people and elephant may turn serious in future. Hence, for better ecological integrity of the tiger reserve and minimizing human-wildlife conflicts, it is advisable to explore the resettlement of at least some of these 13 Lat group of revenue villages outside the tiger reserve after obtaining their willingness. Villages willing for resettlement should be provided special financial and social development packages that go beyond the standard NTCA package for tiger reserves. In addition, sufficient funds should be provided to Palamau Tiger Reserve for dealing with human-wildlife conflicts including handling problematic animals and providing ex-gratia payments to the affected families. 5. After completion of the project, the tiger may lose substantial resource rich habitat. To compensate loss of the habitat, adjoining government wasteland (GM land / Raiyati land) in the landscape should be transferred to PTR and its management should be integrated with the existing tiger habitat.

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  1. The core area should be expanded suitably to cover adjoining uninhabited buffer zone or other forest areas to strengthen conservation measures, as proposed by the state wildlife board in its site-specific wildlife management plan for mitigation of impacts due to Mandal dam.
  2. Extent of Protected Areas in Jharkhand is only 2.7% of its geographical area against the national average of 4.9%, although Jharkhand is a forest rich state. There is logic and reasons for improving the size of the PTR by extending its boundary to cover suitable forests and the government wasteland.
  3. Betala area is loosely connected with the main area of the PTR through narrow width of forest. This corridor should be strengthened through transferring adjoining forest and government wastelands. This issue should be examined and if possible, the families from a few villages such as Kerh and Garhi, fully or partly, should be settled outside the PTR under a very attractive settlement package. The population of wild animals in Betla Range is isolated from the rest of the forest area due to swelling of size of these two villages and occupying the erstwhile thin corridors for wildlife management.
  4. Hunting by local people is one of the main reasons for depletion of wildlife. The management of PTR should increase their control and surveillance over the tiger reserve. The remnant population of herbivores should be intensively protected to build up population again. At same time, the rapport between the staff of the PTR and villagers should be strengthened through establishing Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) and engaging them in the conservation activities through implementation of eco- development programmes. A comprehensive education campaign through effective groups or institution may be done in all villages in and around the PTR. The youth from these villages may be recruited as forest guards, foresters and RFOs to establish a strong management system to achieve standards prevailing in some of the outstanding Protected Areas in the country. Although the existing Naxalite activities are a hurdle to achieving the goal, it is possible over a period to change the management environment. If problems in wildlife protection arise due to local people, the solutions also lie in involving them. The BMCs or Vanyaprani Mitra, as practiced in Gir National Park, in the villages may establish a strong link between people and the management. The existing organization - Palamau Tiger Conservation Foundation- may be strengthened for more effective

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communication, education and eco-development activities in the villages within and around the PTR. Funds for eco-development as provided in the site-specific wildlife management plan may be transferred to Palamau Tiger Conservation Foundation for such activities. 10. A large number of trees will be submerged in the dam waters. Ten times the number of submerged trees should be raised at suitable areas in the PTR landscape to compensate the loss in accordance with a scientific landscape-scale management plan. However, such plantation areas should be largely outside the tiger reserve, particularly outside the core area, as the tiger reserve needs grasslands along with woodland for augmenting the herbivore population. 11. The project proponents and the management of PTR should ensure that during pre- construction and construction phases of the dam, there should be least disturbance to the animals and their habitat. As suggested by the tiger reserve management itself, only temporary structures should be created near the dam site by the project proponents. Permanent structures, godowns, etc. should be at Bawardih, outside the tiger reserve. During nights, no construction activity should take place at the dam site.
12. Other suggestions and recommendations in the Site Specific Wildlife Management Plan of North Koel Reservoir Project (Mandala Dam) and accepted by the State Board for Wild Life should be put into operation. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden and the conditions and mitigation measures as may be prescribed by the NTCA and the site inspection committee.

