tumkur 2175

DRAFTRECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION PLAN FORSondenahalli Iron Ore Mines (SIOM) of M/s Tumkur

Minerals Pvt. Ltd. (ML- 2175)CEC CATEGORY-‘B’; 64.75 Ha

Submitted by

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT DIVISIONDirectorate of Extension

Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education(An autonomous body of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Govt. of India)

P.O.-New Forest, Dehradun-248006 (UK)Website: www.icfre.gov.in

TABLE OF CONTENT

SL.No. PARTICULARS PAGE No.

ABBREVIATION i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY i-vi

CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background 1

1.2 Scope of the study 2

1.3 Methodology 2

CHAPTER-2 MINE DESCRIPTION

2.1 Introduction 4

2.2 Location of mine 5

2.3 Mining plans and environmental clearances 8

2.3.1 Mining Plan and Mining scheme 8

2.3.2 Environmental clearance (EC) 8

2.3.3 Forest clearance (FC) 8

2.3.4 Consent to operate 8

2.3.5 Recommendations of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) after Joint

Survey

8

2.4 Mining methodology 10

2.5 Mine profile 10

2.5.1 Mining machineries 10

2.5.2 Mine Pits 11

2.5.3 Mine dumps 11

2.5.4 Sub grade ore 12

2.6 Exploration 142.6.1 Past exploration 14

2.6.2 Proposed Exploration 14

2.7 Mine development and production 14

2.8 Estimated ore reserve 14

2.9 Stripping ratio 15

2.10 Roads 16

2.10.1 Approach roads 16

2.10.2 Haulage roads 16

2.11 Transportation of ore 16

2.11.1 Existing transportation facilities 16

2.11.2 Proposed transportation facility 17

2.12 Safety zone 17

CHAPTER 3 BASELINE STATUS

3.1 Study Area 18

3.1.1 Climate 19

3.1.2 Physiographic/ topography of Mine Lease Area 20

3.2 Regional geology 21

3.2.1 Local geology 23

3.3 Land Use Pattern of Chikkanyakanahalli Taluk 25

3.3.1 . Land Use Pattern of mine lease area 25

3.4 Physical Environment 28

3.4.1 Soil 29

3.4.2 Air Environment 30

3.4.3 Noise Environment 32

3.4.4 Water Environment 33

3.5 Biological environment 35

3.5.1 Flora 35

3.5.2 Fauna 37

3.6 Social environment 37

3.6.1 Demographic Status of the Mine Affected Villages 37

CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

4.1 Environmental Impacts 39

4.1.1 Impact on Landscape 39

4.1.2 Impact on Ecology 39

4.1.3 Impact on air quality 39

4.1.4 Impact of noise and vibration 40

4.1.5 Impact on Water Quality 40

4.1.6 Impact on Soil Fertility 41

4.1.7 Impact on Aquatic Life 41

4.1.8 Impact on Society 41

CHAPTER 5

RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION PLAN

5.1 Introduction 42

5.2 Reclamation and Rehabilitation Plan for Area under Encroachment 43

5.3 Reclamation and Rehabilitation Plan for Area under mine lease 45

5.3.1 Stabilization of dump 45

53.2 Waste Dump 455.3.3 Surface Water Management 51

5.4 Biological Measures 54

5.4.1 Species selection 55

5.4.2 Importance of grasses 56

5.4.3 Importance of Leguminous plant species 57

5.4.4 Overburden Dumps Management 58

5.4.5 Mine Pit Management and Rehabilitation 60

5.4.6 Management of Refractory Sites 62

5.4.7 Mine Drainage Management and Rehabilitation 63

5.4.8 Management of Haul roads 64

5.4.9 Afforestation 65

5.4.10 Greenbelt Development Plan 69

5.4.11 Recommended Plant Species 69

5.4.12 Indicative Cost of Developing Green Belt 70

5.5 Biodiversity Conservation Plan 71

5.5.1 Flora 72

5.5.2 Fauna 73

5.5.3 Aquatic Fauna 74

5.6 Soil Management 76

CHAPTER 6

PRODUCTION CAPACITY

6.1 Production Capacity Based on Reserve 79

6.2 Production Capacity Based on Dump 80

6.3 Production Capacity Based on Infrestructure Facilities 81

6.4 Combined Production Capacity Based on Reserves, Dumps and Roads 82

CHAPTER 7

SUPPLEMENTARY ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS 7.1 Supplementary Environmental Safeguards 83

7.2 General Observations and Additional Measures 84

7.3 Field observations 85

7.4 Implementation and Monitoring 85

7.5 Indicative Cost Summary of the Proposed Plan 87

7.6 Time Schedule 90

BIBLIOGRAPHY 91

Annexure-I-III

LIST OF TABLE

2.1 Summary of the specific findings for ML 2175 8

2.2 Non – electrical machinery deatils as on 1-4-2012 10

2.3 Year-wise details of proposed production and generation of waste 14

2.4 Category wise details of reserves as on 1.4.2009 14

2.5 Modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009 15

2.6 Category wise modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009 152.7 Existing transport facilities 16

2.8 The details of Safety zone in ML 2175 17

3.1 Annual average rainfall data for Chikkanyakanahalli taluk from 2001 to 2010 19

3.2 The overall general succession of Chikkanyakanahalli belt (Order of super position) 23

3.3 Land use pattern of Chikkanyakanahalli Taluk 253.4 Existing, proposed and conceptual land use of ML 25

3.5 Soil samples locations in core and buffer zone of the mine lease area 29

3.6 Soil Physical and Chemical Properties 30

3.7 Location of Air Sampling Stations in Core and Buffer Zone 31

3.8 Ambient Air Quality (µg/cum) in Core Zone & Buffer Zone 31

3.9 Noise Level (dB) in Core Zone and Buffer Zone along with Applicable Standards. 32

3.10 Water Quality Sampling Location 35

3.11 Comparative Study of Few Parameters of Ground Water Quality 353.12 Land Use Pattern of Mine Affected Villages 38

3.13 Demographic Details of Mine Affected Villages (2001) 38

5.1 Indicative cost of plantation for encroachment area as per CEC 43

5.2 Encroached Dump details 43

5.3 Indicative Cost of Proposed Engineering Measures in Encroached Area of ML- 2175 44

5.4 Proposed Engineering Measures Of Surface Water Management Of Encroached ML- 2175 45

5.5 Dump details 46

5.6 Indicative costs of Proposed Engineering Measures of Surface Water Management inside ML- 2175 50

5.7 Indicative cost of proposed engineering measures of surface water management with in lease 545.8 Grasses Recommended for Soil Moisture Conservation (SMC) and slope stabilization. 56

5.9 Leguminous species recommended for Nitrogen enrichment in the soil. 57

5.10 Species Recommended for Hydro seeding 58

5.11 Plant Species suitable for OB Dump and Mine Pit stabilization 60

5.12 Plant Species suitable for Stabilization of Refractory Sites 63

5.13 Plant Species suitable for Stabilization of Nala/Drain Courses 64

5.14 Plant Species recommended for Avenue Plantation along Mine Haul Roads 65

5.15 Multipurpose Plant Species recommended for Eco-reclamation and Eco-rehabilitation of Mine Areas 66

5.16 Plant Species recommended for Greenbelt Development along Safety Zone 69

5.17 Indicative Cost Estimate for Developing Green Belt in Safety Zone 70

5.18 Plant species recorded in the proposed Biodiversity area 71

6.1 Category wise details of reserves as on 1.4.2009 79

6.2 Modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009 79

6.3 Category wise modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009 80

6.4 Details of capacity for various sections of road 81

6.5 Criteria for Estimation of Permissible Production limit for ML 82

7.1 Cost Summary of the Proposed Plan 89

7.2 2 Time Schedule for Implementation of Reclamation and Rehabilitation Plan for ML-2175 90

PLATES

1. Mine Pit

2. Sub grade ore dump

3. Gully Formation along the Dump

4. Retaining Wall along the OB dump

5. Silt Settling Tank below the OB dump

6. Eastern side OB Dump

LIST OF FIGURE

2.1 Key Plan of ML-2175 6

2.2 Google Map of ML-2175 7

2.3 CEC sketch of ML-2175 9

2.4 Map showing the Surface Plan of ML-2175 13

3.1 Index Map of the CN Halli Taluk 18

3.2 Geological features of Tumkur district 22

3.3 Geological plan map of ML 2175 24

3.4 Land use / land of study area 26

3.5 Conceptual Land Use / Land Of ML-2175 27

3.6 Map showing air water, soil monitoring station 28

5.1 Proposed Back Filling Plan 47

5.2 Dump management plan. 46

5.3 Surface water management plan 52

DESIGN

1. Engineering Structure of Toe Wall2. Engineering Structure of Silt Settling Tank

3. Engineering Structure of Log Wood Check Dam

4. Engineering Structure of Brush Wood Check Dam

5. Engineering Structure of Check Dam

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ABBREVIATION

S.No. Abbreviation Full form

BCA Biodiversity Conservation Area

1. BDL Below Detectable Level

2. BHQ Banded Hematite Quartzite

3. CEC Central Empowered Committee

4. CPCB Central Pollution Control Board

5. DTH Down the Hole

6. EC Environment Clearance

7. EIA Environment Impact Assessment

8. EMP Environment Management Plan

9. FC Forest Clearance

10. FIMI Federation of Indian Mineral Industries

11. FYM Farmyard Manure

12. HEMM Heavy Earth Moving Machinery

13. IBM Indian Bureau of Mining

14. SIOM Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine

15. ICFRE Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education

16. km kilometer

17. KSPCB Karnataka State Pollution Control Board

18. Leq Equivalent Sound Level

19. MCM Million Cubic Meter

20. MIZ Mining Impact Zone

21. ML Mine Lease

22. MoEF Ministry of Environment and Forests

23. MSL Mean Sea Level

24. TMPL Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd

25. MTPA Million Ton Per Annum

26. NH National Highway

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27. OB Over Burden

28. ppm Part Per Million

29. PPV Peak Particle Velocity

30. R & R Reclamation and Rehabilitation

31. RET Rare Endangered and Threatened

32. RWHP Rain Water Harvesting Pit

33. SES Supplementary Environmental Safeguards

34. SHG Self Help Groups

35. SMC Soil Moisture Conservation

36. SMCD Stone Masonry Check Dams

37. SMP Social Management Plan

38. SOM Soil Organic Matter

39. SoM Scheme of Mining

40. SPCB State Pollution Control Board

41. SPV Special Impose vehicle

42. SST Silt Settling Tanks

43. UNFC United Nation Framework Classification

44. WPA Wildlife Protection Act

Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mines (SIOM) of M/s Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd. (ML- 2175) ICFRE

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has directed the Government of Karnataka to formulate

Reclamation and Rehabilitation Plan (R&R) for the mine affected districts viz., Bellary,

Chitradurga and Tumkur. The Government of Karnataka, keeping in view the National

Environmental Standards and the commitment for sustainable management of environment

has awarded Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehra Dun the

study to formulate R&R plan, vide letter No. DMS/MLS/R&R/2011-12 dated 27.12.2011.

Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine (SIOM), mine lease No. 2175 of Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd. was

visited by team on 29th

August, 2012.

2. The scope of the study includes collection and assessment of the existing scenario and

environment status data such as topography, production technology, overburden dump, top

soil, soil conservation measures, environmental quality, to assess impacts and formulation of

site specific R&R plan.

3. Considering the time limit and constraints in collection of baseline data on the existing

environmental status the study had to mainly relay on the secondary sources of information

viz., EIA/EMP reports, Mining Scheme, environmental monitoring conducted by external

agencies such as the SPCB, Department of Mines and Geology, and mine owners.

4. The Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mines of M/s Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd. (Mining lease No. 2175)

is spread over an area of 64.75 ha. of government revenue land. The mining lease was

originally granted to Mysore Minerals who surrendered the Mining Lease No. 1633 spread

over an extent of 535 acres (216.50 ha) in Sondenahalli and other villages in C.N. Halli

Taluka, Tumkur District. On dated 3-8-1987. In 1988 this entire area of 535 acres was

notified for re-grant and one Mr. H. Noor Ahamad applied for allotment. The Govt of

Karnataka (commerece and Industry department) in its notification CI/59/MMM/90 dated

26-5-1993 sanctioned Mining Lease ML 2175 in favour of Mr. H. Noor Ahmed for a period

of 20 years for Manganese and Iron ore along with Clay over an area of 200 acres only in

survey no. 37 & 41. Further in its corregendum, no. CI/59/MMM/30 dt. 24-8-1993, the Govt

of Karnataka reduced the area from 200 acres to 160 acres (64.75 ha)


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5. An area of 2.38 ha has been identified by CEC as encrochment by Mining Pit, 2.45 ha

encrochment by overburden dumps and 3.22 ha encrochment.

6. The entire region of the district is covered by Archaen rocks consisting mainly of schistose

rocks, peninsular gneiss and Hospet granite. Chlorites, Quartzite, Haematite bearing

quartzite, Limestone, Dolomite, Pegmatites, Diorites are occasionally found.

7. There is only one existing pit lying on the south-western part of the ML with Dimensions of

340 m length × 200m width × 47 m depth, covering an area of 8.9 ha.Pit on the western side

has an enchrochment of 2.38 ha which was developed earlier. On the eastern side, pits have

11 benches (including sub-benches) with the top most RL of bench as 1003 m and bottom

most RL as 945 m. Bench height is varying from 2m to 9m, while bench width is varying

from 3m to 11m.

8. The stripping ratio on the basis of actual production during last five years is 1:1.37.

9. The lease area falls in Chikkanyankanahalli taluk of Tumkur District, and this is a part of

southern Maidan region with an undulation plateau. The distrct is also known for dry climate.

The temperature varies between 12o

C and 38oC. The relative humidity values range from

34.3 to 99.8 % with an average rainfall of 740 mm/annum.

10. The process of mining has changed the physical, biological and sociological environment in

terms of degradation and large unscientific overburdens dumps. The proposed R&R plan has

been aimed for topographic reconstruction with eneineering and biological measures for

erosion control, re-vegetation with adequate soil amendments including mycorrihizal fungi

for re-establishment of nutrient cycle for sustainability of restoration.

11. Engineering measures in the restoration process have been proposed based on the

hydrological condition on the micro watershed basis and compatibility of the surrounding

area stability and drainage density. The plan includes the enlisting of the proposed

engineering structures within and outside lease with inclusive of cost.

12. The vegetation occurring in the area belongs to Southern tropical dry deciduous forests the

area under study falls under the mixed deciduous sub-classification (As per the classification

of forest types of India proposed by Champion and Seth, (1968). According to the

Classification proposed by Legris and Pascal (1982) area falls under deciduous climax

forests.


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13. Biological measures for management of overburden dumps, mine pit area, mine drainage,

surface water, haul road etc., have been suggested by providing an exhaustive list of

indigenous species which may be selected to support the vegetation growth. Suitable tree

species having timber, fodder, fuel wood and medicinal uses have been recommended for

restoration of the mined out areas and overall ecosystem development.

14. As a biodiversity conservation measure, it has been suggested to set aside an area of

approximately 5.0 ha considering the importance of the forest ecosystem in terms of its

environmental services.

15. The production capacity based on reserves, dump and road capacity for ML 2175 has been

estimated 0.06, 0.29 and 0.92 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) respectively. Considering

the present available information or facilities, the annual production limit of 0.06 million

tonnes based on reserves may be considered, which is minimum among the three criteria.

16. Rehabilitation and Reclamation plan will be useful in providing a framework and process to

various target groups, the Industry, Regulatory Agencies, the Mine Companies and others

interested in Iron Ore Mining for undertaking scientific rehabilitation and reclamation of

mined out areas. This will also provide the essential insight in environmentally safe planning

of mining activities in future. The estimated cost of the Reclamation and Rehabilitation plan

is proposed to be Rs. 107.11lakhs (Rupees One crore seven lakhs eleven thousands only),

excluding the cost for Biodiversity Management Plan, Monitoring and Evaluation, Capacity

Building, development of common infrastructure, etc. The cost proposed is indicative and

may vary as per the common scheduled of rates of Government of Karnataka, actual

dimensions of the engineering structures and local field conditions.

17. The rehabilitation and reclamation program is aimed to produce an ecosystem which fulfills

and encourages the development of floral, faunal and soil characteristics similar to that of the

pre-mining stage. However, the success of the Reclamation and Rehabilitation plan will

depend upon its proper implementation and rigorous monitoring which can be ensured only

through a specialized institution that has the requisite competence, composite scientific

expertise and professionals. The capacity building of the personals involved in

implementation of this plan by an expert scientific organization is also an essential input for

the successful implementation of this plan.


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18. The R & R Plan which synthesizing a very specialized ecological, vegetational and other

biological and engineering measures needs to be executed and monitored annually by the

organizations/institutes having specialization in scientific aspects of complex vegetation site

interactions and energy flux in the ecosystem over time and space. In our country there are

limited institutions which are having a composite expertise and experience in execution and

monitoring of such specialized tasks. Therefore, consortium of institutes headed by ICFRE

may be formulated for effective monitoring and the implementation of the R & R Plan.

19. Further, the task force constituted as per the recommendation made in Chapter-9 of the

macro EIA report- ICFRE can ensure proper monitoring and implementation of R&R plan,

EMP and Capacity building of the personal involved in the implementation of proposed plan.

And, these parameters should be the key indicators while revalidating the mine plan with

good mining practice.


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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1.

BACKGROUND

The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, considering the severe and significant damage

caused due to unscientific and unregulated mining in Bellary, Chitradurga and Tumkur

districts in Karnataka and based on the Macro level EIA report submitted by ICFRE directed

the Government of Karnataka to submit a Reclamation and Rehabilitation (R & R) Plan for

the mine affected districts. The Government of Karnataka, keeping in view the National

Environmental Standards and the commitment for sustainable management of environment

has awarded the study and formulation of R & R plan to Indian Council of Forestry Research

and Education (ICFRE), Dehra Dun vide letter No.DMG/MLS/R & R /2011-12, dated,

27.12.2011. The work assigned to ICFRE includes:

• Preparation of R & R Plan for the mining leases found to be involved in illegal

mining.

• Preparation of Supplementary Environment Management Plan (SEMP) for

incorporating additional environmental safeguards in respect of the leases not

found to be involved in illegal mining.

• Comprehensive environmental plan for Mining Impact Zone (MIZ) for the

areas surrounding the mining leases area including all the leases and non

working leases.

o Short term measures, and

o

Long term measures

ICFRE initiated the R & R study in association with domain experts and in

consultation with district administration, to develop a plan, by identifying mines as per list

given by CEC. Accordingly, the Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine (SIOM), mine lease No. 2175 of

Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd., in C. N. Halli Taluk, Tumkur District, one of the listed mines,

was studied. The main objectives of the study are as under:

• To delineate the level of degradation in various environment aspects, such as

physical, biological and sociological, due to mining.

• To identify suitable site specific model plan for rehabilitation and reclamation.

• To provide code of practices and guidelines for pollution reduction, recovery,


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reuse and recycling as well as frame work for rehabilitation and reclamation

plan.

