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ECOLOGICAL STUDY AND

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PLAN FOR

INTEGRATED CEMENT PLANT AND LIMESTONE

MINING AT LAKHPAT KUTCHCHH, GUJARAT

SUBMITTED BY

M/S. ADANI CEMENTATION LIMITED

JUNE-2018

Ecological Study & Wildlife

Conservation Plan for Integrated

Cement Plant and Limestone Mining at

Lakhpat, Kutchh, Gujarat

Submitted by

M/s. Adani Cementation Limited

Study by Dr. Bharat Jethva

NABET Accredited FAE Cat-I, Ecology & Biodiversity

Bhagwati Enviro Care Pvt. Ltd. June-2018

Certificate

This report has been prepared by me based on extensive field visits and data

collected, review of published literature, information and maps furnished by M/s

Adani Cementation Limited, and data available in public domain. The study was

carried out in a particular time period and restricted to project area and its 10 km

periphery from the project area.

30th June 2017 Ahmedabad

Dr. Bharat Jethva

NABET Accredited FAE Cat-I, Ecology & Biodiversity

Bhagwati Enviro Care Pvt. Ltd. Ahmedabad

Content Sr. No

Page

No

1 Introduction………………………………………………………………………………. 1

1.1. Background …………………………………..…………………………………………… 1

1.2. Legal Framework ………………………………………………………………………… 4

1.3. Scope of Work…………………………………………………….……………………… 4

1.4. Objectives of the study ……………………………………………...…………………… 5

2 Study Area ………………………………..……………………………………………… 6

2.1. Project Location ………………….……………………………………………………… 6

2.2. Study Area ……….…………………………………………..…………………………… 6

2.2.1. Core Area……….……………...……………………………..…………………………… 6

2.2.2. Buffer Area……….…………….……………………………..…………………………… 8

3 Methodology……………………………………………….…………………………….. 10

3.1. Basic frame work of data collection ………………………….………………………… 10

3.2. Field Surveys …………………..……………………….……...………………………… 10

3.3. General Ecological Assessment …………………………………..……………..…… 10

3.4. Study of Flora …………………………..…………………………………………...…… 11

3.5. Study of Fauna …….…………………..…………………………………………...…… 12

3.5.1. Methodology for Herpetofauna…….…………..…………………………………...…… 12

3.5.2. Methodology for Birds……….…….…………..…………………………………...…… 12

3.5.3. Methodology for mammals…….…………..…………………………………...…… 13

3.6. Important wildlife Habitats and Protected Areas……………………………….……… 14

3.7. Rare, Threatened & Endemic wildlife Species and their Corridors ….…………..… 14

3.8. Literature Review ………………..…………………………………….…….…………… 15

3.9. Consultation ……………………………...…………………………………..…………… 16

3.10. Analysis to evaluate the potential impacts ……………………………….…………… 16

3.11. Preparation of Wildlife Conservation Action Plan: ……………………….…………… 16

3.12. Limitations of the study …………………………………………………………………. 16

4 Ecological Assessment …………………………………….…………….…………… 17

4.1. Biogeographic Zone……………..….………………..……………………………..…… 17

4.2. Protected Areas…………………. ……………..….………………………………..…… 17

4.3. Landuse Types in the Study Area ……………………………………………………… 21

4.4. Important Ecological Habitats ……………...…………………………………………… 23

4.4.1. Forest Area & Forest Type ……………...………………………………….…………… 23

4.4.2. Mangrove Ecosystem……………..………...…………………………………………… 25

4.4.3. Waterbodies……………..............................…………………………………………… 26

4.5. Floral Diversity and Vegetation Type ……………………………………………..…… 27

4.5.1. Vegetation type & community ……………………………………………..………..….. 27

4.5.2. Floral Species Richness…………………………….………………………………..….. 28

4.5.3. Dominant Plant Species ……………………………………..………..……………..….. 29

4.5.4. Invasive Exotic Species………………………………..……………………………..….. 29

4.5.5. Endangered/Threatened/Protected Species…………………..…………………..….. 29

4.6. Faunal Diversity and Species Inventory …………………………..…………………… 33

4.6.1. Herpetofauna Specie Recorded During the Survey…………..…………………..….. 33

