राष्ट्रीय बोर्ड फॉर वाइल्डलाइफ की 9वीं बैठक की मिनट्स, 10 सितंबर 2007 को 10:00 ए.एम. पर पर्यावरण भवन, नई दिल्ली में माननीय राज्य मंत्री (वन और वाइल्डलाइफ) के अध्यक्षता में

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Minutes of the IXth Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) convened on 10th September 2007 at 10.00 A.M .in Room No.403, Paryavaran Bhavan, New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister of State for Forests and Wildlife.

……….

IXth Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) was convened on 10th September, 2007 at 10.00 A.M. in Room No.403, Paryavaran Bhavan, New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Minister of State for Forests and Wildlife. A list of participants is enclosed.

At the outset, the Director General of Forests and Special Secretary welcomed all the members. Hon’ble Chairman in his opening remarks urged all the members of the Standing Committee to work for the conservation of wildlife. It was followed by a round of introduction after which agenda was taken for discussion.

Agenda Item No.1: Confirmation of the Minutes of the meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife held on 14th September 2006.

Member Secretary informed that the draft minutes of the last meeting were circulated to all the members and the Ministry did not receive any comments thereon. The Members were urged to confirm the minutes. Minutes were confirmed unanimously.

Agenda Item No.2: Action taken report on the recommendations of the Standing Committee of NBWL.

Guidelines for diversion proposals. (2.4)

In the last meeting, it was decided not to frame the guidelines but proforma for application for diversion proposals was approved. Members were apprised of it.

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De-notification/diversification of forest land comprising a part of Kishtwar High Altitude National Park for non forestry purposes for construction of Pakul Dul & Bursar Hydro Electric Project. (3(1))

The Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW), Jammu and Kashmir, made a presentation and informed the Committee that as per the decision of the last meeting, State Wildlife Department has prepared a Mitigation Plan which was circulated to all the Members. After detailed discussions, the Committee recommended the proposal of Pakul Dul Hydro Electric Project with the following conditions:-

(i) Provisions proposed for the habitat improvement in the Mitigation Plan should be discussed with Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and be modified accordingly. (ii) State Wildlife Department may re-define the core area of the National Park considering the human population pressure etc. (iii) NHPC would provide a total of Rs.236.00 crores including Rs.100.00 crores for the corpus fund for the protected area for the conservation of the wildlife..

Construction of 400 KV transmission lines by Power Grid Corporation of India involving diversion of 93.17 ha of land in Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan.
(Supplementary Agenda Item No.2)

The project proponents informed that the Hon’ble Supreme Court has already cleared the proposal. Since the Hon’ble Court has cleared the proposal, the Committee did not discuss the matter.

(I.A. No. 33): Diversion of 46 ha of forest land from Radhanagari Sanctuary, Maharashtra for Dhamini Irrigation Project (3.6)

During the last meeting of the Standing Committee of NBWL held on 14th September, 2006, the State Government was directed to propose maximum possible area for inclusion in the existing Protected Area before taking a final decision. The CWLW, Maharashtra, informed that the Hon’ble Supreme Court in its decision dated 28.03.07 has allowed the I.A. No.33 after granting exemption from the second condition i.e. declaration of 228.12 sq. km of reserved forest area as Wildlife Sanctuary. While clearing the application, Hon’ble Court has also observed that the Standing Committee of NBWL would be at liberty to examine whether the conditions imposed had been complied with, if not, the Committee would be at the liberty to take appropriate action. In the light of these directions, the Committee unanimously decided that before taking any action, the State Government should fulfill all the conditions as have been envisaged in the order of the Hon’ble Court under intimation to the Standing Committee.

3 of 18 I.A. No. 17: Diversion of Tale sanctuary for Lower Subhansri Hydro Electric Project by NHPC.

This proposal was earlier cleared by the Standing Committee of NBWL with 11 conditions. However the State Government had shown their inability to fulfill two conditions out of 11 conditions which are as follows:-

(i) The reserve forestland that forms part of catchment of the Lower Subansiri including the reservoir should be declared as a National Park or Sanctuary.
NHPC would provide funds for the survey and demarcation for the same (ii) There would be no construction of dam upstream of the Subansiri river in future.

