VIJAYANAGARA CHANNELS (VNC) FEASIBILITY STUDY REPORTknnlindia.com/kaveri2/KISWRMIP/Documents/VNC Initial Environmen… · In Koppal District, the pre-monsoon groundwater levels occurs

KARNATAKA NEERAVARI NIGAM LTD

KARNATAKA INTEGRATED AND SUSTAINABLE

WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

INVESTMENT PROGRAM

ADB LOAN No. 0085-IND/LOAN No. 3172

VIJAYANAGARA CHANNELS (VNC)

FEASIBILITY STUDY REPORT

Vol 2: Initial Environmental Examination

September 2016

PROJECT SUPPORT CONSULTANT (PSC)

SMEC International Pty Ltd, Australia

in association with SMEC (India) Pvt Ltd

DOCUMENTS/REPORT CONTROL FORM

Report Name VNC Feasibility Study Report –Vol. 2: Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)

Project Name: Karnataka Integrated and Sustainable Water Resources Management Investment

Program- Consultancy Services for Project Support Consultant (PSC)

Project Number: 5061164

Report for: Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Ltd (KNNL)

REVISION HISTORY

Revision # Date Prepared by Reviewed by Approved for Issue by

1 30 Sept 2016 AR/NR AR/KK KK

ISSUE REGISTER

Distribution List Date Issued Number of Copies

KNNL: 30 Sept 2016 10

SMEC Staff:

Associate (K. K. Gupta): 30 Sept 2016 1

Office Library (Shimoga): 30 Sept 2016 1

SMEC Project File: 30 Sept 2016 1

SMEC COMPANY DETAILS

Dr Hasan A. Kazmi

387, Udyog Vihar, Phase-2, Gurgaon – 122002, Haryana

Tel: +91 124 4552800

Fax: +91 124 4380043

Email: [email protected]; Web Site : www.smec.com

Karnataka Integrated and Sustainable Water Resources Management Investment Program- Consultancy

Services for Project Support Consultant (PSC) – VNC Feasibility Study Report – Vol 2: Initial

Environmental Examination

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES ............................................................................................................................. iii

LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................................... iv

ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS .................................................................................................. v

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................. vi

1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Project Background ................................................................................................................. 1

1.2 Purpose of the IEE .................................................................................................................. 1

1.3 Extent of the IEE ..................................................................................................................... 2

1.3.1 ADB Policy ..................................................................................................................... 2

1.3.2 National Law ................................................................................................................... 2

1.3.3 Review and Approval Procedure .................................................................................... 8

1.4 Scope of Study ........................................................................................................................ 8

1.5 Report Structure ...................................................................................................................... 8

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ......................................................................................... 9

2.1 Components of the Project ...................................................................................................... 9

2.2 Need of the Project ................................................................................................................ 10

2.3 Project Category .................................................................................................................... 11

2.4 Project Location and Layout ................................................................................................. 11

3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT .......................................................................................... 12

3.1 Physical Environment ........................................................................................................... 12

3.2 Biological Environment ........................................................................................................ 16

4 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ........... 18

4.1 Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ............................................ 18

4.2 Physical and Ecological Environments ................................................................................. 19

4.3 Mitigation Measures during Pre-Construction ...................................................................... 20

4.4 Impact during Construction and Mitigation Measures .......................................................... 20

4.5 Impact due to Proximity to Heritage Areas and Mitigation Measures .................................. 28

4.6 Impact due to Proximity to Urban Areas .............................................................................. 29

4.7 Impact due to Operation and Mitigation Areas ..................................................................... 29

4.8 Description of Planned Mitigation Measures ........................................................................ 30


Services for Project Support Consultant (PSC) – VNC Feasibility Study Report- Vol 2: Initial

Environmental Examination (IEE)

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Vijayanagara upstream channels (Source: PPTA 2013) .......................................................... 9




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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Indian Environmental Regulatory Compliance ........................................................................ 3

Table 2: Details of the VNC ................................................................................................................. 10

Table 3: Ambient Air Quality at certain locations in Bellary and Koppal District ............................... 12

Table 4: Estimated yield of water from Krishna River Basin ............................................................... 13

Table 5: Groundwater Availability in the three districts where VNC is located .................................. 13

Table 6: Land use pattern in Bellary, Koppal and Raichur Districts .................................................... 15

Table 7: Fish species recorded in the Tungabhadra River Basin .......................................................... 16

Table 8: Desilting – Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures ................................................. 21

Table 9: Silt Disposal – Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures ........................................... 23

Table 10: Borrow Area Rehabilitation – Impacts and Mitigation Measures ........................................ 25

Table 11: Environmental Impacts and Planned Mitigation Measures .................................................. 30




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ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

ADB - Asian Development Bank

ASI - Archaeological Survey of India

CPCB – Central Pollution Control Board

EA - Executing Agency

EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP - Environmental Management Plan

GoI - Government of India

GoK - Government of Karnataka

HWHAMA - Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority

IA - Implementing Agency

IEE - Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN - International Union for Conservation of Nature

KNNL - Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited

KSPCB - Karnataka State Pollution Control Board

MFF - Multi-tranche Financing Facility

MoEFCC - Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change

NP - National Park

OM - Operations Manual

PA - Protected area

PIU - Project Implementation Unit

PMU - Project Management Unit

PSC - Project Support Consultants

PUC - Pollution under Control

REA - Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist

SEIAA - State Environment Impact Assessment Authority

SPCB - State Pollution Control Board

SPM - Suspended Particulate Matter

SPS - Safeguard Policy Statement

UNESCO - United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation

WALMI - Water and Land Management Institute

WLS - Wildlife Sanctuary




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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background: Vijayanagara Channel (VNC) System is a run-of-the-river irrigation channel system

built during the Vijayanagara Dynasty about 400 years back. Originally consisting of 19 channels,

one channel serves the irrigation needs of the neighbouring state, Andhra Pradesh. Amongst the 18

channels that serves the command area in Karnataka, the Bennur Channel is in ruins and Koregal

Channel command is supplied water from the Tungabhadra Left Bank Channel. The VNC was

constructed in the Tungabhadra basin in the reach starting from the Tungabhadra reservoir in Koppal

District. Within Karnataka, the VNC system is spread over 3 districts namely Bellary, Raichur and

Koppal. The Geographical area lies between latitude 14° 30' to 16° 34' N and Longitude 75° 40' to

77° 35' E and a portion of the VNC passes through the UNESCO Heritage area of Hampi. It is

proposed to modernize the 16 channels of the VNC system located within the Karnataka border

(excluding Bennur and Koregal Channels) in order to improve water use efficiency in the Culturable

Command Area (CCA) of 11,154 hectares. Along with the modernization works, it is proposed to take

up installation of flow measurement and telemetry, command area development works, strengthening

asset management and main system Operation & Maintenance (O&M) and institutional strengthening

and capacity building1. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been taken up to assess

environmental issues arising from the various components of modernization activities. Also, for all

identified adverse impacts mitigation measures have been suggested and an Environmental

Management and Monitoring Plan has been prepared. This IEE document also contains environmental

budget for the mitigation measures and environmental monitoring.

Executing and Implementing Agencies: Government of Karnataka vide order No. WRD 64 MB1

2011 dated 07-02-2012 established the Advanced Centre for Integrated Water Resources Management

(ACIWRM) under the Water Resource Department, Government of Karnataka and will be the

implementing agency. The Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL) is the executing agency for

this project2.

Categorisation: The project categorisation has been carried out as per the ADB Safeguard Policy

Statement 2009. As per this, ''Modernization of the Vijayanagara Channel System” is classified

as Environmental Category B because no significant impacts are envisioned. Accordingly, Initial

Environmental Examination (IEE) has been prepared as part of the Feasibility Report. The IEE is

based on the ADB Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003 and its updates provided in the

publication ADB Environmental Safeguards Good Practices Sourcebook 2010 Further, the IEE is

based on the relevant Indian environmental regulations. Also, the IEE is based on a careful review of

the Detailed Project Report, field visits; secondary data collected to characterize the environment;

stakeholder consultations; and identification of potential impacts. An Environmental Management

Plan (EMP) outlining the specific environmental measures to be adhered to during implementation of

the project has been prepared. This is to ensure that the project will conform to all Government

regulations, policies and standards.

Project Scope: The feasibility scope includes the various components of the Vijayanagara Channel

System modernization being carried out under the KSIWRMIP.

Description of Baseline Environment: The Vijayanagara Channels for which the modernization

project is implemented passes through three districts of the state of Karnataka viz., Bellary, Koppal

and Raichur. While there is no existence of any National Park, Wild Life Park, Bird Sanctuary, or

Notified Wet Land within a distance of 10 km from the project canals, the Daroji Bear Sanctuary and

the Otter Conservation Reserve is located at about 25 km from the project canal locations. The

1 Detailed Project Report on “Modernization of Vijayanagara Channels in Tungabhadra Project” by Karnataka

Neeravari Nigam Limited, Government of Karnataka.

2 Note for the consideration of the Advisory Committee, Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India.




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modernization of canals do not pose any threats to these sanctuaries. Approximately, 22 km of the

canal length passing through the UNESCO Hampi Heritage Site and the plan of action for canal

modernization within the heritage area has to be approved by the Hampi World Heritage Area

Development Authority. The secondary data on ambient air quality in the project area indicates that

air quality is well within stipulated limits in respect of SO2 and NOx, and particulate matter

concentration (PM10). The average annual rainfall in the districts of Bellary, Koppal and Raichur are

611mm, 572mm and 376mm as against a state average of 1355mm. The surface water quality

conforms to Class C i.e., suitable for drinking subsequent to treatment and disinfection. In Bellary

District, the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon groundwater levels occurs in the range of 1.72 - 19.48m

bgl (average 4.77m) and 1.22 – 17.61m bgl (average 3.47m). In Koppal District, the pre-monsoon

groundwater levels occurs at 4.50 - 16.5m bgl and post-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 1.15 –

16.24m bgl. In Raichur District, the pre-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 0.65 – 10.7m bgl and

post-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 0.05 – 11m bgl. However, the groundwater use in the tail-

end reaches of the canal is high indicating non-availability of adequate surface irrigation. The ground

water has high concentrations of nitrate indicating ingress of excess fertilizers into the groundwater.

The districts of Bellary, Koppal and Raichur are covered by reddish sandy soil, light green loamy soil

and reddish brown soil. While the general soil quality is good, a portion of the soils of the agricultural

lands located at the head-end of the canals have become saline due in intense agriculture coupled with

excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides. The noise levels are within permissible limits as majority of

the project areas are located in a rural environment. The predominant land use in the project areas is

agriculture. The three districts experiences temperature in the range of 14.10 C in winter and 40.40 C

in summer season. While the state of Karnataka is categorized as moderate to low seismic risk zone,

the project districts fall under Zone II (Low Damage Risk zone MSK VI). The biological environment

covers flora and fauna. Over 7 species of fish are recorded to have been present in the Tungabhadra

river basin. There are no endangered category animals or birds present in the project area. The flora in

the project areas can be characterized as upland thorn and scrub. According to the 2011 census, the

population of the three districts viz., Bellary, Koppal and Raichur was 2.45, 1.39 and 1.93 million,

respectively with a decadal growth at about 15.6%. The sex ratio in Bellary, Koppal and Raichur is

983, 986 and 1000 females, respectively, which is higher in comparison to the state sex-ratio of 973

females for every 1000 males.

Environmental Impacts and Environmental Management: The assessment found that area of

impacts will be local in nature and covers mostly in project areas, because the proposed project will

involve only modernization of existing system. Most the environmental impacts occur only during the

construction period and the mitigation measures can be easily implemented as part of the construction

works. However, the environmental management plan and monitoring plan would need to be strictly

implemented, including those measures suggested for works within the Hampi Heritage Area. The

community consultation revealed that the affected population are willing to accept the negative

impacts during construction to achieve the goal of improving the VNC system thereby boosting the

agricultural productivity and the farmers’ income levels. The established grievance redress

mechanism is provided, in case any complaint from affected people need to be resolved.

