Biodiversity Phase 1

7/28/2019 Biodiversity Phase 1

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GOVERNMENT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for250 km Roads for the

HPRIDC-World Bank Supported HimachalPradesh State Roads Improvement Project

THE LOUIS BERGER GROUP, INC.2300 N Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20037, USA

Tel.: 202 331 7775; Fax: 202 293 0787

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

HIMACHAL PRADESH ROAD AND OTHER INFRASTRUCTUREDEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (HPRIDC),

HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE ROADS PROJECT (HPSRP),


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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project

Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km

i

List of Tables

TableNumber

Table Title PageNumber

1 Details of the proposed Phase I (Stage 1) 250 Km project

roads

3

2 Explanation and Examples of Direct and Indirect Impacts 43 Important species, area and growing stock volumes 74 Recorded number of faunal species in Himachal Pradesh 75 Census figures of some wild animals and birds in HP 86 Geographical distribution of the forests of HP 87 Legal Classification of Forest 88 District wise Forest Area (sq km) 99 Various Forest Types in HP and their Assessment 910 Overview of the Injuries, Deaths and Compensation Paid

due to Wildlife Attacks on Humans and Cattle11

11 District-wise list of Protected Areas and their ImportantFauna

12

12 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details,Conservation Status and Endemism (Mehatpur-Una-AmbRoad)

17

13 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details,Conservation Status and Endemism (Una-Barsar-J ahu-Nerchowk Road)

23

14 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details,Conservation Status and Endemism (Theog-Kotkhai-

Kharapathar-Rohru Road)

30

15 Biodiversity Aspects of Faunal Species (Mammals, Birdsand Reptiles) Observed Along the Three Road Corridors

35


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The Louis Berger Group Inc (i)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ChapterNo.

Title PageNo.

List of Tables i

1 INTRODUCTION 11.1 Need for the project 11.2 Project brief 11.3 Need for Biodiversity Impact Assessment 42 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 5

3 BIODIVERSITY PROFILE 6

3.1 Floral diversity 63.2 Faunal diversity 73.3 Status of forests 83.4 Assessment of forest types 93.5 Wildlife issues and concerns 113.6 Measures to protect biodiversity 114 METHODOLOGY 12

4.1 Reconnaissance Survey 144.2 Stakeholders Workshop & Consultative Meetings 144.3 Compilation and Analysis 145 KEY FINDINGS ECOLOGICAL/FLORAL/FAUNAL

FEATURES ALONG ROADS15

5.1 Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road 155.2 Una-Barsar-J ahu-Nerchowk Road 215.3 Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road 285.4 Faunal Diversity on the Three Roads (250 km) 346 PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 39

6.1 General Project Impacts and their Mitigation Measures 406.2 Location Specific Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures 436.3 Location Specific Wildlife Crossing Corridors and their

Mitigation Measures50

6.4 Other Mitigation Measures for Areas of Animal MovementCorridors

54

7 MONITORING PLAN 56LIST OF ANNEXURES

AnnexureI

Red Listed Medicinal Plants of Himachal Pradesh I

AnnexureII

Proceedings and Recommendations of the ConsultativeWorkshop on Impact Assessment of H. P. Roads Project on

Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity

II

AnnexureIII

Summary of Responses of Participants in the Workshop VII


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The Louis Berger Group Inc. 1

1 Introduction

Roads, especially highways have been recognized as arteries providing a range ofservices and carrying vital goods and people that are key drivers of a growing economy.Roads are known to boost economic growth in many sectors, like farm sector throughfaster and timely transport of farm produce to markets and tourism sector, particularly toremote locations. India has also embarked on developing and expanding the roadnetwork, as part of infrastructure development for its growing needs.

1.1 Need for the pro ject

With only 60% metaled and 90% single-laned roads , Himachal with a total of 24,9221km of motorable roads is in urgent need to improve the road network and conditions. Infact less than 50% of all the census villages in the state are connected by all weatherroads. Even the existing roads lack longitudinal and cross drainage, retaining walls,roadside parapets and good road geometrics leading to longer journey times, slowspeeds and increased wear-tear of vehicles. To reduce traveling time and to ensurefaster movement of perishable farm produce (fruits and vegetables), better roads arethe only feasible alternative, as the mountainous topography of the state makesrailways and civil aviation unviable. Upgradation of the road network in the state willincrease the connectivity of places, safe mobility of goods and people, resulting ingreater utilisation of resources and socio-economic development of the people. Thesuccess of the various investments by the government in the different sectors dependto a great extent on the adequacy of the transport infrastructure i.e. road network in thestate.

1.2 Project Brief

It is in this background that the state government has undertaken widening andimproving/upgrading the road network in the state to meet the demands of growingeconomy. It has completed Strategic Option Study and identified 1675 km road lengthcovering some of the state highways and district roads. Out of this, planning anddesigning work in respect of following five high priority roads is being taken up in PhaseI of the project, of which detail designs and alignments have been completed for 250km length.

Mehatpur-Una-Amb Una-Badsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Theog- Kotkhai- Kharapathar-Rohru Ghumarvin-Sarkaghat-Jogindernagar Kumarhatti-Nahan-Dosarhka

Table 1 gives the details of the 250 km road that are being taken up currently. Besides,an environmental and social screening of the priority roads has also been completed.

1 March 2005


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Table 1: Details of the Proposed Phase I (Stage 1) 250 Km Project Roads

S. No. Proposed roads for improvement SH/MDR NoRoad Length

(km)Existing Carriageway

(CW) Width

1 Mehatpur-Una-Amb SH-25 44.200 7.0 m

2 Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk SH-32 126.270 5.5 / 3.5 m

3 Theog-Kothkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru 80.730 -

Location map of Mehatpur-Una-Amb and Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk

Location map of Theog-Kothkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru


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1.3 Need for Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Keeping in view of the high forest percentage and rich floral and faunal diversity of thestate, GoHP and the World Bank are concerned about the negative impact that roaddevelopment might have on the biodiversity of the area, which might be direct impact orindirect and/or short- and long-term. Direct and indirect impacts are explained below in

Table 2.

Table 2: Explanation and Examples of Direct and Indirect ImpactsDirect Impacts Indirect Impacts

Destroy, displace or in some way adverselyaffect the plants and animals themselves.

Destroy or disrupt patterns, processes orbehaviour leading to alterations in habitats,ecosystems or other physical or biologicalfactors upon which a species depends.

Examples are: habitat loss habitat fragmentation corridor restrictions increased animal mortality due to collision

with road vehicles and aquatic habitatdamage.

Examples are: habitat degradation resulting from

increased human access to wildlifehabitats

habitat degradation due to altered hydrology ecological disequilibrium ecosystem simplification introduction of exotic species that alter

community patterns and processes transmission of diseases.

Integrating forests and wildlife concerns into road project planning at an early stage canlimit the adverse impacts on biodiversity, particularly, wildlife and wildlife habitats, asimproper practices could often result in irreversible adverse impacts leading to localextinctions of species.

Keeping the above-mentioned context in mind and to minimize any of the direct and

indirect impact of road development/improvement on biodiversity, a rapid BIA has beencarried out with the following objectives:

To assess the impacts the project will have on forest, wildlife and wildlife habitat To identify and establish the most probable road-crossing locations of Wild

animals To prepare a multi-purpose mitigation plan that details the strategies and

measures to address forestry and wild life concerns in the project


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2 Environmental Setting

Environment is a critical element for sustaining life. Various environmental parameters(temperature, humidity, and rainfall besides components of the physical environment likesoil) determine the composition of species within plant communities that, in turn, affect

colonization by and movement of animals. Consequently, it is important to take a brieflook at the environmental setting, particularly of the areas though which the project roadpasses.

Himachal Pradesh is a mountainous state in northern India known for its forests, rivers,and valleys, a rich cultural heritage. The Outer and lesser Himalayan watersheds of thestate covering 28,970 sq km area are of great national importance, as entire northernIndia depends largely for water and power produced by runoff from this region. HimachalPradesh extends from the Shivalik Hills in the south to the Great Himalayan rangesincluding a slice of trans-Himalayas in the north. The state falls between latitude 3022and 3012 north and longitude 7545 and 7904 East. It is located between the Raviriver in the west and Yamuna river in the east. Its greatest length is 355 Km from the

northwestern extremity of Chamba to the Southeastern tip of Kinnaur and the maximumwidth is 270 Km from Kangra in Southwest to Kinnaur in the northeast. The altituderanges from 450 to 6500 meters above sea level, which increases from West to Eastand South to North.

The state experiences climate ranging from hot summer to cold winters, as a result ofdifferences in aspect and elevation. Areas towards north and located just below the highaltitude zone, receives adequate snowfall and often remain snow covered for months.The various climatic zone range from sub tropical (450-900 meter), warm temperate(900-800 m), Cool temperate (1800-2400 m), cold high mountains (2400-4000 m) andsnowy and frigid (above 4000 m). Areas in the Shivaliks, for example, regions in Unaand Hamirpur districts are warmer with mean maximum temperature reaching up to 38

C. Shimla, the state capital, located in the mid hills also get occasional snowfall and theaverage minimum temperature is around 4.9 C.