4.6.2. Bird Species Recorded During the Survey……………………..…………………..….. 34

4.6.3. Mammal Species Recorded During the Survey…………………..………………..….. 39

4.6.4. Dominant Faunal Species ……………….…………………………………...…………. 41

4.6.5. Wildlife corridors ………………….………………………………..……..……………… 41

4.6.6. Species of High Conservation Significance…………………………….…………..….. 43

5 Potential Impacts & Mitigations…………………………..…………..………. 45

5.1. Habitat Degradation ………….………………………..…………..………………..…… 45

5.2. Impacts on Waterbodies ………...…….………………………………..….…………… 47

5.3. Impacts on Flora….………………….………………………….………………...……… 47

5.3.1. Impacts on Surrounding Forest Area………………………….…………………...…… 48

5.3.2. Impacts on Surrounding Vegetation………………………….…………………...…… 49

5.3.3. Impacts on Mangrove…………………………………...…..……..………………..….. 50

5.4. Impacts on Fauna…………………………………..……..…..…….………………..….. 51

5.4.1. Impacts on Herpetofauna………………..…..…...……..…..…….………………..….. 51

5.4.2. Impacts on Birds………………………..…………..……..…..…….………………..….. 52

5.4.3. Impacts on Mammals…………………..…………..……..…..…….………………..….. 53

6 Conservation Action Plan …………………………...………………...……………… 56

6.1. Critically Endangered Plant Species…………….…..…..……….…….…………….… 57

6.2. Schedule-I Fauna ……………………………………..…..……….…….…………….… 58

6.2.1. Reptiles/Indian Flap Shell Turtle ………………………………….………………….… 58

6.2.2. Birds/ Indian Peafowl ……..………..…..……….…….…………….………………….. 59

6.2.3. Birds/ Schedule-I Raptors ………………………..…..……….…….…..……………… 61

6.2.4. Indian Grey Wolf …………………..….…………..…..……….…….…..……………… 62

6.2.5. Ratel……………………………………..…………..…..……….…….…..……………… 64

6.2.6. Caracal…………………………………..…………..…..……….…….…..……………… 66

6.2.7. Chinkara…………………………………..…….………..…..……….…….…..………… 67

6.3. Wildlife Conservation & Livelihood Improvement Activity…………..…….……….… 69

6.4. Impact Mitigation Matrix & Conservation Plan…………..…….………..…..……….… 70

6.5. General Mitigation/Conservation Measures……………..…….………..…..……….… 76

6.6. Proposed Ecological Monitoring Programme…………..…….….……..…..……….… 77

6.7 Financial Allocation for Wildlife Conservation Activities……...………..…..……….… 78

7 References ……………………………………………………………..………………. 79

Annexure …………………………………….…………...………………..…………… 81

List of Maps, Figures and Tables

No. Map Page

2.1 Project location (core area) with 10.0 Km buffer (study area) in Gujarat 7

4.1 Project site location and the locations of Forest Areas in the study area 19

4.2 Project site location vs. protected areas in Kutch district 20

4.3 Landuse pattern in the study area 22

No. Figures Page

4.1 Percentage of various landuse classless in the study area 21

4.2 Composition of flora in core and buffer area in the study area 33

No. Table Page

2.1 List of villages falling in 10 km buffer area 8

4.1 Protected area and their distances from proposed project site 18

4.2 Area & percentages of various landuse types in the study area 21

4.3 Details of Forest area and forest types in study area 24

4.4 Checklist of different forms of plants observed in the core and buffer area in the study area 30

4.5 Checklist of Herpetofauna reported form the core and buffer area 34

4.6 Inventory of birds reported form the study area with their conservation status. 35

4.7 Inventory and conservation status of mammals reported from study area 40

4.8 Species of high conservation significance (Critically endangered or Schedule-I) present in the study area 43

6.1 Schedule-I fauna and Critically Endangered plant species reported from the study area 56

6.2 General Impacts vs. mitigation matrix & Conservation plan 71

6.3 Proposed financial allocation for mitigation and conservation measures 78

Ecological Study & Wildlife Conservation Plan for Integrated Cement Plant and Mining at Lakhpat, Kutchh, Gujarat