The environmental impacts of the project are not significant and the project is placed at a Category B

level, as per the ADB's Safeguards Policy Statement. The specific measures stated in the EMP will

address all adverse environmental impacts due to the project. A detailed monitoring plan prepared as

part of this IEE will further mitigate negative environmental impacts during implementation.

Potential negative impacts were identified in relation to design, construction, operation and

maintenance of the VNC system. No environmental impacts were identified as being due to the

project design and location. The project shall move the region towards path of sustainable

development as it aims at conserving water resources. The EMP has been proposed as part of this IEE

for adverse impacts identified during modernization and O&M phases. This EMP includes (i)

mitigation measures for adverse environmental impacts during implementation; (ii) environmental

monitoring program, and the responsible entities for mitigation, monitoring, and reporting; (iii) public




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consultation and information disclosure; (iv) EMP budget; and (v) grievance redress mechanism.

Mitigation measures have been developed to reduce all negative impacts to acceptable levels.

A positive impact is anticipated in terms of employment opportunity for many skilled, semi-skilled

and un-skilled personnel during project implementation.

Consultation, Disclosure and Grievance Redress: Public consultations were carried out during the

preparation of the project and IEE. On-going consultations will occur throughout the project

implementation period. A grievance redress mechanism is described within the IEE to ensure any

public grievances are addressed quickly.

Monitoring and Reporting: It is expected that project will be implemented by the Project

Management Unit (PMU). This PMU will be assisted by a Project Support Consultant (PSC). The

PMU and PSC will be responsible for EMP implementation. The PSC will submit quarterly, semi-

annual and annual monitoring reports to the PMU. The PMU will consolidate these reports and will

send it to the ADB.

Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations: The major findings include the fact that

approximately, 22 km of the canal length passing through the UNESCO Hampi Heritage Site and the

plan of action for canal modernization within the heritage area has to be approved by the Hampi

World Heritage Area Development Authority. The potential impacts that are associated with design,

development, construction and operation of the canals can be implemented through incorporation of

suggested mitigation measures and procedures. Based on the findings of the IEE, there are no

significant impacts and the classification of the subproject as Category “B” is confirmed.




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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Background

The Karnataka Integrated and Sustainable Water Resources Management Investment Program

(KISWRMIP) is proposed to be implemented with the assistance of Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The program aims to enhance security of water resources through modernisation of existing irrigation

projects/schemes, improved water resources management in the selected river basins and other associated

infrastructure activities.

KISWRMIP is a multi-tranche financing facility (MFF) program and proposed to be executed in a period

of seven years from 2014 to 2020 in two Tranches with the aim of modernization of irrigation

infrastructure on three irrigation subprojects within the Tungabhadra (K-8) sub-basin. Tranche-1

envisages modernization of Gondi irrigation system whereas Tranche-2 envisages modernization of

Vijayanagara and Tungabhadra Left Bank canal systems and all associated infrastructure including flow

measurement & Telemetry System supply and installation, strengthening asset management and main

system operation and maintenance (O&M) and capacity building of WUCS (Water User Cooperative

Societies).

The Modernization of the Vijayanagara Channel Project is one of the components under Tranche-2 and

consists of modernisation of Vijayanagara channels and the associated infrastructure.

The Vijayanagara Channel system is spread over 3 districts, namely, Bellary, Raichur and Koppal.

Originally, Vijayanagara Channels are the run-of-the river irrigation channels and are historically

important serving the irrigation needs of the local population. They have been built during Vijayanagara

dynasty about 400 years back. In all, there are 19 Channels taking off from Tungabhadra River of which

18 are in Karnataka and one is in Andhra Pradesh. Of these 18 Channels, Bennur channel is in ruins and

Koregal channel command is supplied water from Tungabhadra Left Bank Channel. In view of this,

presently, Vijayanagara Channel system comprises of 16 Channels having CCA of 11,154 ha. The

present condition of these channels is not good.

The system has been in operation over the last 400 years. The reconnaissance survey has revealed that the

channels are lined with size stone masonry partly and have since lost their shape over the years. The bed

of the channels has scoured in some reaches and is silted up heavily in some reaches. Heavy weed growth

is noticed in and around the channels. Some of the structures are in dilapidated condition which requires

to be rehabilitated to make them functional. Due to heavy seepage and transmission losses, water is not

able to reach in tail areas. The complete system is therefore in urgent need of modernisation.

The Detailed Project Report has been completed and this Feasibility Report is being prepared to meet the

requirements of the Tranche 2 funding. As part of the Feasibility Report, the Initiation Environmental

Examination (IEE) is being performed. The IEE is being carried out as per the ADB Safeguard Policy

Statement 2009 and Indian environmental regulations.

1.2 Purpose of the IEE

The implementation of the modernization of the Vijayanagara Channel System project shall result in

environmental impacts during the construction phase of the project. The project itself shall help the local

farming community improve agricultural productivity while carrying out water conservation measures.

This IEE assesses the environmental impacts due to the proposed project and specifies measures towards

addressing the impacts. The IEE was based on a review of project components and reports; field visits,

and secondary data to characterize the environment and identify potential impacts; and interviews and

discussions with stakeholders. This IEE provides mitigation measures for impacts related to location and

design, construction, operation, and maintenance. An EMP outlining the specific environmental measures

to be adhered to during implementation and operation of the project has been prepared.




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1.3 Extent of the IEE

Indian laws and ADB policy require that the environmental impacts of development projects are

identified and assessed as part of the planning and design process, and that action is taken to reduce those

impacts to acceptable levels. This is done through the environmental assessment process, which has

become an integral part of lending operations and project development and implementation worldwide.

The realm of environmental regulations and mandatory requirements for the proposed sub-project is

shown in Table 1.

1.3.1 ADB Policy

All projects implemented by the ADB are to be in compliance with the ADB’s Safeguard Policy

Statement (SPS, 2009). This requires the consideration of environmental issues in all aspects of the

Bank’s operations, and the requirements for Environmental Assessment as described in its Operations

Manual (OM). The SPS states that ADB requires environmental assessment of all project loans, program

loans, sector loans, sector development program loans, financial intermediation loans and private sector

investment operations. The nature of the assessment required for a project depends on the significance of

its environmental impacts, which are related to the type and location of the project, the sensitivity, scale,

nature and magnitude of its potential impacts, and the availability of cost effective mitigation measures.

Projects are screened for their expected environmental impacts and are assigned to one of the following

categories:

a. Category A: Projects that could have significant environmental impacts. An Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) is required.

b. Category B: Projects that could have some adverse environmental impacts, but of less significance

than those in category A. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is required to determine

whether significant impacts warranting an EIA are likely. If an EIA is not needed, the IEE is

regarded as the final environmental assessment report.

1.3.2 National Law

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 (and its subsequent amendments till

date) by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India

(GoI) specifies the mandatory environmental clearance requirements. All projects/ activities are broadly

categorized into Category A and Category B for the mandatory environmental clearance requirements,

based on the spatial extent of potential impacts and potential impacts on human health and natural and

man-made resources. Projects included as Category A in the Schedule require prior environmental

clearance from the Central Government whereas projects included as Category B in the Schedule require

prior environmental clearance from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). Any

project specified in Category B will be treated as Category A, if located in whole or in part within 10 km

from the boundary of (i) Protected Areas notified under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; (ii)

critically polluted areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time; (iii) notified

eco-sensitive areas, and (iv) inter-State boundaries and international boundaries. The proposed sub

project is screened through Environmental Regulatory Compliance as shown in Table 1.




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Table 1: Indian Environmental Regulatory Compliance

Regulations Applicability of Acts/Guidelines Compliance Criteria

Water (Prevention and

Control of Pollution)

Act, 1974, Amendment

1988 and thereafter

This Act provides for Prevention &

Control of Water Pollution by abating

discharge of untreated trade and

domestic effluents by industries and

local bodies; maintaining or restoring

of wholesomeness of water in river,

streams and ground water. Water Act

also provides penalties for

contraventions of the provisions of the

Act.

KNNL needs to obtain

Authorisation and Consent to

Establish (CTE) and Consent to

Operate (CTO) under this Act from

Karnataka State Pollution Control

Board.

Water (Prevention and


Cess Act, 1977,

Amendments 1992 and

2003.

This Act empowered the State

Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) to

collect cess on the basis of water

consumed by persons carrying on

certain industries and by local

authorities, with a view to augment the

resources of the Central Pollution

Control Board (CPCB) and the SPCB

for the prevention and control of water

pollution, constituted under the Water

Act.

Covered under the CTE and CTO

issued by the KSPCB.

Air (Prevention and


Act, 1981

This Act provides for Prevention &

Control of Air Pollution from the

industrial plants and to improve the

quality of air. It empowers the SPCB to

lay down standards in consultation

with the CPCB having regard to the

standards for quality of the air laid

down by the CPCB, standards for

emission of air pollutants into the

atmosphere from industrial plants and

automobiles or for the discharge of any

air pollutant into the atmosphere from

any other source whatsoever other than

ship or an aircraft.

Covered under the CTE and CTO

issued by the KSPCB

Environment

(Protection) Act, 1986

and rules / notifications

framed under it

This is an umbrella Act related to the protection and improvement of

environment and the prevention of hazards to the human beings, other living

creatures, plant and property. The Act provides for laying down standards for

the quality of environment in its various aspects, standards for emission or

discharge of environmental pollutants from various sources whatsoever, having

regard to the quality and composition of the emission or discharge of

environmental pollutants from point sources.




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Rules under EPA, 1986

Hazardous Waste

(Management,

Handling, Trans-

boundary Movement)

Rules, 2008

This Rule ensures safe storage,

transport, treatment and disposal of

various categories of industrial

hazardous wastes specifically

mentioned in the Rules. One of the

main features of this Rule is that the

occupier of the activities generating

hazardous wastes or handling the

hazardous wastes becomes legally

responsible for taking all practical

steps to ensure that such wastes are

properly handled, labelled, stored and

disposed of without any adverse

impact on the environment. This Rule

also regulates the import and export of

hazardous waste.

Not applicable to the project

Manufacture, Storage

and Import of

Hazardous Chemical

Rules (2000)

This Rule provides the SPCBs and

certain other Government Departments

with necessary powers that hazardous

chemicals covered in the Rules (above

threshold limits) are imported, stored,

transported and/or used in an

environmentally safe manner. This rule

provides legal provisions for safe

handling of various hazardous

chemicals with an overall objective to

minimize the possibility of chemical

accidents by taking adequate on-site

and off-site measures.

Not applicable to the project.

Bio-Medical Waste

(Management and

Handling) Rules, 1998;

Amendment 2003

This Rule provides for safe handling,

collection, storage, transportation,

treatment and disposal of Bio-medical

Waste generated during the diagnosis,

treatment or immunization of human

beings or animals or in research

activity or in the production or testing

of biological and including categories

mentioned in Schedule to the Rules.

Not applicable to the project.

Plastic Waste

(Management and

Handling) Rules, 2011

This Rule provides for regulating the

manufacture of carry bags, stocking,

distribution, sale, use of carry bags and

sachets, regulation of manufacturers &

recyclers. The Rule provides for Plastic

Waste Management. The Rule has also

fixed the responsibility of producer or

Not applicable to the project




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manufacture of plastic carry bags and

multi-layered plastic pouches or

packages for the environmentally

sound management of the product until

the end of its life. Municipal

Authorities are vested with the

responsibility of enforcement of the

provisions of this Rule while the SPCB

role is related to issue of authorization

to manufacturers, recyclers and

disposal.

Municipal Solid Waste

(Management and

Handling) Rules, 2000

This Rule places responsibility on the

municipal authority within their

jurisdiction for the implementation of

the provisions of this Rule, and for any

infrastructure development for

collection, storage, segregation,

transportation, processing and disposal

of municipal solid waste. The District

Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner of

concerned district is responsible for

enforcement of the provisions of this

Rule. The role of SPCB is to grant

authorization for the setting-up of land

fill facilities and to monitor the ground

water, ambient air, leachate and

compost quality.