The average rainfall for the state is about 115 cm, however, 70% of this falls duringmonsoon (June-September), 20% from October to March and 10% from April to June.District Kangra followed by Shimla receives maximum rainfall. Dharamsala in Kangragets highest rainfall (rainfall over 3400 mm). Some rains are received during winters aswell. The annual rainfall in the outer Himalayas varies from 150 to 175 cm, while theinner Himalayas receives about 75 to 100 cm. Beyond Manali, towards Lahaul-Spiti andKinnaur rainfall is low due to rain shadow area.


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3 Biodiversity Profile

The altitudinal variation, environmental setting and distinct climatic zones has endowedthe state with rich biodiversity, which includes all living forms (species diversity), theirintra-specific variation (genetic diversity) and places they are found (ecological diversity).It is, therefore, essential how much biodiversity is present so as to develop mitigation

strategies and plans for its protection through limiting the negative project impacts.

3.1 Floral diversity

Out of total 45,000 to 47,000 floral species found in the country, as many as 3,295species (7.32%)2 are found in HP. Himachal has 3,120 species of flowering plants, 38species of orchids, 13 species of conifers and 124 species of pteridophytes (includingferns). The floristic elements also show high degrees of endemism with almost 95% ofthe species being native of Western Himalayan flora, while about 5% (150 species) areexotic, introduced over the last 150 years. The introduction of exotics has disturbed thenatural composition of many plant communities and is a cause of concern. In fact HPhas 12 critically endangered, 21 endangered and 27 vulnerable plant species (Annex 1).

While the Shivaliks once harboured diverse species, presently, these are in variousstages of degradation. There are only a few natural patches that still have the naturalspecies composition comprising of native species. Most other plant communities havebeen disturbed on account of habitat loss, degradation, soil erosion and biologicalinvasions. The Mehatpur-Una-Amb road passes through many such degraded forestpatches. However, the Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk road passes through a few forestpatches that show high degree of native species compositions. At higher elevations (midhills), particularly at the transition zone between the Shivaliks and the mid hills, thearboreal element is dominated by Pinus longifolia. In the middle hills, when elevationfurther increases, Pinus longifolia is replaced by Cedrus deodara (above 6,000 7,000feet). Other shrubby plants in this zone are Cotoneaster racimiflora, Daphne oleoides,

Desmodium tiliaefolium, Indigofera heterantha, Parrotiopsis jacquemontii, etc. Theground vegetation is dominated by grasses likeAgrostis stolonifera, Andropogon tristis,Chrysopogon echinulatus and Dichanthium annulatum. Common trees are Quercusincana and Rhododendron sp. The Theog-Rohru road passes through some forestpatches with such a composition, especially near Khara Pathar and Jubbal areas.

The mid hills abound in conifers, as they start appearing just above the Shivaliks.Barring a few, most conifers are present in mid hills. The conifers of HP are ecologicallyvery important covering a large area of the temperate and sub-alpine zones. There arethirteen species of conifers in HP - 1. Pinus wallichina, 2. Pinus roxburgii, 3. Pinusgerardiana, 4. Picea smithiana, 5. Abies pindrow, 6. Abies spectablis, 7. Cupressustorulosa, 8. Cedrus deodara, 9. Juniperus macropoda, 10 Juniperus excelsa, 11

Juiperus Sequamata, 12 Ephedra Gerardiana and 13.Taxus baccata

In order to protect these species from large-scale commercial felling there is a green-felling ban imposed in the state. This has been implemented, as these species have alarge turnover cycle (100 or more years), poor germination percentages, poor seedlingrecruitment and slow growth rates. Among these 13 species, Cedrus deodara orcommonly known as Deodar is one of the finest timber species, which fetches a very

2 per cent of 45,000 species


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high price in the market. Another important species is Taxus baccata, the bark of whichhas been found to contain wonder medicinal properties in anti-cancer treatments.

There is a large growing stock of timber in HP forests. Species-wise area coverage andgrowing stock figures are given in Table 3 below. Chir (Pinus roxburghii) and Fir/Spruce(Abies pindrow/Picea smithiana) forests are the most widespread in terms of area

coverage. In terms of growing volume Fir/Spruce and Deodar (Cedrus deodara) areamongst the top.

Table 3: Important Species, Area and Growing Stock VolumesName of species Forests Area

(Km)Growing Stock

(000 M)

Cedrus deodara (Deodar) 811 16129

Pinus excelsa (Kail) 809 15074

Pinus roxburghii (Chir) 1436 12648

Abies pindrow/Pcies smithiana (Fir/spruce) 1343 46357

Shorea robusta (Sal) 183 2,563

Quercus incana (Ban Oak) 540 7988

Quercus dialatata (Mohru Oak) 35 893Quercus semicarpifolia (Kharsu) 246 5880

Total 5403 107532

3.2 Faunal diversity

Wide altitudinal ranges and varied topography of Himachal Pradesh has resulted inmaking the state a very rich repository of wild fauna. Table 4 gives an account of faunalspecies of the state. From dry deciduous to luxuriant temperate forests to alpine scrub,the state has free ranging animals in all the climatic zones. Whereas, Snow Leopard,Tibetan Wolf, Ibex, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer and Snow Cock have made cold desertstheir home, the cold temperate regions of the state form natural habitat of Musk Deer,Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Monal, Chir Pheasant, Koklas and WesternTragopan. The lower reaches of the state abound with Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer,Wild Boar, Ghoral, Blue Bull, Rhesus Macaque, Hanuman Langur, Martens, Jungle Catand Leopard amongst mammals and pheasants including Cheer and White CrestedKaleej besides Red Jungle Fowl and Pea Fowl.

Table 4: Recorded Number of Faunal Species in Himachal PradeshTaxa Number of species

Mammals 77

Birds 463

Reptiles 44

Fishes 80

Aquatic Fauna 436

The state is endowed with a rich wildlife, and some of the species have witnessedconsiderable increase in population sizes and numbers after a ban on hunting wasimposed in the State. Census figures in respect of some species (mammals and birds)are provided in Table 5. There are, however, lack of authentic data/figures regardinglower groups of species, such as, amphibians, mollusks etc. Soil-borne micro-fauna, forexample, soil nematodes, ciliates etc are also not documented.


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Table 5: Census figures of some wild animals and birds in HPS. No. Census Year Species Numbers

1 Leopard 761

2 Rhesus Macaque 319168

3

June 2004

Hanuman Langur 56986

4 Indian Peafowl 6418

5 Red Jungle Fowl 278486 Kaleej Pheasant 24831

7 Cheer Pheasant 1664

8 Koklas 6533

9 Himalayan Monal 3812

10

May 2005

Western Tragopan 284

3.3 Status of Forests

Forests are the storehouse of the rich biodiversity of the state and are life supportsystems. A recent estimate done during Forest Sector Review in 2000 of direct andindirect values of HPs forests indicated that the total economic value of forest resourcesis around Rs 106,664 crore, not including the Rs 40,860 crore value given to the growingstock. The economic value of HP forests watershed functions appeared to be the singlehighest value, at nearly Rs. 74,000 crore. Forests in HP are legally defined andclassified as forest area under tree cover, dense and open forests. Table 6 gives thegeographical distribution of forests of HP, based on Forest Survey of India report.

Table 6: Geographical Distribution of the Forests of HPForest Area Area Km Percent of

Geographical areaPercent of

Forest Area

Forest Area (Legally defined) 37,033 66.52 100.00

Area under tree cover 13,082 23.50 35.3

Dense forests (Crown density above 40%) 9,120 16.38 24.6

Open Forest (Crown density 10-40%) 3,962 7.12 10.7

Although legally defined forest area is 66%, as per the National Forest Policy, areaunder tree cover is only at about 23%, which is far less than the target of 50%3 set by theState Government. A strikingly positive point from Table 7 is that HP has a higherpercentage of dense forest compared to open forest, which is not seen in many otherstates.

Table 7: Legal Classif ication of ForestManagement Classification Area ( Km ) Percentage

1. Reserved Forests 1896 5.12

2. Demarcated protected Forests 11387 30.75

3. Un-demarcated Protected Forests 21656 58.484. Unclassed Forests 976 2.63

5. Others (managed by Forest Department) 370 1.00

6. Not managed by Forest Department. 748 2.02

Total 37033 100.00

3 50% of the States geographical area


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Table 8 gives the district wise forest cover in the state. Except two districts (Lahul-Spitiand Kinnaur), the proposed road improvement project, covering over 1600 km of roadswill eventually pass through all other districts.