State Government has filed an I.A. before the Supreme Court and the Hon’ble Court has referred the matter to the Standing Committee for reconsideration of the conditions. The CWLW, Arunachal Pradesh apprised the Committee regarding their inability to fulfill these conditions in the light of the fact that large percentage of total forest area was under protected Area Management and stopping construction of dam upstream would deprive the State from its hydro electric resources. .

After hearing the CWLW, Arunachal Pradesh and the representative of NHPC, the Committee unanimously decided to carry out a site inspection before taking a final decision.
The inspecting team would consist of Dr. Asad Rehmani, CWLW (Arunachal Pradesh), CWLW of Assam and DIG(WL).

I.A. No.37: Seeking diversion of Askot Sanctuary for 132 KV transmission

    line by Uttaranchal Jal Vidyut Nigam. 

The proposal was recommended by Standing Committee of NBWL in its meeting held on 6th April, 2005 with certain conditions. However, Hon’ble Supreme Court, while granting permission to the applicant, had mentioned that there was a violation of Forest (Conservation) Act and Wildlife (Protection) Act and that the same may be reconsidered by the standing Committee. The Standing Committee had suggested for a site inspection by officials of the Ministry. Accordingly, site inspection had been conducted. DIG(WL) who was the inspecting officer informed the Committee that in the instant case, Uttaranchal Jal Vidyut Nigam has violated the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court as well as the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and Forest (Conservation) Act by commissioning the Relaghat Hydro Power Project in Askot Wildlife Sanctuary without any approval.

The Committee observed that it was a very serious matter and after deliberations recommended the following :-

(i) Responsibility in this case against all the concerned officers must be fixed by the State Government followed by appropriate action. (ii) The State Government should submit proposal for post facto approval at the earliest.

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Agenda Item No.3 : Fresh proposal for Diversion/non forestry use/denotification of National Park/Sanctuary

3.1 Proposal for denotifying the Saraswati Sanctuary, Haryana (I.A.No.87)

In the light of the fact that this proposal was earlier approved by the Standing Committee of Indian Board for Wildlife and the State Government had already complied the conditions, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal.

3.2 Proposal for diversion of 29.699 ha for Irrigation purpose of Kalesar Sanctuary, Haryana (I.A. No.88).

In the light of the fact that this proposal was also earlier approved by the Standing Committee of Indian Board for Wildlife and the State Government had complied the conditions, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal.

3.3 Proposal for construction of 1.5 MW small Hydro Electric Power Project in the Nargu Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh (Application No.940 before the CEC).

After hearing the details of the proposal, the Committee unanimously decided to recommend the proposal as the area required was only 0.9616 ha, no negative impact on the wildlife habitat likely to be caused by the project and Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW) has recommended the project..

3.4 Proposal for carrying out survey in Kumbalgarh Sanctuary for construction of 400 KV S/C Kankaroli – Jodhpur transmission line with DC towers in the Sanctuary, Rajasthan.

After going through the proposal and hearing the recommendation of the CWLW, Rajasthan, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal for survey subject to the following conditions :-

(i) Survey works would be carried out in the presence of the representative of Forest Department. (ii) No tree would be cut during the survey (iii) The Survey would be carried out only during the day time. (iv) No night camp would be allowed for the survey team inside the Sanctuary.

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3.5 Proposal for construction of Bedach Ka Naka Dam for drinking water scheme in Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Committee observed that the CWLW had recommended the proposal. After detailed deliberations, the proposal was recommended with the following conditions :-

(i) One forest chowki will be constructed by project authority which will be used by Forest staff for protection purpose. (ii) No night camping shall be allowed at the site. (iii) No commercial use of water shall be allowed. (iv) The Agency would also provide one extra pipeline for providing water for the wildlife in the area in consultation with the CWLW. (v) All material for construction would be brought from outside.