The study to formulate mine specific R & R Plan based on the National

Environmental Standards, limits for the pollutants, framework to protect the mine area and

the ambient environment with techno-economically and ecologically acceptable methods, to

the achieve the concept of sustainable development.

The team of experts from ICFRE with the help of domain experts undertook a detailed

survey of the JIOM mine lease.

1.2.

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The scope of the study inter-alia includes review of baseline data for the selected

mines, which will include:

• Baseline data generation.

• Technology presently used in iron and manganese ore mining and pollution

control measures adopted.

• In-depth study of selected mines for formulating R & R Plan after

classification on the basis of technology and pollution levels and CEC

findings.

•

Collection of data through survey, field visits and data generation from

EIA/EMP reports, documents from the mine owners, CPCB, SPCB, regional

office of IBM, Department of Mines and Geology with respect to air quality,

water quality, solid waste and other environmental concerns regarding iron

and manganese ore mining and other relevant stakeholders and state

government departments.

1.3.

METHODOLOGY

The study was basically carried out with the help of district administration, officials of

the other statutory and regulatory bodies, such as State Pollution Control Board (SPCB),

State Directorate of Mines and Geology, State Forest Department, State Agriculture

Department, Mine lessee and Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) for collection of

various data. ICFRE team visited SIOM on 29th August, 2012, as per the priority list of

Director, Mines and Geology vide letter dated 31.03.2012.


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SIOM is an open cast, small iron ore mine with an area of 64.75 ha. (before

digitization, but after digitization it was 64.35 ha). The team had a detailed discussion with

the officials of the mine to understand the activities being carried out in the mining lease area.

Information regarding proposals of scheme of mining; lease sketch; key plan; surface plan;

geological plan/cross sections; five years working plans and cross sections; dump

management plan and sections; land use plan; conceptual plan; environmental management

plan; progressive mine closure plan; details of violations and their compliance were collected

and verified. During the field visit, the experts team physically verified and collected

information on various aspects such as details of the mined out area, extent of mineralization

proved by exploration, waste dumps, and dump yard, storage of top soil, infrastructure, sub

grade mineral storage, mineral stock, and existing physical status of active/inactive dumps

and extent of watershed of the area and the drainage system. Protective measures like

retaining wall check dams and gully plugs and other rock fill dams were inspected physically

to assess their potentiality to control the erosion and wash off. Location of boundary pillars

along with intermediate pillars was verified.

Details on geology, geographical location, nature and conditions of mine, scale and

techniques of operations, capacity, development of waste dumps and sub grade stacks and

environmental management practices were collected. Secondary information from existing

EIA/EMP reports and other relevant sources were also collected to assess the various

environmental attributes.

Additional data with respect to environmental monitoring were also collected from

different agencies, such as SPCB, Department of Mines and Geology etc. Opinions were also

sought from the reputed experts in the field of mining across the country and suitable site

specific/best practices followed elsewhere also referred. In addition, the recommendation of

the FIMI were also reviewed and incorporated in the report appropriately.


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CHAPTER-2

MINE DESCRIPTION

2.1. INTRODUCTION

The Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mines of M/s Tumkur Minerals Pvt. Ltd. (Mining lease

No. 2175) is spread over an area of 64.75 ha. of government revenue land. The mining lease

was originally granted to Mysore Minerals who surrendered the Mining Lease No. 1633

spread over an extent of 535 acres (216.50 ha) in Sondenahalli and other villages in C.N.

Halli Taluka, Tumkur District. On dated 3-8-1987. In 1988 this entire area of 535 acres was

notified for re-grant and one Mr. H. Noor Ahamad applied for allotment. The Govt of

Karnataka (commerece and Industry department) in its notification CI/59/MMM/90 dated

26-5-1993 sanctioned Mining Lease ML 2175 in favour of Mr. H. Noor Ahmed for a period

of 20 years for Manganese and Iron ore along with Clay over an area of 200 acres only in

survey no. 37 & 41. Further in its corregendum, no. CI/59/MMM/30 dt. 24-8-1993, the Govt

of Karnataka reduced the area from 200 acres to 160 acres (64.75 ha)

The lessee executed the Mining Lease Deed with the Director of Mines and Geology

on 11-11-1993. The lessee worked the area by manual operations intermittently between the

years 1994-95 and 2002-03 and raised 56,710 tonnes of iron ore and 1200 tonnes of clay.

Mr. H. Noor Ahmed sought transfer of Mining Lease 2175 in fovour of Tumkur

Minerals Private Limited. as he was finding it difficult to operate the mine effectively and

scientifically. The Government of Karnataka vide its order dated 10/3/2006 accorded

sanction for transfer of Mining Lease 2175 in favour of Tumkur Minerals Privated Limited as

provided under section 37(1) of the M C Rules, 1960. Though the mining lease area is

granted for Iron ore, Manganese ore and Clay, neither the exploratory bore holes nor the

exposed surface geology indicates the existence/presence of Manganese ore and Clay within

the granted lease area; hence during the ensuing Scheme period only Iron ore has been

extracted. The lease expires on 10th November, 2013.

All the mining operations have been stopped since 12/04/2011 as per orders of IBM-

for violating the proposal given in the mining scheme, undere rule 13(2) of MCDR 1988,

vide letter no KNT/TMK/Fe-26/BNG/580, dated 12/04/2011 (see section 2.7) and then by the

Honable Supreme Court of India.. Therefore, since 12/04/2011 there is no mining in the ML.

After CEC demarcation and digitization, area of the ML comes to 64.35 ha.


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2.2. LOCATION OF MINE

The mine is about 125 km to the west of Bangalore (Via Tumkur, Gubbi and Kondli

Cross) and is located in Sondenahalli and other villages in Chikknayakanahalli Taluka,

Tumkur District of Karnataka. The mine can be approached by the nearest railhead

Ammasandra, 15 kms south of lease area on Banglore-Hubli broad gauge section of

southwestern railway. The area falls in Survey of India Toposheet No.57-C/11 and it is

bounded by Longitude: 76° 41’ 49.7” E to 76° 42’ 18” E; Latitude: 13° 21’ 25.4” N to 13°

22’ 00.3” N. The Lease is bounded in the north by Sy no 37, to the south by part of Sy nos 44

& 42, in the east is part of Sy nos 41 & 37 and in the west it is bounded by a non-working

lease ML no 2348 of M/s Deepchand Kishanlal. The other nearby mines situated are M.

Upendra Mines (ML no 1957), Karnataka Mining Company (ML no 2333), and Balaji

Produce Co (ML no.2208).

The Key Plan of study area and Google Map showing sketch of mine lease area are

given in Figures 2.1 and 2.2.


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Figure 2.1: Key Plan of ML-2175


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Figure 2.2: Google Map of ML-2175


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2.3. MINING PLANS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCES

2.3.1. Minning Plan and Mining scheme

Initially Mining Plan was prepared and got approved on 17/12/1990 for 216.50 ha

whereas the department of Mines and Geology has sanctioned only 64.75 ha. hence, the

Mining Plan became obsolete. A fresh modified mining plan for the period 2004-05 to 2008-

09 was prepared and got approved (under Rule 10 MCDR 1988) from IBM vide letter No.

MP/TMK/Fe-51-SZ07/2001-02 dated 20/07/2004. Meanwhile in-between 1993 and 2004, the

lessee operated the mine intermittently and raised 56, 710 t of iron ore and 1200 tons clay.

The latest Mining Scheme from 1st April 2009 to 10.11.2013 was approved by IBM vide

letter no. MS/TMK/Fe-143-SZ, dated 17.08.2009. (Annexure- 1)

2.3.2 Environmental Clearance (EC).

Environmental Clearance vide letter no. J-11015/332/2005-1A, II (M), dated

07.2.2006 for enhancement of production of iron ore from 12000 to 403200 TPA, of iron ore

in 64.75 ha lease area. (Annexure – 2)

2.3.3 Forest Clearance (FC)

ML area completely falls under the Govt. Revenue Land.

2.3.4 Consent to Operate

Consent for Operation (CFO) is granted for the period from 01.07.2010 to 30.06.2012

for production of 0.403 MTPA of iron ore in 64.75 ha revenue land area by KSPCB vide

letter no.16/KSPCB/EO(TMK)/DEO/2010-11/175, dated May 11, 2010. (Annexure - 3)

2.3.5. Recommendations of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) Joint Survey

Specific findings of CEC are presented in Table 2.1 and CEC sketch in figure 2.3 for

ML 2175 below:

Table 2.1 Summary of the specific findings for ML 2175

Sl. No. Particulars Area (ha)

1. First Lease Area 64.75

2. Area as per Lease Deed 64.75

3. Area as per lease deed sketch (after digitizing) 64.35

4. Area as per existing boundary pillars 62.60

5. Area under actual enjoyment 62.82

Area under Encroachment

a. Mining Pit 2.38

b. Over burden Dumps 2.45

c. Others 3.22

Total 8.05

Source: CEC report


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Figure 2.3. CEC sketch of ML-2175


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2.4. MINE METHODOLOGY

The method of mining is conventional mechanized opencast mining in which faces

are advanced sideward lowering benches to get access to lower level ores. Pit slope of the

hanging wall side is about 42-430 and 280 in the footwall side wherein the adequate bench

width and height area maintained. In softer formation like Phyllite, limonitic and siliceous

clay horizons, minimum 12 meter bench width is maintained. On an average, road gradient is

maintained at 1:16 except at few places where it is steeper it is not less than 1:12. The

existing pit dimension of Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine is 340 m length × 200 m width × 47 m

depth, covering an area of 8.900 ha.

Drilling & Blasting: There is no drilling and blasting involved as the ore is soft and friable.

Material handling: As the ore is soft and friable and mined by ripper dozers and excavators.

ROM produced at the mine is dry screened using mobile screening plant. Waste rock consists

of mainly laterite with Phyllitic, Limonitic, and shaly clay which are non-toxic in nature and

disposed off at determined non-mineralized barren areas outside ultimate pit limit.

Haulage: Haulage of ore and waste within the mine is done by nine heavy-duty Dumpers of

25-ton capacity. For shifting ore to the railway siding 14 hired tipper of 10 tonnes capacity

are used. Haulage of ore for export is done by hired of 16 tonnes tippers.

2.5. MINE PROFILE

2.5.1. Mine machineries

List of mine machinery is in Table 2.2

Table 2.2: Non – electrical machinery deatils as on 1-4-2012

Type of

machinery

Capacity

of

each unit

No. of

units

H.P. of

each

unit

HY 300 1.5 m³ 01 210

PC 200 1.0 m³ 01 140

HM Wheel Loader 1.6 m³ 02 124

D8H Dozer - 01 250

270 LC Hitachi 1.4 m³ 01 188

AMW Dumper 25 mt 05 230

LUIGONG WL 3.0 m³ 01 210

JCB 210 Hitachi 1.0 m³ 01 140

Tata Dumper 25 mt 04 180

Extec Screen Plant 250 mt 02 105


11

2.5.2. Mine Pit

There is only one existing pit lying on the south-western part of the MLwith

dimensions of 340 m length × 200 m width × 47 m depth, covering an area of 8.9 ha. Pit on

the western side has an encroachment of 2.38 ha which was developed earlier. Inward

shifting of boundary, as per the Joint Team Survey sketch, resulted in this encroachment. Pit

has main mine benches developed on the eastern and western side. On the western side there

8 benches (including sub-benches) with top most RL of bench as 983m and bottom most RL

as 940m. Bench height is varying from 3m to 9m, while bench width is varying from 2m to

9m. Although benches are well formed but they are quite narrow. These benches cannot be

mined now as entire western part of the pit is now outside the lease area and can be termed as

encroachment and has to be rehabilitated under R and R Plan.

On the eastern side, pits have 11 benches (including sub-benches) with the top most

RL of bench as 1003m and bottom most RL as 945m. Bench height is varying from 2m to

9m, while bench width is varying from 3m to 11m. At many places benches are quite narrow

and not fit for mechanized operation.

With the demarcation of lease boundary as per the CEC sketch, mine benches cannot

be advanced towards western side. They will be advanced towards east and south as towards

south some mineralized area is included.

Encroached mine pit:

The encroached mine pit has to be rehabilitated by back filling and planted with

indigenous plant species.

No green belt plantation was done around the mine lease area. Observed agricultural

fields around the mine lease area and the lessee has to take up immediately greenbelt

plantation.

2.5.3. Mine Dumps

There is only one dump in the ML which lies on the northern side of the pit and has

two main slopes one in south-eastern and other in north-western directions.

2.5.3.1 Inactive Dump

OB dump on eastern side is having 2 terraces basal one with height of 28 m (Top RL-

1002, B-RL 974) and upper terrace with height of 17 m (Top RL-1019, B-RL 1002). .

Slopes are planted with exotic species and observed several small gullies on the slopes. At the


12

bottom of the dump inadequate toe wall and garland drainage has been made. One check dam

was observed on the down side of the stream.

EID: This dump is located on the north western side of the lease and no terraces were made.

The dump height varies from 20-36m. Angle of the slope is about 45 0 and observed several

gullies.

EID1: The SW side of the inactive dump is about 5m height and encroached in to the other

lease of ML 2348 of Deep Chand. This dump is just above the mine pit and not protected

with any bio-engineering measures.

2.5.3.2 Active dump

There is no Active dump. The OB generated after opening the mine will be used for

back filling of the pit.

2.5.4. Sub grade Ore

There are about 10-12 sub-grade ore stacks in the ML which are in the process of

being e-auctioned and will be lifeted soon. Surface Plan of mine is shown in Figure 2.4.


13

Figure-2.4. Map showing the Surface Plan of ML-2175


14

2.6. EXPLORATION

2.6.1. Past Exploration

Based on the altitude of the ore body exposed in the old pit and also surface exposure,

the strike of the ore body was ascertained and to know the depth persistence and quality of

ore at depth.The mineralized area has been completely explored by way of core drilling. 13

bore holes have been drilled during the year 2002-03 with 790 meters of drilling and 405

samples analysed for Fe, Al2O3 and SiO2.

2.6.2. Proposed Exploration

No further exploration has been proposed.

2.7. MINE DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION

The details of the production and waste generation from 2007-2008 to 2009-2010 are

furnished below in the Table 2.3.

Table 2.3. Year-wise details of proposed production and generation of waste

Sl. No Year Production of

Iron Ore

(ROM)

Over

Burden/Waste

Stripping ratio

1 2006-07 356368 712496 2.00

2 2007-08 329974 341488 1.03

3 2008-09 200400 170761 0.85

4 2009-10 363256 269764 0.74

5 2010-11 400588 758632 1.89

Total 1650586 2253141 1.37

Source: Annual Returns

2.8 ESTIMATION OF IRON ORE RESERVES

The last scheme of mining was approved on 17.08.2009; the period of the approved

scheme of mining is co terminus with date of expiry of ML i.e. 10.11.2013.The reserves

considered have been calculated by cross section area method up to 940 m RL under proved

and from 940 to 932 m under probable category with 100% recovery as mineable reserves.

The reserves estimated as per the said scheme of mining, the details of the category wise,

grade wise reserves are furnished in Table 2.4

Table 2.4 Category wise details of reserves as on 1.4.2009 (Quantity in tonnes)Category of Reserves

/UNFC

Total + 62% Fe 60-62% 58-60% Sub

Grade

Siliceous

Proved(111) 2297000 1723000 155000 184000 129000 106000

Probable(121/122) 246000 210000 10000 4000 9000 13000

Possible(333) - - - - - -

Total 2543000 1933000 165000 188000 138000 119000

Source- Approved scheme of mining dated 17.8.2009 page no.11-12


15

As per the CEC sketch map (Figure 2.3) some part of the area along the western part

of the boundary, which is worked by the lessee, is identified as the area outside the ML as

encroachment. The ore body is continuing in the encroached area. In the previously approved

Scheme of Mining, reserves have been estimated for entire area, including the area under

encroachment. Apart from this 1,19,000 tonnes of ore has been estimated as siliceous iron

ore. Therefore, after the deduction of reserves blocked in the encroached area and reserves

estimated as siliceous ore (which is not considered under total reserves as per the threshold

value as defined by the IBM) the modified reserves of approved scheme of mining are

furnished below in Table 2.5

Table 2.5 Modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009

Category of Reserves /UNFC (Quantity in tonnes)

Total (Proved + Probable) 2543000

Ore Blocked because of shifting of western boundary as per

CEC observation (FIMI Annexure SDN-1)

458344

Sub Total 2084656

Siliceous ore Reserves 119000

Actual reserves 1965656

Total production after the approval of the last scheme of the mining i.e.from

17.08.2009 up to 2011-12 (till the closure of mine by Hon’ble Supreme Court of India) was

reported as 78,4460 tonnes. The details of total balance reserves as on 01.04.2012 are

mention below in Table 2.6

Table 2.6 Category wise modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009


Actual reserves as on 01.04.2009 1965656

Depletion of production from 2009-10 to 2011-12 784460

Balance reserves as on 01.04.2012 1181196

2.9. STRIPPING RATIO

As shown in section 2.7, the stripping ratio based on actual production during last five years

is 1:1.37.


16

2.10. ROADS

2.10.1. Approach Roads

The mine is approached by well connected road from National Highway 206 which is

5.03 Km from the mine gate towards south. Ammasandra railway station connection Hubli-

Bangalore broad gauge railway line where the stackyard (railway siding) is located is at a

distance of 15.23 Km. Mangalore Port is at a distance of 273 Km by road via CTMA, NH-17

& NH-48.

2.10.2. Haulage Roads

Entire internal/haul roads fall within the lease area and exclusively used by the lessee

only. The length of haulage road is about 2.5 km with average width of 15 m, which has been

consolidated over a period of time. Internally well maintained haul roads are made to

transport rejection to the external dump and to the grade-wise stack yards by both 10 tonner

tipper trucks and 25 tonner dumpers. Road gradient is at 1:16.

2.11. TRANSPORTATION OF ORE

2.11.1. Existing Transportation Facilities

Prior to August 2011, mined ore both the processed and ROM was transported

through CTMA road, a mud road which runs through a distance of 5.03 Km and joins to the

National Highway No. 206. The details of the road are as mentioned in the Table below;

The mine is connected to National Highway 206 through which 17% of transport moves

towards Mangalore and 83% transport moves towards Bangalore side which is splited into

two destinations viz. 38% transport is moves towards Bangalore side for domestic users and

45% of ore moves towards Ammasandra Railway Siding. The details of the road are as

follows: Table 2.7

Table 2.7: Existing transport facilities

From To Distance in km Remarks

Stock yard

within the

mine lease

area (A)

Mine Gate

(B)

0.46 Intermediate lane, hilly terrain, mud

road with low curvature in fair

condition. Private Road used by M/s

Tumkur Minerals. Road width is 8 m

Mine Gate (B) CTMA

Junction (C)

0.7 Intermediate lane, rolling terrain, mud

road with low curvature in fair

condition. Private Road used by M/s

Tumkur Minerals. Road width is 8 m


17

CTMA

Junction (C)

NH-206

(Manglore-

Banglore

Junction)

(D)

4.3 Two lane, plain terrain, mud road with

low curvature in poor condition.