Not applicable for the project

Noise Pollution

(Regulation and

Control) Rules, 2000

and Amendment 2002

and 2006

This Rule provides for abatement of

noise pollution from the sources like

industrial activity, construction

activity, generator sets, loud speakers,

public address systems, music systems,

vehicular horns, and fire crackers other

mechanical devices which have

deleterious effects on human health

and the psychological wellbeing of the

people. This Rule regulates and

restricts the use of loud speakers/public

address system. The authority for

enforcement is District Magistrate,

Police Commissioner, or any other

officer not below the rank of the

Deputy Superintendent of Police.

Monitoring to be done during

construction phase of the project.

Batteries (Management

and Handling) Rules,

2001; Amendment

2010

This Rule provides for abatement of

noise pollution from the sources like

industrial activity, construction

activity, generator sets, loud speakers,

Not applicable for the project




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public address systems, music systems,

vehicular horns, and fire crackers other

mechanical devices which have

deleterious effects on human health

and the psychological wellbeing of the

people. This Rule regulates and

restricts the use of loud speakers/public

address system. The authority for

enforcement is District Magistrate,

Police Commissioner, or any other

officer not below the rank of the

Deputy Superintendent of Police.

Rules for manufacture,

use, import, export and

storage of Hazardous

micro-organism,

genetically engineered

organisms or cells,

1989, Rules

This Rule empowers the MOEF to

regulate the activities involving license

to manufacture, import and export of

microorganism and genetically

modified organisms. For the

implementation at the state level, State

Bio-technology Committee and

District level Bio-technology

Committee have been set-up.

Not applicable for this project

E-Waste (Management

and Handling) Rules,

2011

These Rules shall apply to every

producer, consumer or bulk consumer

involved in the manufacture, sale,

purchase and processing of electrical

and electronic equipment or

components, collection centre,

dismantler and recycler of e-waste.

Not applicable for this project

Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA)

Notification, 2006

The EIA Notification 2006 is the

replacement of the 1994 Notification.

Activities covered under this

Notification are grouped as Category A

& B. Category ‘A’ requires

environmental clearance from the

MoEFCC, GOI; Category ‘B’ needs

environmental clearance from the State

Level EIA Authority. Environmental

clearance is mandatory for scheduled

activities for new projects or for

expansion or modernization or change

in product mix in existing projects.

Project categorization is done as per

this notification and accordingly the

environmental clearing process is

decided upon.




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As per this Notification, the

environmental clearing process are

carried out in four stages viz.,

• Stage (1) Screening (Only for

Category ‘B’ projects and

activities)

• Stage (2) Scoping

• Stage (3) Public Consultation

• Stage (4) Appraisal

The Wildlife

Conservation Act,

1972, amended in 2003

and 2006,

This act provides for protection and

management of Protected Areas.

Two notified protected areas i.e.

Daroji Bear Sanctuary and the Otter

Conservation Reserve are located in

the Bellary District. However, these

areas are located beyond the 10km

radius and does not require any

additional clearance to be obtained

from the Department of Forests,

Government of Karnataka or the

MoEFCC, Government of India.

Hence, this regulation is not

applicable as the project.

Forest (Conservation)

Act, 1980

This act provides guidelines for

conservation of forests and diversion

of forest land for non-forest use and

requires project proponents to obtain

clearance prior to use of such forest

areas for project activities.

This is not applicable as no forest

areas are utilised for implementing

the various components of the

project.

Central Water

Commission

The Authority to approve all the

technical aspects of the canal

modernization project

KNNL has to obtain NOC from the

Central Water Commission.

UNESCO Heritage

Site

As portion of the canal passes through

the UNESCO certified Hampi Heritage

Area, additional requirements emerge.

KNNL has to obtain NOC from the

Hampi World Heritage Area

Management Authority for works

carried out within the heritage area

Table 1 indicates that the Modernization of Vijayanagara Channel Project requires the project to undergo

an environmental screening process, and require prior environmental clearance from the State Level EIA

Authority.

The ADB guidelines, stipulate addressing environmental concerns, if any, of a proposed activity in the

initial stages of project preparation. For this, the ADB Guidelines categorize the proposed components

into categories (A, B or C) to determine the level of environmental assessment required to address the

potential impacts. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist method was followed as per

ADB requirement to assess the potential impacts of the project in the planning phase. The sub-project has

been categorized as B. Accordingly; this IEE is prepared to address the potential impacts, in line with the




P a g e | 8

recommended IEE content and structure for Category B projects. The IEE was based mainly on

secondary sources of information and field reconnaissance surveys. Stakeholder consultation was an

integral part of the IEE. An Environmental Monitoring Plan outlining the specific environmental

measures to be adhered to during implementation of the project has been prepared.

1.3.3 Review and Approval Procedure

For Category B projects, the Draft Environmental Status report is reviewed by ADB’s Regional

Department sector division and Environment and Social Safeguards Division, and by the Executing

Agency, and additional comments may be sought from project affected people and other stakeholders. All

comments are incorporated in preparing the final documents, which are reviewed by the Executing

Agency and the national environmental protection agency. The EA then officially submits the IEE report

to ADB for consideration by the Board of Directors. Completed report is made available worldwide by

ADB, via the depository library system and the ADB website.

1.4 Scope of Study

This is the IEE report for the project viz.' Modernization of the VijayaNagara Channel System Project”.

It discusses the generic environmental impacts and mitigation measures relating to the location, design,

construction and operation of physical works proposed under this project.

1.5 Report Structure

The IEE has been structured as per ADB's Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003), and the

Government of India’s Environmental Impact Assessment Notification (2006). This IEE contains eight

sections: (1) Introduction; (2) Description of Project Components; (3) Description of the Environment;

(4) Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation measures; (5) Institutional Requirements and

Environmental Monitoring Plan; (6) Public Consultation and Information Disclosure; (7) Findings and

Recommendations; and (8) Conclusions.




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2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

2.1 Components of the Project

The components of the Modernization of Vijayanagara Channels Project include modernization of the

Vijayanagara channels including distributaries and associated structures, installation of flow

measurement and telemetry, Command Area Development (CAD) works, strengthening asset

management and main system Operation & Maintenance (O&M), capacity building of Water User

Cooperative Societies (WUCS) and Agricultural Training and strengthening of Nigams and CAD

Authority.

This VNC system comprises 16 canals, most of which were originally constructed during the

Vijayanagara Empire about 400 years ago. Most of the canals have their own diversion structures on the

river and many of the canals are interlinked. The total command area is reported as 11,154 ha (but has

probably been reduced by urbanisation) with command areas of individual canals ranging between 210ha

and 2,220 ha. Figure 1 shows the location of the canals.

Figure 1: Vijayanagara upstream channels (Source: PPTA 2013)

The details of each of the canals is provided in Table 2.




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Table 2: Details of the VNC

No. Name of the Channel Area (ha)

Kamalapura Subdivision (Right Bank)

1 Basavanna 1240.00

2 Raya 2226.00

3 Bella 600.00

4 Kalaghatta 237.00

5 Turtha 931.00

6 Ramasagara 673.00

7 Kampli 620.00

8 Belagondahala 210.00

Vaddarahatti Subdivision (Left Bank)

9 Anegundi 789.15

10 Shivapur 403.48

11 Hulagi 265.07

12 Upper Gangavathi 774.53

13 Lower Gangavathi 666.91

Siruguppa Subdivision (Right Bank)

14 Siruguppa 764.00

15 Deshnur 477.91

Manvi Subdivision (Left Bank)

16 Bichal 276.00

Total 11154.05

2.2 Need of the Project

The Vijayanagara Channel system is spread over 3 districts, namely, Bellary, Raichur and Koppal.

Originally, Vijayanagara Channels are the run-of-the river irrigation channels and are historically

important serving the irrigation needs of the local population. They have been built during Vijayanagara

dynasty about 400 years back and have been in operation since then. The detailed survey and analysis has

revealed that the channels are lined with size stone masonry partly and have since lost their shape over

the years. The bed of the channels has scoured in some reaches and is silted up heavily in some reaches.

Heavy weed growth is noticed in and around the channels. Some of the structures are in dilapidated

condition which requires to be rehabilitated to make them functional. Due to heavy seepage and

transmission losses, water is not able to reach in tail areas.




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The detailed survey and analysis has revealed that the VNC performs far below its expectations and the

reasons attributed to are as follows:

a. The overall efficiency of the VNC system may be between 30-50% decreasing the overall crop

yields and water-use efficiency;

b. Inequity in the pattern of water distribution is common, causing excess water at the head-reach

of the canals and inadequate quantity at the tail end.

c. In certain regions, the environmental problems such as water logging and salinity has developed

and hinders the improvement of agricultural productivity in the area.

d. The unreliable water supply does NOT motivate the farmers to organize themselves to take over

managerial responsibilities including the O&M of the tertiary distribution network. And they

are reluctant to pay water charges when the service is poor.

e. The operational problems with many projects are aggravated when maintenance activities are

deferred because of inadequate recurrent funds. The lack of maintenance has resulted in a rapid

deterioration of public investments, including failure of canal lining and malfunctioning of

control structures.

f. There is unanimous agreement on the need to improve operations of irrigation systems

throughout the world in order to increase productivity. The management solutions that are

frequently recommended include improved water resources management, better coordination

between agriculture and irrigation agencies, training, higher water charges and farmer

participation.

Based on the prevailing conditions, the agricultural productivity of the area served by VNC have been on

the decrease. Moreover, because of the leakages in the system the productive use of the available water

is not being accomplished. Further, under the KISWRMIP, it is proposed to establish Water User

Cooperative Societies (WUCS) to cover all the users in the VNC command area. Hence, in addition to

the canal modernization, the capacity building of the WUCS is of utmost necessity in order to make the

investment sustainable over long periods of time. As such, the objective of the Modernization of the VNC

System are for achieving improved crop yields, improved irrigation efficiency, reduced O&M costs,

improved recovery of O&M costs, improved financial sustainability, increase in cooperation between

government agencies and the user community and last but not the least reduction of environment

degradation.

2.3 Project Category

This is a canal modernization project, and as explained in the earlier chapter has been classified as

Category B, because it is not expected to have major negative environmental impacts. Under ADB

procedures, such projects require an IEE to identify and mitigate the impacts, and to determine whether

further study or a more detailed EIA may be required. The environmental screening has revealed that the

project areas are located about 25kms from the notified areas such as Daroji Bear Sanctuary and Otter

Conservation Reserve and do not fall within the limits of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

notified critically polluted areas. The EIA Notification 2006 of Ministry of Environment, Forests and

Climate Change (MoEFCC), New Delhi also categorises canal rehabilitation project under category 'B'.

Hence the project is a category 'B' both as per local environmental regulations as well as ADB Safeguard

Policy Statement 2009.

2.4 Project Location and Layout

All the project components of Modernization of Vijayanagara Channel Project are planned to be located

within three districts viz., Bellary, Koppal and Raichur districts of the state of Karnataka. A portion of the

project passes through the Hampi World Heritage Area which is a notified UNESCO heritage area. The

Index Map showing the Command area of the Scheme (16 channels) is appended as KNNL-VNC-IND-

001 in Volume V of Detailed Project Report (DPR) (KNNL, 2013).




P a g e | 12

3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

In this section baseline environmental baseline for different environmental components has been

described. This baseline will help to predict post implementation impacts and in ascertaining the impacts

of the project during construction and operational phases of the project.

3.1 Physical Environment

Ambient Air Quality: The ambient air quality is an issue during construction of the project on account

of vehicular movements and equipment use resulting in emissions that can have an impact on the local

ambient air quality.

The current levels of air pollutants in the three districts i.e., Bellary, Koppal and Raichur where is the

project has not been monitored regularly either by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board or under

the National Ambient Air Quality Standards Program of the Government of India. However, SW Steel

Complex located in Hospet carries out both continuous and manual air monitoring at certain locations

near their facility. Continuous monitoring is carried out in 4 locations while manual monitoring is carried

out in 10 locations. The results of the Half-Yearly Report 2013-14 are provided in Table 3.