3.6 Proposal for drinking water supply scheme for Mount Abu as Salgaon Dam Project, Rajasthan.

The Committee was apprised that this proposal was earlier rejected by the Standing Committee in its meeting held on 26th February, 2002. It was advised by the Committee that the State Government could utilize the water from the existing Nakki
Lake. CWLW of the State and the project proponent justified the proposal saying that the population of Mount Abu has multiplied many times since then and hence additional drinking water supply scheme was required.

After detailed deliberations, the Committee decided to carry out a site inspection before taking a decision. It was decided that the site inspection would be carried out by Shri Divyabhanu Sinh Chavda and IGF(WL) at the earliest.

3.7 Proposal for construction of 330 MW gas based power plant at Dholpur from National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary, Rajasthan.

In the light of the fact that a number of proposals for taking water from the Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary have been approved in past and were in pipeline, the Committee unanimously decided that before considering any new proposal, a study on availability of water in Chambal during the lean season specifically with respect to aquatic wildlife, turtles, Ghariyal etc. should be undertaken by WII, Dehradun immediately.

Only after going through the findings of the report, the Committee would consider fresh proposal seeking water/diversion from the National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary.

6 of 18 3.8 Proposal for prior approval for conducting Petroleum Operation including Environmental Seismic Survey and Drilling Operation within Desert National Park, Rajasthan.

After detailed deliberations and considering the recommendation of CWLW, Rajasthan, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the following conditions :-

(i) The survey work would be carried out between sunrise and sunset (8.00 A.M. to 5.30 P.M.) (ii) During the survey, no drilling/digging/cutting of trees would be done. (iii) There would be no night stays for the employees of the survey work inside the National Park. (iv) No high speed vehicle would be used inside the National Park by the employees of the survey work. (v) Bright lights would not be used during the night. (vi) The survey would exclude all enclosures which are maintained by the Wildlife Wing for conservation of wildlife.

3.9 Construction of road in the southern part of National Park in Barmer district under the Pradhan Mantri Yojana. (from Ratankheri Khurd to Ratankheri Kalan, development of Harsani Girab Myajalar road and construction of road from Bijaval to Sarndkapar in the Desert National Park, Rajasthan).

Considering the recommendation of the CWLW that construction of a road in Barmer would increase faster movement of vehicles which is dis-advantageous for wildlife management point of view, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal for diversion subject to the construction of only gravel road without black topping.

3.10 Proposal for providing drinking water to the villagers of Tehsil Ladpura in distt. Kota from the reservoir of Jawahar Sagar Dam from Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary, Rajasthan.

The Committee discussed the matter and considering the recommendation of the CWLW and the fact that the proposal was for providing drinking water to the villagers, the Committee recommended the proposal unanimously subject to the condition that one pipeline would also be provided for making water available to the wildlife in the area in consultation with the CWLW of the State.

7 of 18 3.11 Diversion of 2.385 ha forestland from Kela Devi Sanctuary for Pradhanmantri Sadak Yojana for construction of Narauli road, distt. Karauli, Rajasthan.

After deliberations and considering the fact that only 2.385 ha of land was proposed for diversion and the CWLW had recommended the proposal, the Committee also recommended the proposal subject to the construction of only gravel road without black topping.

3.12 Proposal to provide uninterrupted telecom facility to the ISRO Institute Sriharikota. Laying optical fibre cable from Sullerpet- Sriharikota passing through the Pulicat Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh.

Considering the need of in-interrupted telecom facilities to the ISRO at Sriharikota and the fact that the area required was very less (0.45 ha), the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal with a condition that the activity of laying the optical fibre cable may be taken up during the non-migratory season for the birds i.e. between April – June months. .

3.13 Proposal for widening and improvement of existing road between Kudri village to SHAR, Sriharikota from Pulicat Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh.

The proposal was deliberated by the Committee in detail. Considering the requirement of ISRO, Sriharikota, the Committee recommended the proposal subject to the compliance of following conditions as envisaged by the CWLW in his recommendation.