Table 8: Distric t-Wise Forest Area (sq km)Tree covered areaDistrict Geographic

Area of Distr ic t

Legally Classified

forest area Dense Open Total

Percent of

Geographic Area

Bilaspur 1,167 428 65 170 235 20.14

Chamba 6,528 4917 1585 716 2301 35.25

Hamirpur 1,118 219 93 95 188 16.82

Kangra 5,739 2842 1338 301 1639 28.56

Kinnaur 6,401 5093 436 213 649 10.14

Kullu 5,503 4956 1631 343 1974 35.87

Lahaul & Spiti 13,835 10132 34 116 150 1.08

Mandi 3,950 1860 982 557 1539 38.96

Shimla 5,132 3511 1808 582 2390 46.57

Sirmaur 2,825 1843 742 366 1108 39.22

Solan 1,936 728 274 218 492 25.41

Una 1,540 487 132 185 417 27.08Total 55,673 37016 9120 3962 13082 23.50

3.4 Assessment of Forest Types

The forests are unevenly distributed, with some areas having more forests than others.This is expected due to climatic, topographic and altitudinal variations within the state.

An assessment of the various forest types is given in Table 9. These are assessed onthe basis of their distribution, composition and pressures faced.

Table 9: Various Forest Types in HP and their Assessment

Forest Type Area

( Km )

Assessment

1. Tropical DryDeciduous Forests

2,140 Distributed in the lower altitudes in the Shivaliks (lower Montanezone up to 1,000 m).

Main tree species observed are Khair, Siris, Kachnar, Semal,Tun, Mango, Behul, Shisham, Ritha, Tut, Behera & Chil.

This forest has witnessed large-scale degradation in terms ofquality as also reduced distribution due to expansion of industryin some areas of Shivaliks (e.g. Baddi, Nalagarh etc).

High resource extraction, firewood and fodder, along withovergrazing has also led to degradation of habitat quality.

Tropical dry deciduous forests are also facing threats frombiological invasions of exotic species, like Lantana camara,Prosopis juliflora and other common exotic weeds, as a result

natural regeneration is severely affected and species diversity isdecreasing.

2. Tropical ThornForests

43 Distributed in the lower altitudes in the Shivaliks (lower Montanezone up to 1,000 m).

Essentially a sub-set of the tropical dry deciduous forests, butclassified separately due to distinct species composition.

Characteristically trees are missing but some thorny bushestakes shapes of small to medium-sized trees. Main species areZizyphus, Carissa, Balenitis &Acacia leucophloea.


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Forest Type Area( Km )

Assessment

This forest type has also witnessed large-scale degradation,primarily from change in the land-use pattern, as many peopleconsidered such vegetation composition as low productivitywastelands.

3. Sub-Tropical PineForests

3,853

Distributed in the mid altitudes (middle Montane zone - between1,000 to 1,800 m).

Pine is the main species and large tracts of good quality pineforests can be seen as monoculture stands.

Usually, species diversity is less due to pure pine formations. Main species observed include Chir, Alder, Willow, Robinia, Blue

Pine, Toon, Wild Apricot & Celtis. Uncontrolled and man-made (including accidental) fires are a

major hazard for such forest types. These forests have relatively maintained their species

composition, and are less disturbed compared to the deciduousforests of the lower altitudes although in some areas exoticweeds have proliferated, especially after landslides.

4. Sub-Tropical DryEver Green Forests 470

Distributed in the mid altitudes (middle Montane zone - between1,000 to 2,000 m). Patchy and small distribution area with in the mid hills. Main species found are Kachnar, Poplar, Willow, Ohi, Robinia,

Drek, Kail, Chil, Toon, Behmi, Chulli, Vitex, Lolium, Dactylis &Phleum.

Despite unevenly distributed rainfall pattern, the forest maintainsits green cover throughout the year.

5. Himalayan MoistTemperate Forests

4,064 Distributed in the temperate Zone (From 2,000m to 3,000 m) Most widely distributed forests of the HP, chiefly dominated by

the conifers. Main tree species are Deodar, Fir, Spruce, Maple, Ash, Bhoj-

Patra, Horse Chestnut, Alder, Robinia, Poplar & Walnut.

The habitat quality has reduced in some areas with high resourceextraction in terms of firewood. This forest type has also suffered on account of large-scale

illegal tree felling, as most species have high timber value andare needed for industrial and domestic (house construction)purposes (T.D. rights).

Habitat conversion and encroachment, particularly in the apple-growing belt has also reduced its natural extent of distribution.Forests have been cleared and encroached for expanding appleorchards and cultivation of other agricultural crops.

6. Sub-Alpine andAlpine Forests

2,512 Distributed in the alpine zone (above 3,000 m) and is ecologicallyvery important, as it is in these areas that the rivers originatefrom the glaciers.

Vegetation is mostly herbs and shrubs with occasional trees ofthe temperate zone. But largely, the zone is above the tree line.

Main species observed are Birch, Juniper, Cypress, Willow,Saussurea lappa, Cotoneaster microphylla, Artemesia, Festucaarundinacea, Dectylis glomerata, Podophyllum hexandrum,Kutki, Atis etc.

The zone is rich in medicinal plants. Major threats faced by this forest type is overgrazing and

unscientific and rampant extraction of medicinal herbs.


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3.5 Wildlife Issues and Concerns

The State of Himachal has about 66% designated forests, which includes forestsestablished and/or standing on private lands, much of which also supports naturalvegetation and trees as part of traditional agroforestry practices. Such a landscape,

irrespective of the legal designation of the area or ownership rights, provides suitablehabitat for wildlife. The wild fauna, on its part, also does not differentiate between theforest and non-forest areas and, thus, wildlife encounters in the state are frequent,irrespective of the ownership of the land in which the forest is located. This often givesrise to conflicting issues at the human-wildlife interface, especially when land usechanges are observed.

3.5.1 Wildlife-Human Issues Related to Injuries/Loss of Li fe

Many cases of such conflicts where the wild animals, especially Himalayan Black Bearand Leopard, attack cattle or even human beings are reported every year from the state.Though there is a state policy and, therefore, rules to provide financial compensation

where these conflicts result in injury or loss to the life, human-wildlife conflicts arebecoming a major concern for the people as well as the forest department. Table 10gives an overview of the injuries, deaths and compensation paid due to wildlife attackson humans and cattle.

Table 10: Overview of the Injur ies, Deaths and Compensation Paid due to Wildli feAt tacks on Humans and Catt le

Human beings DiedInjury to Human

beingsCattle died

Year

No.Amount paid

(Rs in lacs)No.

Amount paid

(Rs in lacs)No.

Amount paid

(Rs in lacs)

Grand Total

(Rs in lacs)

2000-01 - - 62 1.30 2409 15.82 17.12

2001-02 4 1.00 64 2.65 2557 16.99 20.64

2002-03 5 5.00 93 8.00 1552 13.86 26.86

2003-04 6 6.00 28 5.19 261 1.73 12.92

2004-05 2 2.00 45 5.18 1154 7.71 14.89

2005-06 3 3.00 73 11.06 1096 7.31 21.37

3.5.1 Wildlife-Human Issues Related to Economic Losses

Some of the wild animals including Blue Bull, Wild Boar and Rhesus Macaque, are alsoreported to cause extensive damage to the agricultural crops leading to economic losses

to the farmers. However, there is no provision of compensation for crop damage by wildanimals, which further increases the conflict. Farmers are, however, allowed cropprotection licenses under which they can kill certain animals like Wild Boar, RhesusMacaque in their fields to save their crops from damage. However, such option isseldom availed by the farmers due to procedural complexities or religious sentiments.


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3.6 Measures to Protect Biod iversi ty

The State Government has taken initiatives forin situ conservation of the wide variety offloral and faunal species found in HP. A network of Protected Areas, comprising 2National Parks and 32 Wildlife Sanctuaries has been established. Table 11 gives liststhe PAs of the state along with the important faunal elements found in them. The two NP

cover an area of 1440 sq km, whereas the 32 WLS have a total coverage of 6132 sq km.The total area, thus, covered by the NP and WLS stands at 7572 sq km. The PAs of HPcover all biotic provinces. Two PAs are located in the Trans-Himalayan; 17 PAs inNorthwest Himalayan (west of Sutlej river); 13 PAs in west Himalayas (east of Sutlejriver); and 2 PAs in Semi-Arid zone. No PA is located in Una and Bilaspur districts.

Table 11: Distr ict-wise list of Protected Areas and their Important FaunaS.

No.District Forest

DivisionPA and Area

(sq km)Fauna

1. Naina Devi WLS Sambhar, Wild Boar, Monkey, Goral, Red JungleFowl, Barking Deer, Pea Fowl

2.

Bilaspur Bilasapur

Govind Sagar WLS Egrets, Ducks, Pochards, Mallards etc

3. Gamgul-SiyabehiWLS

Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Goral,Monal, Koklas

4.

Chamba

Kugti WLS Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Leopard,Monal, Koklas, Snow Pheasants

5. Kalatop-KhaijiarWLS

Serow, Goral, Black Bear, Barking Deer, Monal.Koklas

6.

Dalhousie

Tundah WLS Himalayan Tahr. Ibex, Goral, Musk Deer, BrownBear, Black Bear, Martins, Monal, Snow Cock,Koklas, Chukor

7.