Common Road used by Tumkur

Minerals and 4 other mines in B

category and 4 other mine in C

category. Road width more than 10 m

National

Highway 206

Towards Mangalore (17% traffic

moves on this side)

Two lane tarred, plain terrain paved

road with low curvature having 10 m

width.Towards Bangalore (83% traffic

moves on this side, out of which

45% traffic moves towards

Ammasandra Railway Siding)

NH 206

Towards

Bangalore

Ammasandra Railway Siding

(45% traffic moves on this side)

Two lane, plain terrain, tarredroad

with low curvature having 10.0m

width.

2.11.2. Proposed Transportation Facility

No proposal for transportation facilities has been planned by the lessee.

2.12. SAFETY ZONE

Except in the western boundary of the Mining Lease, wherein the lease has a common

boundary with the adjacent lessee, 7.5 m of safety zone is maintained in the southern, eastern

and in northern part of the lease area. Safety zone with total length of 2.6 km with an area of

1.95 ha has not been afforested, details are given in Table 2.8.

Table 2.8. The details of Safety zone in ML 2175

Sl. No. Description Extent

1 Width of safety zone 7.50 m

2 Length of the safety zone (excluding the

common boundaries with adjoining

MLs

2.6 km

3 Area of the safety zone 1.95 ha


18

CHAPTER 3

BASELINE STATUS

3.1. STUDY AREA

The study area is a rural setting and there is only one township named

Chikkanayakanahalli within 10km radius, along with 45 villages. The 45 villages have total

population of 31, 416, while Chikkanayakanahalli taluk HQs has population of 22, 389 as per

2001 census. There are no industries except for mining. About 23 mining leases are

operating in this area. The index map of Tumkur district is shown in Figure-3.1.

The base line data presented in the chapter is based on secondary source information

provided by lessee, Govt of Karnataka, macro –level EIA report and other sources. It is

suggested that regular baseline data may be collected by lessee for mitigating the adverse

impacts of mining on the environment.

Figure 3.1 Index Map of the CN Halli Taluk


19

3.1.1. Climate

There are four distinct seasons in the region. The winter season is between December

and February. It is followed by hot weather from March to May. About 18% of annual

rainfall occurs during the pre-monsoon season. The monsoon season is from June to

September. This season yields around 52% of the annual rainfall. The post-monsoon period is

from October to December contributes around 30% of annual rainfall. The humidity is lower

during the months of December to May and highest during the monsoon period. The winds

are predominantly south-westerly during the summer season and north-easterly during the

winter season. The annual potential evapo-transpiration is above 1800 mm with monthly rates

less than 100 mm during December and January and above 250 mm during May month of the

year.

The lease area falls in Chikkanyakanahalli taluk of Tumkur District, and this district is

a part of the southern Maidan region with an undulating plateau. The district is also known

for dry climate. The temperature varies between 12°C and 38°C. The relative humidity values

range from 34.3 to 99.8% with an average rainfall of 740mm/annum (Table 3.1).

Table-3.1: Annual average rainfall data for Chikkanyakanahalli taluk from 2001 to

2010

Year/

monthJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total

2001 43.1 104.7 216.5 103.8 28.4 496.5

2002 3.0 7.3 64.0 133.0 46.0 35.2 124.6 135.7 25.1 573.9

2003 14.2 6.3 68.8 72.7 18.8 12.6 199.7 11.9 405.0

2004 82.7 97.4 142.0 152.3 88.5 45.6 112.9 48.3 12.3 782.0

2005 4.0 15.3 14.2 66.4 19.2 222.7 204.7 70.1 333.9 74.5 12.6 1037.6

2006 46.0 22.2 123.9 118.7 27.4 12.1 72.1 79.7 57.8 559.9

2007 29.0 128.6 83.0 46.1 118.9 103.5 130.4 21.1 10.0 670.6

2008 60.9 105.7 13.0 94.4 35.4 150.3 269.9 99.5 116.6 5.2 950.9

2009 26.1 15.2 34.1 117.8 40.4 192.1 251.4 123.6 44.3 10.0 855.0

2010 108.8 105.2 157.6 57.5 144.3 211.1 68.4 215.8 1068.7

Mean 11.6 7.6 27.5 30.4 81.7 78.6 88.2 121.3 113.2 148.8 27.5 3.8 740.0

Source: Taluk Office, Chikkanyakanahalli


20

Figure-3.2 Annual average rainfall data for Chikkanyakanahalli taluk from 2001 to

2010

(Source: Taluk Office, Chikkanyakanahalli)

3.1.2. Physiographic/ Topography of Mine Lease Area

In general the landscape consists of undulating plain country interspersed with N-S to

NW-SE trending ridge and isolated elevated regions. The subject area was a hillock having a

maximum elevation of 1023m in the southern part of the lease area and with the minimum of

964 MRL in the north-eastern part of the lease area. This part of the elevated area has a

moderate slope towards the west and forms a valley with the adjacent ridge. The eastern

slopes are gentle and merge with the general ground level. Only one seasonal nallah flows

from the lease area and it joins to another 1 st order stream from the western part of the lease

area.

In the eastern part of the district, the hills comprising of schistose rocks passes

through Chikkanyakanahalli, Sira and Gubbi taluks. The prominent hills in the eastern range

of hills are Kamandadurga (1077m), Nidugal (1148m), Madhugiridurga (1199m),

Channarayadurga (1138m) Koratagiri (879m), Devarayanadurga (1187m), Nijogal (1086m),

Hutridurga (1130m) and Huliyurudurga (844 m) above the mean sea level (msl). The

landmass in the plains ranges between 450 to 840 m above msl, while hilly areas range

between 840 to 1500 m above msl.


21

3.2. REGIONAL GEOLOGY

The entire region of the district is covered by Archaen rocks consisting mainly of

schistose rocks, peninsular gneiss and Hospet granite. Chlorites, Quartzite, Haematite bearing

quartzite, Limestone, Dolomite, Pegmatites, Diorites are occasionally found. A few important

iron ore deposits occurring within the Chitradurga-Tumkur schist belt, namely

Chiknayakanhalli area, Janehara area, Vajra deposit and Kunigal-Yammabetta area. The iron

ore deposits of this belt. Crystalline schists, granite gneisses and newer granites represent the

rock formations of the district. The appearance of rocks is light to dark grey or whitish biotic

granitic gneiss, which varies considerably from place to place in texture, structure and

appearance, according to the fineness of its constituent grains and the relative abundance or

scarcity and mode of deposition of the darker ferric minerals (Figure 3.3).


22

Figure 3.2 Geological features of Tumkur district


23

3.2.1. Local Geology

The Chikkanyakanahalli schist belt is situated in the southern part of Chitradurga

group of younger schist belts. The area belongs to Late Archaean age. A prominent band of

Iron formation is present to the east of Chikkanyakanahalli. The major rocks occurring in the

belt are Banded Iron and Manganese formations, Limestone, Dolomite, Conglomerates,

Metabasalts, Phyllities, Quartzites etc. These formations are intruded by Dolerite Dykes. The

Banded Hematite Quartzite (BHQ) has NW-SE strike with steep easterly dip. Manganese Ore

Deposits are confined to stratigraphic horizon of lower Manganiferous Phyllites of

Chitradurga group. The overall general succession of Chikkanyakanahalli belt is shown in

Table-3.2. The geological plan of mine lease area is shown in Figure-3.4.

Table-3.2: The overall general succession of Chikkanyakanahalli belt (Order of

super position)

Iron formation contains haematite, limonite and geothites minerals. Ore body consists

of hard lumpy and friable/flaky/powdery minerals. In most part of the area inter calation of

himonitised ore are seen with good grade ore. General strike directions of ore body is N 10

degree W to S 10 Degree E. Ore body dips towards East at about 73 degree to 85 degree. Side

burden for ore body comprises of ferrogenous schist, shales and ferrogenous quartzites.

8 Laterite, Soil, Alluvium Recent

7

6

5

4

3

2

Iron Formation

Manganese Formation

Aluminous Clay

Siliceous Clay

Carbonates

Schists ( Chloride Schist)

Dharwar

Super

Group

Proterozoic

Unconfirmity

1 Granitic Gneisses Archaean


24

Figure-3.3: Geological plan map of ML 2175


25

3.3. LAND USE PATTERN OF Chikkanyakanahalli TALUK

The total area of the Chikkanyakanahalli taluk is 1, 12, 998.00 ha. The details of land

use pattern are given in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3: Land use pattern of Chikkanyakanahalli Taluk

Total Geographical Area. (ha) Agricultural Land (ha) Govt. Land (ha)

112998.00 89775 23223

Source: Taluk Office, Chikkanyakanahalli

3.3.1. Land Use Pattern of mine lease area

ML area is located at a distance of 45 km from Tumkur, and 23 km from Chikkanyakanahalli

town. The nearest village is Muskondli which is about 2.5 km in the east. The existing and

conceptual land use is presented in Table 3.4. The existing and conceptual land use plans of

mine lease 2175 are depicted in Figure 3.5 and 3.6.

Table 3.4. Existing, proposed and conceptual land use of ML

Particulars Existing

area (ha)

Proposed

for plan

period

Conceptual

Area (ha)

Land use proposed

the end of the plan

as per SOM

Mining Pit 5.85 8.35 10.65 12.07

Overburden Dump 6.16 6.16 6.16 9.0774

Road/Infrastructure 1.36 1.56 1.36 1.5566

Stack of Mineral 4.52 4.45 - 4.4471

Afforestation and

Env Protective

Measueres

4.34 5.78 7.50 5.7814

Safty zone 1.95 - 1.95 -

Undisturbed area 40.17 38.05 36.73 31.8175

Total 64.35 64.35 64.35 64.75Source: Conceptual land use plan prepared for R & R SoM


26

Figure 3.4. Land use / land of study area


27

Figure. 3.5. Conceptual Land Use / Land Of ML-2175


28

3.4. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Map showing soil, air and water, monitoring station is also given in Figure- 3.7.

Figure 3.6. Map showing air water, soil monitoring station


29

3.4.1. Soil

Soil samples were collected at five locations two in core and three in the buffer zone

of the mine lease area as tabulated in Table 3.5.

Table 3.5 Soil samples locations in core and buffer zone of the mine lease area

Sample code Name of Sampling

Station

Direcdtion w.r.t

Core zone

Distance from

the core zone

S1 Core Zone - -

S5 Dump - -

S2 Guddadapalya S 4.5

S3 Musakondli E 2.5

S4 D. Rampura N 7

The results show that the pH values varies between 7.43 to 7.89. The soils are

between neutral to slightly alkaline. The organic carbon content ranges from 0.41% to

0.75%. Thus the values are in the range of moderate to good. The available nitrogen ranges

from 38 to 63 Kg/Ha. This is in moderate range. The soils are silty clay texture. The

available phosphorus is quite low. Thus the soils are moderate to medium fertile. They are

suitable for plantation with after care.

While breaking up the fresh ground when the pit area has lateral extension, top soil

wherever encountered stocked separately and used for plantation purpose. Towards the

north-eastern part of the lease area, undisturbed virgin area has a soil thickness of 1-2m.

Revenue department, Govt. of Karnataka has allotted this part of the area to the SC/ST

community of the surrounding village and cultivation is already in progress at these area.

There is no proposal of any of the mining activity during the balance life of mine. In the

southern part of the lease area as mentioned earlier, as and when the top soil is encountered

will be stacked separately and utilized for the plantation purpose.

Soil is generally formed due to slow process of weathering. The normal nutrient

composition of plants is altered by alteration in soil condition. Soil samples representing

different land use have been studied by the lessee from the buffer zone from Villages as

mentioned in the Table above.

General Observations of the Soil Analyzed: The soil samples analyzed from this mine show

that soil pH ranges from acidic to alkaline in reaction, no harmful effect of salts in all the soil

samples, organic carbon content is low in soil samples S1 (Mines), S2 (Guddadapalya Village


30

Ag.Soil) and S3 (Muskondli Ag.Soil). Potassium content in all soil samples is very high (high

fertility). The physico chemical properties of soil are given in Table 3.6.

Analysis found that the quality of soil found to be reasonably good. The iron content

in the soil is observed to be on higher side due to the basic geological nature of the strata.

Table 3.6 Soil Physical and Chemical Properties

3.4.2. Air Environment

The ambient air quality has been mointered, keeping in view, the wind direction in

the area for various seasons of the year and also the location, which are likely to be affected

by any mining activity, within the buffer-zone of mining lease area. Ambient air quality

monitoring, six in buffer zone and four in the core zone, are as given in Table 3.7.

Project : Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine

Season : Summer, 2010

Date of sampling : 26.04.2011

SL.

No. PARAMETERS

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 QUALITY

Norman High

1 pH 7.45 7.89 7.43 7.68 7.89 6.3 >8.3

2 EC (m.mohs/cm) 0.890 1.561 0.428 0.436 0.439 1.0 to 2.0 >2

3 Organic Carbon (%) 0.56 0.56 0.63 0.75 0.41 0.5 to 0.75 >0.75

4 Nitrogen as N (Kg/Ha) 46 38 63 41 39 - -

5 Phosphorous as P (Kg/Ha) 13 19 17 11 11 9 to 22 >22

6 Potassium as K (kg/Ha) 250 175 203 238 230 50 to 120 >120

7 Sulphates as SO4 (Kg/Ha) 0.15 0.28 0.15 0.14 0.23 - -

8 Water holding capacity (%) 45 65 34 53 48 - -

9 Sodium as Na (Kg/Ha) 690 715 98 123 150 - -

10 Calcicum as Ca meq/100g 1.15 1.63 1.25 1.29 1.08 - -

11 Magnesium as Mg (Kg/Ha) 33 77 43 40 39 - -

12 Chloride as CI (%) 0.19 0.05 0.09 0.10 0.11 - -

13 Sand (%) 46 43 33 20 23 - -

14 Silt & Clay (%) 56 55 63 49 63 - -

15 Textural Siltyclay

Siltyclay

Siltyclay

Siltyclay

Siltyclay - -

Sample Code : Sample Code : S1 – Corezone, S2 - Guddadapalya Village Ag.Soil, S3 -

Muskondli Ag.Soil, S4 - D- Ramapura Villager Ag.Soil, S5 - Dump soil

Source: Soil Monitoring Report of Summer 2010, By Mineral Engineering Services, Bellary,

Karnataka


31

Table 3.7 Location of Air Sampling Stations in Core and Buffer ZoneSl. No. Code Name of Sampling Station Direction

w.r.t. Core

Zone

Distance

w.r.t. Core

Zone (Km)

CORE ZONE

1 A-I Loading Point - -

2 A-II Stock Yard - -

3 A-III Haulage Road - -

4 A-IV Core Zone - -

BUFFER ZONE

5 A-V Guddadapalya Village S 4.5

6 A-VI Muskondli Village E 2.5

7 A-VII Sondenahalli Village W 3.0

8 A-VIII D-Rampura N 7.0

9 A-IX Kondli Village E 3.7

10 A-X Godekere Village W 5.0

Source: REIA Report prepared by M/s. Bhagvathi Ana Labs Ltd, Hyderabad.

Table 3.8 Ambient Air Quality (µg/cum) in Core Zone & Buffer Zone

MONTH WISE AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2010-2011 Station Wise - Avg

StationResult

SO2 NOx SPM RPM

CORE ZONE

Loading Point - A 1 16 22 228 98

Dumping Point - A 2 17 22 237 98

Haulage Road - A 3 17 22 228 94

Core Zone - A 4 16 21 228 94

BUFFER ZONE

Guddadapalya Village - A 5 11 15 91 31

Muskondli Village - A 6 11 16 92 33

Sondenahalli - A 7 11 15 95 33

D - Rampura - A 8 11 16 95 33

Ammasandra - A 9 17 22 145 67

Avg 14 19 160 65

Permissible Limits for Industrial & Mixed use area (NAAQS) 120 120 500 150

Source: AAQ Monitoring Report of April, 2010 to March, 2011, By Mineral Engineering

Services, Bellary, Karnataka.

Core Zone Stations

Core zone stations are located with-in the lease area. The SPM, (24 hr), SO2 and NOX

(8 hr) are monitored from the month of April, 2010 to March, 2011 and given in Table 3.7

The results of analysis show that all the parameters are below the respective

prescribed limit for industrial and rural areas. However, since 2009 the parameters to be


32

monitored have been re notified. In place of SPM and RPM, PM10 and PM 2.5, that is dust

below 10 microns and below 2.5 microns needs to be monitored.

3.4.3. Noise Environment

Mining operations usually generate noise during different stages of mining and

handling of ores. Monitoring have been conducted in six villages, representative of buffer

zone terrain i.e., plain, undulating and hilly, apart from core zone, representing the

cumulative effect of the mining. Noise level i.e., Leq (day) and Leq (night) for each station in

core zone and buffer zone along with applicable standards are monitored. Noise level survey

carried-out at various locations is given in the below Table 3.8.

Table 3.9. Noise Level (dB) in Core Zone and Buffer Zone along with Applicable

Standards.

Project : Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine

Units : dB(A)

Date of Monitoring

: 14.12.2010

S.

No. Site/Location

Day Night

Lmin Leq Lmax Lmin Leq Lmax

BUFFER ZONE

N1 Guddadapalya Village 44.5 49.1 52.0 35.6 38.9 43.6

N2 Muskondly Village 45.7 47.6 78.8 34.6 36.8 40.2

N3 Sondenahallia Village 43.6 46.2 48.1 34.0 36.5 39.4

N4 D.Ramapura Village 42.8 46.0 48.2 36.1 39.6 48.1

CORE ZONE Remarks

N5 Mine Site 54.3 57.2 60.8 Vehicle Movement

N6 Tata Hitachi Ex.270LCH

76.1 78.2 82.0 5 mtrs Outside Cabin during

operation


operation

N7 Hyundai 300 LC-7


operation


operation

N8 Wheel Loader

Hindustan 2021


operation


operation

N9 Mobile ScreeningPlant


operation


operation

N10 Near Weigh Bridge 68.8 71.3 75.2 Vehicle Movement


33

Type of the area

Industrial Rural and residential

Day Night Day Night

75 70 55 45

It will be seen that the noise levels monitored in buffer zone have values well below

the prescribed day and night limits. In the core zone the monitoring done near the operating

machines are higher than the prescribed limits, this is not unexpected.

3.4.4. Water Environment

Though the rainfall is to the tune of 400-550 mm per annum, adequate protective

measures are taken up to in order to avaoid any wash offs from the dump slopes and other

slopes which are affected due to mining. All along the toe of the dump garland drains are

constructed 1m in depth and width of 0.5m at the bottom and 1m at the top. Outside the

garland drains, retaining walls are constructed using stones from the dump itself. At the

critical locations, settling ponds are constructed with adequate capacity so as to allow

sufficient time for settlement of suspended solids and clean water is allowed to flow into the

natural water couraces. Excess rain water is channelized in to pit bottom and this also acts as

water reservoir.