AGENDA ITEM No. 3 43.1 PROPOSALS WITHIN THE PROTECTED AREAS

43.1.1
Proposal for laying underground Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) from Kakkanalla to Thoraapalli (km 0/0 to km 15-910) for Defence Services passing through Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (Core Area Thepakkadu to Mysore Road)

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the diversion of 0.72 ha of forestland from Mudumalai Tiger Reserve for laying underground optical fiber cable (OFC). He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures:

  1. Any other condition stipulated by the Chief Conservator of Forest and Field Director/ Deputy Director shall be followed.
  2. All the material required for the work should be prepared outside the sanctuary.
  3. No fire places will be created inside the sanctuary.
  4. The work in the Tiger Reserve will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM – 6 PM.
  5. No night camping of labourers/ survey personal will be allowed inside the sanctuary area.
  6. Project personal engaged in the project work shall observe the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and rules made there under.
  7. The legal status of the land remains unchanged.
  8. While undertaking the periodical maintenance works if any by the project proponent shall obtain prior approval of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and the Chief Wildlife Warden well in advance. The project proponent shall submit an undertaking stating that no disturbance will be caused to the wildlife during project implementation. Further he mentioned that the NTCA has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures and conditions:
  9. Although the proposed project of OFC laying passes through high tiger density area, the site appraisal team is of the opinion that the proposed activity may not have any significant impact on the forest and wildlife of the area as it involves trenching and laying of OFC only.
  10. While digging the trench, shorter lengths may be taken at a time and laying of cable and refilling of the trench should be undertaken simultaneously within the shortest possible period so as to avoid disruption in animal movements and wildlife (especially calf) mortality by falling in the open trench.
  11. No alteration in the exiting drainage pattern should be allowed within the tiger reserve for implementing the proposed construction.

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  1. Use of heavy machinery such as earth movers/or drilling machines should not be used so as to minimize noise pollution.
  2. Work should be finished within specified time of the day (9 AM – 5 PM) and no camping of labourers beyond this time frame should be allowed. Local beat officer(s) and forester(s) should be responsible strictly on daily basis and report the progress to Deputy Director/ or Field Director.
  3. As the project area passes through the core of tiger reserve the user agency will be solely responsible for the safety of workers engaged in OFC works.
  4. The user agency will abide by all other terms and conditions as given in project proposal document by tiger reserve management and Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun.
  5. The user agency may assist the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve Management in renovation/ installation of signages for spreading awareness about wildlife to general public passing through tiger reserve. After discussions, considering the importance of project in improving telecommunication, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the NTCA and the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.2
Diversion of 0.45 ha of forestland from Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of Optical Fiber Cable falls within the existing NH-2 and NH-33, Jharkhand the diversion of 0.45 ha of forestland from Gautham Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary and Hazaribagh Sanctuary for laying of underground optical fiber cable(OFC). He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. The maximum size of trench is not more than 2.0 meters depth and 1.0 meter width.
  2. No felling of trees.
  3. During implementation of the project the user agency must prevent:
    (i) Any commission of offence against WPA-1972 and IFA-1927. (ii) Shooting, teasing, chasing of animal or littering of grounds.

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  1. Extinguish any fire in sanctuary of which has/or she has knowledge or information and to prevent from spreading.
  2. No labour camp will be allowed in the sanctuary area. After discussions, considering the importance of project in improving telecommunication, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.3 Construction of (1) CRPF CAMP (MB-01), (2) CRPF CAMP (MB-02), and (3) CRPF CAMP (MB-03) the diversion of 6.06 ha (2.02 ha X 3) of forestland from Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary for the construction of three CRPF camps for deployment of security personnel. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. Shooting, teasing or chasing of animal will be strictly prohibited
  2. Littering is strictly prohibited
  3. Hunting and fishing will be strictly prohibited
  4. Use of flash and plastic will not be allowed

After discussions, considering the strategic importance of the camps in tackling law and order, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.4 Diversion of 0.735 ha of forestland from Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary for reconstruction of damaged trench weir and related works for Choragaliya Canal System, Uttarakhand the diversion of 0.735 ha of forestland from Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of

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underground optical fiber cable(OFC). He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. Reconstruction of 100 years old damaged trench weir and related works for Choragaliya Canal System only by applicant department with due permission of the higher Authority.
  2. No damage to the wildlife, aquatic life and environments during execution of work. After discussions, considering the importance of project in improving the telecommunication, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.5 Proposal for use of 0.9874 ha of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of optical fiber cable by RJICL, Ahmadabad the diversion of 0.9874 ha of forestland from Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of underground optical fiber cable . He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. The user agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section 9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  2. The user agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary.
  3. The user agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted.
  4. The user agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary.
  5. The user agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary.
  6. All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary.
  7. The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 Am to 6 PM.
  8. Approval under Forest Conservation 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland.