Chamba

Pangi Sechu-Tuan NallaWLS

Himalayan Tahr. Musk Deer, Brown Bear, SnowLeopard, Monal, Snow Cock, Chukor, Tragopan

8. Dharamshala Dhauldhar WLS

9. Nurpur/Dehra Pong Dam LakeWLS

Sambhar, Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Partridges

10.

Kangra

Nurpur Bassa-WaziramGame Reserve

Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Sambhar

11. Sangla WLS Bharal, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Black Bear,Monal, Tragopan, Snow Leopard

12.

Nichar

Rupi Bhaba WLS Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Goral, Monal, Koklas,Tragopan

13.

Kinnaur

Pooh Lippa Asrang WLS Ibex, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Chukor, Monal,Tragopan

14. Kanawar WLS Himalayan Tahr. Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Monal,Snow Leopard, Tragopan

15. Sainj WLS Leopard, Black Bear, Kalij, Ibex, Snow Cock

16.

Kullu

Khokhan WLS Black Bear, Musk Deer, Snow Partridges, Monal,Koklas

17.

Kullu

Parabati Kias WLS Musk Deer, Black Bear, Tragopan, Goral


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S.No.

District ForestDivision

PA and Area(sq km)

Fauna

18. Kotagrh Manali WLS Black Bear, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Goral, Monal

19. Seraj Tirthan WLS Himalayan Tahr. Ibex, Musk Deer, Brown Bear,Black Bear, Koklas, Monal, Snow Leopard

20.

Kullu

Parbati Great HimalayanNational Park

Musk Deer, Barking Deer, Snow Cock, Ibex,Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Monal, CheerPheasant, Kalij, Koklas, Black Bear, WesternTragopan

21. Kibber WLS Snow Leopard, Goral, Monal, Koklas

22.

Lanhaul& Spiti

Spiti

Spiti Pin Valley NationalPark

Snow Leopard, Snow Wolf, Chukor, Snow Pigeon,Marmots, Ibex, Snow Cock, Bharal

23. Mandi Nargu WLS Goral, Barking Deer, Serow, Black Bear, MuskDeer, Monal, Kalij

24. Suket/Nachan

Shikari Devi WLS Musk Deer, Serow, Barking Deer, Goral, BlackBear, Monal. Koklas

25.

Mandi

Suket Bandli WLS Goral, Barking Deer, Black Bear, Kalij, Red JungleFowl

26. Shimla Shimla WaterCatchment AreaWLS

Goral, Barking Deer, Koklas, Red Jungle Fowl, Kalij

27. Kotgarh Daranghati I & IIWLS

Goral, Serow, Black Bear, Monal, Kalij, Koklas,Chukor

28.

Shimla

RohrooChopal

Talra WLS Musk Deer, Goral, Black Bear, Panther, Kalij,Koklas, Monal, Chukor

29. Nahan Simabalbara WLS Sambhar, Goral, Cheetal, Nilgai, Barking Deer,Leopard, Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Partridges

30.

Sirmour

Rajgarh Renuka WLS Sambhar, Goral, Barking Deer, Red Jungle Fowl

31. Solan Chail WLS Red Deer, Sambhar, Goral, Barking Deer, RedJungle Fowl, Kalij

32. Majathal WLS Goral, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Panther, Sambhar,Chir Pheasant, Red Jungle Fowl, Chukor, Kallej

33. Daralaghat WLS Barking Deer, Goral, Langoor, Wild Boar, Chukor,Kalij, Red Jungle Fowl

34.

Kunihar

Ghanna Ki HattiGame Reserve

Ghoral, Langour, Barking Deer, Leopard, Kalij,Chukor

35. Shili WLS Goral, Barking Deer, Panther, Kalij, Chukor, BlackPartridges

36.

Solan

Solan

Taradevi Game

Reserve

Barking Deer, Kalij, Red Jungle Fowl

37. Sirmour/Shimla

Renuka/Chopal

Churdhar WLS Goral, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, Panther, BlackBear, Monal, Koklas, Kalij, Chukor


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4 Methodology

The present BIA report is based on rapid assessments, involving a review of secondaryinformation, research reports, departmental documents, forest working plans, on sitestakeholder consultations, interactions with forest officials using pre-designedquestionnaires, ecological sampling techniques involving line transects and quadrates

and visual observations etc. Direct sightings, presence of indirect evidences (dung, footmarks etc) and stakeholder accounts were considered while recordingpresence/absence of wild animals.

4.1Reconnaissance Survey

Reconnaissance survey of the proposed road corridors was conducted by travelingalong the proposed road alignment, recording the major habitat types, recording thevegetation composition and wildlife diversity, particularly, occurrence of any red-listedplant or animal species along the road corridor. Field survey of the critical wildlifehabitats highlighted during stakeholder consultations and short-listed from secondarysources was carried out and assessment of the wildlife and floral status made through a

stratified sampling design. This was necessitated due to the short working period andthe time of the year when most of the broad-leaved trees, shrubs and herbaceous florawas without leaves. Line transects were laid along the road corridors and floral diversityrecorded in randomly laid Quadrats (25m x 4 m) along these line transacts. Theherbaceous flora was recorded in sub-quadrats (5m x 2m) laid at the beginning and theend of the main quadrat. Field data was recorded in specially designed formats.Information related to occurrence of any specific habitat, key-stone species and signs ofwildlife, etc. was also recorded during these surveys.

4.2 Stakeholders Workshop & Consultative Meetings

A stakeholders Consultative Workshop was organised at Shimla on 14 December 2006

and issues related to biodiversity and wildlife impacts due to the roads project werediscussed. A number of issues of concern cropped up during the discussions andrecommendations for mitigation of these concerns were made. Copy of the proceedings& recommendations of the workshop is appended at Annex-2. Views of the local people,road users and field staff of Forest department were also recorded during the survey ofthese roads on the basis of a semi-structured questionnaire specially designed for thework through one to one interactions either in person or over telephone. Summary ofresponses by foresters, villagers and road users are appended as Annex 3.

4.3 Compilation and Analysis

Data collected during stakeholder interactions was collated and clubbed into major

groups. The information was then used while describing the wildlife movement andsuggesting mitigation measures. Similarly, the floristic data collected during vegetationrecording was collated and the major vegetation formations at various locations ofsurvey worked out. This information has been used and portrayed while describing theforest/ vegetation details along each road corridor. The information collected from thefield forms the basis of bringing out likely impacts of the roads project on biodiversity andin suggesting mitigation measures.


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5 Key Findings Ecolog ical/Floral/Faunal Features Along Roads

5.1 Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road

An old pilgrim road that provides connectivity from Nangal in Punjab to Amb andthereafter to the temple places of Chintapurni and Jawalaji in Himachal Pradesh serving

pilgrims and other visitors from as far places as Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, etc. Theroad witnesses heavy traffic during festival seasons and during congregations at one orthe other temple places.

5.1.1 Key Findings from Ecological/Biological Survey

The road passes through the Shivalik foothills with agriculture and private scrub lands asthe major land use type in the area. There is neither any Protected Area nor any legallyclassified forest land along the road or in its zone of influence4. However, there are anumber of places along the road corridor where biodiversity values are high andsuch areas would need to be protected during construction and operationalphases of road development. A list of such places, likely project impacts and their

mitigation measures for the Mehatpur-Una-Amb road is provided in Chapter 6. Thearea along the road is characterized by the following type of vegetation:

Strip plantations along road: Most of the road length is lined with plantation ofavenue trees, which are designated as protected forests.

- Eucalyptus sp and Populus deltoids planted in a single row form the majoravenue plantation along the road. Being about 50 years old5, these areperceived as threat to life and property by the local people, as at many placesthese have already fallen due to rot and heavy winds. As far as biodiversityissues are concerned, both these species are exotic and do not make part ofthe native biodiversity, or support any significant undergrowth.

- Native species that are planted as avenue include Mangifera indica,

Terminalia arjuna, Bombax ceiba, Albizzia procera, Ficus religiosa, Ficusbenghalensis, Morus alba, Dalbergia sissoo, Syzygium cumini and Acacianilotica. Most of these good canopy trees provide good shelter and nestingplaces to the avifauna and other arboreal animals. Fungal infestations havekilled many Dalbergia sissoo andAcacia nilotica trees and many are showingsigns of progressive dying.

- Generally along the road side the herbaceous flora is poor and chieflycomprises of common weedy species, such as, Sida acuta, Achyranthesaspera, Barleria cristata, Dicliptera sp, Xanthium strumarium, Solanumnigrum, Solanum surattense, Boerhavia diffusa, etc.

Miscellaneous scrub forest: The road at some places touches the Shivaliks

passing through undulating terrain bearing miscellaneous scrub forest vegetation justoutside Una and between Dusada and Amb. Species composition comprises mainlyof Acacia catechu, Dendrocalamus strictus, Mallotus philippinensis, Zizyphusnummularia, Murraya koenigii, Dodonea viscosa, Anogeissus pendula, Cordiadichotoma, Bombax ceiba, Cryptolepis buchanani, Riccinus communis, Cynadon

4 As told by DFO Una during stakeholder consultations5 As told local inhabitants and road side traders during stakeholder consultations


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dactylon, Vitiveria zizynioides, Rumex sp, Cannabis sativa, Jasminum sp, Lantanacamara, Parthenium hysterophorus etc. These miscellaneous scrubs are goodhabitat for Blue Bull, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Jackal and Leopard 6.