3.4.4.1. Water Bodies and springs

No surface water sources as such are located within the ML area, which are likely to

get affected as a result of mining operation. As mentioned earlier one seasonal nallah (first

order stream) originates from the middle of the lease area. Adequate protective measures are

already taken up in order to avoid the wash-offs from the rejection dump or from the stack

yard to this nallah. There are no springs within the ML area.

No River is present within 10 km radius from the lease boundary. Only one seasonal

nallah (where water can be seen only during heavy rains) exists in the north-eastern part of

the lease area, which joins to another first order stream which originates from the western

slope of the adjacent lease.

3.4.4.2. Drainage Pattern

The drainage pattern of the area is dentritic in nature. Half of the run-off with-in the

buffer zone drains towards east. The half part of the run-off flows towards SW and NW of the


34

area. Mining activity is carried on moderately elevated terrain, wherein there is no possibility

of encountering ground water as the mining operations has the highest and lowest elevation

of 1023m and 964m above MSL. The ground water table is about 137m below the general

ground level (i.e. about 800 m above MSL). At the end of the life of the mine the pit bottom

shall reach up to 932m above MSL.

3.4.4.3 Annual Run-off from Mine Lease Areas

Annual rainfall in this region is 400 to 450mm. Garland drains are made at the

critical points on the benches and on dump top to direct the rain water in to the pit. The water

collected shall be utilized for dust suppression and also acts as water reservoir for the

recharge of ground water. As shown on the Water Management Plan adequate engineering

protective measures were already carried-out at the toe of the dump slope like retaining wall,

garland drains and at the critical points. Four settlings ponds as well as check dams with

loose boulder are also constructed in order to arrest wash-offs from the rejection dump and

also from the mineral stack yard.

3.4.4.4. Ground Water Estimation

A dynamic ground water resource has been assessed by the Department of Mines and

Geology in association with Centre Ground Water Board Government of Karnataka for

South-Western Region of Karnataka during 2009. The ground water resource estimation

study is based (GEM-97), watershed basis taking into consideration of various hydrological

units viz., command, non-command and hilly area (having slope more than 20%). The ground

water resources assessed were apportioned to administrative unit’s viz., taluk.

The command and non-command areas under Chikkanayakanahalli taluk, the stage of

ground water development are recorded to be only 21% and 61%, respectively, indicating

that the taluk is in the safe category for which the mean ground water level for the period

May 1998 to May 2007 has been compared with the level in May 2008. The water level trend

during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon showed no significant decline in the command and

non-command areas of the Chikkanayakanahalli taluka.

3.4.4.5 Ground Water Quality

Ground water quality was monitored for seven ground water sources within

the buffer zone. Location of these sources is given in Table 3.10.


35

Table 3.10 Water Quality Sampling Location

SL. No. Code Location Direction

1. W1 Muskondli Borewell East

2. W2 Chikkarampura Borewell North-East

3. W3 Bullenahalli Bore Well North-West

4. W4 Sondenahalli Borewell West

5. W5 Honnahalli Bore Well South-East

6. W6 Rajatadripura Bore Well SSW

7. W7 Somanahalli Bore Well South-West

Few important parameters of quality monitored are compared in Table 3.11

Table 3.11 Comparative Study of Few Parameters of Ground Water Quality

SL.

No.Parameters W1 W2 W3 W4 Limits

1. Total Dissolved Solids (mg/l),

max.154

960 554 319 500

2. Fluoride as F (mg/l) 0.546 0.523 0.543 0.370 1.0

3. pH 7.2 6.96 7.38 7.38 6.5 to 8.5

4. Total Hardness as CaCO3

(mg/l), max.154 530 339 219 300

Source: Water Monitoring report for the year 2010-11, By mineral Engineering

Services, Bellary, Karnataka.

The ground water analysis data are given in Tables 3.10. The quality of water as seen

from above results appears to be well within the desiable limits as per the drinking water

standards. Total dissolved solids are higher only in one case. Flourides are well below the

permissible limit in all the samples. The pH indicated that waters are slightly alkaline. All the

pH values are within the prescribed limits. The hardness except in case of one sample is also

below the desirable limits.

3.5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

3.5.1. Flora

General

The vegetation occurring in the area belongs to Southern tropical dry deciduous

forests the area under study falls under the Mixed deciduous sub classification(As per the

Classification of forest types of India proposed by Champion and Seth, (1968). According to

the classification proposed by Legris and Pascal (1982) area falls under Deciduous climax


36

forests. According to this classification this type of forests does not have the potentiality of

secondary moist deciduous forests.

It was found that the canopy is open and the majority of the trees are leafless during

the dry months. The flowering and fruiting are generally far advanced before the first flush of

new leaves appears with the showers in April – May.

The dominant tree species found in these type of forest areas are Buchanania

axillaris, B. lanzan, Anogeissus latifolia, Boswellia serrata, Hardwickia binata, Wirghtia

tinctorea, Shorea roxburghii. Few climbers and twiners like , Aristolochia indica, Asparagus

racemosus, Cocculus hirsutus, Gloriosa superba are also observed . The dominant grasses

include species like Andropogon pumilus, Apluda mutica, Brachiaria eruciformis,

Chrysopogon fulvus, C. martini, Cynodon dactylon, Heteropogon contortus etc. The ground

flora is chiefly seasonal. Some of the herbs growing in this area are Acalypha indica,

Achyranthes aspera, Aerva lanata, Crotalaria albida, Bidens biternata, Blepharis

maderaspatana, Justicia simplex, Leucas aspera, Cassia occidentalis, etc. Dendrophthoe

falcata and few other species belonging to the family of Loranthaceae grow as parasites on

tree branches, while Striga asiatica occur as root parasite associated with grasses.

Plants occurring in mine lease area and surroundings

Hardwickia binata is the most dominant tree species that is found in the mine lease area and

surroundings and most of it is planted. Tree species that are found in the area include Butea

monosperma, Buchanania lanzan, Cassia fistula, Terminalia paniculata and Wrightia

tinctorea. Major shrubby species that are found growing in the area include Cassia

auriculata, Dodonaea viscosa, Cipadessa baccifera, Erythroxylum monogynum, and Ixora sp.

Herbs like Alternanthera pungens, Alysicarpus rugosus, Chlorophytum tuberosusm,

Desmodium triflorum , Leucas aspera, Sida acuta, Stylosanthes hamata, Synedrella

nodiflora, Tephrosia purpurea, Vicoa indica and Waltheria indica. Climbers like

Aristolochia indica, Cocculus hirsutus, Cryptolepis buchanani and Gloriosa superba are

frequently found in the area Weeds like Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata and

Parthenium hysterophorus also occur in the area. Tecoma stans is found in large numbers.

Some of the grass species occurring in the area are Aristida setacea, Cynodon dactylon,

Cymbopon flexuosus, Dichanthium annulatum and Heteropogon contortus.

Plantation area include tree species like Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia mangium, Cassia

siamea, Dalbergia latifolia, Phyllanthus emblica, Eucalyptus globulus, Grewillea robusta,


37

Hardwickia binata, Mangifera indica, Michelia champaca, Polyalthia longifolia, Pongamia

pinnata, Tamarindus indica, Terminalia paniculata etc.

3.5.2. Fauna

Some important species present in the ML and its surrounding areas are given below

Butterflies: Euthalia nais (Baronet), Junonia orithiya (Blue Pansy), Euploea core (Common

Crow), Papilio polytes form romulus and stichius (Common Mormon), Atrophaneura

aristolochiae (Common Rose), Euploea sylvester (Double-branded Crow), Danaus genutia

(Striped Tiger), Acraea violae (Tawny Coster), Zizula hylax (Tiny Grass Blue), Ixias

Marianne (White Orange Tip), Leptotes plinius (Zebra Blue)

Herpetofauna: Psammophilus dorsalis (South Indian rock agama) Ptyas mucosa (Indian rat

snake).

Birds: Perdicula asiatica (Jungle Bush-Quail), Merops orientalis (Green Bee-eater), Merops

Philippinus (Blue-tailed Bee-eater), Eudynamys scolopacea (Asian Koel), Centropus sinensis

(Greater Coucal), Psittacula krameri (Rose-ringed Parakeet), Dendrocitta vagabunda

(Rufous Treepie), Pericrocotus cinnamomeus (Small Minivet), Cyornis tickelliae (Tickell's

Blue-Flycatcher), Parus major (Great Tit), Hirundo daurica (Red-rumped Swallow),

Artamus fuscus (Ashy Wood swallow), Prinia sylvatica (Jungle Prinia), Prinia socialis (Ashy

Prinia), Orthotomus sutorius (Common Tailorbird), Chrysomma sinense (Yellow-eyed

Babbler), Ammomanes phoenicurus (Rufous-tailed Lark), Nectarinia asiatica (Purple

Sunbird), Nectarinia zeylonica (Purple-rumped Sunbird).

Mammals: Macaca radiate (Bonnet Macaque), Semnopithecus entellus (Hanuman Langur),

Canis aureus (Jackal), Felis chaus (Jungle Cat), Lepus nigricollis (Indian Hare), Hystrix

indica (Indian Porcupine), Funambulus palmarum (Three striped Palm Squirrel), Rattus

rattus (Rock/House Rat).

3.6. SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

3.6.1 Demographic Status of the Villages within 10 km radius

There is no inhabited village within the lease area.However following 14 villages are with

in the radius of 10 Km of the mine lease . The social management plan for the mine affected

area of Bellary, Chitradurga and Tumkur is being prepared separately, taking in to

consideration holistic approach. However, the demographic details and land use pattern of the

mine affected villages is given as under in Table-3.12 and 3.13.


38

Table 3.12 Land Use Pattern of Mine Affected Villages

Table 3.13 Demographic Details of Mine Affected Villages (2001)

SL.No Name of the

Village

Distance

(km)

Direction Population

Male Female Total

1. Muskondli 2.6 E 494 507 1001

2. Chikkarampura 6.5 NE 289 292 581

3. Bullenahalli 5.9 NW 124 131 255

4. Sondenahalli 3.0 W 2433 2362 4795

5. Honnahalli 3.5 SE 189 180 369

6. Rajatadripura 3.7 SSW 775 782 1557

7. Somanahalli 3.7 SW 412 419 831

8. Godekere 4.7 W 1091 1013 2104

9. Kondli 3.7 E 1035 982 2017

10. Lingammanapalya 5.1 SE 395 366 761

11. Bagganahalli 5.0 NW 363 380 743

12. Kanchiganahalli 6.6 SE 185 197 382

13. Doddarampura 7.5 N 573 540 1113

14. Neralakere 8.9 SE 641 583 1224

Total 8999 8734 17733

Sl.

No.Village Name Forest Irrigated

by SourceUnirrigated Cultivable

Land

Area not

available for

Cultivation

1 Chikkarampura 0.0 79.46 129.44 113.42 35.68

2 Bullenahalli 0.0 8.09 101.41 5.79 176.72

3 Sondenahalli 784 20.23 305.76 242.14 548.87

4 Somanahalli 134.40 40.22 309.25 311.53 67.66

5 Godekere 0.0 28.00 242.00 44.00 115.00

6 Bagganahalli 0.0 16.19 327.61 0.0 176.20

7 Yerrakatte 516.80 72.04 41.26 119.09 26.81

8 Doddarampura 31.16 170.10 161.56 399.94 27.24


39

CHAPTER 4

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

4.1. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Environmental impacts of mining have been well-documented and an ample literature

exists on this topic. Environmental impacts of mining arises because various operations

carried out during the process of mining such as change in land use, top soil removal, drilling

and blasting, overburden dumping, mineral beneficiation, mine water pumping,

toxic/contaminated waste water discharge and such others. Though no major fauna is present

in the surrounding area, however, it is essential to discuss on the extent of environmental

impact caused by Sondenahalli Iron Ore Mine.

4.1.1. Impact on Landscape

The ML area is in government revenue land, however, the excavation of minerals

resulted in change of landscape. The land fragmented into different parts i.e, haulage roads,

excavated areas, infrastructures etc.

4.1.2. Impact on Ecology

Major impacts of SOIM, ML-2175 on the local ecology can be summarized in the

form of removal of vegetation (flora) from the area required for mining and other purposes

thereby loss of habitats and displacing of local fauna. The excavated sites are very prone to

soil erosion and displacement of sedimentation which in turn disturbed water recharging

capacity of soil. The soil, biological and geological cycle is disturbed. As the mine is a

mechanized mine and there is lot of noise and vibration and emission of pollutants during

mining operations have direct impact on human health as well as disturbance to wild animals.

4.1.3. Impact on Air Quality

The impact of mining activities due to various operations viz. mineral excavation ,

loading, unloading and transportation is quite significant and has adverse impact on the

environment.

In core zone and buffer zone ambient air quality is well within the limits. However,

with proper management plan the impact can be reduced to a greater extent. To minimize the

adverse impact of release of pollutions the following measures should be undertaken;


40

• Development of green belt on the safety zone, roads, non mineralized areas,

etc

• Proper flow of traffic speed control

• Proper maintenance of roads

• Regular water sprinkling on mine haul roads

4.1.4. Impact of Noise and Vibration

The mining activity is located at about 2.5 km (village) away from the nearest human

settlement; the effect of noise seems to be insignificant on the buffer zone. But, in core zone

it may have significant effect from the occupational health point of view. In general, noise

generated by these sources is within the limits prescribed by Director General of Mines

Safety (DGMS), Dhanbad. The permissible limit accordingly is 90 dB (A). The work person

shall not be exposed to more than 90 dB (A) level continuously for more than 1/2 hr/day.

Vibration: Not applicable, because there is no drilling & blasting and this is purely soft ore

deposit.

4.1.5. Impact on Water Quality

No water is used for any processing applications in the mining area. Hence, there is

no effluent generation. Water is used only for sprinkling on haul roads, afforestation and and

domestic use like washing/ drinking etc.Surface water pollution is anticipated during

monsoon due to erosion of waste dump and sub-grade stock from mining area to natural

drainage channels. Ground water pollution may take place only if the dump/ mineral

stockyard contain chemical substances. These chemicals get leached by the precipitation

which percolates to the ground water table thus polluting it.4.1.6. Impact on Soil FertilityIn

the process of opencast mining, several changes occur in physical, chemical and

microbiological properties of soil as a result of mining and storage. Inability to preserve

topsoil is one of the basic hindrances to restoration of mined land. Soil degradation and the

decline in the productive capacity of land resources is an immediate environmental and social

concern.


41

4.1.6. Impact on Soil Fertility

In the process of opencast mining, several changes occur in physical, chemical and

microbiological properties of soil as a result of mining and storage. Inability to preserve

topsoil is one of the basic hindrances to restoration of mined land. Soil degradation and the

decline in the productive capacity of land resources is an immediate environmental and social

concern.

4.1.7. Impact on Aquatic Life

Due to mining activities the runoff from the area gets heavily loaded with particulate

matter which if not amended with bioengineering structure goes directly to the nearby water

bodies and affecting the flora and fauna in them.

4.1.8. Impact on Society

The open cast mining operations adversely affect the population if private land is

acquired or any habitations are removed. In the present case none of these has taken place

hence there is no negative impact on the society. On the other hand the mine has created

employment opportunity for over two hundred people of the surrounding areas. The CSR

activities in the surrounding villages is being carried out by lessee, however a comprehensive

Social Management Plan is being prepared for overall development of the project affected

villages.


42

CHAPTER 5

RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION PLAN

5.1. INTRODUCTION

In the process of opencast mining, several changes occur in the physical, chemical,

biological and microbial properties of the environment (Kunu and Ghose, 1998; Singh and

Singh, 2006; Padmavathiamma and Li, 2007, Sheoran et al., 2009; Sheoran et al., 2010;

Singh, 2010). Degradation level depends on climatic conditions and various other factors. If

the biological reclamation is not done in well time, leaching will remove the nutrients due to

the soil erosion, the nutrient cycle will break down, and the soil will ultimately become

biologically unproductive. The objective of the study is to suggest suitable engineering and

biological measures for management of encroached areas, OB dumps, surface water and over

all land use of the mined out area The mine rehabilitation plan should aim:

¾ To stabilize loose over burden (OB) dumps and mined out areas

¾ To check soil erosion and sediment loss

¾ To ameliorate substratum in term of:

• Soil moisture retention

• Nutrient retention

• Microbial biomass

¾ To enhance diversity of plants, animal and micro-organisms

¾

To regulate natural process of ecosystem, namely,

• Productivity

• Nutrient cycling

• Water recharging

• Soil protection

• Sheltering and providing conditions to plant and animal species

¾

To cater the need of local people for their daily needs

¾

To develop visual and aesthetic view of the area


43

The successful Reclamation and Rehabilitation plan for the mine will

primarily depend on following considerations:

1. Rehabilitation and Reclamation of Encroached Areas.

2. Loose OB dumps and their stabilization

3. Mining pits, their back filling and stabilization

4. Nala/Stream courses and their stabilization

5.

Development of vegetation on non-mineralized areas

6. Safety zone and Greenbelt Development

7.

Avenue plantation all along mine haul roads

8. Regular monitoring by an independent scientific agency

5.2 RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION PLAN FOR AREA UNDER

ENCROACHMENT

An area of 2.38 ha has been identified by CEC as encroachment by Mining Pit, 2.45

ha encroachment by overburden dumps and 3.22 ha encroachment ( Table 5.1)

Table 5.1 Indicative cost of plantation for encroachment area as per CEC

Particulars for plantation Area in ha Rate Cost

Mining pit outside ML area (ha) 2.38 1.74 4.14

Dump outside ML area (ha) 2.45 1.74 4.26

Others 3.22 1.74 5.60

Total 8.05 1.74 14.01

Table 5.2 Encroached Dump details

Dump

No.

Dump

status

Avg. angle in

degree

Dump area (ha) Dump height

in m

EID Inactive 28 1.06 1.32 36

EID1 Inactive 22 - 0.07 5

The bioengineering measures proposed for dump management and surface water

management in the encroached areas are given in Table 5.3 and 5.4 below with indicative

cost. The details of the measures are given under section 5.3.