Table 3: Ambient Air Quality at certain locations in Bellary and Koppal District

Sl.

No. Location

PM10 in µg/m3 PM2.5 in µg/m3 SO2 in µg/m3 NO2 in µg/m3

12-13 13-14 12-13 13-14 12-13 13-14 12-13 13-14

Continuous Monitoring Locations

1 Vidhyanagar 63 51 20 21 14 15 13 37

2 SHT 142 132 55 51 16 9 30 58

3 Vaddu 135 208 50 47 7 7 36 14

4 10 MT Gate 181 161 92 36 9 13 13 62

Manual Monitoring Locations

1 Sultanpura 129 124 16 64 12 5 14 13

2 Talur 93 79 12 57 15 3 14 9

3 Vaddu 159 96 16 60 14 8 18 13

4 Gadiganur 145 87 21 63 10 8 12 15

5 Basapura 136 91 37 57 12 9 13 15

6 Kurekuppa 86 89 8 60 10 11 12 15

7 Kudithini 43 77 12 65 24 5 22 19

8 Karadidhama 25 68 4 45 8 2 9 10

9 Hampi 109 55 14 36 12 3 14 10

10 Toranagallu 127 116 Na 77 4 7 5 17

Source: Report by JSW Steel Complex, Hospet

These values, if compared with National Ambient Air Quality standards, are well within limits in respect

of all the parameters PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx. The air emissions at the time of construction shall be

lower than the permissible limits at a majority of the construction locations identified fro the project

activity. However, higher emissions could occur at those canal locations that are within the city / town

limits.

Water Resources: Water resources constitute mainly surface and groundwater, with rainfall being the

basic source. The mean annual rainfall in the state is 1355mm with more than 73% of it received from

the southwest monsoon. Annual rainfall variations across agro-climatic zones in the state are too wide,

ranging from 585mm in the northern dry zone to 3893mm in the coastal zones. There are seven water

systems in the state of Karnataka viz., Cauvery, Krishna, Godavari, West flowing rivers, North Pennar,




P a g e | 13

South Pennar and Palar. And, VNC is part of the Krishna Basin. In Bellary District, the annual normal

rainfall is 611mm (1996 – 2005), In Koppal District, the annual normal rainfall is 572mm. In Raichur

District, the annual normal rainfall is 376mm.The estimated yield of the Krishna Basin is provided in

Table 4.

Table 4: Estimated yield of water from Krishna River Basin

Catchment Area Economically Available Utilisation

Km2 Share TMC/a Share TMC/a Share

113,271 59.1% 969.44 27.9% 1156.00 68.4%

Groundwater utilisation for irrigation has grown over the last couple of decades. The groundwater

availability in three districts where the VNC system is located is provided Table 5.

Table 5: Groundwater Availability in the three districts where VNC is located

District Annual Recharge (HAM/a) Natural

Discharge

HAM/a

Net Water

Availability

HAM/a Monsoon Season Non-Monsoon Season Total

Rainfall Other Rainfall Other

Bellary 27,547 17,745 7,618 12,700 65,610 2,135 63,476

Koppal 20,252 25,028 3,676 23,070 72,025 1,876 70,149

Raichur 21,247 20,754 3,941 21,940 67,883 1,525 66,358

In Bellary District, the major water bearing formations include shallow aquifers of alluvium along the

stream courses upto to 10m and weathered zones of gneisses. Granites occur between the depths 9 to

25m bgl. Deeper aquifers of jointed and fractured gneisses, granites and Schists occur between the depths

of 30 and 197 m bgl. The pre-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 1.72 - 19.48m bgl (average 4.77m)

and post-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 1.22 – 17.61m bgl (average 3.47m). In Koppal District,

the major water bearing formations include weathered and fractured Granites, Gneisses and Schists. The

pre-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 4.50 - 16.5m bgl and post-monsoon groundwater levels occurs

at 1.15 – 16.24m bgl. In Raichur District, the major water bearing formations include weathered

/fractured Granitic Gneiss. The pre-monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 0.65 – 10.7m bgl and post-

monsoon groundwater levels occurs at 0.05 – 11m bgl.

A portion of the irrigation water demand is also met from lakes and tanks. The relative contribution of

the tanks in the irrigation potential has declined over the years owing to development of the surface water

irrigation. However, these tanks do provide supplementary irrigation demand especially during periods

of low-releases from the storage reservoirs. And, siltation of tanks from lack of maintenance in addition

to encroachment of tanks located closer to the urban areas has impacted agricultural productivity in a

portion of the command area irrigated by the VNC system.

While agriculture constitute over 90% of water demand in the Krishna Basin, there is a rapidly growing

water demand in other sectors. This has led to the perception that supply will be increasingly

constrained. Additionally, inefficiency in water management is inflating the demand, resulting in

inequitable distribution and under-utilisation of the irrigation potential. Unauthorised use of irrigation

water in excess of allotments, particularly in the head reach and illegal pumping from canals are

depriving farmers of their due share at the tail-end areas. This has led to leaching of salts towards the

ground surface because of excess water use in the upper-reachers and increased exploitation of

groundwater in tail-end areas of the basin. And, the depletion of the groundwater table is further

accentuated because of highly subsidised power for the agricultural sector. Hence, it is impressive that the

modernization project focuses on improving water productivity – that is crop yield per drop of water.




P a g e | 14

The environmental concerns pertaining to water resources centre on water resource management,

specifically relating to both quantity and quality issues. Among the core environmental concerns, the key

issues include conservation of existing water resources and prevention of further degradation and

depletion. The related issues include the rejuvenation of degraded traditional surface water bodies,

enhancing the availability of water through water harvesting structures and recharge of groundwater.

More important is the judicious and economic use of both surface and groundwater for agricultural,

industrial and domestic purposes. Irrigation constitutes over 93.2% of the surface and groundwater in the

Krishna Basin. Hence, it is laudable that the objective of the Modernization of the VNC Project is to

achieve water use efficiency of the Vijayanagar Channel System while improving agricultural

productivity.

Surface water bodies, particularly rivers and lakes, are highly polluted with increasing pollution load

from agricultural discharge, industrial effluents and domestic waste. The report on “Status of river water

quality in Karnataka over a decade 2005 – 2015” prepared by the Karnataka State Pollution Control

Board (KSPCB) shows that there was a change in the environmental quality of Tunga, Bhadra and

Tungabhadra rivers especially in the stretches that are closer to major factories and towns. This implies

that rivers are the common dumping sources for untreated effluent release from various industries and

municipal sewage. In fact, Harihar Polyfibres Private Limited is one of the few industries in the state that

are allowed to discharge the treated effluents directly on to the river. However, the Tungabhadra river

water quality downstream of the treated discharges of effluent from Harihar Polyfibers Private Limited,

conforms to Class C (i.e. suitable as a drinking water source after conventional treatment followed by

disinfection). Mining industries involved in large scale mining of iron ore and other minerals have also

inflicted water pollution through discharging tailings in Bellary District. The major land use in the

Krishna Basin is agriculture. Hence, a large quantity of agriculture related pollutants such as fertilizers

and pesticides makes its way into the surface waters, as well.

Ground water quality data has also been obtained from Central Pollution Control Board and shows that

the groundwater has presence of certain chemical constituents that is more than the permissible limit. In

Bellary District, the Nitrate and Chloride contents are found more in few pockets in Hospet, Siruguppa

and parts of Hadagali, and south of Kudlugi taluks. This is due to intensive irrigational activities in the

command area especially in Hospet and in Siruguppa taluks where farmers use maximum Nitrogen,

Phosphate and sulphate fertilisers. It is observed Nitrate concentrations are beyond 100 ppm in the range

of 106 to 380 ppm and the average Nitrate concentration is 144.33 ppm. In Koppal District, the

concentrations of Fluoride, Nitrates and Total Dissolved Solids is more than the permissible limits in a

few pockets. This is especially true near the town of Gangavathi where the town effluent enters the canal

system as well as leaches into the groundwater affecting its quality. In Raichur District, higher amount of

fluoride and electro-conductivity values are observed.

Soil Quality: The districts of Bellary, Koppal and Raichur are covered by reddish sandy soil, light green

loamy soil and reddish brown soil. Quality is of importance as this has a direct impact on achieving the

project objective of improved agricultural productivity. Soil in a portion of the agricultural lands located

at the head-end of the canals have become saline due in intense agriculture coupled with excessive use of

fertilizers and pesticides. No other soil quality data are available for the three districts.

Noise Levels: The project area is located in a rural environment. The noise levels are within permissible

limits.

Land Use: The predominant land use in the project area is agricultural.

Table 6 provides the existing landuse in each of the three districts.




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Table 6: Land use pattern in Bellary, Koppal and Raichur Districts

Particulars Bellary Koppal Raichur

Total Geographical Area 813,196 552,495 835,843

Forest 97,017 29,451 18,167

Non-agricultural 68,657 39,003 20,563

Barren Land 53,477 16,627 20,084

Cultivable Waste Land 24,839 2,568 10,712

Permanent Pasture 5,472 14,675 198,116

Trees and Grover 3,606 210 13,684

Current Fallow Land 95,234 69,420 169,352

Other Fallow Land 28,827 0 49,785

Net Area Sown 436,067 380,541 513,680

More than once area sown 133,585 127,254 166,215

Total Cropped Area 583,616 429,124 664,274

Meteorological Conditions: The climate of Bellary district is quite moderate and shows dryness in

major part of the year and a hot summer from March to May months when mean maximum temperatures

ranges from 23.2°C to 40.4°C. June to September is the southwest monsoon period when the temperature

is 19.7°C to 35.1°C, October and November is the post-monsoon season with clear bright weather with

the mean daily temperature ranging from 14.4°C to 31.1°C. During December to February, weather

remains dry and comparatively cool. Relative humidity ranges from 48 to 74% in the morning and in the

evening it ranges from 27% to 61%. Bellary district receives rainfall from southwest monsoon from June

to September and northeast monsoon from October to December. Overall on an average, there are 43

normal rainy days and normal rainfall in the district is 611mm.

Koppal district experiences a semi-arid type climate characterised by hot summer and low rainfall. It is

cool and pleasant during major part of the year except during the summer months of March to middle of

June. The coldest period is December to January with minimum temperatures at 16°C and maximum

reaching 45°C during hot summer district. The annual normal rain fall is 572 mm and normally rain

commences from June and continues upto November. Heavy rainfall during the months of September and

October, with normal average rain days of 40 in a year.

The climate of Raichur district can be termed as mild to severe, with mild winters and hot summers.

December is the coldest month with mean daily minimum of 17. 7°C, while May is the hottest month

with mean daily maximum temperature of 39.8°C. The day temperature in May often touches 45°C.

Relative humidity of over 75% is common during monsoon period. Wind speeds exceeding 15km/h are

common during the months of June and July. The recorded annual potential evaporation is around 1950

mm with May registering over 220 mm and December around 120mm. The normal annual rainfall of the

district is 621mm. The annual number of the rainy days is about 49 days. Nearly 67% of the rain is

received during the southwest monsoon period (June- Sept) and the northeast monsoon contributes about

24%, during the post monsoon period.

Seismicity: As per the Revised Earthquake Hazard Mapping, 22.13% of the total geographical area of the

state of Karnataka is under Moderate earthquake damage risk zone and remaining area of the state is

under low damage risk zone. The state has reported more than 500 earthquake tremors in the last three

decades with most of them having low magnitude. It is found that the weak zones around the northern

Karnataka bordering Maharashtra could cause heavy damages in future. The areas of southern part of

Karnataka are also not free from frequent tremors. The Karnataka state is categorized as moderate to low




P a g e | 16

seismic risk zone. The Districts of Bellary, Koppal and Raichur fall under Zone II (Low Damage Risk

zone MSK VI).

3.2 Biological Environment

The biological environment covers flora and fauna. The canals are located close to habitation area.