Grassy Flood Plains: The tract is characterized by the presence of a number ofChos (natural drainage lines) that overflow during rainy season inundating large

areas adjoining the streams. Moreover, the Chos also brings and deposit silt andpebbles in these areas. Repeated inundation has resulted in formation of extensivegrassy plains along the Chos. These grassy patches provide a good edge andgrazing ground for blue bull and wild boar, as well as provide a habitat for smallmammals.

Agricu lture Fields : The area supports good agriculture with most of the areacultivated under two-crop system alternating between rabi and kharif crops.Mustard, Wheat, Maize, Sugarcane and Rice7 are major crops along the roads.Important tree species grown as traditional agro-forestry practices include Morusalba, Dalbergia sissoo, Acacia nilotica, Terminalia bellirica, Celtis australis,Mangifera indica,Albizzia lebbek and Syzygium cuminii. These occasionally provide

a continuum of tree line from the road end to the miscellaneous scrub tracts in theadjoining areas and as such provide shelter and nesting places to the avifauna andarboreal animals.

A check list of plants observed during the survey on this road (within and outside thequadrates) is given in Table 12. List of fauna observed/reported from the region (andpossible to site along the road) is given in Table 15.

5.1.2 Key findings from Quadrate Data Analysis

No threatened (endangered and/or vulnerable) and endemic plant species wereobserved in the direct impact zone of this road.

Some species (Ageratum conyzoides, Dicliptera bupleuroides, Sida acuta andXanthium strumarium) are wide-spread throughout the road segment, as is reflectedfrom their frequency (100%). However, these are wayward weeds and commonplants distributed throughout the northern Indian plains, low hills and the centralIndian highlands.

The high frequency, density and abundance measures for the roadside weeds andother common plants are a reflection of the disturbed state of the forest areas.

The density for tree species is lower (range bound from 1.0 to 2.7) for this area, aslargely there is mixed land use along the road (semi-urban, commercial andagricultural) with little natural forest. On the other hand, herbaceous and shrubbyspecies show higher density (1.3 to 14.0 and 1.3 to 6.5 respectively) due to thespread of scrublands and thorny scrub forests. Such forest types are characteristic of

this region and climate.

Table 12 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of theplant species found in and outside the quadrates.

6 Not very common7 Only where water is plenty


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The Louis Berger Group Inc.

Table 12: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details , Conservation Status a(Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road)

S. No. Species Frequency(%)

Densit y Abundance RLF Conservat ionStatus

WlisteDa

1. Abutilon indicum 40 0.5 1.3 Herb Not Threatened

2. Acacia catechu 60 1.5 2.5 Tree Not Threatened

3. Achyranthus aspera 90 6.4 7.1 Herb Not Threatened

4. Adhatoda vasica 70 3.9 5.6 Shrub Not Threatened

5. Aerua sanguinolenta 30 0.4 1.3 Shrub Not Threatened

6. Ageratum conyzoides 100 14.4 14.4 Herb Not Threatened

7. Barleria cariatata 80 3.2 4.0 Herb Not Threatened

8. Bauhinia variegata 10 0.1 1.0 Tree Not Threatened

9. Bombax ceiba 30 0.7 2.3 Tree Not Threatened

10. Carissa carendus 90 5 5.6 Shrub Not Threatened

11. Cassia fistula 20 0.2 1.0 Tree Not Threatened

12. Cissampelos pareira 40 0.9 2.3 Climber Not Threatened

13. Cordia dichotoma 30 0.6 2.0 Tree Not Threatened

14. Cryptolepis buchanain 30 0.9 3.0 Climber Not Threatened

15. Dalbergia sissoo 20 0.5 2.5 Tree Not Threatened

16. Dicliptera bupleuroides 100 5 5.0 Herb Not Threatened

17. Eupatorium species 50 4.4 8.8 Herb Not Threatened

18. Ficus palmate 20 0.2 1.0Tree

Not Threatened19. Ficus religiosa 30 0.3 1.0 Tree Not Threatened

20. Lantana camara 60 1.3 2.2 Shrub Not Threatened

21. Mallotus phillipensis 60 1.6 2.7 Tree Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

22. Malva parviflora 50 2.6 5.2 Shrub Not Threatened

23. Morus alba 30 0.5 1.7 Tree Not Threatened

24. Murraya koenigii 60 2.1 3.5 Shrub Not Threatened

25. Phoenix sylvestris 20 0.3 1.5 Tree Not Threatened

26. Sida acuta 100 4.8 4.8 Herb Not Threatened

27. Tinospora cordiolia 40 0.4 1.0 Climber Not Threatened

28. Urena lobata 50 1.8 3.6 Shrub Not Threatened

29. Xanthium strumarium 100 4 4.0 Shrub Not Threatened

30. Zizyphus mauritiana 40 2.6 6.5 Shrub Not Threatened

Other plants observed during the survey but not recorded from the quadrate

31. Acacia nilotica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

32. Albizzia procera -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

33. Boerhavia diffusa -- -- -- Herb Not Threatened

34. Celtis australis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

35. Datura stramonium -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

36. Dodonia viscosa -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

37. Eucalyptus sp. -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

38. Euphorbia royleana -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

39. Ficus benghalensis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

40. Ficus rumphii -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

41. Jasminum dispermum -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

42. Mangifera indica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

43. Populus deltoidea -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

44. Solanum nigrum -- -- -- Herb Not Threatened

45. Solanum surattense -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

46. Terminalia arjuna -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

47. Terminalia bellirica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

48. Terminalia chebula -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened


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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 1.0842 (Shannon H LogBase 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from withinthe quadrates during the survey. This value is indicating that the few identified foresthabitat patches harbour good biodiversity in terms of species richness and distributionwithin the forests. Such identified patches need to be protected during the constructionand operational phase of the roads.

5.1.3 Key Findings from Stakeholder Discussions

Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holdingdirect discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held onthe Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity.Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2.

A summary of responses of various stakeholders are provided in Annex 3 and keyfindings are mentioned below:

Local people are of the view that the old avenue plantations of Eucalypts andPoplars should be removed, as they are becoming hazards for traffic and life.

Some farmers along the roads have seen Blue Bull and Wild Boar crossing the roadin search of water and food.

Local residents could not confirm frequent animal-hits due to vehicles. Most common animals sighted along the road are Monkeys (in large troupes),

Jackals (packs of two to three) and solitary or four to five Blue Bulls (during dusk anddawn).

The DFO Una and other residents informed that due to good visibility along the road,slow traffic speed and agility of monkeys allow them to escape collisions withvehicles.


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5.2 Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road

This is a very old erstwhile Hoshiarpur - Jahu road section linking Jahu, the last town inthe pre-independence Punjab bordering Mandi state, with Hoshiarpur in Punjab. In therecent times, this extended road has assumed significance as an alternative route toMandi.


The road passes through the Shivalik hills and the doons (valleys) between theShivaliks and the outer Himalayas. No Protected Wildlife Area or Reserve Forest fallsalong the road or in its zone of influence. However, there are a number of placesalong the road corridor where biodiversity values are high and such areas wouldneed to be protected during construction and operational phases of roaddevelopment. A list of such places, likely project impacts and their mitigationmeasures for the Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk road is provided under section 6.The characteristic vegetation complexes observed along the road are as follows:

Miscellaneous Scrub: The characteristic miscellaneous scrub of Shivaliks, startsimmediately outside Una as the road cuts through the remnants of privately ownedlower hills. The scrub becomes prominent as it enters the regular undulating terrain.Species composition is mainly of thorny species like Acacia catechu, Zizyphusmauritiana, Aegle marmelos, Carissa opaca, Randia dumetorum, Flacaurtiaramontchi,Mallotus philippinensis, Murraya koenigii, Dodonea viscosa, Woodfordiafloribunda, Euphorbia royleana, Adhatoda vasica and Cryptolepis buchanani. BushesofLantana camara has encroached the habitat in a number of places but in someplaces composition of palatable grasses is good.

Tropical Dry Deciduous Mixed Forest: The scrub gradually transforms into averdant patch of mixed deciduous forest as at about 9 kilometres from Una on Una-

Badsar section and continues till the boundary of Una and Hamirpur districts nearBadsar. The typical dominant species of this habitat includesAnogeissus latifolia andAcacia catechu. Some of the other prominent associate species are Cassia fistula,Bombax ceiba, Mallotus philipensis, Butea monosperma, Lannea grandis, Ehretialaevis, Ougenia dalbergioides, Wrightia tomentosa, Flacourtia ramontchi, Aeglemarmelos, Oroxylum indicum, Acacia modesta, Litsea chinensis, Wendenlandiaexcelsa, Loranthus longiflorus, Grewia oppositifolia, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii,Carissa carandas, Woodfordia floribunda, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Dodonea viscosa,Adhatoda vasica, Zizyphus mauritiana, Bauhinia vahlii, Murraya koenigii, Holarhennaantidysentrica, Puereria tuberosa, Cryptolepis buchanani, Clematis gauriana,Cuscuta reflexa, Kydia calycina, Syzygium cumini and Jasminum sp. Somemedicinal important herbs recorded from this area include Plumbago zeylanica,

Barleria cristata, Tinospora cordifolia and Asparagus racemosus.