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. BACKGROUND

Adani Cementation Limited (ACL) is wholly owned subsidiary of Adani

Enterprises Limited (AEL) created on 6th December 2016, Adani has grown

to become a global integrated infrastructure player with businesses in key

industry verticals - Resources, Logistics, Energy and Agro. The integrated

model is well adapted to the infrastructure challenges of the emerging

economies. It has combined market capitalization in excess of US$ 20

billion, a sales turnover of US$ 9 billion, employing over 10,000 people and

having diverse interests in global trading, development and operation of

Ports, IDC terminal, establishment of SEZ, Oil refining, logistics, gas

distribution, Power Generation, Power Transmission and Power Trading etc.

Adani Port at Mundra promoted by the ADANI Group is operational since

1998. ADANI Group is manned by experienced and highly qualified

professionals including technocrats of repute. The team has demonstrated

capabilities in conceptualization and implementation large projects excellent

records of establishing benchmarks in the industry. With this experience,

Adani Cementation Ltd (ACL) has been formed for development of a number

of Cement Projects (Integrated Cement Plant, Grinding Units & Limestone

Mine).

The total market size of Gujarat, Rajasthan, West Madhya Pradesh and

Maharashtra is estimated at approximately 30 million tons. The key players

operating in this region are Ultratech, Ambuja, Mehta, Sanghi and JK

Lakshmi. The demand in these markets is expected to growth at par with the

GDP growth rate (~7.5%) of the country. Optimized logistics have been a

key challenge for the players in this region and low cost logistics both in term

of inbound for raw material and distribution cost will be the key success

factor in this region. Leveraging on the existing railway infrastructure and

utilization of low cost sea logistics is expected yield greater advantages.


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Based on the growing demand in the state of Gujarat over the next 10 years,

the proximity of the project location to this market is an advantage with

respect reduction in freight of cement to these markets. The financial viability

also shows a good Rate of return from the project. Considering the above

factors, Adani Cementation Ltd. (ACL) is proposes to setup an integrated

cement project as Lakhpat Cement Works which includes Limestone Mine in

251.9 ha. area, Cement Plant of rated production capacity of 10 MMTPA

Clinker as well as 3 MMTPA OPC/ PPC/ PSC/ COMPOSITE CEMENT in

three phases, and a berthing jetty of 15 MMTPA bearing capacity in phase

wise manner in Taluka Lakhpat, District Kutch (Gujarat). ACL proposes to

part grind clinker to produce bulk OPC at Lakhpat and transfer the same to

its proposed Blending Unit (BU) in Mumbai, whereas the balance clinker is

proposed to be transferred to the proposed Grinding Units (GU) at Mundra,

Udupi and Dahej in Phase I. ACL proposes to export any excess clinker

which is left after fulfilling the requirements of its proposed GU's and BU's.

The project/activities are covered under category 'A' of item 7(e) 'Ports,

harbours, break waters, dredging; item 1(a) Limestone Mine; item 3(b)

Cement Plant ; item 1(d) Captive Power Plant of the Schedule to the EIA

Notification, 2006 and its subsequent amendments. As a prerequisite (prior

environmental clearance) for the proposed development, ACL submitted the

Form-1, Draft Terms of Reference (ToR) and Prefeasibility Reports for

consideration by the various committees of Ministry of Environment Forests

and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). Environment Appraisal Committees of

MoEF&CC considered the project in their relevant meetings, and accorded

the Terms of References (ToR) for undertaking EIA study for obtaining

necessary Environmental/CRZ clearance in accordance with the provisions

of the EIA Notification, 2006 (as amended). As a part of approved ToRs for

EIA studies, following studies shall be carried out.

ToR No 17- for EIA study for Mining: Location of National Parks,

Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Ramsar site

Tiger/Elephant Reserves/(existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km


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of the mine lease should be clearly indicated, supported by a location map

duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden. Necessary clearance, as may

be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive

areas as mentioned above, should be obtained from the Standing

Committee of National Board of Wildlife and copy furnished.

ToR No 18- for EIA study for Mining: A detailed biological study of the

study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the

mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, endangered,

endemic and RET Species duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer

zone should be furnished based on such primary field survey, clearly

indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I

fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan along with budgetary

provisions for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with

State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary

allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the

project cost.