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  1. The user agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates.
  2. The user agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work. After discussions, considering the importance of telecommunication in economic and social development, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.6
Proposal for use of 0.1134 ha of land in Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary for laying of optical fiber cable by RJICL, Ahmedabad the diversion of 0.1134 ha of forestland from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary for laying of underground optical fiber cable. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation conditions:

  1. The user agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section 9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  2. The user agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.
  3. The user agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted.
  4. The user agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.
  5. The user agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.
  6. All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary.
  7. The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 Am to 6 PM.
  8. Approval under Forest Conservation 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland.
  9. The user agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates.

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  1. The user agency shall restore the land in its original form after completion of the work. After discussions, considering the importance of telecommunications in economic and social development, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.7 Proposal for use of 1.1981 ha of Wild Ass Sanctuary for laying of optical fiber cable by RJICL, Ahmadabad the diversion of 1.1981 ha of forestland from Wild Ass Sanctuary for laying of underground optical fiber cable. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

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

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After discussions, considering the importance of telecommunications in economic and social development, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.8
Proposal for use of 1.68 ha land for laying of pipeline for drinking water from Dolatpar to Godhatadi in Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary in Kutch District, Gujarat
the diversion of 1.68 ha of forestland from Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary for laying underground drinking water pipe line. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following safety measures:

  1. The user agency or his contractor must ensure the minimum movement of the vehicles and the staff in the sanctuary area and vehicles will move on the prescribed route as decided by local DCF in-charge of the sanctuary/national park.
  2. No damage/disturbance to be caused to flora and fauna of the said area by the user agency and its establishment.
  3. The user agency or his contractor will not use any area of the sanctuary other than the area shown on the map and permission sought for laying of drinking water pipeline. Any shifting of area will attract the provision of cancellation of permission.
  4. The land permitted for use will not be liable to sale or transfer the right and privileges to any other agency
  5. The user agency or contractor will strictly follow the provision under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  6. 5% of the total cost of the project should be spent for habitat improvement and wildlife conservation in the sanctuary area.
  7. Approval under forest conservation Act, 1980 for use of will be obtained separately for use of forestland, NPV will be deposited as per the existing rates.
  8. Water supply at appropriate locations for wildlife will be provided free of charge by the user agency.

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  1. The Chief Wildlife Warden or the State Government may impose other additional conditions at any stage which will be binding on the user agency. After discussions, considering the public utility of the project, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.9 Diversion of 1.20 ha forestland for laying of electric line along Lakki Nala road in Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, Gujarat the diversion of 1.20 ha of forestland from Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary for laying electric line. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following safety measures:

  1. The user agency or his contractor must ensure the minimum movement of the vehicles and the staff in the sanctuary area and vehicles will move on the prescribed route as decided by local DCF in-charge of the sanctuary/ or national park.
  2. No damage/disturbance to be caused to flora and fauna of the said area by the user agency and its establishment.
  3. The user agency or his contractor will not use any area of the sanctuary other than the area shown on the map and permission sought for laying of drinking water pipeline. Any shifting of area will attract the provision of cancellation of permission.
  4. The land permitted for use will not be liable to sale or transfer the right and privileges to any other agency
  5. The user agency or contractor will strictly follow the provision under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  6. Reflectors on transmission line for the birds will be installed by the user agency.
  7. The Chief Wildlife Warden or the State Government may impose other additional conditions at any stage which will be binding on the user agency.

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After discussions, considering the public utility of the project, the Standing Committee decided to recommend laying of underground electric line along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.10 Diversion of 0.54 ha land for laying of drinking water pipeline from Naredo Samp to Laxmirani in Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, Gujarat
the diversion of 0.54 ha of forestland from Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary for laying underground drinking water pipe line. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following safety measures:

  1. The user agency or his contractor must ensure the minimum movement of the vehicles and the staff in the sanctuary area and vehicles will move on the prescribed route as decided by local DCF in-charge of the sanctuary/national park.
  2. No damage/disturbance to be caused to flora and fauna of the said area by the user agency and its establishment.
  3. The user agency or his contractor will not use any area of the sanctuary other than the area shown on the map and permission sought for laying of drinking water pipeline. Any shifting of area will attract the provision of cancellation of permission.
  4. The land permitted for use will not be liable to sale or transfer the right and privileges to any other agency
  5. The user agency or contractor will strictly follow the provision under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  6. 5% of the total cost of the project should be spent for habitat improvement and wildlife conservation in the sanctuary area.
  7. Approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 for use of forestland and will be obtained separately. NPV will be deposited as per the existing rates.
  8. Water supply at appropriate locations for wildlife will be provided free of charge by the user agency.
  9. The Chief Wildlife Warden or the State Government may impose other additional conditions at any stage which will be binding on the user agency.