Hence, fauna is domesticated. While there is no existence of any National Park, Wild Life Park, Bird

sanctuary, or Notified wet land within a distance of 10 km from the project canals, the Daroji Bear

Sanctuary and the Otter Conservation Reserve is located at about 25 km from the project canal locations.

The modernization of canals do not pose any threats to these sanctuaries and does not impact the project

categorization as “B” as the Daroji Bear Sanctuary and Otter Conservation Reserve are located at

distances that are far beyond the distance that would trigger the re-classification of the project as “A”.

The re-classification to “A” would have resulted in the project going through a complete EIA clearing

process instead of an IEE at the present time.

In addition to Otters, over 7 orders of fish species are recorded3 in the Tungabhadra river basin and

details are provided in Table 7.

Table 7: Fish species recorded in the Tungabhadra River Basin

Order Family Classification / Species

Cypriniformes Cyprinidae Barilius Barna Barilius Backeri

B. Bendilisis B. Canarensis

Catla Catla Chela Untrachi

Cirrhinus cirrhosa C Fulungee

C. Mrigala C. reba

Ctenopharygdon idella Cyprinus Carpio

Danio aquippinatus D. devario

D malabaricus Garra gotyla stenorynchus

Hypophthalmichthys molitrix Labeo angra

L. bata L. Calbasu

L. fimbriatus L. porcellus

L. potail L. rohita

P. amphibious P. chola

P. fasciatus P. filamentosus

Puntius jerdoni Puntius melanostigma

P. pulchellus P. Sahyadrensis

P. Sarana P. Sophore

P. ticto P. vittatus

Rasbora rasbora R. daniconius

Salmostoma boopis Tor putitora

Siluriformes Bagridae Aorichthys aor A Seenghals

Mystus armatus Mystus cavasius

M. gulio M. Krishnesis

Rita gogra R Pavimentata

Clariidae Clarius batrachus C garipinus

Siluridae Ompak bimaculatus O. pabo

Wallago attu

Pangasidae Pangasius pangasius

Belonoformes Belonidae Xenentodon cancila

Hemiramphidae Hyporhampus xanthopterus

Cyprinodontiformes Cyprinodontidae Aplocheilus lineatus

3 Gangadhara Gowda et.at. “Fish Biodiversity of Tunga, Bhadra and Tungabhadra Rivers of Karnataka, India”,

Research Journal of Animal, Veterinary and Fishery Sciences, Vol. 3(10), 1-16 December (2015).




P a g e | 17

Order Family Classification / Species

Synbranchiformes Mastacembelidae Mastacembelus armatus

Perciformes Ambassidae Paraambassis ranga

Channidae Channa punctatus C marulius

C. striatus

Chichlidae Etroplus maculatus Oreochromis mossambica

Gobiidae Glossogobius giuris giuris

Ostiglossiformes Notopteridae Notoptorus notopturus

Fauna: The study of faunal aspects revealed the presence of mega animals and birds. The animals that

have been recorded to be present in the project area include mongoose, snakes, jungle cats, wild pig,

hare, frogs, rat snake, water snakes, green snakes and lizards. The birds that have been found to be

present in the project area include paddy bird, kites, sparrow, parakeets, coot, quail, cuckoo, water fowl,

kingfisher, jungle dove, crow, pond heron and egrets. There are no endangered category animals or birds

present in the project area.

Flora: There are no endangered category animals or birds present in the project area. The flora in the

project areas can be characterized as upland thorn and scrub. Several parts of Bellary, Koppal and

Raichur districts have armed trees with tiny leaflets. Some remaining patches of these forests are made-

up of Acacia, Albizia and Hardwickia. (Jali, Bilwara, ennemara being local names). The Maidan is

dotted with numerous irrigation tanks usually supporting an interesting aquatic Jlora.




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4 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND

MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

A growing sensitivity towards addressing environmental impacts will be needed if the increasing

utilization of the natural resources towards irrigated food production, land reclamation, irrigation system

maintenance/rehabilitation and flood protection, is to be sustainable into the future. Generally, small

farmers who tend to be the most dependent upon the environment and direct use of natural resources are

the most affected when the environment is degraded or their access to natural resources is limited or

denied. In addition to rehabilitation/maintenance of existing systems in an environmentally-friendly

manner, there is need to educate the farmers, field functionaries and villagers to use the water, fertilizers

and pesticides in optimum quantum to safeguard the environment.

The environmental impacts of canal modernization works is expected to occur during construction and

operation phases. The potential impacts of project related activities can be broadly categorized under:

• Construction Phase;

• Impacts arising from Location;

• Operation Phase.

The impacts were analyzed based on the following:

Methodology: Preliminary screening was done by ADB using the Rapid Environmental Assessment

(REA) form. Based on this assessment, this project is categorized as a “B” project. Scoping checklists

were used to identify the potential environmental stressors and the receptors that may be subject to an

impact.

In addition to the use of checklists, the Consultant added potential impacts based on site investigations

and assessments. The level significance (small, moderate, or major) of the potential impacts was assessed

on the basis of the checklists and of the onsite assessment.

Environmental Benefits Associated with the Project: The Project has the potential for considerable

positive environmental impacts in the VNC area. The cleaning and shaping of canals will result in

restoration of canal capacity and a reduction in water losses improving water availability.

The Project will support the strengthening of the water resources management through installation of a

modern control and communication system, capacity building and improved Operation and Maintenance

procedures, the strengthening of Water Users Cooperative Societies (WUCS) and development of a

Sustainable Integrated Water Resources Management Model. The improved water resources management

component would optimize the use of the available water resources in the Tungabhadra Basin and will

result in more water available while adhering to the abstractions as per Krishna Water Tribunal award.

The rehabilitation of on-farm infrastructure will improve the water management at farm level and this

will reduce wastage of water and drainage requirements. The use of WUCS to perform the CAD works

will improve the capacity of the community-based organizations to carry out O&M in a sustainable

manner. Additionally, the extension services provided to the WUCS members in terms of water

management and agricultural practices will conserve water, improve soil management and introduce

sustainable cropping practices.




P a g e | 19

Potential Environmental Impacts Related to Project Location: The Project will rehabilitate existing

systems for irrigation water supply. As the overall system capacity will be kept unchanged, this will not

require new land acquisition or resettlement. Hence, no significant potential socio-economic impacts are

expected because of project location.

However, a portion of the project is located within the UNESCO Heritage Area of Hampi and this portion

of canal rehabilitation has to be carried in accordance with the internationally-accepted processes adopted

for such areas especially in regard to maintaining existing canal designs, materials utilized and

construction and operational procedures adopted.

In addition, a portion of the project is located close to urban centres and the canals are subjected to inflow

of untreated wastewaters and dumping of solid wastes into the canals. This is primarily found in Hospet

and Gangavathi Towns. Further, the spread of uncontrolled urbanization, has also led to encroachment of

surface water bodies such as irrigation tanks and lakes that had earlier acted as supplementary water

sources to meet the water demand in the command areas.

Proposed Mitigation Measures

The proposed measures to mitigate the potential impacts to acceptable levels include:

• Mitigation measures that conform to Best National and International Practices and as per the

requirements of Central Water Commission and Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate

Change, Government of India;

• The monitoring measures to evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation measures;

• Identification of roles and responsibilities for both carrying out the mitigation measures and

monitoring the implementation of the mitigation measure; and

• The cost of implementation of the mitigation measures and monitoring protocols.

Activities and responsibilities are identified for the project phases of Pre-Construction, Construction and

Operation Phases. A matrix of the EMP is given in Table 11. All mitigation and monitoring measures

proposed are those commonly proposed for the range of potential impacts assessed.

4.2 Physical and Ecological Environments

The VNC which was established about 400 years ago, and the scheme abstracts water from the Krishna

Basin to irrigate over 11,154 hectares in the command area.

Water Flow: The Project will rehabilitate the canals without changing the designed hydraulic capacity.

However, with reduction in seepage losses, the quantity of water that will be drawn from the

Tungabhadra River after the project completion shall decrease, as well.

Water Quality: With respect to water quality, no negative impacts are expected once the canal

modernization is completed. In fact, the introduction of measures for adoption of sustainable agriculture

systems will, on in the long term, improve the quality of the return flows. Improved water management in

the project area resulting in reduction of water abstractions, and reduction in salt load concentrations in

the river.

Bear Sanctuary and Otter Conservation Reserve: The project activities shall not impact the Daroji

Bear Sanctuary and the Otter Conservation Reserve located at approximately 25 kms from certain canal

sections that are undergoing rehabilitation. However, in the long term, measures adopted for sustainable

agriculture including reduction in the use of fertilizers and pesticides shall greatly improve the quality of

the agricultural return flows thereby positively impacting the quality of water that is accessible to wild

life.




P a g e | 20

Hampi Heritage Area: Certain canal sections pass through the Hampi Heritage Area that has secured a

UNESCO Heritage tag and the modernization activities need to be managed such that it protects the

Outstanding Universal Value of the Heritage Area. As such, the decisions taken for the wider sustainable

economic benefits that the canal modernization project is expected to generate, should be compatible with

the well-being of the heritage place. Moreover, the capacity of the stakeholders that are involved in

implementing the canal modernization project should be built in such a manner that it manages to meet

the needs of the local people, permits continuing compatible land uses while understanding that structures

in heritage areas inevitably involves making decisions about what change is, or is not, acceptable.

Proximity to Urban Centres: Certain canal sections pass through urban centres such as Hospet and

Gangavathi towns. The untreated wastewaters are discharged directly into the canals thereby affecting

the quality of water. Also, the open canals are used as dumping areas for solid wastes resulting in closing

of the canals at various stretches. Moreover, the increased urbanization is resulting in changes in land use

and in certain cases the surface water bodies within the towns are encroached upon. Earlier, these surface

water bodies used to act as supplementary sources of water for the VNC command area. Hence, it is

necessary to manage the urbanization in a way it does not impact the water availability for the VNC

command area in terms of both quantity and quality. Towards this, the Project Implementation Agency

has to directly work with the urban stakeholders such as the Municipality and other state / district level

planning agencies and ensure that actions are taken to mitigate the environmental impacts arising from

increasing urbanization.

Human and Economic Development and Quality of Life: There is a need to plan for Worker Health

and Safety and Community Safety Plan to be developed and implemented.

4.3 Mitigation Measures during Pre-Construction

The pre-construction phase includes checking the design requirements and ensuring that the EMP

conditions are incorporated into the bid and contract documents. This will be done by the Implementation

Agency. During this phase, it should be ensured that the required costs are included into the overall

project budget.

It is also necessary to ensure incorporation of Health and Safety requirements into the bidding and

contract documents. Basic staff facilities need to be provided at all construction locations including but

not limited to; a staff changing area, a place to take meals and relax, washrooms and proper toilets that

are connected to an acceptable effluent disposal system. Portable chemical toilets, shall be available at

work sites, wherever necessary.

During bid evaluation, the strengths of the Contractor to carry out construction activities as per the

proposed Environmental, Health and Safety Standards should be checked and verified.

4.4 Impact during Construction and Mitigation Measures

The following construction related activities/ issues have to be dealt with during the construction phase:

• Tree Removal;

• Desilting;

• Borrow Area Rehabilitation;

• Removal and disposal of debris;

• Storage and handling of materials;

• Transport of machinery, equipment and material;

• Noise from construction activities;

• Work in proximity of protected areas;

• Dust and vibration;

• Worker Health and Safety;




P a g e | 21

• Solid and liquid waste management; and

• Rehabilitation and closing of construction sites.

Tree Removal: The tree count and the identification of tree species along the canal section that is

required to be rehabilitated should be carried out by the selected Contractor prior to starting the

construction activities. If trees need to be removed, the Contractor should seek approval from the

Karnataka Forest Department. Following any removal of trees, the contractor will arrange for trees of

identical species to be planted elsewhere in the construction site area as directed by the Forest

Department and approval of the Project Implementation Agency.

Desilting: Desilting of the canals is one of the main activities taken up under the canal modernization

project. Both the desilting activity and the desilting material itself should be managed such that there is

minimal impact on the environment. In this regard, it should be noted that the desilted material should

not impact either the surface water bodies or land. Because of the critical nature of the de-siltation

activity and management of the desilting material, the details of the issues involved and the mitigation

measure to be adopted is provided in Table 8.