Montane Sub-Tropical Pine Forests: As the altitude increases and cooler nichesare found, especially at locations where the basic rock formation is of lime and sandstone, almost pure stands of Pinus roxburghii replace the mixed dry deciduousforests. Acacia catechu, Terminalia chebula, Mallotus philipensis, Albizziaodoratissima, Syzygium cumini, Pyrus pashia, Phyllanthus emblica and Toona ciliatamake scattered associates ofPinus roxburghii. The forest floor is generally devoid ofground cover. However, along depressions, water courses and along forest edges,


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there is good ground cover consisting of Carissa carandas, Murraya koenigii,Achyranthes aspera, Dioscorea sp, Cryptolepis buchanani, Solanum sp, Barleriacristata, Rubus ellipticus and diverse grasses. At places Pinus roxburghii forestsshow signs of forest fires and felling to meet the demands of right holders.

Avenue Plantations: Where the road is not passing through designated forest area,the road is lined with avenue plantations ofMangifera indica8, Ficus religiosa, Ficus

benghalensis, Eucalyptus sp etc. Trees older than100 year have formed large andspreading canopies that provide good shelter and nesting places to the avifauna.

Agricu lture Fields: Wherever, the road passes through the valley portion, there aregood agricultural fields along both sides of the road. Most farmlands have trees onfarm bunds and fallow lands (technically recorded as Charagah Darakhtan MalkiatSarkar). The important tree species grown as traditional agroforestry practicesinclude Toona ciliata, Grewia optiva,Morus alba, Terminalia bellirica, Celtis australisand a few others. These tree species mainly form a ready source of leaf fodder,small timber and fuel to the land owners and at a few locations also provide acontinuum of tree line from the road end to the broad-leaved and Pine forests in theadjoining areas.



No threatened (endangered and/or vulnerable) and endemic plant species wereobserved in the direct impact zone of this road.

The frequencies are range-bound from 4.76% to 52.38%, with Asparagusracamosus, Bauhinia vahlii, Hymenodictyon excelsum, Myrsine Africana, Nyctanthusarbor-tristis and Randia dumentorum having the lowest frequencies and Murraya

koenigii having the highest value. Along this road, shrubs were abundant, as the lower Shiwaliks abound in bushy

growth. Whereas, higher up in sub-temperate zones, mostly Pinus roxburghii or theChir pine forests are present, which do not allow luxuriant undergrowth.

Murraya koenigii has the highest frequency and density on this road stretch, but isnot the most abundant plant, indicating its uneven distribution across the landscape.

The distribution of species, as indicated by their quantitative phytosociologicalprofiles, indicate a diverse community with uneven spread of species populations.

Table 13 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of theplant species found in the quadrates.

8Local enquiries reveal that the mango trees are more than seventy year old


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Table 13: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details , Conservation Status a(Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road)


Density Abundance RLF ConservationStatus

WlisteDa

1. Acacia catechu 23.81 0.76 3.20 Tree Not Threatened

2. Achyranthus aspera 38.10 1.57 4.13 Herb Not Threatened

3. Adhatoda vasica 47.62 1.67 3.50 Shrub Not Threatened

4. Ageratum 47.62 2.57 5.40 Herb Not Threatened

5. Anogeissus latifolia 19.05 0.52 2.75 Tree Not Threatened

6. Asparagus racamosus 4.76 0.10 2.00 Climber Not Threatened

7. Barleria cristata 14.29 0.57 4.00 Herb Not Threatened

8. Bauhinia vahlii 4.76 0.10 2.00 Climber Not Threatened

9. Bombax ceiba 9.52 0.10 1.00 Tree Not Threatened

10. Carissa carendus 42.86 2.71 6.33 Shrub Not Threatened

11. Cassia fistula 19.05 0.38 2.00 Tree Not Threatened

12. Crataeva adansonii 9.52 0.14 1.50 Tree Not Threatened

13. Cryptolepis buchanain 23.81 0.43 1.80 Climber Not Threatened

14. Dendrocalamus strictus 14.29 0.24 1.67 Bamboo Not Threatened

15. Dioscorea sp 9.52 0.19 2.00 Climber Not Threatened

16. Eupatorium sp 33.33 1.86 5.57 Herb Not Threatened

17. Euphorbia sp 19.05 1.71 9.00 Herb Not Threatened

18. Ferns 19.05 1.52 8.00 Herb Not Threatened

19. Flacourtia ramontchi 33.33 0.86 2.57 Shrub Not Threatened

20. Flemengia sp 19.05 0.57 3.00 Herb Not Threatened

21.Hymenodictyonexcelsum 4.76 0.10 2.00 Shrub Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

22. Jasminium sp 9.52 0.19 2.00 Shrub Not Threatened

23. Kydia calycina 9.52 0.14 1.50 Tree Not Threatened

24. Lantena camara 33.33 1.52 4.57 Shrub Not Threatened

25. Mallotus phillipensis 19.05 0.71 3.75 Tree Not Threatened

26. Murraya koenigii 52.38 3.90 7.45 Shrub Not Threatened

27. Myrsine Africana 4.76 0.05 1.00 Shrub Not Threatened

28. Nyctanthus arbor-tristis 4.76 0.19 4.00 Tree Not Threatened

29.Partheniumhysterophorus 33.33 2.14 6.43 Herb Not Threatened

30. Pinus roxburghii 23.81 0.48 2.00 Tree Not Threatened

31. Randia dumentorum 4.76 0.05 1.00 Herb Not Threatened

32. Rumex hastatus 19.05 2.62 13.75 Herb Not Threatened

33. Solanum nigrum 28.57 0.90 3.17 Shrub Not Threatened

34. Syzygium cuminii 14.29 0.19 1.33 Tree Not Threatened

35. Tinospora cordifolia 23.81 0.29 1.20 Climber Not Threatened

36. Woodfordia floribunda 14.29 0.29 2.00 Shrub Not Threatened

37. Xanthium strumarium 19.05 0.90 4.75 Shrub Not Threatened

38. Zizyphus mauritiana 9.52 0.14 1.50 Shrub Not Threatened


39. Acacia modesta -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

40. Acacia nilotica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

41. Aegle marmelos -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

42. Albizzia odoratissima -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

43. Albizzia procera -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

44. Boerhavia diffusa -- -- -- Herb Not Threatened

45. Butea monosperma -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened


47. Clematis gauriana -- -- -- Climber Not Threatened

48. Cuscuta reflexa -- -- -- Climber Not Threatened

49. Datura stramonium -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

50. Dodonia viscosa -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

51. Ehretia laevis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

52. Eucalyptus sp. -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

53. Euphorbia royleana -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

54. Ficus benghalensis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

55. Ficus glomerata -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

56. Ficus religiosa -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

57. Ficus rumphii -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

58. Grewia optiva -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

59.

Holarhennaantidysenterica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

60. Lannea grandis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

61. Litsea chinensis -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

62. Mangifera indica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened63. Oroxylum indicum -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

64. Ougenia dalbergiodes -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

65. Plumbago javanica -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

66. Populus deltoidea -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

67. Puereria tuberosa -- -- -- Climber Not Threatened

68. Rubus ellipticus -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

69. Solanum nigrum -- -- -- Herb Not Threatened

70. Terminalia arjuna -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

71. Terminalia bellirica -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

72. Terminalia chebula -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

73. Toona ciliata -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened


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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 0.0777 (Shannon H LogBase 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from withinthe quadrates during the survey. This value is slightly lower than expected and perhapsa reflection that the distribution of individuals of a species found within the quadrates ismore evenly arranged in the landscape. This is expected, as large parts of the forests onthis road are pine forests, which are mostly homogenous in pattern. Not withstanding the

Shannon value, certain identified forest habitat patches indeed harbour good biodiversityin terms of species richness and distribution within the forests and should be buffered,through the mitigation measures suggested, from project impacts during the constructionand operational phase of the roads.


Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holdingdirect discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held onthe Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity.Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2.


Generally, the road side population was in favour of improving the road conditions.The bus, truck and commercial vehicle drivers were particularly interested in cuttingtraveling time and improve ride quality.

Forest officers posted at Bhamla check post reported that wildlife movement,including that of leopard and Sambar is observed in the area.

Local residents could not confirm frequent animal-hits due to vehicles. However,DFO Wildlife (Hamirpur) shared that vehicle-wildlife hit cases are reported only fornon-edible animals. Edible animals are taken away by either drivers or locals andare, therefore, not reported.