(i) The length of the road inside the Sanctuary is 10.8 kms and there are 21 culverts, of which 13 are box culverts with sufficient vents and 8 are hume pipe culverts with narrow openings. (ii) The hume pipe culverts will be filled with mud within two or three years and thereby obstruct the free flow of water from one side of the road to the other.
This will not only deteriorate the health of the Pulicat lake, also hamper the development of various species as there will not be any mixing of rain water with sea water. Therefore, the User Agency is requested to replace 8 hume pipe culverts with box to culverts having not less than 5 mts span. (iii) The existing culverts on this road ae not sufficient for free flow of water, the User Agency has to construct for more box culverts at places. (iv) To minimize the noise pollution on Sullurpet to SHAR road, which has a lot of vehicular movement through out the day; the SHAR authorities should develop a vegetative barrier by planning minimum 2 rows of tall seedlings of 2.3 mts, height on both sides of the road as avenue.

8 of 18 (v) The SDSC, SHAR Centre had taken up culvert repairs in four places on this road but both removed dumps and debris from the lake along roadsides.
Temporary slip roads and earthen dumps lying in the lake should also be removed from Kudiri to SHAR Centre.

3.14 Proposal for converting existing 2 lane highway to a 4 lane highway passing through Balaram-Ambaji Sanctuary.

The Committee discussed the proposal in detail with the CWLW and the project proponents and recommended the proposal subject to the following conditions envisaged by CWLW.

(i) One new underpass between km 332/200 to 332/210 km shall be constructed by the user agency of size 10 m x 5 m for crossing of animals. The location of this pass shall be decided by the sanctuary authority. (ii) Additional culverts shall be constructed at frequent interval for the crossing of animals (reptiles) apart from the existing culverts as per directions of the sanctuary authorities. (iii) User Agency shall provide Metal beam crash Barrier throughout the stretch passing through Sanctuary at the edge on both side. (iv) Chain link fencing shall be provided on both sides at the edge of the proposed ROW except around underpasses and culverts.

(v) Adequate number of sign boards of Hi-intensity grade (Retro Reflective type) shall be provided with warning sign following road users about sanctuary area, along the stretch of the wildlife zone. The design shall be got approved from the sanctuary authorities. (vi) National Highways Authority would also consult Wildlife Institute of India to provide adequate protection measures to the wildlife in the protected area as has been envisaged in their publication.

3.15 Proposal for construction of Kutch Branch Canal passing through the Wild Ass Sanctuary for irrigation purpose from Wild Ass Sanctuary, Gujarat.

The proposal was discussed in detail by the Committee and considering the fact that the area required for diversion was quite big i.e. about 160 ha, it was unanimously decided to carry out an inspection and on the basis of inspection report, the matter would be discussed in the next meeting. A group consisting of Shri Divyabhanu Sinh Chavda and Director, WII would carry out the inspection.

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3.16 Proposal for laying of drinking water pipe line in Zinzuwada Runn to Cachhda Dada Temple in Wild Ass Sanctuary, Gujarat.

Considering the need of small area (1.488 ha) for the purpose of drinking water, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal with the following conditions :-

(i) The area where pipeline is laid shall be restored without causing any hindrance to movement of Wild Ass and other Wildlife in the region. (ii) Water shall be made available at the Vachraj Byer and along the route of the line for Wildlife as per the direction of the sanctuary authorities.

3.17 Proposal related to lay an underground pipeline proposed to traverse through the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary for 80.39 Kms covering an area of 241.18 ha of private land also in Maharashtra.

The proposal is for laying an underground pipeline in Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary in Maharashtra. However, the pipeline was traversing through private land only without disturbing the existing grasslands and other habitat which is important for the Great Indian Bustard. Considering these facts, the Committee recommended the proposal unanimously subject to the condition of payment of Net Present Value wherever applicable and to provide funds for development of grasslands and restoration of habitat.

3.18 Proposal for 4/6 laning of National Highway No.7 from km. 625 to 635 on the periphery of Mowgali Pench Sanctuary of Pench Tiger Reserve Seoni, Madhya Pradesh.

The proposal is for diversion of 16.737 ha for 4 laning of the existing National Highway in Mowgali Pench Sanctuary of Pench Tiger Reserve. Chief Wildlife Warden had indicated in his recommendation that the proposal was yet to be approved by the State Board for Wildlife. The Committee unanimously decided that the proposal first be recommended by the State Board for Wildlife and only thereafter the same may be placed before the Standing Committee of NBWL for consideration.