Table 8: Desilting – Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures

No. Issue and their impact Mitigation measures

1. Dispersing of desilted material in nearby

fields and adjoining areas –

The obvious result is spreading of thick

layer of fine silt material onto the

surrounding. This surrounding include –

plants, trees, adjoining fields, habitations,

water sources (may be pond, lake etc.).

This would potentially hamper the process

of photosynthesis in plants and ultimately

leads to inhibited growth pattern among the

plants and trees.

Additionally, the spreading of the silt

materials to any adjoining surface water

sources shall affect its utilization by the

local community.

• The desilted matter should be disposed in a

timely manner to the identified disposal sites,

so that that dispersion can be avoided.

• In case the desilted material can’t be

transported due to non-availability of a suitable

disposal space, it should be decided in-

advance, whether this matter can be used for (i)

strengthening of bank or (ii) formation of

embankments. If the material is going to be

used for this purpose, then it should be used in

a timely manner, so that detrimental effects of

the desilted matter can be minimized.

2. Destruction of farms and crops –

The path way to reach the disposal site may

go through farmland and thus causing

disruption to farms and crops. It also leads

to disruption of local roads and transport

networks.

Consultation with farmers or in other words,

working in a collaborative mode is key to

minimize the environmental impacts arising from

the current activities. In order to identify the

pragmatic and acceptable solutions, discussions

with the local community is essential.

• Priority should be given for identifying suitable

disposal sites near to the desilting areas.

• In case the path to reach the disposal site goes

through the farmland, then concerned farmer

should be consulted and a consensus should be

arrived at to achieve to identify the tentative




P a g e | 22


pathway to reach the disposal site.

3. Noise Impacts –

It is generally assumed that all the desilting

work will be carried out during day time,

Hence, noise impacts shall be limited to

day-time. However, at all times, the work

should be carried out by taking the

necessary precautions to limit the noise

levels to permissible limits.

• In order to keep the noise level within

permissible limits, the proper maintenance of

tools and machinery is necessary. It should be

ensured that unnecessary vibrations and sounds

should be minimized

• The fitting of appropriate safety screens on

machines and the type of protective clothing

which should be ensured so that noise pollution

and unnecessary exposure to machinery (which

often causes disturbance in usual activities of

the villagers) can be avoided.

• All workers should be provided with safety

gear so that the noise does not impact their

well-being.

4. Disruption of daily life routine –

Although it is regarded that the current

activities will serve the local farming

community in a significant way, but there

will be certain short-term problems for the

local community. One of them is disruption

in the daily life routine resulting from

blocking of the thoroughfare and

hindrances in their movement. Another

associated problem is related to traffic. The

usual traffic will get disrupted due to

parking of giant machines, trucks and

trailers

• The demarcation of parking and other

construction/desilting activities needs to be

ensured in such a way that the impact on usual

movement of traffic and people should be

minimized.

• Vehicles or machinery not is current use should

be parked far from the usual pathways to avoid

disruption of traffic movement.

5. Wastes of machinery or vehicles –

The leftover/used/discarded oil and/or

greases could cause environmental

pollution, may be

• water pollution – if the waste goes to

canals/water-bodies/other water sources;

• soil pollution – if the waste remain left

onto the soil surface

• It should be ensured by the executing entity

that, the machines and vehicles (for the purpose

of silt transportation) should be properly

serviced and well-maintained. These should be

handled by expert staff.

• Any leftover/used/discarded oil and/or greases

should not be allowed to be disposed at the site

but taken to a recycling center.

6. Management of workforce & workplace

–

In case where the desilting is to be done by

labourers, their skill levels to carry out the

necessary work should be improved. This

• Brief orientation to unskilled labourers should

be done every day, so that they can take care of

indicated measures on environment and

personal safety.

• Provide basic infrastructure (including shelter,




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could include imparting skills on basic

guidelines like – keeping intact the original

canal section while doing desilting or other

maintenance related activities.

water supply and appropriate places for

washing and nature calls) to the outside-

labourers and other workers so that they live

under hygienic conditions.

• The executing entity has to ensure that, once

the desilting or other maintenance activities are

over, the land acquired for building the

temporary structures (mainly for the purpose of

developing shelter and other infrastructure)

should be restored to its original position to the

extent possible.

Disposal of silt: In absence of a comprehensive silt disposal plan, there could be overall environmental

degradation in that particular area. Key impacts caused by the improper disposal of desilted material –

• It may cause loss of vegetation from the banks of canals and adjoining areas.

• In case if high wind blows, the whole vicinity will be covered by a fine layer of silt.

• It may lead to disruption in movement of machines and trucks (carrying silt and other material).

Table 9 provides the key aspects to be considered during the disposal of silt:

Table 9: Silt Disposal – Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures


1. Lack of uniformity in silt deposition onto

the banks of canals, leads to weakening of

banks –

Improper disposal of silt may leads to

weakening of banks, as the quantum of silt

deposited will not be consistent and thus leads

to lack of uniformity on the track/path of the

canal, hence thereby leading to weakening of

banks at some places.

• Close supervision should be kept to ensure

proper disposal of desilted material at pre-

decided place, as per the plan.

• Deposition of silt on the banks (where it has

been pre-decided) should be done in presence

of experienced person (may be departmental

entity or as the case may be), so that in a

scenario where the labour is not much aware

about repercussion of their negligence can be

checked (from doing so).

• After the completion of desilting work in an

area, it should be ensured that the area gets

restored to its original shape; in addition to

this no excess machinery should be kept.

2. Spillage of silt onto the nearby farmland –

The spillage of desilted material also creates

problem for the nearby farmlands, settlements

(near the work-site, if any) and adjoining areas.

• Efforts should be made to ensure avoidance of

spillage of desilted material while

transportation.

• In any case the desilted material should not be

allowed to remain unattended. It should either

be transported to pre-decided site for its




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disposal or else it should be properly dressed

if getting used for reinforcing the bunds and

canal embankments.

• Sometimes the moisture content in the

desilted matter is significant enough to cause

dripping while getting transported from site to

the disposal place, it should be ensured that

the carrying space of the vehicle (meant for

transportation of desilted material) is leak-

proof.

• While transportation, the desilted matter

should be covered, so that the spilling and

flying of matter can be minimized.

• Overloading should be avoided, so that

spillage can be reduced.

3. Treatment at farmer’s field

In general the silt is fertile in nature and

farmers love to have the desilted material into

their fields. But there are many issues that

needs to be dealt with, for instance –

• it is bound to raise the ground level of

that area

• silt is lighter in weight so it will cause

dust problem during high surface

winds,

• the quantum of desilted material received by

the farmer for his field should not be too

much, that it significantly raises the ground

level of field

• the desilted matter should be evenly spread

into the field to obtain a symmetry

• in order to avoid flying of silt, a possible

measure is its proper mixture with the native

soil so that it gain weight and remain in that

area

4. Treatment at disposal site

The disposed-off desilted material if left

unattended may cause soil and water pollution,

in addition to this it may also cause severe

SPM (Suspended Particulate Matter) problem

as the fine soil gets dispersed in the vicinity,

especially during the period of high surface

wind and forms a layer of cover over existing

resources.

One of the key and preferred treatments is

development of vegetative cover. In other words,

some species of bushes and dense plants should

be grown to reduce the impact of high surface

winds and rainfall (which may cause soil

erosion). It is highly essential and should be

grown onto the surface area of disposal site to

avoid contamination and dispersion of desilted

matter into the nearby existing natural resources

(namely – soil and water) of that area. This

treatment also doesn’t involve much capital, so it

should be promoted.

5. Degradation/pollution to local water-bodies

–

In absence of comprehensive disposal plan or if

the compliance is poor, the local water-bodies

may become prone to get severely affected by

It should be ensured that, in any case the local

water-body or the area near to such water-body

is not identified as disposal site. Identification of

such water bodies can be done by referring to

current/old village maps. In addition to this, an

appraisal exercise can also be undertaken in




P a g e | 25


desilted material. consultation with the villagers, as they are good

knowledge source of that area.

6. Improper disposal of desilted material

Improper disposal may lead to local

environmental hazards. In absence of adequate

measures/provisions for proper disposal, the

native villagers will also get affected.

Provisions should be clear in the contract

document so that there is no possibility of back-

track by the contractor on this aspect. In addition

to this, penalty for non-compliance should also

be ensured.

Borrow Area Rehabilitation: Borrowing an area during construction towards strengthening of

structures/banks of the canals is a common occurrence. It is important to take effective measures to curb

the environmental impacts arising from such borrow area activities. Listed below are certain measures

which should be addressed (Table 10).

Table 10: Borrow Area Rehabilitation – Impacts and Mitigation Measures

No. Issue and their Impact Mitigation Measures

1. In an event when the borrowed area

is not compensated from

environment point of view, it may

cause soil degradation and removal

of all floral and faunal species of

that area, if any.

Proper disposal of left over material after

construction/other-maintenance-related-activity has to be

ensured, the patch of area borrowed should be appropriately

compensated from environment point of view. Surplus

excavated material should be used for construction in fill, or

be disposed of at suitable places. These places of dumping

should be provided with a vegetative cover

2. Loss of vegetation may also leads to

(i) soil erosion

(ii) stagnation of water leading to

vector proliferation and thereby

causing diseases related to

mosquitoes or other biting flees etc.

The loss of vegetation is another issue which needs to be

dealt with, so that impact can be minimized in this aspect.

The executing entities can be directed to ensure growth of

vegetation in certain patch as a return for the destruction it

has done to some other area in the name of “Borrow Area”.

At this juncture, one needs to understand the significance of

the ‘vegetative – cover’. The vegetative cover allows the

native floral and faunal species to grow and propagate. It

also hampers removal of top layer of earth i.e. soil (which is

generally productive in nature) either by wind or

rainfall/run-off water.

3. In general the green trees are

property of forests department, so if

they are not taken into confidence

before any cutting activity, then it

could bring unnecessary

confrontation with the forest

authorities.

Removal of vegetation and cutting of trees should be done

judiciously and limited to minimum possible extent. It is

advised that cutting of any such tree (if highly essential)

should be done in consultation with the forest authorities.

4. Massive scale grubbing provides

exposure to top surface of earth,

Clearing and grubbing should not expose large area at any

time, to prevent soil erosion. In general also, Vegetation




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No. Issue and their Impact Mitigation Measures

which is not healthy for that

particular area, as this may lead to

soil erosion or stagnation of water.

cover should be established on all cut/fill slopes.

Eroded area should be promptly treated and protective

measures like turfing should be considered.

When excavation is carried out and excavated materials are to be stockpiled alongside the excavated

trench, effective wind and water erosion prevention measures must be taken. The area should be

rehabilitated and landscaped to ensure that the area drains correctly. Quarrying of fine and coarse

material is only to be done through licensed quarry operators.

Removal and disposal of debris: To the extent possible all waste material is to be re-used or recycled.

Anything that cannot be recycled will need to be taken to the existing landfill sites operated and / or

approved by the state agencies. If no state operated / approved landfill sites are not available, permission

should be obtained from the district authorities to identify unused wastelands that could be utilized to

dispose the construction debris. Upon disposal, appropriate cover and landscaping should be carried out

to ensure that the area drains properly. However, all care should be taken to ensure that the disposal of

regulated wastes is not carried out in such temporary disposal sites.

Storage and Handling of Materials: Construction material and POL storage areas and equipment

maintenance areas must be identified and developed. Fuel and oil will need to be stored in dedicated

areas in sealed tanks with a concrete base at least 20m away from a water course or other sensitive area.

Vehicles and machinery are not to be re-fuelled near water courses. Trained personnel should be

available at the site to prevent spills and for adopting appropriate procedures for cleaning up accidental

spills, if any. All waste oil, oil and fuel filters are to be collected and disposed of in accordance with best

industry practices. Upon closure of the site, all contaminated soil is to be excavated, removed and

replaced with fresh topsoil.