Table 5.3. Indicative Cost of Proposed Engineering Measures in Encroached Area of ML- 2175

Indicative Cost Of Proposed Engineering Measures Encroached Area of ML- 2175

Dimension in m Quantity Unit

Rate

per Unit

in Rs. Amount (in lakhs)

Dump

Number

Particulars

of work Length Width Hight

TOP BOT

EID Toe Wall at

the toe of

waste

dump

Foundation in

hard soil mixed

with boulders

including hard

rock

340.00 3.5 1.2 1428.00 cum 111 1.59

Plain cement

concrete (1:4:8)

in foundation

340.00 3.20 0.15 163.20 cum 1860 3.04

Toe wall RR

dry

340.00 1.00 3.00 2.00 1360.00 cum 400 5.44

Garland

Drain

Garland drain

(1 m bottom

width, 2 m top

width and 1 m

deep below toe

wall)

345.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 517.50 cum 111 0.57

Silt Settling

Tank

Dimension (20

x 10 x 3 m)

20.00 10.00 3.00 600 cum 750 4.50

Silt Settling

Tank

Dimension (20

x 10 x 3 m)

20.00 10.00 3.00 600 cum 750 4.50

Total 19.64


45

Table 5.4. Proposed Engineering Measures Of Surface Water Management Of

Encroached ML- 2175

Items Dimension in m

No Length Width Height

TOP BOT Quantity Unit Rate in

Rs

Amount

in Lakhs

Gully plug

i. Logwood check Dam

LW 6 8.00 1.50 1.00 48.00 m 1200.00 0.58

ii. Brush Wood check Dam

BW 4 5.00 1.50 1.00 20.00 m 300.00 0.06

Loose boulder check dam

LBCD 2 10.00 2.00 4.00 3.00 180.00 cum 400.00 0.72

Gabion/ Wire Crate Check Dam

GCD-1 1 10.00 1.00 3.00 3.00 60.00 cum 1200.00 0.72

Total 2.08

The total indicative cost for management of encroached area is Rs. 35.73 lakhs

5.3 RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION PLAN FOR AREA UNDER MINE

LEASE

5.3.1 Stabilization of dump

It was observed that the dumps are having gullies of various widths and depths on

dumps. To stabilize these dumps gully plugs like brushwood, logwood, loose boulder etc. For

dump slope stabilization toe wall at the toe of waste dump and catch water drains (garland

drains) with Silt Settling Tanks (SST) are required. The portion of dumps which have adverse

conditions like steep slope, poor soil fertility and lack of moisture, one may use coir mat for

vegetative growth enhancement and cover. Enriched plantation may be adopted on top flat

area and sloping area.

5.3.2. Waste Dump

There is only one dump in the ML which spreads upto the northern side of the pit and

has two main slopes one in south-eastern and other in north-western directions. OB dump on

eastern side is having 2 terraces each at 20 m height. SW corner of the dump is just above the

mine pit without any toe wall protection and drainage. This portion is having a common

boundary with ML 2348. There is no Active dump. The OB generated after opening the mine

will be used for back filling of the pit. Proposed Back Filling Plan is given in Figure 5.1


46

Details of dumps existing and proposed inside and outside lease area are given in Table 5.5.

Table 5.5. Dump details

Dump details

Dump

No.

Dump

status

Avg. angle in

degree

Dump area (ha) Dump height

in m

Top area Sloping area

ID Inactive 20 4.81 1.27 45


47

Figure 5.1. Proposed Back Filling Plan.


48

5.3.2.1 Bio-engineering measures

Toe Wall: To stabilize waste dump slope, toe wall is provided at its toe. RR dry stone

masonry should be used for toe wall height up to 2 m. Stone masonry in cement sand mortar

(1:6) should be used for toe wall height more than 2 m. Toe wall should be provided with 15

cm thick plain cement concrete (1:4:8) in the foundation and also weep holes in the body of

toe wall at 1x1m grid points. Specifications of toe wall adopted have been shown in the dump

management plan (Figure 5.2). Total two (2) nos. toe wall has been proposed, one with in

lease are and other for encroached dump. (Design-1)

Garland Drains (catch water drains): have been proposed 1-2 m below toe wall to collect

runoff water discharging at the toe of dump and to carry it safely to SST tanks and then to

natural channel without causing any erosion. Garland drains are having 2 m top width, 1 m

bottom width and 1m depth. One (1) nos. garlands of 354 m length is proposed around the

encroached dump EID for safely dispose of runoff in ML 2175. One garland drains already

exist in the lease area.

Silt Settling Tank (SSTs): are proposed to retain silt from flowing runoff in garland

drains/catchment drains. Total 4 SSTs have been proposed to be constructed to retain silt in

ML 2175. (Design-2)

The indicative cost of Dump Management plan is Rs. 20.66 lakhs as per details given in the

Table 5.6.


49

Figure 5.2. Dump management plan.


Table 5.6. Indicative costs of Proposed Engineering Measures of Surface Water Management inside ML- 2175

INDICATIVE COST OF PROPOSED ENGINEERING MEASURES INSIDE THE LEASE OF ML- 2175

DUMP MANAGEMENT PLAN

Dimension Quantity Unit Rate

per Unit

in Rs.

Amount

(in

lakhs)

Status Dump

Number

Particulars

of work

Length Width Height

TOP BOT

Inactive ID-1 Coir

Matting

Providing and fixing

geo-coir mat on outer

surface of slope of

waste dump

0.5 ha 1000000 5.00

Toe Wall

at the toe

of waste

dump

Foundation in hard soil

mixed with boulders

including hard rock

225.00 3.5 1.2 945.00 cum 111 1.05

Plain cement concrete

(1:4:8) in foundation

225.00 3.20 0.15 108.00 cum 1860 2.01

Toe wall RR dry 225.00 1.00 3.00 2.00 900.00 cum 400 3.60

Silt

Settling

Tank

Dimension (20 x 10 x

3 m)

20.00 10.00 3.00 600 cum 750 4.50

Silt

Settling

Tank

Dimension (20 x 10 x

3 m)

20.00 10.00 3.00 600 cum 750 4.50

Total 20.66


51

5.3.3 Surface Water Management

No surface water sources as such are located within the ML area, which is likely to get

affected as a result of mining operation. As mentioned earlier one seasonal nallah (first order

stream) originates from the middle of the lease area, adequate protective measures are already

taken up in order to avoid the wash-offs from the rejection dump or from the stack yard. The

drainage pattern of the area is dentritic in nature. Half of the run-off with-in the buffer zone

drains towards east. The half part of the run-off flows towards SW and NW of the basin. Mining

activity is carried on moderately elevated terrain, wherein there is no possibility of encountering

ground water as the mining operations has the highest and lowest elevation of 1023m and 964m

above MSL.

Control of erosion is important both during mining and during post mining rehabilitation

programme. A major objective of rehabilitation is to establish an adequate cover of vegetation to

stabilize the site and control erosion. Measures to protect the soil from water erosion should be

carried out on watershed basis. Drainage from outside catchment area above lease area must be

diverted into adjoining natural channels through diversion drains/ catch water drains (Garland

drain).

Erosion control in natural channels should be controlled by constructing silt retaining and

grade stabilization structures like gabion check dams, stone masonry check dams, earthen check

dams, silt settling tanks and debris basins. Check dams retain silt behind it and allow the water to

flow in the downstream. Due to retainment of silt channel gradient is reduced. Reduced channel

gradient reduces flow velocity and consequently silt carrying capacity of flowing water is

reduced. By adopting these grades stabilizing structures the channel is converted into benches

which results in reduction of equivalent channel gradient appreciably. This will result in better

plant growth. Engineering measures is the first line of defence in controlling erosion and it helps

the vegetation to come up at faster pace. (Figure 5.3)


52

Figure 5.3. Surface water management plan


53

5.3.3.1 Gully Plugs

i. Logwood Check Dams: It is proposed to construct log wood check dam supported by

boulders in narrow gullies of 3-6 m width. 1.5 to 2 m long, 8-10 cm diameter wooden logs of

sprouting species may be inserted up to 30 cm depth in the dump terrace of 3 m width (0.5

from the edge) in series at distance of 30 cm centre to centre. Boulders of 40 cm size and

above may be hand packed between risers and logs up to 1 m depth. Sprouting species like

Lanea coramandalica, Bombex cieba, Erythrina suberosa , E. indica, Ficus bengalensis etc

may be chosen. 6 log wood check dams have been proposed for the lease area as gully plugs

(Design-3)

ii. Brushwood Check Dam: It is like logwood check dam except that brush wood (branches,

twigs, climbers etc.) is used instead of boulders. (In areas where boulders are not available

and gullies are very narrow i.e 1-3 m wide). 4 brush wood check dams have been proposed

for encroached dumps of the lease area ML 2175. (Design-4)

iii. Loose Boulder Check Dam: (Random Rubble dry stone masonry): In gullies where width

varies from 5-10 m and gully bed slope is less than 10 %, LBCD may be used up to 2 m in

height. 4 LBCD have been proposed in ML 2175.

5.3.3.2. Check dams

i. Wire crate (gabion) Check Dam: If gully bed slope is higher than 10 % and discharge rate

is high LBCD is likely to fail therefore wire crate (gabion) should be adopted in such

situations. Gabion check dams are very useful in the areas where sediment load is very high.

Gabion check dams are very cost effective in reclamation of mine areas and waste lands. 1

gabion structures is proposed for the area. (Design-5)

Present mining pit will be backfilled with overburden of future mining and some area will be

converted into water reservoir.

The indicative cost of Surface Water management plan is Rs. 0.22 lakhs as per deatails given

in Table 5.7.


54

Table 5.7. Indicative cost of proposed engineering measures of surface watermanagement with in lease

Proposed Engineering Measures Of Surface Water Management of Lease Area of ML 2175

Items Dimension in m

No Length Width Height

TOP BOT Quantity Unit Rate

in Rs

Amount

in Lakhs

LBCD 2 3.00 2.00 4.00 3.00 54.00 cum 400.00 0.22

Total 0.22

Indicative cost and estimate may change as per site conditions and rate of materials

at the time of implementation

Summary of Indicative Cost of Dump and Surface Water Management Plan

a.) The cost of Dump Management plan is Rs. 20.66 lakhs

b.) The cost of Surface Water management plan is Rs.0.22 lakhs.

5.4. Biological measures

Vegetation is a key component of an ecosystem and, as such, is involved in the regulation

of various biogeochemical cycles, e.g., water, carbon, nitrogen. It converts solar energy into

biomass and forms the base of all food chains. Vegetation influences the energy balance at the

earth’s surface and within the atmospheric boundary layer, often mitigating extremes of local

climate.Vegetation releases oxygen which is a source of breathing and sequesters

carbon.Vegetation contributes to fertile soil which helps in agriculture. It also provides habitat

for wildlife. For the above reasons it is of paramount importance to save the environment

through sustainable use of vegetation.

Iron has been a vital material in meeting human needs and in technology since time

immemorial. Unfortunately the ores are a part of the earth crust. Inevitably, mining is an

extractive industry and without doubt it can have significant direct and secondary environmental

and social impacts. Mining activities like excavation, transportation and ore processing of

overburden’s disposal etc, create complex situations in the management of ecology. Large scale

mining operations in the forest areas, result in substantial impact on the ecosystem like alteration

in the forest landscape, land degradation , deforestation, disappearance of many valued species


55

of plants, displacement of wildlife, effect on aquatic eco-system etc. It is absolutely necessary to

take measures to put an end to this menace. Engineering and Biological measures help in

reclamation rehabilitation of the altered situations in the environment due to mining.

Vegetation climax involves succession. Any hindrance causes an imbalance in nature’s

operational process of vegetational succession. Biological measures if implemented will result

in the establishment of system which will be self sustaining. To implement biological measures

all the operational activity should be planned well in time. Utmost care should be taken preserve

the natural forests adjoining the mine lease area. All human activity should be restricted inside

the natural habitat around the area. Dedicated corridors for movement of Herpetofauna and wild

animals should be created.

Management plan for Flora and Fauna has been suggested below keeping in view the

protection of environment through scientific measure for mining activities.

Management plan for Flora and Fauna has been provided below.

5.4.1. Species selection

Selection of the plant species forms an important aspect in the afforestation programme. Utmost

care should be taken in selection of the species so that natural habitat surrounding the mine lease

area is not altered. The balance between soil, microflora and the surrounding environment must

be maintained. The ultimate objective of biological measures is to restore the natural vegetation

occurring in and around the area and also to provide a corridor for free movement of wild life.

The native species which occur in the natural vegetational area are the best and appropriate

candidates for the prescription. A list of species occurring in the mine lease area and adjacent

areas should be prepared after the inventorying with the help of experts and local people. Exotics

and weedy species which can colonize and invade the natural habitat should not be planted

.Practice of monoculture methods must be totally avoided.

Grasses and Legumes play an important role in the initial activities in reclamation of mined

areas. Grasses help in retaining soil moisture content and slope stabilization in dumps while

legumes help in enriching the degraded soil by supplementing Nitrogen.

Suggestions given below are based on the assessment of the habitat around the mine lease under

consideration.


56

5.4.2 Importance of grasses

Grasses are drought tolerant and can colonize fast in low nutrient soil Due to the presence of

fibrous roots; grasses can reduce soil erosion as they are the best sand binders.

Grasses and herbaceous species available locally in abundance can be used for biological

treatment. For stabilization of steep slopes rows of grasses are to be planted. Clumps of grasses

can be collected from adjacent and nearby areas without destroying the grass cover of the

adjacent areas. Clumps should be planted in the contours at a distance of one foot. This has been

suggested since The important grass species, namely, Bothriochloa pertusa, Chrysopogon

fulvus, Cymbopogon flexuosus, C. martinii, C. nardus, Cynodon dactylon, Dichanthium

annulatum, Eleusine indica, Heteropogon contortus, Saccharum spontaneum, etc., have been

suggested for planting in the form of slips and root stocks as given in Table 5.8

The grass species are available in plenty around the area. It is suggested that the above grasses

may be grown and multiplied in the nursery .

Table 5.8:Grasses Recommended for Soil Moisture Conservation (SMC) and slope

stabilization.

Sl.no. Species Propagation

method

Local/Kannada

name

1. Alloteropsis cimicina Slips/Seeds Neerusajje hullu

2. Bambusa arundinacea Rhizome/Seeds Bidiru

3. Bothriochloa pertusa Seeds Aanekattu hullu

4. Chrysopogon fulvus Slips Ganjigarike

5. Chrysopogon ziznoides Slips Khus khus,

Nannaari

6. Cymbopogon flexuosus Slips Anthibale hullu

7. Cymbopogon martini Slips Kaashi hullu

8. Cymbopogon nardus Slips Ganda hanchi hullu

9. Cynodon dactylon Rhizome/Seeds Garike hullu

10. Dendrocalamus strictus Rhizome Gandubidiru

11. Dichanthium annulatum Seeds Ganjala garike

hullu

12. Eleusine indica Slips/Seeds Hechhulli hullu

13. Heteropogon contortus Slips/Seeds Ooobina hullu

14. Saccharum spontaneum Slips Darbe hullu


57

5.4.3 Importance of Leguminous plant species:

The Legumes play an important role in increasing the soil nitrogen for they have symboitic

nitrogen fixing bacteria called as Rhizobia within the nodules in their roots which produce

nitrogen compounds that help the plant to grow. When the plant dies, fixed nitrogen is released

which will then made available to other plants and this helps in fertilizing the soil. Species like

Atylosia scarabaeoides, Crotalaria albida, C. juncea, C. retusa, C. verrucosa, Desmodium

triflorum, Indigofera cassioides, Mimosa pudica, Stylosanthes fruticosa, Tephrosia purpurea,.T.

villosa, etc., can be collected with less effort from adjacent are suggested for mined out areas

and OB dumps (Table-5.9).

Table: 5.9 Leguminous species recommended for Nitrogen enrichment in the soil.

Sl. No. Species Family Habit Local name

1. Cassia auriculata Caesalpiniaceae Shrub Avarike

2. Cassia hirsuta Caesalpiniaceae Shrub

3. Cassia mimosoides Caesalpiniaceae Herb

4. Cassia occidentalis Caesalpiniaceae Herb Doddathagase

5. Cassia tora Caesalpiniaceae Herb Gundu thagase

6. Crotalaria albida Fabaceae Herb Giligiligida

7. Crotalaria juncea Fabaceae Herb Sanna senabu

8. Crotalaria retusa Fabaceae Herb Gejje gida

9. Crotalaria verrucosa Fabaceae Herb Gilaganchi gida

10. Desmodium triflorum Fabaceae Herb Kaadu pullam

puruche

11. Indigofera cassioides Fabaceae Shrub Goggae gida

12. Mimosa pudica Mimosaceae Herb Muttidare muni

13. Stylosanthes fruticosa Fabaceae Herb Saalikampa,

Hamata hullu

14. Tephrosia purpurea Fabaceae Herb Koggi

15. Tephrosia villosa Fabaceae Herb Kaadu thogari

It is suggested to build engineering structures (gully plugs/rock fill/check dams),

supported by biological measures (vegetation) to prevent adverse impact. Cost effective

Hydroseeding is suggested for implementation with bioengineering measures especially in

afforestation activities.


58

The species suggested for seed broadcasting/hydroseeding are Bothriochloa pertusa,

Cassia auriculata, Cassia occidentalis, C.tora, Crotalaria juncea, C.albida, Cymbopogan

flexuosus, C. martinii, C. nardus, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Dichanthium annulatum,

Heteropogon contortus, Stylosanthes fruticosa, Tephrosia purpurea etc. (Table-5.10) . These

species will get established in due course of time in disturbed areas .

Table-5.10 Species Recommended for Hydro seeding

Sl.

No.

Species Family Habit Local/Kannada

name

1. Bothriochloa pertusa Poaceae Grass Aanekattu hullu

2. Calotropis gigantea Asclepiadaceae Shrub Ekka

3. Calotropis procera Asclepiadaceae Shrub Kempu ekka

4. Cassia auriculata Caesalpiniaceae Shrub Aavarike

5. Cassia occidentalis Caesalpiniaceae Herb Doddathagase

6. Cassia tora Caesalpiniaceae Herb Gundu thagase

7. Crotalaria albida Fabaceae Herb Giligiligida

8. Crotalaria juncea Fabaceae Herb Sanna senabu

9. Cymbopogon

flexuosus

Poaceae Grass Anthibale hullu

10. Cymbopogon martinii Poaceae Grass Kaashi hullu

11. Cymbopogon nardus Poaceae Grass Ganda hanchi

hullu

12. Cynodon dactylon Poaceae Grass Garike hullu

13. Dactyloctenium

aegyptium

Poaceae Grass

14. Dichanthium

annulatum

Poaceae Grass Ganjala garike

hullu

15. Eleusine indica Poaceae Grass Hechhulli hullu

16. Heteropogon

contortus

Poaceae Grass Ooobina hullu

17. Stylosanthes fruticosa Fabaceae Herb

18. Tephrosia purpurea Fabaceae Herb Koggi

5.4.4. Over Burden Dumps Management

The overburdens should dumped as per the specifications of IBM and MoEF and the

slope of the dump are to be maintained at not more than 28° angle. The topsoil collected and

stacked during the initial stages of mining should be used in plantation programme.


59

The dump site has to be in non-mineralized ground and the topsoil and waste material

should be kept at separate sites. The over burdens have to be dumped in benches made for the

purpose of stabilization, and it should be ensured that no over burden crosses out of the nalas

under any circumstances.

All along the slope of the OB dumps, garland drains with bottom width of 0.5 m, top

width two meter with side slope 1:2 and one meter height should be constructed and connected to

natural drain/nala. Regular de-silting has to be carried out, i.e., before and after monsoon season

and the silt material can be used for plantation purpose.

The over burden should be filled back in such a way that the water drains out into the

streams in the same ratio as it is flowing naturally. Therefore, provision should be made to flow

down the rainwater gradually in all natural streams equally. The direction of course of flow

should not be changed or modified.