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After discussions, considering the public utility of the project, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.11 Strengthening of forest road from Chikhla to Kalibel road km 7/0 to 12/870 The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the project is for the strengthening of existing road. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. All the material required for the work should be prepared outside the sanctuary.
  2. There should not be any damage or disturbance in the sanctuary during construction.
  3. No labour shades/ or huts will be created in the sanctuary areas during construction.
  4. No fire places will be created inside the sanctuary.
  5. The work in the sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM - 6 PM.
  6. Any other conditions that may impose by the CWLW/Government/or Standing Committee of NBWL will be strictly complied with by the user agency. After discussions, considering the connectivity the road would provide to Chikhla village in accessing basic amenities, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.12 Proposal for change of surface of Fulsar - Kanjal road from Executive Engineer, R&B (Panchayat), Rajpipla, Dist. Narmada, Gujarat the diversion of 2.047 ha of forestland from Shoolpaneswar Wildlife Sanctuary for tarring of WBM (kachcha) road. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. The user agency shall not violate any regulatory provisions under Section 9, 17A, 27, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

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  1. The user agency shall not destroy wildlife habitat including fauna and flora of the Shool Paneswar Sanctuary.
  2. The user agency shall not use the area for the proposed work other than the area permitted.
  3. The user agency shall not establish any temporary or permanent labour camp in the Shool Paneswar Sanctuary.
  4. The user agency or his contractor shall not create any fire places inside the Shool Paneswar Sanctuary.
  5. All the materials required for the work shall be prepared outside the sanctuary.
  6. The work in the Sanctuary will be allowed only in the day time from 8 AM to 6 PM.
  7. Approval under Forest Conservation 1980, if required shall be obtained separately for use of forestland.
  8. The user agency shall deposit Net Present Value for the use of land of Protected Area as per the existing rates.
  9. The user agency shall create a peed breaker at a distance of every 500 meters. After discussions, considering the connectivity the road would provide to 105 villages dominated by deprived poor and tribals, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.13 Proposal for land transfer of 4.047 ha Sonam (New) for construction of operational development and accommodation for troops the transfer of 4.047 ha of forestland from Gangotri National Park for the construction of accommodation for operational deployment of the army personnel. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures:

  1. No quarrying of stone shall be permissible in the national park.
  2. The debris in the national park should be deposited in area in consultation with the park officials and not thrown in areas with steep slopes.

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After discussions, considering the strategic importance of the project in guarding the international border, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.14 Electrification of Himri Tok in village of Devel under DDUGY in District Uttarkashi, Block-Mori, Uttarakhand the diversion of 4.20 ha of forestland from Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary for electrification of Himri Tok village. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. Underground laying of electric lines be explored as an alternative to overhead lined cables. This would reduce felling/or looping of trees, risk of accidental fire, accidental electrocution of wildlife and possible future damage to the cables from falling branches/or other reasons.
  2. Since extension of electric lines will be required from the Himri Tok for electrification of six more villages, more forestland could be required to accomplish the project/or scheme objectives in to. Therefore a cumulative proposal regarding the same should be submitted. After discussions, considering the fact that project would electrify Himri Tok village, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal for underground laying of electric cable along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.15 Construction of 775 m Viaduct (bridge) from Sonprayag design km 75.345 to Mundkatiya km 76.120 (existing km 70.350 to km 71.200) of NH-109 (New NH- 107) Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand involves the diversion of 0.9300 ha of forestland from Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary for the construction of 775 m span of Viaduct. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project without imposing any condition.