10 of 18 3.19 Proposal for road NH-1A connecting J&K with the rest of the country – Ramnagar & Nandi Wildlife Sanctuary.

The proposal was for carrying out survey of 4 laning of the existing road. CWLW had recommended the same. The Committee unanimously recommended the proposal for survey and also advised the State Government that while proposing any diversion for this purpose in future they should also propose equivalent or more than the diversion proposal for inclusion in the Protected Area Network of the State.

3.20 Repairs and Routine maintenance of SH-17-D passing through Rajeev Gandhi National Park, Karnataka.

Considering the facts that only existing road was to be repaired without any widening and adequate measures as have been suggested by the CWLW have been incorporated by the project proponents in the proposal, the Committee recommended the proposal subject to the following conditions :-

(i) No widening of road will be undertaken and no tree will be cut. (ii) Rumble strips will be provided at all animal crossings. (iii) Reflective pavement markers will be provided as road demarcations. (iv) Sufficient numbers of Retro Reflective Warning signs will be provided and installed near wildlife crossings. (v) Work will be carried out during daytime only. (vi) Stone crusher plant, Hot Mix Plant, Wet Mix Plant and DG set will be installed outside the park area. (vii) Construction material will be sourced from quarries and borrow and area outside the park. (viii) Disposal sites will be located outside the park area. (ix) Machineries will be removed from work site immediately after the work is over. (x) Labour and supervisors will be educated on wildlife protection. (xi) Rs.35.00 lakhs has been earmarked towards park developments, which will be placed at the disposal of Forest Department for taking up essential development works in the park area.

11 of 18 SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA

Agenda Item No.1 ; I.A. No.30-34

CWLW, Uttarakhand informed that this proposal for diversion of 0.275 ha of forest land falling within the Rajaji National Park has already been cleared by the Government of India on 3rd November, 2003. Since the proposal was already cleared and was for drinking water facility, the Committee recommended the proposal.

Agenda Item No.2 : I.A. No.38,40-42

It was informed that the issue was about renewal of lease of 0.7527 ha of forest land for a hospital. The lease was sanctioned in 1959 and had already been expired. In the light of the fact as mentioned by the CWLW that M/s Kailash Anand Mission Trust has violated the conditions of lease by using forest land for the purpose other than stated and felling of number of trees without any permission, the Committee unanimously decided to reject the application of M/s Kailash Anand Mission Trust.

Agenda Item No.3 : I.A.No.43, 45

CWLW informed that for this case the applicant was in illegal possession of land in Rajaji National park and the encroached area has already been restored to the Rajaji National Park, the Committee unanimously decided to reject this application.

Agenda Item No.4 I.A. No.48 & 50

It was informed by CWLW, Uttarakhand that this application was connected to the application No.41 for renewal of lease for laying drinking water pipeline. Since these leases have been expired and the proposal of the petitioner in IA No.41 for renewal of lease in the Rajaji National Park has already been rejected by the State Government, the Committee also unanimously decided to reject the application.

Agenda Item No.5 : I.A. No.52, 64 and 95

After discussions with the CWLW, it was observed by the Committee that the concerns raised in I.A.No.64 were very important for wildlife. CWLW of Uttarakhand may file a detailed report to the Standing Committee of NBWL and on the basis of which, if required, after carrying out site inspection, the Standing Committee would give its recommendation.

12 of 18 Agenda Item No.6 : I.A. No.58 and 60

With respect to these IAs, CWLW, Uttarakhand was requested to file a detailed report to the Committee before giving its recommendations.

Agenda Item No.7 : I.A. No.46,47 and 51 :

The I.A. is seeking a stay of demolition to the temple of Shri Sureshwari Devi Mandir and to permit the applicants to perform puja and other religious ceremonies. CWLW informed the Committee that the State Government has filed an affidavit agreeing to the request of the petitioners. However, the Committee did not agree with the submission of the State Government. The Committee observed that providing permission for regular puja etc. was going to have negative impact on wildlife habitat and also would be a bad precedent.
Therefore, the Committee decided not to recommend the prayer of the petitioner.