Over burden dumps which contain a part of soil, gravel and stone, if not rehabilitated

properly, result in flow of sediments and other materials into nala/stream courses, which

contaminate the forest, agriculture and horticulture lands down below the mine lease area.

Therefore, to stabilize the OB dumps and to protect the biodiversity, the rehabilitation and

reclamation of OB dumps is a prerequisite.

The existing OB dumps needs to be treated by using physical and biological measures.

Under physical measures, the existing OB dumps should be made into benches and terraces with

an appropriate angle. The OB dump slopes being unstable and having loose materials may get

disturbed immediately by rains, which may result in soil erosion and formation of gullies.

Furthermore, direct exposure to sun light may also result in loss of soil moisture and increase of

substratum temperature, which may hamper the growth and establishment of vegetation. To

overcome of these problems, geo-textile coir mats may be used followed by seed broadcasting

and planting of seedlings of suitable plant species. Seed broadcasting has to be taken up by using

hydro seeding or by spreading slurry manually. Hydro seeding can be successfully practiced to

stabilize barren steep slopes and fragile unstable surfaces. The system requires water, seeds,

FYM and mulch which are applied on the surface in the form of fine spray.


60

The species recommended for hydro seeding on mine OB dumps and fragile unstable

surfaces are given in table 5.10 In addition to hydro seeding, planting of suitable herbs, shrubs,

creepers and trees have to be done on the slopes by making holes in geo-textile coir mat.

For gentle slopes of OB dumps, benches and trenches has to be made, followed by seed

broadcasting and planting of seedlings of shrubs, namely, Agave americana, A. sisalana,

Calotropis gigantea, C. procera, Cassia auriculata, Dendrocalamus strictus, Dodonaea viscosa,

trees such as, A. catechu, A.nilotica, Albizia amara, A.lebbeck , Annona squamosa, Azadirachta

indica, Bauhinia racemosa, Cassia fistula, Dalbergia latifolia, D. sissoo, Dolichandrone

atrovirens, Givotia rottleriformis, Gmelina arborea, Grewia tiliifolia, Lagerstroemia parviflora,

Melia dubia, Phyllanthus emblica, Pithecelobium dulce, Pongamia pinnata, Santalum album,

Stereospermum personatum, Tamarindus indica, Vitex negundo, Wrightia tinctoria, etc, and root

stock/slips of grasses, namely, Bothriochloa pertusa, Chrysopogon zizanoides, Cymbopogon

flexuosus, C. martinii, C. nardus, Cynodon dactylon, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Dichanthium

annulatum, Eleusine indica, Heteropogon contortus, etc. (Table-5.11)

5.4.5. Mine Pit Management and Rehabilitation

After extraction of iron ore, all hard overburden/wastes generated during mining

operations should be used in back filling of mine pits or dumped in the worked out area of the

mine so as to maintain and bring back the original contour of the terrain as far as possible. The

mine pits have to be levelled after extraction of the ore to match the contour of the area. The

stacked top soil has to be spread over on compacted back filled area in order to facilitate the re-

vegetation process, which in turn controls silt flow towards the downstream. The construction of

channels all along the boundary of the mine pit has to be made to help in arresting runoff and

preventing soil erosion.

Table 5.11: Plant Species suitable for OB Dump and Mine Pit stabilization

Sl.no Plant species Family Habit Local/Kannada

names

1. Acacia catechu Mimosaceae Tree Kaachu

2. Acacia chundra Mimosaceae Tree Kempu Jaali

3. Acacia nilotica Mimosaceae Tree Kari Jaali, Gobli

4. Aegle marmelos Rutaceae Tree Baela

5. Agave americana Agavaceae Shrub Katthaale


61

6. Agave sisalana Agavaceae Shrub Boodu katthaale

7. Albizia lebbeck Mimosaceae Tree Baage

8. Albizia odoratissima Mimosaceae Tree Bettada tugli,

Kannergi

9. Albizia procera Mimosaceae Tree Bilibage

10. Annona squamosa Annonaceae Tree Seethaphala

11. Anogeissus latifolia Combretaceae Tree Dindiga

12. Azadirachta indica Meliaceae Tree Bevu

13. Bauhinia racemosa Caesalpiniaceae Tree Kanchuvaala

14. Boswellia serrata Burseraceae Tree Maddi mara

15. Bothriochloa pertusa Poaceae Herb Aanekattu hullu


17. Calotropis procera Asclepiadaceae Shrub Kempuekka


19. Cassia fistula Caesalpiniaceae Tree Kakke

20. Chloroxylon swietenia Flindersiaceae Tree Hurugalu

21. Chrysopogon fulvus Poaceae Grass Ganjigarike

22. Cymbopogon

flexuosus

Poaceae Grass Anthibale hullu

23. Cymbopogon martini Poaceae Grass Kaashi hullu

24. Cymbopogon nardus Poaceae Grass Ganda hanchi hullu

25. Dalbergia latifolia Fabaceae Tree Shisham, Pacheri

26. Dendrocalamus

strictus

Poaceae Grass

27. Dichanthium

annulatum

Poaceae Grass Ganjala garike hullu

28. Diospyros

melanoxylon

Ebenaceae Tree Tumri

29. Dodonaea viscosa Sapindaceae Shrub Bandarike

30. Dolichandrone

atrovirens

Bignoniaceae Tree Uddedu

31. Eleusine indica Poaceae Grass Hechhulli hullu

32. Ficus racemosa Moraceae Tree Atthi

33. Ficus religiosa Moraceae Tree Arali

34. Garuga pinnata Burseraceae Tree Biligadde

35. Givotia rottleriformis Euphorbiaceae Tree Boodi thaale

36. Gmelina arborea Verbenaceae Tree Shivani

37. Grewia tiliifolia Tiliaceae Tree Sannudippe

38. Haldina cordifolia Rubiaceae Tree Hetthaega

39. Hardwickia binata Caesalpiniaceae Tree Asanagurgi

40. Heteropogon

contortus

Poaceae Grass Ooobina hullu

41. Holoptelea integrifolia Ulmaceae Tree Tapasi

42. Lagerstroemia Lythraceae Tree Hole daasavaala


62

parviflora

43. Limonia acidissima Rutaceae Tree Baela

44. Madhuca longifolia

latifolia

Sapotaceae Tree Hippe

45. Mitragyna parvifolia Rubiaceae Tree Kangshi

46. Morinda pubescens Rubiaceae Tree Maddi

47. Phyllanthus emblica Euphorbiaceae Tree Bettada nelli

48. Pithecelobium dulce Mimosaceae Tree Kaadu hunise

49. Pongamia pinnata Fabaceae Tree Honge

50. Pterocarpus

marsupium

Fabaceae Tree Honne

51. Saccharum

spontaneum

Poaceae Grass Darbe hullu

52. Santalam album Santalaceae Tree Srigandha

53. Soymida febrifuga Meliaceae Tree Somi mara

54. Stereospermum

personatum

Bignoniaceae Tree Paadarimara

55. Stylosanthes fruticosa Fabaceae Herb Saalikampa,

Hamata hullu

56. Tamarindus indica Caesalpiniaceae Tree Hunise

57. Terminalia bellirica Combretaceae Tree Thaare mara

58. Terminalia chebula Combretaceae Tree Alale

59. Vitex negundo Verbenaceae Shrub Nirgundi

60. Wrightia tinctoria Rubiaceae Tree Kodamurki

61. Ziziphus mauritiana Rhamnaceae Tree Bore

The construction of channels all along the boundary of the mined out area, and plantation

around will help in arresting runoff and prevention of soil erosion. The mine area has to be

rejuvenated with indigenous and other economically important species of grasses, such as shrubs

and trees as recommended in the Table 5.11

5.4.6. Management of Refractory Sites

The areas which lack any nutrient containing soil can be planted witht Agave americana,

A. sisalana, Dodonaea viscosa, Euphorbia tirucalli, E. tortilis, Mimosa hamata which have been

proved successful in extreme conditions (Table-5.12).


63

Table-5.12: Plant Species suitable for Stabilization of Refractory Sites

Sl. No. Plant species Family Habit Local/Kannada name

1 Agave americana Agavaceae Shrub Katthaale

2 Agave sisalana Agavaceae Shrub Boodukathaale

3 Dodonaea viscosa Sapindaceae Shrub Bandarike

4 Euphorbia tirucalli Euphorbiaceae Shrub Haalu kalli, Kolu kalli

5 Euphorbia tortilis Euphorbiaceae Shrub Suttu kalli

6 Mimosa hamata Mimosaceae Shrub Sagarimullu

5.4.7. Management and Rehabilitation of Mine Drainage

The drainage management and rehabilitation plan for this mine is recommended as

follows:

a) Provide proper gradient and drainage arrangement at the over burden dumping area

b) After trapping the suspended solids in garland drains just below the over burden dumps, the

water has to be allowed to flow down the dump slopes to join natural streams/nalas through

settling tank with filtration arrangements, so that all the suspended solids and sediments will be

arrested.

c) Plantation of indigenous and other economically important trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses at

the point of discharge, where the mine outlet will pass through bio-engineering structures and on

OB dumps has to be taken up, so that the sediment/silt flow will be arrested from the site and soil

moisture can be maintained .

d) The drain/nala bunds shall be planted with suitable grasses, herbs, shrubs and trees, namely,

Acacia nilotica, Agave americana, A. sisalana, Bambusa arundinacea, Calotropis gigantea,

Calotropis procera, Cassia auriculata, Chrysopogon fulvus, Cymbopogon flexuosus, C. martinii,

C. nardus, Dendrocalamus strictus, Dichanthium annulatum, Drypetes roxburgii, Ficus

racemosa, Heteropogon contortus, Indigofera cassioides, Murraya paniculata, Pennisetum

pedicillatum, Phoenix loureiri, Saccharum spontaneum, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia arjuna,

Vitex negundo etc. (Table-5.13). At steep slopes necessary engineering and biological measures

have to be undertaken to prevent soil erosion.


64

Table- 5.13 Plant Species suitable for Stabilization of Nala/Drain Courses

Sl.No. Plant species Family Habit Local name

1. Acacia nilotica Mimosaceae Tree Kare jaali

2. Agave Americana Agavaceae Shrub Katthaale

3. Agave sisalana Agavaceae Shrub Boodu katthaale

4. Bambusa arundinacea Poaceae Shrub Bidiru


6. Calotropis procera Asclepiadaceae Shrub Kempu ekka


8. Chrysopogon fulvus Poaceae Herb Ganjigarike

9. Crataeva nurvala Capparaceae Tree Varuna

10. Cymbopogon flexuosus Poaceae Herb Anthibale hullu

11. Cymbopogon martini Poaceae Herb Kaashi hullu

12. Cymbopogon nardus Poaceae Herb Ganda hanchi hullu

13. Dendrocalamus strictus Poaceae Shrub Gandubidiru

14. Dichanthium annulatum Poaceae Herb Ganjala garike hullu

15. Ficus racemosa Moraceae Tree Atti

16. Heteropogon contortus Poaceae Herb Ooobina hullu

17. Indigofera cassioides Fabaceae Shrub

18. Murraya paniculata Rutaceae Shrub Kaadukaribevu

19. Phoenix loureiro Areacaceae Tree Kaadu eechalu

20. Saccharum spontaneum Poaceae Herb Darbe hullu

21. Stereospermum

personatum


22. Syzygium cumini Myrtaceae Tree Nerale

23. Terminalia arjuna Combretaceae Tree Hole matthi

24. Vitex negundo Verbenaceae Shrub Lakki

5.4.8. Management of Haul Roads

The present condition of haul roads, which are leading to the mine, should be maintained

at regular intervals. The roads must be regularly sprinkled with water to avoid dust during

transportation of ore material through tippers.

Tarpaulin covering during the transportation of iron ore is a must. The drainage system is

inadequate along the haul roads and it is suggested that drainage has to be provided to arrest

sediment flow towards downstream.

All along the haul roads have suitable fast growing avenue tree species, namely, Albizia

lebbeck, Azadirachta indica, Cassia fistula, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus racemosa, Gmelina


65

arborea, Grewia tiliifolia, Pongamia pinnata, Tamarindus indica, Thespesia populnea and

Terminalia catappa (three rows on either side) to suppress the noise and dust pollution (Table-

5.14).

The ML has haul roads of about 2.5 km. The cost of avenue plantation @ Rs 0.80 lakh

per km is Rs 2.0 lakh.

Table-5.14: Plant Species recommended for Avenue Plantation along Mine Haul Roads

Sl. No. Plant species Family Habit Local/Kannada name

1. Acacia nilotica Mimosaceae Tree Kare jaali

2. Albizia amara Mimosaceae Tree Chujjulu

3. Albizia lebbeck Mimosaceae Tree Baage

4. Albizia procera Mimosaceae Tree Bilibage

5. Azadirachta indica Meliaceae Tree Bevu

6. Cassia fistula Caesalpiniaceae Tree Kakke

7. Dalbergia latifolia Fabaceae Tree Beete mara

8. Dalbergia sissoo Fabaceae Tree Sisam

9. Ficus benghalensis Moraceae Tree Aalada mara

10. Ficus racemosa Moraceae Tree Atthi mara

11. Ficus religiosa Moraceae Tree Arali mara

12. Gmelina arborea Verbenaceae Tree Shivane mara

13. Grewia tiliifolia Tiliaceae Tree Sannudippe

14. Mimosa hamata Mimosaceae Tree Sagarimullu

15. Pongamia pinnata Fabaceae Tree Hone

16. Stereospermum

personatum


17. Tamarindus indica Caesalpiniaceae Tree Hunise

18. Terminalia catappa Combretaceae Tree Kaadu baadaami

19. Thespesia populnea Malvaceae Tree Hoovarasi mara

20. Trema orientalis Ulmaceae Tree Gorklu mara

5.4.9. Afforestation

Afforestation of the mined - out and other available areas which are not fragmented but

are degraded due to mining activity is the main component of re-vegetation process to mitigate

the negative impacts of the mining on environment. By afforestation, restoration of the

ecosystem almost similar to pre-mining period is possible and can be accomplished. In the

context of the mines under study the mine lease area though not fully mined out, an afforestation

plan has been formulated considering the conceptual closure plan of the mines. After excluding

the area finally classified under green belt, roads, the area to be afforested in ML-2175 has been

worked out to be 25.0 ha. The afforestation covering 1000 trees and 2500 shrubs per ha,

inclusive of maintenance for five year has been worked out as per the norms of State Forest


66

Department, Karnataka. The total cost for afforestation in 25.0 ha (pit, 10.65 ha + OB, 6.16 ha +

Infrastructure, 0.69 (Total infrasturucture, 1.36 ha – Road, 0.67 ha)+”Afforestation and

Environment Protective Measures”, 7.50 ha; all inside the ML) @ Rs. 1.74 Lakh/ha has been

worked to be Rs 43.5 Lakhs.

It is recommended that the work of afforestation should be entrusted to the State Forest

Department, Karnataka and the periodical monitoring shall be assigned to a national specialized

scientific institution.

Afforestation shall be made through:

¾ Propagates (seeds, lignotubers, corms, bulbs, rhizomes and roots) stored in the

topsoil; and sowing seed;

¾ Planting nursery-raised seedlings

¾ By seed dibbling

¾ Transplants of individuals from natural areas

¾ Silt accumulated in silt tanks/check dams etc. has to be periodically removed

before and after monsoon and the same could be used after mixing FYM and sand in the

ratio 2:1:1. This mixture could be used during plantation.

. Multipurpose Plant Species (Table 5.15)

Table-5.15: Multipurpose Plant Species recommended for Eco-reclamation and Eco-

rehabilitation of Mine Areas

Sl.

No.

Plant species Common

name

Family Habit Uses

1. Acacia catechu Kaachu Mimosaceae Tree C

2. Acacia nilotica Kare Jaali Mimosaceae Tree T

3. Aegle marmelos Bilva Rutaceae Tree M, E, C

4. Agave Americana Agavaceae Shrub C

5. Agave sisalana Agavaceae Shrub C

6. Ailanthus excelsa Dodda mara Simaroubaceae Tree C

7. Alangium salvifolium Ankole Alangiaceae Tree M, T

8. Albizia amara Chujjulu Mimosaceae Tree T

9. Albizia lebbeck Baage Mimosaceae Tree T

10. Annona squamosa Seethaphala Annonaceae Tree M, E, C

11. Anogeissus latifolia Dindiga Combretaceae Tree T

12. Argyreia nervosa Convolvulaceae Climbing

shrub

M

13. Aristida setacea Poaceae Grass C

14. Azadirachta indica Bevu Meliaceae Tree M, T, F, C

15. Bambusa arundinacea Bidiru Poaceae Bamboo E, C


67

16. Boswellia serrata Maddi mara Burseraceae Tree M, C

17. Bothriochloa pertusa Aanekattu hullu Poaceae Grass F

18. Calotropis gigantea Ekka Asclepiadaceae Shrub M

19. Calotropis procera Kempu ekka Asclepiadaceae Shrub M

20. Cassia auriculata Aavarike Caesalpiniaceae Shrub M

21. Cassia fistula Kakke Caesalpiniaceae Tree M

22. Cassia occidentalis Doddathagase Caesalpiniaceae Herb M

23. Cassia tora Gundu thagase Caesalpiniaceae Herb M

24. Ceiba pentandra Booruga Bombaceae Tree C

25. Chloroxylon swietenia Flindersiaceae Tree M, T

26. Chrysopogon fulvus Ganjigarike Poaceae Grass F

27. Crotalaria juncea Fabaceae Herb F

28. Cymbopogon flexuosus Anthibale hullu Poaceae Grass C

29. Cymbopogon martinii Kaashi hullu Poaceae Grass C

30. Cymbopogon nardus Ganda hanchi

hullu

Poaceae Grass C

31. Cynodon dactylon Garike hullu Poaceae Grass F

32. Dactyloctenium

aegyptium

Poaceae Grass F

33. Dalbergia latifolia Beete mara Fabaceae Tree T

34. Dalbergia paniculata Pachari mara Fabaceae Tree T

35. Dalbergia sissoo Shishta bage,

Britimara

Fabaceae Tree T

36. Dendrocalamus strictus Gandubidiru Poaceae Bamboo E, C

37. Dichanthium annulatum Ganjala garike

hullu

Poaceae Grass F

38. Diospyros melanoxylon Tumri Ebenaceae Tree E, C

39. Euphorbia tirucalli Haalu kalli,

Kolukalli

Euphorbiaceae Shrub M

40. Ficus benghalensis Aala Moraceae Tree M, T, F

41. Ficus racemosa Atthimara Moraceae Tree M, E

42. Ficus religiosa Arali Moraceae Tree M, F

43. Givotia rottleriformis Burale Euphorbiaceae Tree C

44. Gmelina arborea Shivani Verbenaceae Tree T

45. Grewia tiliifolia Sannudippe Tiliaceae Tree T

46. Haldina cordifolia Hetthaega Rubiaceae Tree T

47. Hardwickia binata Asanagurgi Caesalpiniaceae Tree T

48. Heteropogon contortus Ooobina hullu Poaceae Grass F

49. Holoptelea integrifolia Tapasimara Ulmaceae Tree T

50. Indigofera cassioides Fabaceae Shrub E

51. Jatropha curcas jatropa Euphorbiaceae Shrub M, C


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52. Jatropha glandulifera Junglee erand Euphorbiaceae Shrub M

53. Jatropha gossypifolia Chikka kaadu

haralu

Euphorbiaceae Shrub M

54. Lagerstroemia parviflora Hole

daasawaaala

Lythraceae Tree T

55. Lannea coromandelica Gumpina Anacardiaceae Tree T

56. Limonia acidissima Bela Rutaceae Tree M, E, C

57. Madhuca longifolia

latifolia

Ippe Sapotaceae Tree E, C

58. Melia dubia Hebbevu Meliaceae Tree T

59. Mimosa pudica Muttidare muni Mimosaceae Herb M

60. Mitragyna parvifolia Kadavala Rubiaceae Tree T

61. Morinda pubescens Rubiaceae Tree T

62. Phyllanthus emblica Nelli Euphorbiaceae Tree M, C

63. Pithecelobium dulce Kaaduhunise Mimosaceae Tree E, F

64. Pongamia pinnata Honge Fabaceae Tree M, C

65. Pterocarpus marsupium Hone Fabaceae Tree M, T

66. Santalam album Srigandh Santalaceae Tree M, C

67. Soymida febrifuga Somi mara Meliaceae Tree M

68. Syzygium cumini Nerale Myrtaceae Tree T, E, C

69. Tamarindus indica Hunise Caesalpiniaceae Tree T, E, C

70. Tectona grandis Thega Verbenaceae Tree T

71. Tephrosia purpurea Koggi Fabaceae Herb M

72. Terminalia arjuna Arjuna,

Holematthi

Combretaceae Tree M, T

73. Terminalia bellirica Thaare Combretaceae Tree M, C

74. Terminalia catappa Kaadu

Baadaami

Combretaceae Tree E, C

75. Terminalia chebula Alale Combretaceae Tree M, C

76. Vitex negundo Lakki Verbenaceae Shrub M

77. Wrightia tinctoria Haale Rubiaceae Tree C

78. Ziziphus mauritiana Bore Rhamnaceae Tree E, C

M=Medicinal; T=Timber; E=Edible; F=Fodder; C=Commercial


69

5.4.10. Green Belt Development Plan

In order to minimize the impact of mining on environmental components outside the

mine lease area, greenbelt zone of 7.5m width should be established in safety zone inside mine

lease area. The establishment of Green belt will help wild life movement, and also human health.