Generic ToR No iv- for EIA study for Clinkerization plant: The projects to

be located within 10 km of the National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere

Reserves, Migratory Corridors of Wild Animals, the project proponent shall

submit the map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden showing these

features vis-à-vis the project location and the recommendations or

comments of the Chief Wildlife Warden-thereon.

Generic ToR No v- for EIA study for Clinkerization plant: Wildlife

Conservation Plan duly authenticated by the Chief Wildlife Warden of the

State Government for conservation of Schedule I fauna, if any exists in the

study area.

Therefore, the present study is carried out to fulfil requirement of the ToRS

issued to ACL by three different Environment Appraisal Committees of

Ministry of Environment Forests and Climate Change. The present study is


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primarily a detailed account of flora and fauna present in 10 km radius of the

proposed project area and evaluation of impacts and suggestion of

mitigation plans.

1.2. LEGAL FRAMEWORK

ACL proposes to setup an integrated cement project as Lakhpat Cement

Works which includes Limestone Mine in 251.9 ha. area, Cement Plant of

rated production capacity of 10 MMTPA Clinker as well as 3 MMTPA OPC/

PPC/ PSC/ COMPOSITE CEMENT in three phases, and a berthing jetty of

15 MMTPA bearing capacity in phase wise manner in Taluka Lakhpat,

District Kutch (Gujarat). The proposed activities are covered under category

'A' of item 7(e) 'Ports, harbours, break waters, dredging; item 1(a) Limestone

Mine; item 3(b) Cement Plant ; item 1(d) Captive Power Plant of the

Schedule to the EIA Notification, 2006 and its subsequent amendments.

ACL approached Environment Appraisal Committees of MoEF&CC for

considered the project in their relevant meetings, and accorded the Terms

of References (ToR) for undertaking EIA study for obtaining necessary

Environmental/CRZ clearance in accordance with the provisions of the EIA

Notification- 2006 and CRZ notification 2011 (as amended). As a part of

approved ToRs for EIA studies, present study is carried out to fulfil some of

the ToRs mentioned.

1.3. SCOPE OF WORK

Scope of work for this study is in line with the ToRs issued to ACL which

include baseline information on flora, fauna, habitat type and quality,

species, diversity, rarity, migratory corridors of wildlife, presence of

threatened species, presence of presence of Schedule-I wildlife species,

presence of wildlife sanctuaries, national parks etc. in case of schedule-I

fauna, conservation measures should be proposed, and measures to

mitigate impacts of the proposed activities.

The present study carried out identification of ecologically sensitive receptors

(species, habitats& eco-systems) based on field investigations and literature

survey along with their mitigation with conservation action plan. The study


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was carried out in core area (project site) and in buffer area i.e. 10.0km

periphery from the project site. The study was carried out systematically and

scientifically using primary and secondary data in order to bring out factual

information on the ecological conditions of the project site and its

surroundings.

The study involved assessment of general habitat type, vegetation pattern,

preparation of inventory flora and fauna of terrestrial ecosystem in 10 km

radius from the boundary of proposed integrated unit (Mining block,

Clinkerization/Cement plant, Berthing jetty). Biological assessment of the site

was done to identify whether there are any Rare, Endemic or Threatened

(RET) species of flora or fauna in the core area as well its buffer zone and to

identify whether there are any ecologically sensitive area within buffer zone

that is likely to be impacted. The study also designed to suggest suitable

mitigation measures if necessary for conservation of important species and

their habitats etc.

1.4. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The major aim of the present study is to avoid any impact of proposed

project activity on important natural habitats or species in the study area.

Therefore, the study is carried out with following objectives.

To evaluate the ecological status of the study area with respect to

important flora, fauna and ecologically sensitive habitats etc.

Assessment of any impacts of the project activities on ecologically sensitive

habitats and species.

Recommend mitigation measures in the form of wildlife conservation plan

with an in-built monitoring mechanism and schedule of implementation

along with financial budget.


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2. STUDY AREA

2.1. PROJECT LOCATION

Proposed Project site and the study area are located in village Maldo,

Mudhvay, Koriyani and Kapurasi, of Tehsil Lakhpat, District Kutch (Gujarat)

state (Map-2.1).