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After discussions, considering the public utility of the project in ensuring safe and proper connectivity of high altitude portions of Uttarakhand State, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.16 Acquisition of land at 0.607 ha/1.5 acres at old Sonam for defence work the diversion of 0.607 ha of forestland from Gangotri National Park for the construction of accommodation for operational deployment of the army personnel. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures:

  1. No quarrying of stone shall be permissible in the national park.
  2. The debris in the national park should be deposited in area in consultation with the park officials and not thrown in areas with steep slopes.

After discussions, considering the strategic importance in guarding international border, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.17 Construction of Motor Road Galrad to Divya in District Almora involves the diversion of 1.80 ha of forestland from Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for the construction of motorable road. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project without imposing conditions.
After discussions, the Committee decided that the WII would visit the site and submit a report for further consideration of the Committee by the end of July 2017.

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43.1.18 Electrification of Rosemala area under Total Electrification Scheme of Govt. of Kerala involves the diversion of 0.035 ha of forestland from Schendurney Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of 1 km HT UG cable. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project without imposing any condition. After discussions, considering the fact that project would electrify the Rosemala area, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal for underground laying of electric cable.

43.1.19 Realignment of area of the buffer area of Indravati Tiger Reserve, Chattisgarh involves the rationalization of the buffer area of Indravati Tiger Reserve. He added that there were no recommendations of the State Chief Wildlife warden in the proposal. Dr. H.S. Singh, member suggested that the opinion of the State Chief Wildlife Warden, a statutory authority under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (amended), may be sought for further consideration. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to seek the opinion of CWLW for further consideration.

43.1.20 Proposal for diversion of 0.69 ha of forestland for laying of underground 11KV electricity line to Shettihalli–Chitrashettihalli villages located in Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary involves the diversion of 0.69 ha of forestland from Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary for laying of underground electricity cable. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following mitigation measures:

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Project is recommended subject to the conditions specified by the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Shimoga. With regard to Sections 29 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is concerned destruction of forest is minimal in implementation of the project. The proposed route passes through a well defined, wider road which is regularly used by both villagers and department personnel. At the same time the work include excavation of earth of width 0.6 m which gets closed after laying the electric cable. This excavation work is done along the mentioned route. Hence the destruction of forests is minimal. All the statutory requirements to be considered at the time of implementation of work shall be followed as per the conditions laid down by the jurisdiction officers in the interest of protection and conservation of wildlife. After the approval of the SC-NBWL, further action may be taken up as per the provision of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 with regard to the Compensatory Afforestation (CA) and collection of Net Present Value. After discussions, considering the fact that project would bring prosperity to Shettihalli and Chitra Shettihalli villages through electrification, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal for underground laying of electric cable along with the conditions prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.21 Proposal for exclusion of 228.87 sq. km from Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary for rationalization of the boundary of the sanctuary, Odisha involves the rationalization of the boundary of Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary. He added that there were no recommendations of the State Chief Wildlife Warden.
Dr. H.S. Singh, member suggested in-principle approval with refer to have views of the State CWLW in week’s time for further consideration. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to seek the opinion of CWLW for further consideration.

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43.1.22 Diversion of forestland for proposed realignment on the existing Lachung- Yumthang road to bypass heavy landslide between 14.00 km to 15.00 km in North Sikkim the diversion of 0.5310 ha of forestland from Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary for realignment of the existing road. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. User agency should not be allowed to throw the muck generated by developing the proposed alignment.
  2. Labour camps should not be permitted within the sanctuary.
  3. Sufficient number of signages to avoid disturbance to the existing habitat to be erected along the road.

After discussions, considering the public utility and strategic importance of the road, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.23 Diversion of 0.0248 ha of forestland for implementation of Rural Water Supply Scheme from Tharey Kholas to Chingthang GPU, West Sikkim involves the diversion of 0.0248 ha of forestland from Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary for laying underground drinking water pipe line. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal with the following mitigation measures:

  1. The pipeline will be underground except in the rocky cliffs where digging the rocks will make the land more fragile and use of stones should be minimized.
  2. Labour camps will not be permitted to be set up inside the sanctuary.
  3. All workers need to obtain permits for working inside the sanctuary.
  4. Construction materials should be stored in the identified area.