Local people close to forest patches (scrub and tropical dry deciduous) reportedsightings of many wild animals and occasionally of small mammals.

Some of the residents were of the view that road improvement on this sector,particularly from Jahu to Nerchowk is long-overdue.


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5.3 Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road

This is an important road, as it connects the apple growing areas of Kotkhai, Jubbal,Rohru etc to the markets and, therefore, requires faster transportation of perishablefruits. The road bears heavy traffic during the apple season and most vehicles plying atthe time are trucks.


This is a hill road passing through ridges and river valleys and traverses through someundisturbed temperate forest patches and moderate to severe cold climatic zone. Onthis road section there are a number of places along the road corridor wherebiodiversity values are high and such areas would need to be protected duringconstruction and operational phases of road development. A list of such places,likely project impacts and their mitigation measures for the Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru road is provided in Section 6. There are a number of orchardslocated on this road. Parts of road pass through areas that receive snow. The majorvegetation types observed along the road are as follows:

Grasslands: Locally called as ghasini, these are located on the steep slopes with afew scattered and interspersed woody perennials and were seen primarily on theTheog Chhaila section. Most of these are privately owned and protected for fodder.The woody perennials in these grassy slopes include Pinus roxburghii, Prunusarmeniaca, Pyrus pashia, Morus alba, Berberis aristata, Prinsepia utilis, Elaeagnusumbellata, Rosa moschata, Hypericum etc. The scrubby plants provide shelter toChukors, Partridges, Red Jungle Fowl and Kaleej pheasant common bird speciesof these slopes.

Agricu lture Fields : From Chhaila to Premnagar, the road passes through privateareas, most of which have been converted into terraced agricultural fields or

orchards. Along the commercial crops raised in the terraces, the farmers maintain anumber of miscellaneous tree species along the terrace bunds. These speciesprovide firmness to the bunds and also form a source of small timber, fuel wood,fodder and sometimes fruit. Major native tree species used are Ficus roxburghii,Toona ciliata, Grewia optiva and Celtis australis. Off-season vegetables are alsogrown, including tomato, cabbage and cauliflower.

Orchards: There are a number of orchards between Kotkhai and Gazta. Mostly theorchards are of apple, but other fruits are also grown in some orchards. Many applegrowers also take crops of potato within the orchards.

Riparian Habitats: Mostly located below the road corridor and a little distance away

along the course of rive Giri. Such habitats support good stands ofAlnus nitida with afew trees ofSalix tetrasperma.

Coniferous Forests: These are typical temperate forests with diverse conifers. Mainspecies found include Pinus wallichina, Pinus roxburgii, Pinus gerardiana, Piceasmithiana, Abies pindrow, Abies spectablis, Cedrus deodara, Taxus baccata etc.Ecologically these forests are very important as they constitute the catchments of thegreater Himalayan ranges. They are also habitats for a range of wild animalsincluding the Himalayan Black Bear, Ibex and a number of pheasants. A number of


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important woody perennials like Berberis aristata, Berberis lycium, Rubus ellipticus,Lonicera quinquelocularis, Cotoneaster bacillaris, Viburnum grandiflora, Prinsepiautilis, Daphne cannabina, Vitis himalayana, Rosa moschata, Hedera helix, Ajugaparviflora, Jurinea macrocephala, Aconitum heterophyllum, Angelica glauca,Chaerophyllum villosum, Polygonatum sp, Dactylorhiza hatageria and Morchelaesculenta etc are also found in theses forests.

Broad-Leaved Forests: Observed below the road from Nihari to Garog diversionbearing Quercus dilatata, Prunus cornuta, Populus ciliate andAesculus indica with afew scattered trees ofCedrus deodara and Pinus wallichiana.



Only one endangered plant species, namely, Taxus wallichiana was observed along

the road. This is the most diverse and species rich road corridor of the three proposed roads

for up-gradation and improvement with as many as 17 tree species recorded fromthe quadrates.

The minimum frequency observed is just 5% forAbies pindrow, Astilbe Sp, Berginiaciliate, Carpinus viminea, Thalictrum foliolosum and Valeriana hardwickii. Themaximum frequency observed is for Picea smithiana at 85%. Fragaria vasica, aHimalayan herb species is having maximum density (4.65), as compared to thelowest density of (0.05) shared byAbies pindrow and Carpinus vminea.

Tree diversity is relatively higher in this road corridor, as the road traverse throughmixed broad-leaved forests to temperate forests with diverse conifers along the way.

Also with respect to species richness, this road corridor is the richest of the three

(250 km roads). The vegetation complexes in the form of long and contiguous stretches of forests

(including both government and private forestlands) constitute important watershedareas of the region and are, therefore, eco-sensitive in nature.

Table 14 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of theplant species found in the quadrates.


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Table 14: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details , Conservation Status a(Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road)


Density Abundance RLF Conservat ionStatus

WlisteDa

1. Abies pindrow 5 0.05 1 Tree Not Threatened

2. Acer caesium 25 0.35 1.4 Tree Not Threatened

3. Adiantum 25 1 4 Herb Not Threatened

4. Aesculus indica 15 0.15 1 Tree Not Threatened

5. Ainselia aptera 25 3.15 12.6 Herb Not Threatened

6. Ajuga parviflora 30 0.85 2.83 Herb Not Threatened

7. Alnus nitida 20 0.6 3 Tree Not Threatened

8. Aster sp 20 1.5 7.5 Herb Not Threatened

9. Astilbe Sp 5 0.1 2 Herb Not Threatened

10. Berberis aristata 20 0.55 2.75 Shrub Not Threatened

11. Berberis lycium 20 0.65 3.25 Shrub Not Threatened

12. Berginia ciliata 5 0.25 5 Herb Not Threatened

13. Calenthe tricarinata 10 0.9 9 Herb Not Threatened

14. Campanula colorata 25 1.4 5.6 Herb Not Threatened

15. Carpinus viminea 5 0.05 1 Tree Not Threatened

16. Cedrus deodara 30 0.5 1.67 Tree Not Threatened

17.Chaerophyllumvillosum 10 0.4 4 Herb Not Threatened

18. Clematis sp 15 0.6 4 Climber Not Threatened

19. Corylus columa 40 0.5 1.25 Tree Not Threatened

20. Cotoneaster bacillaris 15 0.6 4 Shrub Not Threatened

21. Daphne cannabina 10 0.3 3 Shrub Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

22. Desmodium sp 5 0.15 3 Shrub Not Threatened

23. Deutzia corymbosa 25 0.6 2.4 Shrub Not Threatened

24. Deutzia staminea 20 0.45 2.25 Shrub Not Threatened

25. Dioscorea deltoidea 15 0.3 2 Climber Not Threatened

26. ferns 20 4.35 21.75 Herb Not Threatened

27. Ficus sp 25 0.4 1.6 Climber Not Threatened

28. Fragaria indica 20 0.75 3.75 Herb Not Threatened

29. fragaria Vasca 30 4.65 15.5 Herb Not Threatened

30. Galium sp 30 6 20 Herb Not Threatened

31.Geraniumwallichianum 20 1.4 7 Herb Not Threatened

32. Girardinia heterophylla 25 0.6 2.4 Herb Not Threatened

33. Hedera helix 35 2.9 8.29 Climber Not Threatened

34. Hypericum sp 5 0.1 2 Shrub Not Threatened

35. Ilex dipyrena 15 0.75 5 Tree Not Threatened

36. Indigofera Sp 5 0.15 3 Shrub Not Threatened

37. Juglans regia 10 0.15 1.5 Tree Not Threatened

38. Picea smithiana 85 2.8 3.29 Tree Not Threatened

39. Pinus wallichiana 65 1.65 2.54 Tree Not Threatened

40. Plectranthus sp 20 0.65 3.25 Herb Not Threatened

41. Primula sp 15 0.8 5.33 Herb Not Threatened

42. Princepia utilis 15 0.75 5 Shrub Not Threatened

43. Prunus cornuta 30 0.4 1.33 Tree Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

44. Pyrus pashia 15 0.45 3 Tree Not Threatened

45. Quercus dilatata 65 1.2 1.85 Tree Not Threatened

46.Quercusleucotrichophora 40 0.85 2.125 Tree Not Threatened

47.Rhododendronarboreum 25 0.6 2.4 Tree Not Threatened

48. Rosa moschata 15 0.45 3 Climber Not Threatened

49. Rubus ellipticus 25 0.8 3.2 Shrub Not Threatened

50. Rubus niveus 20 0.55 2.75 Shrub Not Threatened

51. Sarracoca Saligna 10 2.65 26.5 Shrub Not Threatened

52. Smilax sp 15 0.65 4.33 Climber Not Threatened

53. Taraxacum officinale 25 1.55 6.2 Herb Not Threatened

54. Taxus wallichiana 25 0.55 2.2 Tree Endangered

55. Thalictrum foliolosum 5 0.2 4 Herb Not Threatened

56. Valeriana hardwickii 5 0.15 3 Herb Not Threatened

57. Valeriana jatamansii 25 2.9 11.6 Herb Not Threatened

58. Vibernum grandiflora 50 2.2 4.4 Shrub Not Threatened

59. Viola sp 10 1.1 11 Herb Not Threatened

60. Vitis himalayana 10 0.2 2 Climber Not Threatened


61. Ailanthus excelsa -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened 62. Arundinaria falcata -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened


64. Elaeagnus umbellata -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened


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WlisteDa

65. Ficus palmata -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

66. Ficus roxburghii -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

67. Grevia optiva -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

68.