2.2. STUDY AREA

For the convenience of the study and the user agencies, the study area was

divided in two major parts i.e. 1) Core area/project area including the area of

mine, cement plant, conveyer belt, and backup area and 2) Buffer area i.e.

10.0 km periphery of the project boundary (Map-2.1).

2.2.1. CORE AREA

Core area is proposed project area of Cement Plant/Clinkerization plant,

Limestone Mining area, Conveyor Corridor (Map-2.1) that covers 450 ha. land

located in Village Maldo, Mudhvay, Koriyani and Kapurasi, of Tehsil Lakhpat

of District Kutch in Gujarat. The limestone mining block is located in 26P/7,

26P/10,26P/22, 26P/18, 26P/41, 26P/49,26P/33, 26P/11, 26P/42,

26P/30,26P/57, 26P/32, 26P/25, 26P/8,26P/52, 26P/37, 26P/9,

26P/19,26P/27, 26P/63, 26P/47 of Mudhvay village. The Limestone Mining

lease area is 251.90Ha Mudhvay Limestone Mining Block C is located in

Mudhvay Village, Lakhpat Taluka, Kutch District of Gujarat. ACL has been

granted LOI by State Govt of Gujarat on 21st June 2017 for grant of mining

lease of Mudvay Sub Block C for limestone mineral. The proposed jetty

project area falls in the Kori Creek area where CRZ is applicable. Kapurasi

river is flowing along west of the project site.

The clinkerization unit is located in Govt. Land: Survey No.: 157 & 160

(Area: 145.8401 ha.), Private Land: Survey No.: 144, 145, 146, 147, 148,

149, 150, 151, 152, 153 & 158 (Area: 44.39 ha.) total Area: 190.23 ha.


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Map- 2.1: Project location (core area) with 10.0 Km buffer (study area) in Gujarat.


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The Kori creek coast is located at 3.0 km west from the proposed cement

plant site. The proposed cement plant site is located on the Lakhpat-

Narayan Sarovar road whereas; the mining area is located at 3.3 km from

this road. The land is adequate for the plant and mining area which are

acquired by company through due government procedures. No major human

settlements are placed within these proposed areas, therefore there is no

need for rehabilitation of any human settlements from the project site. Most

importantly the project site fall outside the notified eco-sensitive zone of

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary. Mining and Cement Plant sites are

located at substantial distances from the Coastal Regulatory Zone.

2.2.2. BUFFER AREA

The Buffer Area mainly consists of revenue areas of 30 villages that fall in

10.0 km periphery of the project site (Map-2.1). In the present study, survey

was not carried out within the areas of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

that fall in the study area. The list of villages is given in Table-2.1.

Table-2.1: List of villages falling in 10 km buffer area.

No Village No Village No Village

1 Akri 11 Guneri 21 Mindhiyari

2 Chher Moti 12 Kaiyari 22 Mudhvay

3 Chher Nani 13 Kanoj 23 Mudiya

4 Dhedhapar 14 Kapurasi 24 Narayan Sarovar

5 Dhedhdi 15 Khanot 25 Naredi

6 Dhunay 16 Khengarpar 26 Pandhro

7 Fatepur 17 Koriyani 27 Pranpar

8 Fulra 18 Koteshwar 28 Sheh

9 Godhatad 19 Lakhpat 29 Subhashpar

10 Guhar Nani 20 Malda 30 Umarsar

Majority of the land of the buffer area is occupied by the Kori creek in North-

and East directions with mangrove and mudflats. There is also a Akri-Mota

Lignite based Power plant. On southern sides fellow agriculture fields, open

limestone exposed areas, habitation, Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

and its eco-sensitive zone, on South-East direction there is a huge


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operational Lignite mine by Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation

(GMDC), open scrub vegetation, natural saltpans, on Northern side etc.

Most importantly, no component of the proposed project is located within

eco-sensitive zone of any Wildlife Sanctuaries or National Parks. The

proposed project areas (mining block and cement plant) are located at

substantial distance from Coastal Regulatory Zone of Gulf of Kutch coast.