The greenbelt will act as a barrier to trap the suspended dust particles and also suppresses air

pollutants. It is also important to create a green belt with tall seedlings (>1 m height) of fast

growing species to hasten the process of greening the area. Green belt available in the safety

zone of this mine has been partly planted . It is suggested that the areas which are not planted

should be planted with the species specified in this report at the earliest. The natural green belt is

fairly untouched.

5.4.11.Recommended Plant Species

The important tree species, namely, Ailanthus excelsa, Albizia amara, A. lebbeck,

Azadirachta indica, Boswellia serrata, Cassia fistula, Ceiba pentandra, Dalbergia sissoo, Ficus

benghalensis, Ficus racemosa, F. religiosa, Gmelina arborea, Haldina cordifolia, Hardwickia

binata, Holoptelea integrifolia, Lagerstroemia parviflora, Madhuca longifolia latifolia, Melia

dubia, Mitragyna parvifolia, Phyllanthus emblica, Pithecelobium dulce, Pongamia pinnata and

Stereospermum personatum have been recommended for greenbelt plantation around the mine

lease area in three rows (3mx3m spacing) as given in Table-5.15. The multipurpose plant species

recommended for eco-rehabilitation and reclamation of mine areas are presented inTable- 5.15.

Table-5.16: Plant Species recommended for Greenbelt Development along Safety Zone

Sl.

No.

Botanical name Family Habit Local/Kannada

name

1 Ailanthus excelsa Simaroubaceae Tree Dodda mara

2 Alangium salvfolium Alangiaceae Tree Ankole

3 Albizia amara Mimosaceae Tree Chujjulu

4 Albizia lebbeck Mimosaceae Tree Baage

5 Albizia procera Mimosaceae Tree Bilibage

6 Azadirachta indica Meliaceae Tree Bevu

8 Boswellia serrata Burseraceae Tree Maddi mara

9 Cassia fistula Caesalpiniaceae Tree Kakke

10 Ceiba pentandra Bombaceae Tree Booruga

11 Dalbergia latifolia Fabaceae Tree Beete mara

12 Dalbergia paniculata Fabaceae Tree Pachari mara

13 Dalbergia sissoo Fabaceae Tree Shishta bage,

Britimara


70

14 Ficus racemosa Moraceae Tree Attimara

15 Ficus benghalensis Moraceae Tree Aaladamara

16 Ficus religiosa Moraceae Tree Aralimara

17 Gmelina arborea Verbenaceae Tree Shivane mara

18 Grewia tiliifolia Tiliaceae Tree Sannudippe

19 Haldina cordifolia Rubiaceae Tree Hetthaega

20 Hardwickia binata Caesalpiniaceae Tree Asanagurgi

21 Holoptelea integrifolia Ulmaceae Tree Tapasimara

22 Lagerstroemia parviflora Lythraceae Tree Holedasawala

23 Madhuca longifolia var.

latifolia

Sapotaceae Tree Ippemara

24 Melia dubia Meliaceae Tree Habbaevu

25 Mitragyna parvifolia Rubiaceae Tree Kadavala

26 Phyllanthus emblica Euphorbiaceae Tree Bettada nellikai

27 Pithecelobium dulce Mimosaceae Tree Seeme hunuse

mara

28 Pongamia pinnata Fabaceae Tree Hongemara

29 Stereospermum personatum Bignoniaceae Tree Paadarimara

30 Trema orientalis Ulmaceae Tree Gorklu mara

5. 4.12.Indicative Cost of Developing Green Belt

The greenbelt area has to be developed on 1.95 ha along the periphery of Mine Lease

Area-ML no.2175.. Based on the per hectare cost of Rupees 2.57 lakhs the indicative cost of

developing green belt in safety zone of the Mine Lease Areas works out to Rs. 5.00 Lakhs as

given in Table 5.17.

Table5.17 Indicative Cost Estimate for Developing Green Belt in Safety Zone

Sl.

No.

Mine Lease

Area

Area of Green

Belt (ha)

Rate/ha

(Rs. in lakhs)

Amount

(Rs. in lakhs)

1 ML-2175 1.95 2.57 5.0115

Say 5.00

5.5 Biodiversity Conservation Plan

Development projects in any region must learn to respect the ecological integrity and

the priority of conserving biodiversity of the region for long term sustainability of the mineral

extraction initiatives, for economic development and dependent human well- beings. It is

therefore important to evaluate the magnitude and severity of impacts associated with mining

activity and their implications for wildlife conservation.


71

Biodiversity is the basis of innumerable environmental services that keep us and the natural

environment alive – from the provision of clean water and watershed services to the recycling of

nutrients and pollination. Biodiversity encompasses variety and variability. Mining is an

extractive industry which has significant direct and secondary environmental impacts.

The present area lies adjacent to forest area which has typical floral elements which

contribute to the formation of Tropical Deciduous type of forests as classified by Champion and

Seth(1968). Protected areas should be created mainly to protect biodiversity, specific species and

wildlife habitat; to preserve ecological integrity; and to ensure public access to outstanding

natural areas for recreation. Protected areas are critical to the long-term health of society, and

also in stimulating and maintaining the economy.

ICFRE Expert team has identified an area of 5 ha area which is potentially rich biodiversity. The

area lies between altitudes of 883 – 912m msl. The area proposed lies in western slope of Mining

lease area.The geographical location is as follows.

a : 13°24’45.12” 76°40’11.46”

b : 13°24’43.68” 76°40’14.82”

c : 13°24’57.72” 76°40’14.1”

d : 13°24’57.78” 76°40’9.72”

The area has comparative dense canopy with typical plant associations. It is found that few RET

species like Gloriosa superba are growing. Several species are medicinal plants .A list of plants

occurring in the area is given in Table 5.18

Table 5.18. Plant species recorded in the proposed Biodiversity area

S. No. Botanical name Family Habit Remarks

1 Achyranthes aspera Amaranthaceae Herb Medicinal

2 Anogeissus latifolia Combretaceae Tree Medicinal

3 Azadirachta indica Meliaceae Tree Medicinal

4 Cassia auriculata Caesalpiniaceae Shrub Medicinal

5 Catunaregam spinosa Rubiaceae Tree Medicinal

6 Cipadessa baccifera Meliaceae Shrub Medicinal

8 Clerodendrum serratum Verbenaceae Shrub Medicinal

9 Cocculus hirsutus Menispermaceae Climber Medicinal

10 Flacourtia indica Flacourtiaceae Tree Medicinal

11 Gloriosa superba Liliaceae Climber RET species/

Medicinal

12 Hemidesmus indicus Asclepiadaceae Herbaceous Medicinal


72

Twiner

13 Holarrhena pubescens Apocynaceae Tree Medicinal

14 Leucas aspera Lamiaceae Herb Medicinal

15 Maytenus emarginata Celastraceae Shrub Medicinal

16 Phyllanthus emblica Euphorbiaceae Tree Medicinal

17 Pongamia pinnata Fabaceae Tree Medicinal

18 Solanum torvum Solanaceae Shrub Medicinal

19 Wrightia tinctorea Apocynaceae Tree Medicinal

The area described above though lies in the mine lease area, it is suggested that this area

may be protected by the lessee. The lessee may collect the seeds of the above species for

propagation in the nursery and further planting. This suggestion if implemented will help in

restoration of local biodiversity. The main objective of this plan is to preserve the Biodiverity

components which will serve as a repository Germ plasm bank.

The following mesures have been suggested to protect the local biodiversity and develop the

habitat for the local fauna.

5.5.1. Mangement of Flora

Plants play an important role in land reclamation. Restoration efforts should be directed

towards achieving pre-disturbance conditions. Rehabilitation of the mine with exotic plants can

create loss of native fauna also. High floristic diversity is a desirable objective in itself and is

likely to lead to high faunal diversity also. In order to achieve this objective it is suggested in

biodiversity conservation plan to desist from planting exotics like Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia

mangium, Casuarina equisetifolia, Grevillea robusta, Tecoma stans etc. Instead efforts should be

made to collect seeds, tubers and other planting materials of natural plants in the adjoining areas

and propagate the same in the nurseries. Shrubs and trees of the mineralised zones could be

transplanted in the ares proposed for afforestation. It is also advised to desist from Monoculture

method. While undertaking afforestion programme care should be taken to include Herbs,

Shrubs, Climbers and tree species occurring in the neighbourhood of the mine sites for planting.

Establishment of Nursery

The mine has not established a plant nursery. It is suggested to establish a plant nursery at

the earliest to facilitate future planting programmes.

A full fledged and functional plant nursery will help in fulfilling the need of required quantity of

seedlings. Following suggestions are made to to establish nursery.


73

1. Minimum of 2 acres of land must be allotted per block for setting up the nursery.

2. Efforts should be be made to employ local people familiar with the local flora

3. Seeds of the species prescribed for various purposes should be procured for raising the

seedlings.

4. Unemployed youth and women should be employed in the nursery . They should be given

adequate training in nursery technique..

5. The programme of raising seedling by the local women should be encouraged and buy

back system may be introduced.

5.5.2. Fauna

Following suggestions are made in this plan to improve the faunal population:

Habitat protection

The diversity of animal species and their abundance is largely dependent on the

availability of suitable habitats. All measures as suggested in Biological measures must be

followed to achieve success in Biodiversity Conservation plan. No natural materials (Both

physical and biological) should be displaced from the natural habitat. The natural habitat area

outside the mining lease area should be declared as non human interference area.

Providing a corridor for the dwelling and movement of Herpetofauna

A corridor must be created among the fragmented habitat by planting trees, shrubs, herbs

and grasses to allow the movement of Herpetofauna.

Creation of Habitat for Avifauna

Fruit, fodder and shelter providing trees such as Alaegium solvifolium, Annona squamosa,

Bombax ceiba, Erythrina suberosa, Eugenia jambolana, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus racemosa,

Ficus religiosa, Madhuca longifolia, wild Mangifera indica, Muntingia calabura, Syzigium

cumini and Ziziphus maurtina may be planted to attract birds as well as other wildlife.

Reducing anthropogenic pressure

No mining activity should be allowed after 6 pm.

Bright lights should not be used after 6 pm.

Vehicular traffic should be banned between 6 pm and 6 am.


74

5.5.3 Aquatic Fauna

One seasonal Nala traverse in the mine lease area and run from South west to North east

direstion and gets spreaded in KIDB (Karnataka Industrial Development Board) area. The

watercourses within and adjoining areas are formed during monsoon to drain off as surface

water. Such precipitation water originating from the mine areas may contaminate the freshwater

sources and increased flow of suspended mine solids and sediments into the streams and nalas.

Hence, this water is proposed to be let out through a series of biological and engineering

measures as suggested in the earlier chapters of the present report.

Management Plan for Fauna

The habitat management in and around the mine lease areas must be adopted by planting

suitable fodder species to enable wild herbivores to thrive upon. Following suggestions, if

implemented will encourage the native fauna to return to the areas cleared for mining:

¾ A dense green belt consisting of shrubs and trees of different species must be created

around the mine lease areas and also along the haul roads which will act also as a dust

and noise barrier.

¾ Awareness programmes amongst the local people as well as mining staff, regarding the

importance of wild life, their habits and habitats, should be organized so that stray and

displaced fauna (due to degradation and defragmentation of their habitat) is not killed.

¾ Rock fill dams and check dams should to be constructed in the mine lease areas to

prevent the soil erosion. This will be able to store sufficient quantity of filtered water in

the area and will act as water holes for the faunal life present in the region.

¾ The green cover loss due to construction of haul roads and heavy vehicular movements

will restrict the animal movements to the adjoining areas. Therefore, development of a

green belt and massive afforestation programme of fruit bearing and shade bearing plant

species around the mine lease areas will provide food and shelter for them.

¾ Intense campaign amongst the local people as well as project staff should be carried out

regarding the importance of regional biodiversity and need for their conservation for

posterity.


75

¾ Fire plays hazardous role in the destruction of habitat. It is suggested that lessee should

take keen interest to protect the forests from fire. It is suggested that the lessee should

take preventive measures in 2 sq.km area around the mine. It is also suggested that fire

preventing squad should be formed to fight the fire. A training should be provided to the

squad members through the State Forest Department.

¾ All the mining and transportation operations after the sunset should be stopped.

¾ In order to avoid anthropogenic pressure and to provide security for the area the lessee is

advised to fence the area with pillars and barbed wire providing certain exit points to

facilitate free movent of wild life.

Enumeration of the Plant species

The plants occurring the area should be enumerated with the help of plant taxonomists.

The local uses of the plant species occurring in the area may be collected through the local

people. The tree species may be provided with a name board mentioning the Name of plant

species (Botanical name, Common English name and Local Kannada Name).

Publication of a booklet

A small booklet containing details on the biodiversity components (Plants, few birds and

butterflies)of the area along with attractive colour photographs may published to be distributed

to school and College students.

Popularization of importance of Biodiversity

School and college students should be encouraged to visit the area for a field visit on

holidays to create awareness in them on biodiversity and its importance.


76

5.6. Soil Management

Development projects in any region must learn to respect the ecological integrity and the

priority of conserving biodiversity of the region for long-term sustainability of the mineral

extraction initiatives, for economic development and dependent human well-beings. It is

therefore important to reclaim and rehabilitate the mining areas, conservation of flora and fauna

including beneficial microbes. The microbes play an important role in maintaining the biological

equilibrium of the ecosystem. Among different microbes, there is a symbiotic group of fungi

called ‘mycorrhizae’. They are extremely important as they help in transport of phosphorous and

other essential elements to the plant system from the soil. These mycorrhizal fungi also protect

the plants against soil borne and root borne diseases. Other than mycorrhizal fungi, the beneficial

microbes such as Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) viz., Azotobacter,

Azospirillum, Rhizobium and Phosphobactreria (species of Bacillus and Pseudomonas) involved

in breakdown of organic matter, N2 fixation, secretion of plant growth hormones and increase of

available mineral nutrients in soil. They are also helpful to build up other beneficial micro-flora

and in turn improve soil health (Mohan and Karthkeyan, 2011). These beneficial microbes are

considered as bio-inoculants or bio-fertilizers and they improve the growth and quality of the

seedlings in nursery and also help the plants for better survival and establishment in problematic

areas like mined areas and maintain soil structure. The type of bio-fertilizers and the application

rate will vary according to the site, soil type and post-mining land use.

Furthermore, most of the restoration programme will include application of organic

fertilizers like farmyard manure (FYM), green/leaf manure and vermi compost. Initial applications

of these organic fertilizers have been shown to increase species numbers, plant density and growth

rates. Various organic wastes can also have value as both fertilizers and soil amendments based on

the availability.

The most practical way to increase the nitrogen capital of ecosystems is to establish

nitrogen-fixing plants, usually legumes, which can quickly increase the nitrogen levels in the

system. The easiest method is to broadcast large quantity of seeds of Horse gram ( Macrotyloma

uniflorum) immediately after first showers. Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi and

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) can be applied along with fully composted


77

farmyard manure and vermi compost to increase the growth of the plants as well as fertility of the

soil.

The following measures in respect of soil management can be adopted in reclamation and

rehabilitation of mined areas:

• Beneficial microbes are present in the top soil of mining areas. Hence, the top soil must

be removed at the time of mining and dumped separately at a predetermined area as per

the mine land use plan and be used for reclamation and rehabilitation of mined areas.

• Necessary precautions has to be taken to preserve the fertility and shelf life of the micro

flora in the top soil by adopting suitable height of the top soil dumps and preventing

losses due to erosion during the phase of temporary storage.

• The top soil containing beneficial micro flora of the site must be spread over the mined

out areas including OB dumps and back filled areas during the process of mined land

rehabilitation.

In addition, adopting the following management techniques with the use and application

of beneficial microorganisms as bio-inoculants (bio-fertilizers) along with organic fertilizers will

be very effective during the mine spoil reclamation and rehabilitation programme:

¾ The beneficial microorganisms can be introduced as bio-fertilizers during afforestation in

the overburden dumps and other mined out areas through planting of suitable fast

growing native plant species (inoculated with bio-fertilizers and organic fertilizers) like

grasses, herbs, shrubs and trees.

¾ The seedlings can be inoculated with Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi

and other beneficial microorganisms like PGPRs ( Azotobacter , Azospirillum,

Phosphobacterium, Rhizobium) along with the bio-manures/ organic manures like fully

composted farmyard manure, vermi-compost, leaf compost in the nursery.

¾ The bio-fertilizer inoculated seedlings/saplings should be planted during the process of

rehabilitation of mined areas.