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  1. No additional felling of trees produce from sanctuary should take place.
  2. Authorized sanctuary personnel will check the construction sites as and when required.
  3. The project implementing authorities and workers will obey Dos and Don’ts of the sanctuary.
  4. Even after completion of the project, the implementation agency shall inform and take permission from the Department of Forest, Environment & Wildlife Management for any kind of maintenance work. After discussions, considering the importance of project in providing drinking water to people of Chingthang GPU, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.1.24 Permission for investigation and survey for construction of National Highway (NH-3) bypass road in Son Chiriya Wildlife Sanctuary, Ghatigaon, Madhya Pradesh The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal is for the construction of NH-3 bypass road in Son Chiriya Wildlife Sanctuary. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal without imposing any condition. He mentioned that proposal for investigation and survey for this Project was recommended by the Standing Committee inits 31st meeting held during 12-13 August 2014. The User Agency has suggested 3 options of which the CWLW has opted for option 1 whereas the State Board for Wildlife has preferred option 3. After discussions, the Standing Committee recommended that a committee comprising of one representative of WII and one person from Wildlife Division would visit the project site and submit a report to the Ministry within a fortnight for further consideration.

43.1.25 Installation of collocated Strong Motion Sensors, GPS receivers and Metrological Sensors with real time VSAT connectivity in Interview Island, East Island and Narcondam Island Sanctuary

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involves the diversion of 0.03 ha (0.01 ha X 3) from Interview Island, East Island and Narcondam Island Sanctuaries. He added that the CWLW has recommended the project with the following conditions:

  1. The user agency should share the information gathered through this centre with the Department of Environment & Forests.
  2. The user agency should also allow the park official to use the communication system in case of any emergency. After discussions, considering the scientific usefulness of the observatory in early warning tsunami disaster, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal subject to the recommendation of the State Board for Wildlife and the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2
PROPOSALS WITHIN 10 KM FROM THE BOUNDARIES OF PROTECTED AREAS

43.2.1 Proposal for provision of 3-lane slipway 500 ton capacity near coast guard jetty, Port Blair by Coast Guard Region, HQ, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Port Blair the provision of 3-lane slipway of 500 ton capacity. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal with the condition that the user agency should minimize the disturbance to local flora and fauna during the construction and operational phase of the project. After discussions, considering the strategic importance of the project to Coast Guard in maintenance of Ships, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the condition prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

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43.2.2
The proposed Govt. of India Jetty site along the east bank of Willington Island in the Ernakulum Channel the construction of jetty at a distance of 3.1 km from the boundary of Mangalvanam Bird Sanctuary. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal without any condition.
After discussions, considering the strategic importance of the project, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.3
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining on Yamuna River bed (14.97 ha) at Village Kulhal, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand the collection of river bed materials from Asan Wetland Conservation Reserve. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal subject to the following conditions specified by the Divisional Forest Officer of Chakrata Forest Division: The project is essential to prevent widening of the river bed due to deposition of sediments which if not mined out will cause flooding, damage to the adjoining areas, destruction of life and property. This will also enhance revenue and greater employment opportunities for the local people. Moreover there is no adverse impact on the flora and fauna. The proposed project has public interest. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.4
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (60.983 ha) on Sheetla River bed at Village Charwa Kedarwala and Jassowala, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand

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with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.5
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (34.94 ha) on Yamuna River bed at Village Dhakrani, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

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43.2.6
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (69.785 ha) on Baldi River bed at Villages Mirota, Mandawali, Pustadi, Kulhaan, Mansingh, Kheri Mansingh, Reniwala, Dist. Dehradun, Uttarakhand The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal is for the collection of river bed materials from Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal subject to the following conditions:

  1. No mining activity in the night.
  2. Speed breakers should be made on the road to avoid high speed of vehicles involved in mining for protection of wildlife. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal along with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.7 Proposal for transfer of land outside Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary at a distance of 3.5 km away from the boundary for Bowlanand Prayag Hydroelectric Project (300 MW) The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that the proposal for the construction of Bowlanand Prayag Hydroelectric Project at a distance of 3.5 km away from Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. He added that the CWLW has recommended the proposal. After discussions, the Standing Committee decided to recommend the proposal subject to directions of Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case related to the hydroelectric power projects (HEPs) in Alakananda-Bhagirathi basin.