Agenda Item No.8 : IA No.80

This I.A. has been filed for permission for transfer of 0.411 ha of reserved forest land in Rajaji National Park for laying drinking water pipeline benefiting the local population living in eight different hamlets. CWLW informed that it did not involve any felling of trees. In the light of the fact that the proposal was for drinking water supply and would benefit the frontline staff of forest department also and did not involve any felling of trees, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal in principle. However, the Committee advised to file proposal in the appropriate proforma for consideration of the Standing Committee for clearance.

Agenda Item No.9 : I.A. No.81&99

This application has been filed by the disciple of “Tat Wala Baba”, Swami Mahavir Das Ji Maharaj, seeking permission for having access to the samadhi of Tat Wali Baba to perform puja on the occasion of Nirwana Diwas. CWLW, Uttrakhand informed that the State Government has also filed an affidavit in the matter requesting to dismiss the application as it was a matter of encroachment on the forestland. The Committee after discussions also unanimously endorsed the stand taken by the State Government.

Agenda Item No.10 : IA No.101

This pertains to diversion of 0.604 ha of reserved forest land in Kedarnath Sanctuary for the purpose of laying 50 and 40 mm diameter pipeline for drinking water purposes. The Committee observed that the petitioner should have filed a proposal in this regard before the Standing Committee for its consideration with the recommendation of the CWLW. In the absence of comments/recommendation of the CWLW and the appropriate proposal, it was not found possible for the Committee to consider the proposal.

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Agenda Item No.11 : IA No.83 and 84

These IAs are in connection with de-notifying of forest area in Tanda forest block of Terai Central Forest Division. The Committee observed that the said area did not form any part of the National Park or Sanctuary. Therefore, it was not appropriate for the Committee to take on the proposal.

Agenda Item No.12 : I.A. No.36

The application has been filed by the State of Maharashtra for diversion of 1658 ha of forest land for regularization of Agri Silvi Plots in district Nandurbar and diversion of 4073.95 ha of forest land for conversion of 73 forest villages into revenue villages in the same district. The Committee observed that this area did not form part of any protected and therefore it was not appropriate for the Committee to take any view on the proposal.

Agenda Item No.13 : I.A. No.54

In this I.A., the State of Maharashtra has sought permission to take steps for regularization of those lands to the extent of 707.74 ha in Kalsubai Harishchandgragad and Great Indian Bustard Wildlife Sanctuaries, District Ahmedanagar, Maharashtra in favour of those 180 adivasis as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 in the interest of justice. CWLW of Maharashtra apprised the Committee that no proposal in this regard has been submitted to him. The Committee also observed that no proposal in the appropriate proforma has been received by the Wildlife Division of the Ministry. The Committee unanimously decided that State Government should submit a proposal in the appropriate proforma for consideration of the Standing Committee. In the absence of a proposal, it was not possible for the Committee to take a view.

Agenda Item No.14 : I.A. No.67 and 76

These IAs have been filed by the State of Maharashtra seeking permission to use 7.76 ha of land of Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary for construction of a minor irrigation project.
The Committee observed that the State Government has never submitted any proposal for consideration of the Standing Committee at any stage. It was also observed that the Central Empowered Committee in their report submitted to Hon’ble Supreme Court has rejected the proposal. The Committee unanimously decided that the State Government should file a proposal in the appropriate proforma giving all the details along with the recommendation/comments of the CWLW for consideration of Standing Committee. In the absence of such a proposal, it would not be possible for the Committee to take a view.

14 of 18 FRESH PROPOSALS (NON I.A.’s)

Pulicat Birds Sanctuary

The proposal is for the post Tsunami emergency Assistant Project Construction of High level Bridge across Pulicat Lake by Highway Department, Tamilnadu. The CWLW informed the Committee that the proposed area (0.54 ha in lake and 0.915 ha in land) was very close to the southern boundary of the Sanctuary and it would not result in negative impact on the migratory or resident birds in the habiting area. Considering these facts, the Committee after deliberations unanimously recommended the proposal.

Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for diversion/denotification of National park/Sanctuary for non- forestry purpose – Lambadug HEP in Dhauadhar Wildlife Sanctuary and diversion of 1.87 ha.
This proposal was earlier approved by the Standing Committee in its meeting held on 4.10.05.
Though the proposal was for diversion of 1.87 ha, the Committee inadvertently recommended for 1.0490 ha. Now again the project proponents and the CWLW has again requested to approve the proposal for 1.87 ha. The Committee, after deliberations, recommended the proposal unanimously.

Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Considering the importance of uranium for national security needs, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal for survey and investigation for Uranium Mining.

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for improvement of existing road. After deliberations, the Committee decided that the project proponents should revise their proposal in the light of studies carried out by Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun and should also consult the CWLW while finalizing the proposal. The revised proposal should be resubmitted for consideration of the Committee.

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for diversion of 14.26 ha of forest land for improvement to the existing road/cart tract. After deliberations, the Committee decided that the project proponents should revise their proposal in the light of studies carried out by Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun and should also consult the CWLW while framing the revising proposal.

15 of 18 12. Marine Sanctuary – Proposal of Indian Navy

The proposal is regarding diversion of 0.41 ha land for construction of Waterman Ship Training Centre by Indian Navy. The Committee observed that it was not site specific activity and Indian Navy may be requested to explore alternate site for the purpose.

Marine Sanctuary and National Park – Proposal of Indian Oil Corporation

Considering the area i.e. 46.50 ha in the Marine Sanctuary proposed to be diverted, the Committee felt the need of site inspection before firming up its view on the proposal.
It was decided that a team consisting of Dr. Asad Rehmani, the Director, WII and a representative from the Ministry may inspect the area and submit their report before the Committee for its consideration.

Marine Sanctuary – Proposal for regularization for diversion of 12.47 ha for Gujarat State Fertilizer Company

The proposal is for regularization under section 29 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 for 12.47 ha land in Marine Sanctuary and National Park for the Gujarat State Fertilizer Company, Sikka. Considering the area i.e. 12.47 ha in the Marine Sanctuary was for post facto approval, the Committee felt the need of site inspection before firming up its view on the proposal. It was decided that a team consisting of Dr. Asad Rehmani, the Director, WII and a representative from the Ministry may inspect the area and submit their report before the Committee for its consideration.

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal was for diversion of land (1.39 ha) for establishment of Border Outpost for regularization of Border Outpost which has already been erected by Border Security Force (BSF). . The Committee took a serious note of the violation of directives of the Supreme Court as well as of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and advised that action against the erring officers should be taken before the proposal for regularization was considered by the Committee.

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for diversion of 3.83 ha of forest land for border fencing and patrol road in the Trishna WLS. The proposal was also recommended by the CWLW of the State. Considering the security needs of the country, the Committee unanimously approved the proposal.

16 of 18 17. Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for diversion of 7.021 ha of land from Amchang WLS, Assam for degradation and improvement of the existing NH 37. CWLW has also recommended the proposal. The Committee after deliberations recommended the proposal subject to the condition that the project proponents should provide all the provisions to maintain connectivity for movement of wildlife and its protection as envisaged in the document of Wildlife Institute of India. CWLW of the State must ensure compliance of all such provisions by the implementing agency i.e. National Highways Authority of India.

Rajaji National Park

The proposal is for diversion of 11.84 ha of land from Rajaji National Park for widening of NH 58 and 72. The CWLW has recommended the proposal subject to the condition that the project proponent should made a flyover of atleast 6 m height and length of 731 m in NH 58 (Chilla Motichur Corridor) so as to provide connectivity for movement of wildlife. Similarly at Bdadkot-Kansaray (NH-72), which is also falling on the HW, a flyover of 500 m length and 6 m height should be provided. In addition, at the Teen Pani Corridor (NH-72), a flyover of 400 mt length and 6 m height should be constructed. Considering the recommendation of the CWLW, the Committee also recommended the proposal endorsing the conditions as mentioned above along with complying all necessary measures for wildlife protection as have been envisaged by WII in their publication in consultation with CWLW.