Transportation of Material and Equipment: Movement of trucks to carry material along access roads

to the project areas will be via a low-traffic density paved roads. However, precautions are recommended

for transport of material/equipment to eliminate any potential adverse impacts. If contractor’s vehicles are

likely to cause any congestion to local traffic flow and block to public roads, contractors shall select

alternative routes for their trucks based on the truck load, dividing the load if necessary to prevent

damages to local roads and bridges. The Contractor shall be responsible for damages to local roads and

bridges. All the vehicles shall observe the speed limits, be maintained in good operating condition and

always transport material under cover. Contractor shall avoid peak hours on roads with moderate to high

traffic.

Noise from Construction Activities: Project sites are at least 150 m away from the nearest settlement

and therefore equipment that generates noise will not be an inconvenience to people. However, noise will

be a particular issue for workers who may be operating the equipment. Workers and operators of noisy

equipment will be provided with ear protection while noise suppressors on construction equipment are to

be maintained to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Work in proximity of protected areas: The VNC canal is at about 25km from two protected areas i.e.,

the Daroji Bear Sanctuary and Otter Conservation Reserve. When near protected areas, it is necessary to

time activities, both on a daily and a seasonal basis, in order to avoid disrupting animal or bird

migrations, breeding, or nesting. The workers should be made aware of the precautions to be taken while

working in these protected areas.

Dust and Vibration: Excavation and construction work may create dust in the workplace from

construction operations and from vehicles carrying material. However, the overall impact will be minor




P a g e | 27

on paved roads, but the application of dust control best construction practices by the contractor will

control any problem. When the contractor’s work aggravates dusty working conditions, the contractor

will need to control dust by spraying water on the susceptible areas. The contractor will also be required

to maintain a record of dust control spraying.

Worker Health and Safety: The contractor will be required to provide a safe working environment,

personal protective equipment, a person trained in first-aid and a fully supplied first-aid kit at all

construction activity sites. The contractor will be required to induct all workers to the construction area

with a briefing session on workplace hazards and worker safety. A contingency plan must be developed

by the contractor for handling major emergencies. The contractor is to keep a record of accidents and

time lost from accidents.

Solid and Liquid Waste Management: Civil work contracts will ensure that the technical operations are

carried out according to the standard instructions for the appropriate disposal of waste, minimization of

nuisances during construction, and proper after-care of the construction sites. Various quantities of solid

and liquid waste will be generated from the construction sites. The Project will ensure that contractors for

civil works also comply with national safety and hygiene requirements for domestic wastewater and solid

waste, which will be included in the contract documents for civil works. Manifest should be maintained

at all times for all disposal activities. If worker facilities are constructed the contractor will need to

provide facilities to collect liquid wastes. These must be disposed in an acceptable place that will be

approved by the state agencies. No waste is to be dumped in any water body. However, it is important

that all waste is disposed according to the recommendations of the Karnataka State Pollution Control

Board.

Rehabilitation and Closing of Construction Sites: The contractor will be responsible for cleaning up

and disposing of all waste materials and rehabilitating (landscaping) all construction sites and work areas

so that these can be returned as close as possible to their previous state. This includes the stabilization and

landscaping of all of the construction sites. Any borrow pits that were operated by the contractor are to be

reshaped and closed. Any contaminated soil must be removed from fuel and oil storage areas. A record

including photographs / videos of all activities should be maintained for review at any point of time.

Excavation Materials: Canal cleaning requires excavation of important amounts of sediment from the

VNC canals. Where there is not enough space along the canal to deposit the excavated materials, the

material will be transported and deposited further away on unproductive lands after taking the necessary

permission from the local authorities. If private land is utilized for the purpose, a written approval from

the land owner should be obtained for all such disposal. Records should be maintained at all times for

review. The specific location will be determined by the Contractor prior to starting work on a particular

canal section. The impacts of the construction activities are considered not significant, provided the

excavated soil is properly disposed of on the unproductive wastelands. All construction sites should be

properly cleaned up, levelled and re-planted if required.

Canal Protection: According to the existing government instructions, irrigation canals should be

flanked with by buffer strips alongside where intensive agriculture, using fertilizers and pesticides, is not

allowed. These strips would serve to provide space for inspection roads (the inner buffer zone), to protect

the canal against infiltration of polluted water from nearby agricultural fields, and contribute to the

general amenity of the environment through the establishment of vegetative strips (the outer buffer zone),

The width of these strips depends on the capacity of the canals and should be as per Government

regulations. The right-of-way should be accessible to the irrigation agency at all times. In some places,

along the canals, farmers have illegally encroached the buffer strips to cultivate crops. Through

consultations with farmers, the buffer zones should be restored, where required, and maintained

according to the regulations.




P a g e | 28

4.5 Impact due to Proximity to Heritage Areas and Mitigation Measures

Hampi, the capital of Vijayanagara Kingdom during its reign over the region, figures in the UNESCO’s

World Heritage List. The inscription of a property on the World Heritage List signifies that the World

Heritage Committee has deemed that the site has cultural and natural values that can be considered

Outstanding Universal Value. While the VNC system is a 400-year old canal system, a portion of the

canal system passes through the Hampi Heritage Area. This imposes additional management demand on

the Government and other entities to secure high standards of protection and to comply with the

requirements of the World Heritage processes. Of late, the heritage sector has undergone a shift from

simple physical protection of the heritage area / monument to a more layered approach to management

that takes into account social, economic and environmental concerns. The recent heritage management

practices acknowledge the fact that heritage places cannot be protected in isolation or as museum pieces,

isolated from natural and man-made disasters or from land-use planning considerations. Nor can they be

separated from development activities, isolated from social changes that are occurring, or separated from

the concerns of the communities. This is especially true in Hampi where the heritage area is interspersed

with large rural sites that are privately owned and is farmed for crops that are fed from the VNC system.

Hence, the portion of the VNC that passes through the heritage area should be rehabilitated in a holistic

manner that meets the socio-economic and environmental parameters of the UNESCO guidelines. The

UNESCO Operational Guidelines indicate a range of types of attribute4 which conveys “Outstanding

Universal Value” which include the form and design; materials and substance; use and function and

traditions, techniques and management systems. For the VNC modernization, it is important to address

the range of types of attribute during the rehabilitation process. These include but not limited to the

following aspects:

• Planning and Design,

• Construction Aspects, and

• Stakeholder Consultation.

Planning and Design: The DPR was reviewed to look into the planning and design of the canal

modernization project. It has been noted that the form and design of the original canal has been retained

and no design changes have been proposed especially in the canal stretch within the Hampi Heritage

Area. The proposals for canal modernization include desilting the canals, strengthening the canal banks

while retaining the existing form and design. Additionally, the DPR preserves the continuing landscape5

that symbolize the region. However, it is important to identify the canal section within the broader

Hampi Heritage Area so that the selected Contractor is aware of the area within which the rehabilitation

work shall be subjected to additional requirements as per the UNESCO Operational Guidelines.

Construction Aspects: The UNESCO Operational Guidelines emphasize on the fact that the

components of cultural heritage should, in addition, be restored wherever appropriate, to their former use

and any work done on the heritage site should aim at preserving its traditional appearance, and protecting

it from any new construction or remodelling which might impair the relations of mass or colour between

it and its surroundings. Hence, the construction materials selected for the strengthening the canals should

be such that it integrates with the surroundings and does not negatively impact the heritage status of the

area. Additionally, possible harmful effects of the adopted construction methodologies on the

monuments within the heritage area should be avoided. Measures should be designed to counter the

effects of shocks and vibrations caused by blasting, machines and vehicle movements. Measures should

4 Attribute are aspects of a property which are associated with or express the Outstanding Universal Value.

Attributes can be tangible or intangible.

5 Continuing landscape is one which retains an active social role in contemporary society closely associated with

the traditional way of life and exhibits significant material evidence of its evolution over time.




P a g e | 29

also be taken to prevent pollution of the heritage area during construction and thereafter during the

operational period.

Stakeholder Consultation: Of late, because of the broad scope of heritage, more players or stakeholders

are involved in its management. This is all the more true in Hampi as it is a diffused heritage property, in

which the ownership is much more widely spread. The monuments including the canals are publicly

owned, however, the large rural sites that are located within the heritage area are farmed for crops and

livestock. Moreover, the local communities depend on the Hampi Heritage Area for their livelihood.

Hence, it is important to deal with a wide range of stakeholders, both private and public, to develop and

implement an agreed upon canal modernization plan. The baseline situation, mapping of damages,

methods of rehabilitation and the catalogue of measures to be taken for maintaining the “heritage” status

should be delineated in the plan. Additionally, the type of documentation and monitoring of the canal

modernization plan should be outlined. Hence, the canal modernization plan should be drafted after

involving all the competent authorities, agencies responsible for conserving the UNESCO World

Heritage Site and the local community. The agencies responsible for conserving the UNESCO World

Heritage Area include the Archaeological Survey of India and the Hampi World Heritage Area

Management Authority. The approvals from these agencies should be obtained prior to starting work at

the Heritage Area.

4.6 Impact due to Proximity to Urban Areas

Certain sections of the VNC system passes through the urban areas such as Hospet Town and Gangavathi

Town. Along these stretches, the residents discharge untreated wastewaters and dump solid waste

directly into the canals. Such actions not only pollute the canal water but also act as perfect breeding

ground for mosquitoes thereby threatening the health of the community, as well. Hence, in such areas, it

is important for the implementing agency to work with the Local Municipal Authorities and delineate a

plan of action to prevent the canal stretches being used as a conduit for discharging wastewaters and for

dumping solid wastes.

4.7 Impact due to Operation and Mitigation Areas

During operation, the main issues will be: (i) monitoring water abstractions; (ii) monitoring water quality;

(iii) desilting of canals periodically, and (iv) ensuring environmental-friendly agricultural practices in the

command area.

Monitor Water Abstractions: Operational procedures following canal modernization are likely to be

improved. Additionally, improvements in operation efficiencies are expected from installation of

telemetry devices and flow meters which allow better monitoring and control of water delivery. Also,

once the main canals are cleaned and lined, infiltration losses during operation will be reduced

substantially. Canal deformation and erosion, now occurring in various places, will be reduced

considerably once the rehabilitated system is in operation. A monitoring program for water flows should

be implemented during the operation. In addition to the main canal sections, water conservation is

expected to occur because of the techniques that the farmers adopt including but not limited to (i) land

levelling so that water is better spread over the land and less water is needed; (ii) better application rates,

which are adjusted to the growing periods of the crops, and (iii) mulching of soils to reduce evaporation

from the soil and enhance water holding capacity of soils. Hence, both the implementing agency and

WUCS should monitor the water abstractions so that the objective of the project is achieved in the long-

term.

Monitor Water Quality: Water quality gives an excellent indication of the suitability of the canal water

for agricultural purposes. Considering the various potential point and non-point sources of pollution, it is

important to monitor the quality of water on a regular basis. The canal water samples should be collected

at regular intervals and analysis performed through the use of recognized analytical laboratories. The

WUCS could carry out this activity at periodic intervals. The results should be shared with the CADA




P a g e | 30

and KNNL so that appropriate action can be initiated by the implementing agency in case of deterioration

in water quality.

Desilting of Drains: The canal gets silted up and the silt has to be removed at regular intervals in order

to maintain the hydraulic capacity of the canals. The WUCS should carry out the desilting work and the

desilted material should be either disposed-off on farmers land (with prior permission) or at an approved

site in an environment-friendly manner. Under no circumstances should the silt material be left on the

banks of the canal or disposed-off on banks of lakes or rivers thereby impacting the surface water bodies.