Loniceraquinquelocularis -- -- -- Shrub Not Threatened

69. Prunus armeniaca -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

70. Prunus cerasoides -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

71. Punica granatum -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

72. Pyrus malus -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

73. Robinia pseudacacia -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

74. Salix tetrasperma -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened 75. Toona ciliata -- -- -- Tree Not Threatened

76. Ulmus wallichiana Tree Not Threatened

77. Urtica dioica Herb Not Threatened


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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 0.97575 (Shannon H LogBase 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from withinthe quadrates during the survey. This value is a reasonable value indicating goodspecies richness and suggests that the species are evenly distributed among the foresthabitats. Field observations also corroborate this value, as the coniferous forests of theregion are contiguous and spread over a large area with more or less even distribution of

species among them. Identified forest habitats on this road harbour good biodiversity, asthey are also home for a variety of wild animals and birds. These intact forests shouldnot be fragmented due to road construction and, therefore, on this road realignmentswould need to be carefully worked out. Widening of existing roads is not expected tofragment the habitat much. This rich biodiverse areas, as identified, should be bufferedagainst the construction and operational phase impacts of the project, as per themitigation plan and strategies given.


Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holdingdirect discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held on

the Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity.Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2.


1. Local inhabitants and forest managers shared that pheasants are the mostcommonly seen birds along the road.

2. Kaleej and Red Jungle Fowl are commonly encountered between Kotkhai and Gaztain the mornings, the Koklas and Monal pheasants are sometimes encounteredbetween Gazta and Kharapathar in the evenings.

3. Truck drivers were very pleased that efforts are being made to improve the road. 4. Apple growers were also pleased that the road along the orchards would beimproved that will help them send the produce to the market in time.

5. Near Kharapathar some people informed that Black Bear occasionally attack cattleand there are some reports of humans being attacked by it.

5.4 Faunal Diversity on the Three Roads (250 km)

The proposed road improvement project on the three roads (250 km) will impact thewildlife found/reported along the roads. Table 15 lists the fauna found/reported along thethree roads (250 km) and also gives their conservation status and whether the speciesenjoys protection under the Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Mitigation

measures are provided under section 6 (6.1 to 6.4) to minimize the project impact on theregions diverse fauna.


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Table 15: Biodiversity Aspects of Faunal Species (Mammals, Birds and Observed Along the Three Road Corridors

S.No.

Species Una AmbRoad

Una Nerchowk

Road

Theog RohruRoad

IUCNConserva

StatuMammals

1. Indian Fox -- Lower Ris2. Black Bear -- Vulnerabl

3. Blue Bull Lower Ris4. Blue Sheep -- -- Lower Ris

5. Brown Bear -- -- Vulnerabl6. Five Stripped Palm Squirrel Common

7. Ghoral Lower Ris8. Grey Mongoose -- Common 9. Hanuman Langur Common

10. House Mouse Common 11. House Rat Common

12. Ibex -- -- Vulnerabl13. Indian Hare -- Common

14. Indian Muntjac Lower Ris15. Jackal Lower Ris16. Leopard Lower Ris

17. Musk Deer -- -- Lower Ris18. Porcupine Lower Ris

19. Rhesus Macaque Common 20. Sambar -- Lower Ris

21. Short-Tailed Bandicoot -- Common 22. Swamp Deer Vulnerabl23. Wild Boar Lower Ris

24. Yellow Throated Marten -- Common

Reptiles

25. Cobra Common 26. Garden Lizard Common

27. House Gecko Common 28. Krait Common


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S.No.

Species Una AmbRoad

Una Nerchowk

Road

Theog RohruRoad

IUCNConserva

Statu

29. Pit Viper Common

30. Rock Lizard Common

Birds31. Ashy wren warbler -- Common 32. Bank myna -- Common 33. Barn owl Common

34. Bay backed shrike Common 35. Black drongo Common

36. Black red start Common 37. Black shouldered kite -- Common

38. Black stilt -- Common 39. Blossom headed parakeet Common 40. Blue throated barbet -- Common

41. Bush chat Common

42. Cattle egret

Common 43. Chestnut shouldered petrunia -- Common

44. Chir pheasant -- Common

45. Chukor -- Common 46. Common iora -- Common

47. Common myna Common 48. Common peafowl Rare 49. Common rock chat Common

50. Common tailor bird Common 51. Coppersmith barbet Common

52. Coucal Common 53. Egyptian vulture Common

54. Eurasian griffon Rare

55. Flame backed woodpecker Common 56. Green bee eater Common

57. Grey francolin -- Rare 58. Grey heron -- Common

59. Grey tit Common 60. Hill partridge -- Rare


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S.No.

Species Una AmbRoad

Una Nerchowk

Road

Theog RohruRoad

IUCNConserva

Statu

61. Hoopoe Common

62. House crow Common

63. Indian hornbill -- Common 64. Indian ring dove Common 65. Indian robin Common 66. Indian roller -- Common

67. Indian tree pie Common 68. Jungle babbler Common

69. Jungle crow Common 70. Kaleej pheasant -- Common

71. Koel Common 72. Large billed crow -- -- Common 73. Little blue kingfisher -- Common

74. Little egret Common

75. Mag pie robin

Common 76. Monal -- -- Endanger

77. Paradise flycatcher Common

78. Pariah kite Common 79. Pied kingfisher Common

80. Plum headed parakeet Common 81. Pond heron -- Common 82. Prinnia -- Common

83. Purple sunbird Common 84. Red cheeked bulbul Common

85. Red jungle fowl Common 86. Red vented bulbul Common

87. Red wattled lapwing Common

88. Ringed dove Common 89. Rock pigeon Common

90. Rose finch -- -- Common 91. Rose ringed parakeet Common

92. Shikra Common 93. Silver billed munia -- Common


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S.No.

Species Una AmbRoad

Una Nerchowk

Road

Theog RohruRoad

IUCNConserva

Statu

94. Sirkeer malkoha -- Common

95. Sparrow Common

96. Spotted dove Common 97. Spotted owlet Common 98. Wagtail Common 99. White browed fantailed flycatcher -- Common

100 White throated kingfisher Common 101 White wagtail Common

102 White whiskered bulbul Common 103 Yellow footed green pigeon Common


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6Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures

Road projects including road up-gradation projects are known to have adverse impact onthe natural environment through direct and indirect impacts. Often opening up of an areaby connecting it with road leads to environmental damage of natural resources, as theybecome more accessible. Loss of forest cover along the road stretches is a common

feature, which happens because of increased access of peoples to extract resources,as well as of timber smugglers by transporting timber through roads. Besides, theanthropogenic causes of loss of forest cover, destruction of forest habitats also happensdue to edge effects brought in with the development of the roads.

The edge effects results in increase light penetration into the forest edges that arecreated as a result of tree felling along road boundaries. This enhanced availability oflight leads to changes in species composition, increasing the population sizes of lightloving plants over the shade loving ones.

Another impact of road projects on natural composition of forests arises due tointroduction of many exotic species and road side common weeds, the propagules of

which reach the road sides with materials transported for road building or brought in bytravelers. These have severe biodiversity implications. It changes the amount ofpalatable food and fodder for the wildlife thriving on the habitat. Many weeds are notconsumed by herbivores and this gives them an opportunity to spread and take overother natural habitats and niches. This escape from their predator makes themcompetitively superior over the native species and gradually these exotic weeds are ableto out-compete the native species and establish themselves. These processes changesthe biodiversity value of a habitat and may even render them unproductive in the longrun.

Consequently, the impacts of a road project are not limited to the design andconstruction phase but go much beyond into the operational phase.

Mitigation strategy and measures are necessary for any road projects. Takingenvironmental concerns and biodiversity issues into consideration from the planningstage of the project results in minimizing the project impacts. Certain precautions, aspart of a mitigation plan, could restrict the loss of natural capital and help protect thenatural resource base, which is the basis for survival for all life forms on earth.

The following pages lists the possible project impacts and suggests a mitigation plan forlimiting the impacts on biodiversity, particularly on forests and movement of wildlife alongand across roads so as to ensure that the proposed road improvement project does notchange the biodiversity values of the region.

Firstly, general project impacts on critical components of the environment are listedalong with the mitigation measures that should be undertaken. This is followed bylocation specific project impacts on biodiversity and their mitigation strategy and finallyproject impacts on wildlife movement corridors and their mitigation measures are listed.

Documents

Biodiversity Phase 1