National Chambal Sanctuary

After deliberations, the Committee unanimously recommended the proposal subject to the condition that no raw material like sand etc. would be taken from the Sanctuary and also no silt or waste would be dumped in the river.

Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary – Village Linking Road

The Committee after discussions recommended the proposal subject to the conditions that all safeguards as envisaged by WII in their guidelines should be followed meticulously in consultation with the CWLW of the State.

Mahatma Gandhi National Park – Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The proposal is for diversion of 0.428 ha of forest land from Mahatma Gandhi National Park, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, for laying pipeline for providing potable water from Dhanikhari Dam to Port Blair. The Committee considering the need for drinking water at Port Blair and the fact that only 0.42 ha area was required for the purpose of laying drinking water pipeline unanimously recommended the proposal.

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Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal was for diversion of 116.32 ha of forest land from Nahargarh Sanctuary, Rajasthan for construction of Nahargarh Zoological Park and Lion Safari Park. The applicant agency was the State Forest Department, Government of Rajasthan. After deliberations, the Committee recommended the proposal subject to the condition that no multiplication/breeding of mixed lineage lions would be carried out in the proposed safari.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

The proposal is for maintenance of existing road passing through Mudumalai Sanctuary. After deliberation, the Committee recommended the proposal with the condition that there shall be no widening of the road and no felling of trees.

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

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18 of 18 List of Participants for the IXth Meeting of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife convened on 10th September, 2007.

Shri S. Raghupati, Minister of State for Forests and Wildlife 2. Prof. Chander Kumar, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha). 3. Shri J.P.L. Srivastava, DGF&SS 4. Dr. R.B. Lal, IG(WL) 5. Shri A.N. Prasad, IGF and Director (PE) 6. Dr. Rajesh Gopal, Member Secretary, NTCA 7. Dr. Anmol Kumar, DIG(WL) 8. Shri P.R. Sinha, Director, WII 9. Dr. Bihhab Kumar Talukdar, Aaranyak, Guwahati 10. Dr. Divyabhanu Singh Chavda, Survoday, Jaipur 11. Dr. Asad R. Rahmani, BNHS 12. Shri S. Chandola, CWLW, Uttaranchal. 13. Dr. Sukhdev Thakur, PCCF & CWLW, Tamilnadu 14. Shri B. Majumdar, PCCF(WL), Maharshtra 15. Dr. V.K. Bahuguna, Addl. PCCF & CWLW, Tripura 16. Shri K.S. Rao, PCCF(WL) & CWLW, Andhra Pradesh
17. Shri I.B. Srivastava, PCCF(WL), Karnataka 18. Shri S.B. L. Misra, Addl. PCCF, Andhra Pradesh 19. Shri R.D. Jakati, Addl. PCCF(WL), Haryana 20. Shri A.K. Srivastava, CWLW, J&K 21. Dr. H.S. Pabla, Addl. PCCF(WL), M.P. 22. Shri P. Khanna, PCCF(WL), Gujarat 23. Shri R.N. Mehrotra, PCCF(WL), Rajasthan 24. Shri B.S. Bonal, CCF(WL), Assam 25. Shri G.M. Patel, GSFC, Vadodara 26. Shri G.C. Kamdar, GSFC, Vadodara 27. Shri R.D. Chandhani, GSFC, Vadodara 28. Shri K.N. Sinha, GSFC, Vadodara 29. Shri G.C. Maithani, NHAI, Guwahati 30. Shri Vinod K. Gautam, NHAI, Guwahati 31. Col. Khushwant Singh, NHAI,
32. Shri R.C. Jain, NHAI 33. Shri Manoj Singh, NHAI 34. Shri Praveen Kumar Reddy, NHAI 35. Shri K.H. Piyara, SDAI 36. Shri M.P. Sharma, NHAI 37. Shri Vivek Jaiswal, NHAI 38. Shri Ashok Kumar Gupta, NHAI 39. Sshri Ravi Shekhar Purohit, PWD, Rajasthan 40. Shri Arvind R. Kale, NHAI

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