Ensuring environment-friendly agricultural practices: Agricultural practices these days are rely on

the use of fertilizers and pesticides to increase productivity. To grow properly, plants need nutrients

(nitrogen, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron, manganese, etc.) which normally can be found in

the soil. However, fertilizers are needed to overcome any of the shortfall in the soil nutrients and achieve

the desired plant growth. Hence, the farmers in the command area should have tests carried out to

determine the soil health. Accordingly, appropriate amount of fertilizers should be utilized to create

balanced medium for sustained plant health. Utilizing excess fertilizers to promote rapid plant growth

should be avoided. In fact, rapidly growing plants are weak and without an adequate root system. The

excess quantity of fertilizers also increases run-off and contaminate water bodies. Similarly, the use of

pesticides has become the most common approach to pest control. Majority of the pesticides do kill their

target pests but they also kill beneficial organisms living in the soil, such as pollinators and pest-predators

and pose health risks to wildlife. Using pesticides also reduces insect populations that are important food

source for birds and other wildlife. The best way to minimize the migration of toxic chemicals into the

natural environment is to reduce or eliminate pesticide use. The farmers in the region should be trained

in the use of fertilizers and pesticides and the WUCS and CADA should have a program to monitor the

application of latest knowledge on environment-friendly agricultural practices by the farmers.

4.8 Description of Planned Mitigation Measures

Screening of environmental impacts is based on the magnitude and duration of the impact. Table 11

provides the potential environmental impacts and the mitigation measures to be adopted in addition to

identifying the institution responsible to carry out the measures. The environmental impacts will be in

the entire project life cycle.

Table 11: Environmental Impacts and Planned Mitigation Measures

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

1 Mitigation Measures during Pre-Construction Phase

1.1 Lack of sufficient

planning to assure

long-term

sustainability of the

improvements and

ensure protection of

the assets created.

Permanent Major The design shall include

provisions for ensuring

effective maintenance and

protection of the assets

created so as to ensure

long-term sustainability,

especially in regard to

defining and preparing

WUCS for carrying out

its role in O&M of the

assets.

KNNL, WUCS

1.2 Implementation of Planning Major The EMP should be

incorporated as part of the

Contractor,




P a g e | 31

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

the EMP

contract bid documents so

that the Contractor

selected has the

knowledge, capability

and the experience

necessary to implement

the EMP during the

period of the project.

KNNL

1.3 Implementation of

the Health and

Safety requirements

Planning Major The Health and Safety

requirements should be

incorporated as part of the

contract bid documents so

that the Contractor

selected has the

knowledge, capability

and the experience

necessary to implement

the health and safety

requirements as part of

the EMP during the

period of the project.

Contractor,

KNNL

1.4 Implementation of

work in Heritage

Areas

Planning Major The bid documents

should incorporate the

necessary conditions to

select a contractor who

has the knowledge,

capability and experience

to implement canal

rehabilitation projects in

Heritage Areas.

Contractor,

HWHAMA, ASI,

KNNL

2 Impact during Construction and Mitigation Measures

2.1 Construction

Camps - Location,

Selection, Design

and Layout

Temporary Moderate Construction camp will

be located away from

settlements as far as

possible and be provided

with basic amenities

including access to

potable water supply and

adequate sanitation

facilities. Heritage areas

should not be used for

creating construction

camp facilities.

Contractor

2.2 Drinking water Temporary Major Sufficient supply of cold Contractor




P a g e | 32

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

availability at

construction camp

and workers' camp

potable water to be

provided and maintained.

If the drinking water is

obtained from an

intermittent public water

supply then storage tanks

will be provided.

2.3 Site clearance

activities, including

tree removal

Temporary Moderate The commencement of

site clearance activities

will be undertaken with

due permission from the

local authorities.

Additionally, the trees to

be removed should be

identified and necessary

permission should be

obtained from the

Karnataka Forest

Department prior to start

of the activities. All areas

used for temporary

construction operations

will be subject to

complete restoration to

their former condition

with appropriate

rehabilitation procedures.

Pre-construction

photographs will be taken

for all temporary sites to

be acquired for

completion of

construction.

Contractor,

Karnataka Forest

Department

2.4 Desilting of canals Permanent Major Desilting of canals should

be carried out such that

only the silt is removed

and the natural canal

sections are not damaged.

The temporary storage of

desilted material should

be such that there is no

negative impact on either

adjacent lands or surface

water courses. It should

also be ensured that the

silt does not retrace its

Contractor




P a g e | 33

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

way into the canals, as

well.

2.5 Silt Disposal Permanent Major The silt disposal should

be carried out on lands

whose use for the purpose

is either approved by the

land owner (in case of

private lands) or the

government (in case of

public land). In either

case, silt disposal should

be carried out in a manner

that it does not negatively

impact the adjacent lands

and surface and

groundwater sources.

Contractor

2.6 Borrow Area

Rehabilitation

Permanent Moderate Adequate safe

precautions will be

ensured during

transportation of earth

from borrow areas

(especially for access

road) to the construction

sites. Vehicles

transporting the material

will be covered to prevent

spillage. The borrow pits

will be identified and

consent of owner will be

obtained. The Contractor

should also submit

borrow area

redevelopment plan to the

Implementation Agency

for approval and

supervision during

borrowing.

Contractor

2.7 Sourcing of RMC Temporary Moderate Adequate precautions

should be taken to ensure

that there are no negative

impacts through location

of Ready-Mix-Concrete

Plants near construction

sites. Appropriate

approvals should be

obtained from state or

Contractor,

KSPCB, Gram

Panchayat




P a g e | 34

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

local authorities to

establish a RMC facility

near the construction

sites.

2.8 Soil and Water

Pollution due to

fuel and lubricants,

construction waste

Temporary Moderate The fuel storage and

vehicle cleaning area will

be stationed such that

water discharge does not

drain into any water

body. Soil and water

pollution parameters will

be monitored as per

monitoring plan. At

construction camp,

vehicle washing ramps

will be constructed and an

oil water separator pit

will be provided at ramp

area. All the vehicles

maintenance will be done

at workshop in city only.

The discarded fuel and

lubricants will be stored

in the drums and these

will be sold to recyclers

authorised by the State

Pollution Control Board.

Contractor,

KSPCB

2.9 Generation of dust Temporary Moderate The contractor will take

every precaution to

reduce the levels of dust

at construction sites.

Water sprinkling will be

carried out on haul roads.

All earthworks to be

protected/ covered in a

manner to minimize dust

generation.

Contractor

2.10 Emission from

Construction

Vehicles,

Equipment and

Machinery

Temporary Moderate Vehicles, equipment and

machinery used for

construction will conform

to the relevant Standard

and will be regularly

maintained to ensure that

pollution emission levels

comply with the relevant

Contractor




P a g e | 35

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

requirements.

2.11 Noise Pollution Temporary Moderate Noise limits for

construction equipment

used in this project will

not exceed 75 dB (A).

There shall be regular

monitoring for noise at

camp and construction

sites. Also, the

monitoring of noise levels

at the RMC plant should

be carried out on a

regular basis.

Contractor

2.12 Material Handling

at Site

Temporary Moderate Workers employed on

mixing cement, lime

mortars, concrete etc.,

will be provided with

protective footwear and

protective goggles.

Workers, who are

engaged in welding

works, will be provided

with welder’s protective

eye-shields. Workers

engaged in stone breaking

activities will be provided

with protective goggles

and clothing. The use of

any toxic chemical will

be strictly in accordance

with the manufacturer’s

instructions. The

Implementing Agency

shall be given at least 6

working days' notice of

the proposed use of any

chemical. A register of all

toxic chemicals used at

the site will be kept and

maintained up to date by

the Contractor.

Contractor

2.13 Disposal of

Construction Waste

/ Debris / Cut

Material

Temporary Moderate Safe disposal of the

construction waste will be

ensured in the pre-

identified disposal

locations. In no case, any

Contractor,

KSPCB




P a g e | 36

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

construction waste will be

disposed off around the

project site

indiscriminately and

cause impact to either soil

or water or any other

environmental media.

2.14 Safety Measures

During

Construction

Temporary Moderate Adequate safety measures

for workers during

handling of materials at

site will be taken up.

The contractor has to

comply with all

regulations for the safety

of workers, including

complete use of PPEs.

Precaution will be taken

to prevent danger of the

workers from fire, etc.

First aid treatment will be

made available for all

injuries likely to be

sustained during the

course of work. The

Contractor will conform

to all instructions on

maintaining health and

safety of the workers and

their family members.

Contractor

2.15 Clearing of

Construction of

Camps and

Restoration

Temporary Major Contractor to prepare site

restoration plans for

approval by the

implementing agency.

The plan is to be

implemented by the

contractor prior to

demobilization.

On completion of the

works, all temporary

structures will be cleared

away, waste disposed of

at pre-identified locations

approved by the

concerned agency,

excreta or other disposal

Contractor,

KNNL




P a g e | 37

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

pits or trenches filled in

and effectively sealed off

and the site left clean and

tidy, at the Contractor’s

expense, to the entire

satisfaction of the

implementing agency.

3 Impact and Mitigation Measures due to proximity to Heritage Areas

3.1 Planning and

Design

Permanent Major Planning and Design of

the canal modernization

project should be taken

up in such a manner that

the Form and Design of

the original canal sections

are not affected in the

stretch within the Hampi

Heritage Area.

KNNL, ASI and

HWHAMA

3.2 Stakeholder

Consultation

Temporary Major The planning, design and

construction aspects of

the canal modernization

project should be

discussed with all the

stakeholders including

but not limited to the

Archaeological Survey of

India, Hampi World

Heritage Area

Management Authority,

Local Panchayats and

NGOs in the region so

that the various activities

envisaged under the canal

modernization project has

the consensus amongst all

the stakeholders. Also,

approval should be

obtained from the

appropriate authorities.

KNNL

3.3 Construction

Aspects

Temporary Major All mitigation measures

related to construction

impacts listed out in the

earlier section of this

table should be adhered

to. In addition, it should

be ensured that no

Contractor,

KNNL, ASI and

HWHAMA




P a g e | 38

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

blasting should be taken

up in the heritage area.

Further, no construction

technologies that causes

noises, vibration and

impacts the heritage area

should be utilised.

Additionally, the dust

deposition on the heritage

area should be avoided

during the construction

period. The construction

material selected should

be such that it does not

impair the mass or colour

between it and the

materials utilised should

be aimed at preserving its

traditional appearance

and should integrate with

the heritage area

surroundings.

4 Impact and Mitigation Measures due to proximity to urban areas

4.1 Controlling canal

water quality

Permanent Major The implementing agency

should continuously work

with the municipalities

Gangavathi and Hospet in

particular to ensure that

the untreated wastewaters

and solid waste from the

urban areas are not

discharged directly into

the canals thereby

impacting the canal water

quality.

KNNL, Hospet

Municipal

Corporation,

Gangavathi Town

Municipal

Authority,

KSPCB

5 Impact and Mitigation Measures during Operations

5.1 Water Abstractions Permanent Major The project has a water

conservation objective.

As such, it is necessary to

monitor the water

abstractions from the

canal so that the impact

of the project can be

monitored on a

KNNL, WUCS

and CADA




P a g e | 39

No.

Potential

Environmental

Issues

Duration /

Extent Magnitude

Proposed Mitigation

Measures

Institutional

Responsibility

continuous basis.

5.2 Water Quality Permanent Major Periodic water quality

monitoring is suggested

to ensure that the point

and non-point pollutant

discharges do not impact

the water quality either in

the canal or the surface

water bodies to which the

canal ultimately would

discharge into.

KNNL, WUCS

and CADA

5.3 Desilting of Drains Permanent Major The desilting of the drains

should be done

periodically in order to

maintain the hydraulic

capacity of the canals.

The silt should be

disposed in an

environment-friendly

manner as mentioned

under impact and

mitigation measures of

construction activities.

Contractor,

CADA, KNNL

and WUCS

5.4 Controlling non-

point pollutant

discharges

Permanent Major The non-point pollution

discharges primarily

nutrients and pesticides

from the agricultural

fields can be prevented

through skilled

application of these

materials on the farm

lands. Appropriate

training and capacity

building activities should

be carried out in the

command areas so that

the farmers are trained to

utilize the fertilizers and

pesticides in an optimum

manner.

WUCS, CADA,

Agricultural

Department