78

¾ The pits dug out for planting of saplings for afforetation should be filled with the mixture

of biofertilizers and organic manures (preferably 15 gm biofertilizers + 750gm to 1kg

organic manure per pit)


79

CHAPTER 6

PRODUCTION CAPACITY

6.1. PRODUCTION CAPACITY BASED ON RESERVE

The catogery and grade wise reserves estimated as per the approved scheme of mining, are

furnished in Table 6.1

Table 6.1 Category wise details of reserves as on 1.4.2009 (Quantity in tonnes)Category of Reserves

/UNFC

Total + 62% Fe 60-62% 58-60% Sub Grade Siliceous

Proved(111) 2297000 1723000 155000 184000 129000 106000

Probable(121/122) 246000 210000 10000 4000 9000 13000

Possible(333) - - - - - -

Total 2543000 1933000 165000 188000 138000 119000

Source- Approved scheme of mining dated 17.8.2009 page no.11-12

As per the CEC sketch map (Figure 2.3) some part of the area along the western part of

outside the ML boundary, which is worked by the lessee, is identified as encroachment. The ore

body is continuing in the encroached area. In the previously approved Scheme of Mining,

reserves have been estimated for entire area, including the area under encroachment. Apart from

this 1,19,000 tonnes of ore has been estimated as siliceous iron ore. Therefore, after the

deduction of reserves blocked in the encroached area and reserves estimated as siliceous ore

(which is not considered under total reserves as per the threshold value as defined by the IBM)

the modified reserves of approved scheme of mining are furnished below in Table 6.2

Table 6.2 Modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009


Total (Proved + Probable) 2543000

Ore Blocked because of shifting of western boundary as per CEC

observation (FIMI Annexure SDN-1)

458344

Sub Total 2084656

Siliceous ore Reserves 119000

Actual reserves 1965656

As per the CEC guidelines of 26-04-2012, the 50% of the proved and probable reserve or

the actual possible resource, whichever is less, may be consider for assessment of total reserves.

In the present case no possible resource has been estimated, therefore, total reserves of proved

and probable categories has been considered for arriving annual permissible capacity.


80

Total production after the approval of the last scheme of the mining i.e.from 17.08.2009

up to 2011-12 (till the closure of mine by Hon’ble Supreme Court of India) was reported as

78,4460 tonnes. The details of total balance reserves as on 01.04.2012 are mention below in

Table 6.3

Table 6.3 Category wise modified reserves in last approved SOM as on 1.4.2009


Actual reserves as on 01.04.2009 1965656

Depletion of production from 2009-10 to 2011-12 784460

Balance reserves as on 01.04.2012 1181196

The balance reserves as on 01.04.2012 have been calculated as 1.18 MT. Considering this total

reserves of 1.18 MT, the permissible annual capacity of 0.059 or say 0.06 MTPA for the next 20

years, may be considered.

6.2. Production Capacity Based on Dumps

During the next plan period, total area of 3.8 ha will be available for dumping of waste, which

can accommodate 1.17MCM as back filling of mined out area (Figure 5.1). Details of the

calculation of permissible production limit based on dump capacity are given below:

• Additional waste that could be accommodated during the next plan period in the defined

area of 3.8 ha for dump =1.17 million cum

• Therefore the quantum of waste material corresponding to this volume is 1.17 x 1.7 =

1.989 million tonnes ( Considering the bulk density of waste as 1.7)

• Given average future ore to waste ratio as 1:1.37 as per para 2.7.

• Therefore, the quantity of ore that will be produced corresponding to1.989 million tonnes

of waste material = 1.989/1.37 = 1.452 million tonne.

• Total production per annum = 1.452/5 = 0.29 million tonnes.

Considering the above, permissible annual capacity of 0.29 MTPA for the next 5 years,

may be considered based the dump capacity.


81

6.3. PRODUCTION CAPACITY BASED ON INFRESTRUCTURE FACILITIES

Roads: -

There is only one exit route from the mines for movement of ore to the customers,

through Chitradurga Tumkur Miners Association (CTMA) road which connects to NH206 and to

Ammasandra Railway siding.

Feasible production level computation:

Calculation of Production level based on the capacity of roads. The total ore mined

moves towards National Highway 206 from where 17% moves towards Mangalore side and 83%

moves towards Bangalore side for domestic users out of 83% traffic, 45% traffic moves towards

Ammasandra Railway Siding. Computation is annexed at SDN-3. The capacity assignable to

Tumkur Minerals mine ML No. 2175 is 0.92 MTPA as per the limit in the section III. The

summary of various sections of Road Capacity and Tumkur Minerals mine production capacity

is provided below.

Table 6.4: Details of capacity for various sections of road

Road Section

No.

Road Section Type of

Road

Road

Capacity

(MTPA)

Tumkur Minerals ML NO.

2175 mine Capacity

(MTPA)

R-I (A-B) Stock yard

within the minelease area (A) to

Mine Gate (B)

Internal

Privateroad

1.82 1.82

R-II (B-C) Mine Gate (B)

to CTMA

Junction (C)

Private

Road

1.99 1.99

R-III (C-D) CTMA Junction

(C) to NH-206,

Manglore-Banglore

Junction (D)

Common

Road

4.60 0.92

Towards

Mangalore

side (10%)

0.75 0.75 (in which only 17% i.e.

0.0685 MTPA of total ROM

moves on this side)

Towards

Bangaloreside (10%)

0.75 0.75 (in which 83% i.e.,

0.3345 MTPA of total ROMmoves on this side)

R-V NH 206 towardsBangalore side

to Ammasandra

Railway siding

PublicRoad

(15%) 0.985 (in which 45% i.e.,0.1813 MTPA of total ROM

moves on this side)


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The assignable capacity based on road is 0.92 (0.75 is lesser as indicated above) MTPA

for Tumkur Mine ML. No. 2175. Hence road is not a constraint for this mine’s production level.

The annual feasible production level of 0.062 MTPA for Mineable Ore based on net Reserves is

the lowest of the 3 figures computed above. This level is recommended to be allowed for next

five years to Sondenhalli Iron ore Mines ML No. 2175 subject to conditions and implementation

of Supplementary Environmental Safeguards as mentioned below.

6.4. COMBINED PRODUCTION CAPACITY BASED ON RESERVES, DUMPS AND

ROADS (Table 6.5)

Table 6.5: Criteria for Estimation of Permissible Production limit for ML

Sl. No. Criteria Permissible Production Limit

(Million Tonnes/annum)

1 Reserves 0.06

2 Dump Capacity (Backfilling) 0.29

3 Road Capacity 0.92

Based on the currently available information, the annual production limit of 0.06 million

tonnes per annum based on reserves, which is minimum among the three criteria, may be

considered.


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CHAPTER 7

SUPPLEMENTARY ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS

7.1 Supplementary Environmental Safeguards

The following Supplementary Environmental Safeguards (SES) shall be implemented after the

commencement of mining operations:

¾ Increased frequency of water sprinkling on temporary haul roads at least from two to four

trips per shift

¾ Post-blast water sprinkling to be carried out to wet the ore / waste before loading into

trucks / dumpers.

¾ Mist type water sprinkling arrangements on all loading / unloading / transfer points in

primary / Secondary crushing plants, mobile screening plant and other conveying system,

as applicable

¾ Trucks carrying finished product outside the lease area should be kept in good condition

at all time to prevent spillages on the roads, should be covered with good quality

tarpaulins to avoid spillages and prevent entry of water, and should not be overloaded

beyond the registered capacity of trucks.

¾ All roads should be kept clean in the Green belt/ water sprinkler at all times to prevent

dust pollution. Drains along the roads should be provided and maintained to keep the

roads in good condition and properly graded.

¾ Site workshop and main workshop should be equipped with HEMM washing ramp,

settling tanks and oil and grease traps with provision for recycling of treated effluent and

collection and proper disposal of settled silt and oil / grease.

¾ Implementing conveyor belt system to transport the mined material from the pit to the

foot hill. High angle belt conveyor system must be installed taking the advantage of the

normal gradient.

¾ The plantation schedule has to be strictly followed and it must coincide with monsoon

period.


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7.2 General Observations and Additional Measures

• The mine should have metal or tar roads.

• The soil and water conservation measures have failed to check the soil erosion and

protect water because of siltation and damage of the structures. Desiltation of the check

dam has to be immediately carried out. No top soil is available for reclamation activities.

Soil enrichments have to be used if the available lateritic soils are used.

• The natural drainage system has been blocked by the dump which can be relooked by

carrying out further exploration of core drilling and proving the non mineralized zone

instead of dumping in valleys.

• The width of haulage road within the lease areas needs to be further widened. No drain is

provided on haul roads. The haul roads must be provided with drain towards rasing side

of hill slope. The drain shall be provided with dry rubble pitching for the total length to

avoid damage/erosion of drain.

• The weed (Typha sp.) growth found in existing check dam has to be removed. The

silt/humus material trapped in the check dam should be lifted and reused for plantation

and nursery purposes.

• There is stagnation of water in the stream course on upstream side of check dam due to

blocking of course by the rolled down OB material. It is suggested to remove the

blockage.

• Due to shifting of lease boundary mineralized zone on the western side is excluded from

the pit, while some virgin area towards south is added. Therefore it is necessary to carry

out detailed exploration by core drilling to establish proved mineable reserve for

enhanced production levels.

• Mine benches are quite narrow at some places and quite unsafe for dumper movements.

Since mine is operated by deploying 25 tonne dumpers, width of the bench should be

atleast two times the statutory height of bench.

• Haul road gradient needs improvement as it is steep at some places. It should be 1 in 16

(minimum) to 1 in 20.

• Surface water management needs improvement to prevent rain water entering the pit and

getting accumulated at pit bottom. Benches on the eastern side at some places, especially

in clay were washed out due to inflow of rain water.


85

7.3. FIELD OBSERVATIONS

Haul road is damaged due to unmanaged drains and some places no drainage has been

provided.

Ore stocks are not protected with any protective measures

Eastern side of dump: ID

OB dump on eastern side is having 2 terraces each at 20 m height. Slopes are planted

with exotic species and observed several small gullies on the slopes. At the bottom of the dump

inadequate toe wall and garland drainage has been made. One check dam, silt settling tank was

observed on the down side of the stream.

Northern Side of the dump: EID

This dump is located on the north western side of the lease and no terraces were made.

The dump height varies from 20-36m. Angle of the slope is about 450

and observed several

gullies.

South western side: EID1

The SW dump is about 5m height and encroached in to the other lease of ML 2348 of

Deep Chand. This dump is just above the mine pit and not protected with any bio-engineering

measures.

Encroached mine pit:

The encroached mine pit has to be rehabilitated by back filling and planted with

indigenous plant species.

No green belt plantation was done around the mine lease area. Observed agricultural

fields around the mine lease area and the lessee has to take up greenbelt plantation immediately.

7.4. IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING

Rehabilitation is the principal process used to mitigate the long-term impacts of mining

on the environment. The main objective of the proposed rehabilitation plan is to restore the pre-


86

mining conditions as closely as possible in order to ensure the future sustainability of the site.

The proposed R&R plan has been aimed for topographic reconstruction with engineering

and biological measures for erosion control and re-vegetation with adequate soil amendments

including mycorrihizal fungi for re-establishment of nutrient cycle for sustainability of

restoration. Also, encouraging the native fauna to return to areas cleared for mining is the

integrated aim of this restoration programme which aims to restore a natural ecosystem. The

recommended provisions are to be implemented by the mine owner in consonance with the

macro-level EIA report of ICFRE submitted to Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. This report has

outlined the major impacts of iron ore mining in Chitradurga and Tumkur district on various

aspects of environmental degradation.

In addition, the proposed conveyorisation in the BHS sector and railway links between

Hospet /Bellary sector to the West Coast of Karnataka and other common infrastructure

proposed, as directed by the CEC, will also have bearing on the environmental degradation.

Therefore, the findings of macro-level EIA report and recommendations made in the chapter nine

of the report “Scientific Mining in Chitradurga and Tumkur District, Karnataka - The Way

Ahead” and the direction on it by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India to protect further

environmental degradation may be corroborated with the current Reclamation and Rehabilitation

plan and common infrastructure proposed.

Another important aspect is the regular monitoring of the implementation of the proposed

measures of the R & R Plan in order to ensure rehabilitation of the mine affected areas as

envisaged in the plan. Monitoring provides a method of measuring progress against an objective.

The primary reason for ongoing monitoring of the mine site is to ensure that remediation

measures, including earthworks, water treatment and drainage systems, proposed plantations,

green belt, etc. function as intended. In addition, site surveillance may be necessary to

demonstrate that the mine site remains safe and poses no environmental or health risks. Regular

monitoring also allows for a proactive response where the rehabilitation process is found to be

lacking in the desired results. For example, the underlying aim of monitoring surface water and

groundwater quality will be to ensure that there will be no pollutant discharge into the

surrounding environment or, if contamination does occur, to facilitate rapid detection and

response, thereby minimizing any adverse health and environmental consequences. Monitoring


87

also provides valuable reference data for authorities in subsequent decision-making and in

refining environmental permitting procedures or land use planning.

Monitoring a landscape’s health over time in response to environmental, management or

regulatory drivers is important for land managers, ranging from individuals to governments,

especially when the monitoring output has direct relevance for management decision-making.

Monitoring may be seeking to look for evidence of landscape degradation or of rehabilitation

progress and the procedure needs to have equal facility in dealing with these scenarios.

Therefore, it is also essential that the skills of both, the mine owners and the managers, should be

upgraded through professionally designed refresher courses. This training would equip them to:

Respond to environmental impacts:

¾ Develop plans to address impacts

¾ To implement the plans and evaluate the results, and

¾ Report and record on results

In order to achieve these objectives, it is recommended that suitable refresher courses

should be designed and conducted by some competent organization which has the scientific

expertise and experience in the field of mine rehabilitation.

The R & R Plan which synthesizing a very specialized ecological, vegetational and other

biological and engineering measures needs to be executed and monitored annually by the

organizations/institutes having specialization in scientific aspects of complex vegetation site

interactions and energy flux in the ecosystem over time and space. In our country there are

limited institutions which are having a composite expertise and experience in execution and

monitoring of such specialized tasks. Therefore, consortium of institutes headed by ICFRE may

be formulated for effective monitoring and the implementation of the R & R Plan.

7.5. INDICATIVE COST SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSED PLAN

The cost estimated for the engineering and biological measure for Reclamation and

Rehabilitation Plan is approx. Rs.107.11 lakhs (Rupees One crore seven lakhs and eleven

thousands only). The cost for implementation of Social Management Plan (SMP), Biodiversity

Management Plan, Monitoring and implementation of R&R plan, capacity building of the


88

personal involved, infrastructure etc., shall be met from allocating of 10% of the annual sale

proceeds from the mines, in respect of “Category: B“ mine, may be transferred to SPV for the

purpose of taking up various ameliorative and mitigative measures in Chitradurga and

Tumkur district as decided by task force to be constituted as per the recommendation of Macro-

level EIA report and the direction of Hon’ble Supreme Court of India for implementation of

R&R plan and EMP. The breakup of the cost estimate is given below inTable-7.1

Table-7.1: Cost Summary of the Proposed Plan

S. No. Item of work Cost (Rs. in Lakhs)

1 Reclamation cost of encroached area(Engineering and aforestation)

35.73

2 Engineering measures for dumpmanagement

20.66

3 Engineering measures for surface water management

0.22

4 Afforrestation/plantation along roads 2.00

5 Afforestation of mined out areas and

associated activities [pit + dump +

Infrastructure(excluding roads) + Head “Afforestation & Environment

Protective Measures”; all inside the ML]

43.50

6 Green belt development 5.00

7

Social Management Plan (SMP),Biodiversity Management Plan,

Monitoring and implementation of R&R

plan, capacity building, infrastructure etc.

10% of the annual sale proceeds from the

mines, in respect of “Category: B” mine, may

be transferred to SPV for the purpose of taking

up various ameliorative and mitigative majorsin district Bellary or as decided by task force

to be constituted as per the recommendation of

Macro-level EIA report and the direction of honorable Supreme Court of India for

implementation of R&R plan and EMP

Total 107.11*

excluding cost of items at

serial no. 8 proposed above

Note: The cost proposed is indicative and may vary depending upon the common schedule rates,

actual dimensions of the engineering structures and local field conditions.


7.6 Time Schedule

Table 7.2 Time schedule for Implementation of Reclamation and Rehabilitation Plan for ML-2175

Note- Maintenance of all engineering and biological measures will be done in subsequent years.

Type Particulars of work Years

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Waste dump managementInactive Toe wall at the base of waste dump 9

Garland drain 9 Providing and fixing geo-coir mat onouter surface of the slope of the wastedump

9

Silt Settling Tank 9 Enrichment plantation over waste dumparea

9 9 9

Backfilling Enrichment plantation over backfilled

area9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Surface water management 9 Green Belt Development Plan along safety zone 9 9 9 Afforestation 9 9 9 Avenue plantation on roads 9 9 9 Environmental monitoring and watch –ward afterclosure

9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9


90

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anon (undated). Management plan of Bellary forest division. Karnataka Forest Department,

Bellary & presentation made to the Supreme Court EIA team.

CSO 2007. Annual Report of Central Statistic Office, 2007 .

Kundu, N.K. and Ghose, M.K. 1998. Studies on the Exisiting Plant Communities in Easterns

Coal Field Areas with a view to Reclamation of Mined Outlands. Journal of

Environmental Biology 19 (1): 83-89.

Padmavathiamma, P.K. and Li, L.Y. 2007. Phytoremediation Technology: Hyperaccumulation

Metals in Plants. Water Air Soil Pollution 184(1-4): 105-126.

Radhakrishna, B. P. and Vaidyanathan, R. 1997. Geology of Karnataka, Geological Society of

India, Bangalore, 353 p.

Sheoran, V., Sheoran, A.S. and Poonia, P. 2009. Phytomining: A Review. Minerals Engineering

22(12): 1007–1019.

Sheoran, V., Sheoran, A.S. and Poonia, P. 2010. "Soil Reclamation of Abandoned Mine Land by

Revegetation: A Review. International Journal of Soil, Sediment and Water 3(2): Article

13.

Singh, A.N. and Singh, A.N. 2006. Experiments on Ecological Restoration of Coal Mine Spoil

using Native Trees in a Dry Tropical Environment, India: A Synthesis. New Forests 31:

25-39.

UNDP, 2008. Understanding HIV & Development. An analysis from Bellary District in

Karnataka, India. New Concept Information Systems Pvt. Ltd.

Plates

Plate-1 Mine Pit

Plate-2 Sub grade ore dump

Plate-3 Gully Formation along the Dump

Plate-4 Retaining Wall along the OB dump

Plate-5 Silt Settling Tank below the OB dump

Plate-6 Eastern side OB Dump

Design: 1 Engineering Structure of Toe Wall

Design: 2 Engineering Structure of Silt Settling Tank

Design: 3 Engineering Structure of Logwood Check Dams

Design: 4 Engineering Structure of Brushwood Check Dam

Design: 5 Engineering Structure of Check dam

Annexure-1

Annexure-2

Annexure-3

tumkur 2175

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