43.2.8
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (32.218 ha) on Aasan River bed at Village Sahaspur, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand

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with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.9
Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (32.0 ha) on Aasan River bed at Village Khushaalpur, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.10 Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (4.0 ha) on Aasan River bed at Village Dhamolo, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand

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with the mitigation measures prescribed by the State Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.2.11 Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining (45.0 ha) on Aasan River bed at Jassuwala, Lakhanwala, Mednipur and Bandripur, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

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43.2.12 Obtain NOC for Sand, Bajri & Boulder mining on Aasan River bed (32.709 ha) at Village Sahaspur, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand with the mitigation measures prescribed by the Chief Wildlife Warden.

43.3 ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS

42.4.2.1
Proposal for Dirok Field Development Phase I & II for re-entry and completion of existing well, commissioning of Gas Gathering Station (GGS) and Gas procession plant (GPP) and laying of underground gas pipeline in the Dirok field in onshore block AAP-ON-94/1, Tinsukia District, Assam by the Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Ltd. 42.4.2.2
Proposal for Dirok Field Development Phase III for drilling wells, development exploratory wells, commissioning of Gas Gathering Station (GGS) and Gas Processing Plant (GPP) and laying of underground gas pipeline in the Dirok Field in onshore block AAP-94/1, Tinsukia District, Assam by Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Ltd.

The IGF(WL) briefed the Committee on the proposal and stated that these proposals were recommended by the Standing Committee of NBWL in its 42nd meeting held on 15th May 2017.

41

It was recommended that the existing wells located within 1 km distance from the boundary of the sanctuary shall be plugged permanently and no oil/gas shall be extracted from such wells. He added user agency requested to waive the condition of plugging permanently the wells located within 1 km imposed by the Standing Committee as oil exploration/drilling is different from mining activity.

IGF(WL) further mentioned that opinion of Impact assessment Division was obtained. The IA Division has opined that oil drilling is different from mining activity as per EIA notification. He read out the opinion furnished by the Sr. Consultant (Legal), MoEF&CC which confirms the views of the IA Division. After discussions, based on the opinion of IA Division and legal opinion of Sr. Consultant (Legal), MoEF&CC, the Standing Committee came to conclusion that oil drilling activity is a separate activity from mining as per EIA notification and agreed to the waiver of the condition of plugging permanently the wells located within 1 km distance from the boundary of the sanctuary. Other condition imposed in the 42nd Standing Committee of NBWL will be followed.

AGENDA ITEM No. 4

NO ITEMS WERE TAKEN UP BEFORE THE STANDING COMMITTEE WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE CHAIR.

42

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE 43rd MEETING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF NBWL HELD ON 27 JUNE 2017

1 Shri Harsha Vardhan
Hon’ble Minister for Environment, Forests & Climate Change

Chairperson 2 Shri Ajay Narayan Jha Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change Member 3 Shri Siddhanta Das Director General of Forests & Special Secretary, MoEF&CC Member 4 Shri Anil Kumar Additional Director General of Forests(FC), MoEF&CC Invitee 5 Shri Debabrata Swain, Additional Director General of Forests & Member Secretary (NTCA) Invitee 6 Dr. V.B. Mathur, Director, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. Member 7 Dr. H.S. Singh, Member, NBWL Member 8 Shri R.D. Kamboj, Director, GEER Foundation, Gujarat. Member 9 Shri Nishant Verma, Deputy Inspector General of Forests, NTCA Invitee 10 Shri M.P. Singh, Field Director, Palamau Tiger Reserve, Jharkhand Invitee 11 Shri J.S. Sharma, Chief Engineer, CPWD, New Delhi Invitee 12 Dr. Thomas Chandy, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden, Sikkim Invitee 13 Shri C. Jayaram, Addl. Pr.Chief Conservator of Forests, Karnataka Invitee 14 Shri D.S. Khati, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden, Uttarakhand Invitee 15 Shri A.K. Misra, PCCF, Maharashtra
Invitee 16 Shri B. Brahma, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden, Assam Invitee 17 Dr. S. Panda, Chief Conservator of Forests, Odisha Invitee 18 Shri G.K. Sinha, Chief Wildlife Warden, Gujarat Invitee 19 Shri Nishant Verma, Inspector General of Forests ( NTCA) Invitee 20 Shri Soumitra Dasgupta, Inspector General of Forests (WL), MoEF&CC Invitee 21 Shri S.P. Vashishth, Deputy Inspector General of Forests (WL), MoEF&CC Invitee 22 Pasupala Ravi, Deputy Director (WL), MoEF&CC Invitee

ANNEXURE I

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