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3. METHODOLOGY

3.1. BASIC FRAME WORK OF DATA COLLECTION

The prediction of impacts industries on flora and fauna depends on

understanding of the proposed activities, its magnitude/extent, scale and

ecological conditions in the surrounding area. Collection of comprehensive

baseline information on flora and fauna is therefore a prerequisite for

assessment of impacts of development activities. It would also help in

advance planning and mitigate the impacts and ultimately managing the

natural habitats and resources. The approach to achieve the stated

objectives within defined scope of work, include field surveys, interviews,

and reviews of literature. Following was the basic fame work of the data

collection and analysis for the present study. The baseline ecological

assessment involved information gathering on following.

Develop understanding on general ecological scenario

Study of flora

Study of fauna

3.2. FIELD SURVEYS

Several field visits were carried out in the month of December-2017 to

understand and assess the impacts of proposed project activities on flora

and fauna and natural habitats. We evaluated the distribution and

abundance of flora and fauna in project area and in buffer area separately.

However, survey was not carried out in the parts of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary that fall inside the buffer area.

3.3. GENERAL ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

The observations and assessment of overall ecological scenario involves

details such as classification of Biogeographic zone, eco-region, habitat

types and land cover, distances from natural habitats, vegetation/forest

types, sensitive ecological habitats such as Wetlands sites, Important Bird

Areas, migration corridors of important wildlife etc. present in the study area.


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Such baseline information provides better understanding of the situation and

overall ecological importance of the area.

The important ecological habitats and features were identified based on our

field visits and also mapping of landuse types in the study area. We

identified ecologically important habitats through primary survey, literature

survey and consulting local people etc. These important ecological habitats

and features were then identified on landuse map that is prepared for the

study area. Land use map of 10 km radius of the proposed project site is

prepared by EIA agency is used for the present study. Prominent landuse

features such as, roads, rivers/waterbody/drainages, agriculture, sea, sandy

beach, mangrove, mudflats, industrial and built up areas, forest area,

scrubland etc. were digitized using open source software such as QGIS and

their areas were calculated. There may be acceptable margin of errors in the

final map however, locations and important features are identified and shown

on map.

3.4. STUDY OF FLORA

Assessment of flora was carried out in the study area in the month of

December. Study of flora involved simple, systematic and standard

techniques. Due to clustered distributions of project component in predefined

areas (limited to 10 km periphery only), we carried out qualitative

assessment of flora in the study areas through ad libitum sampling. During

surveys, our team continuously searched for plant species and identified

them to prepare a checklist of plants in the respective study area. Various

component of the project i.e. Cement Plant, Mining Block, Conveyor belt,

surrounding buffer areas, were surveyed on foot and qualitative checklists of

plants were made.

We carried out qualitative assessment of the plant species found in the study

area. Information on occurrence of plants, their species names, floral

phenotypes, life forms etc. were collected continuously during the field trip in

the project area from morning to evening hours. The collected data was then

systematically used to synthesize a comprehensive checklist of flora that


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provides baseline information of the representative vegetation community of

the study area.

3.5. STUDY OF FAUNA

We mainly studied the fauna of higher trophic levels which acts as indicator

of the type and health of the eco-systems. We mainly studied the faunal

classes such as amphibians & reptiles (herpetofauna), birds and mammals

which occupy higher trophic levels which act as indicator of the type and

health of the eco-systems in the project area.

3.5.1. METHODOLOGY FOR HERPETOFAUNA

During our surveys with great difficulties we encountered a few herpetofauna

species. Therefore, such low detection probability was a limitation for not

conducting quantitative sampling of these classes. Therefore, with given low

detection probability, we carried out simple surveys i.e. presence absence

surveys to inventories the herpetofauna of the study area, following

methodology was used during survey.

Direct Search Method: In this method, we randomly and intensively

searched for amphibians and reptiles in core and buffer areas, dry trees,

dense dry bushes, below the stones, small holes etc. in the study area. All

these areas were repeated during each field visit. Uniform efforts were made

in all habitats during surveys in day and night hours. All the species

encountered were identified and photographed using Nikon D70 /

D90/D500/P-900 DSLR cameras. Comprehensive checklist of the

amphibians and reptiles were prepared for each season and site.

3.5.2. METHODOLOGY FOR BIRDS

Birds, occupying higher trophic levels in the ecosystems, respond quickly to

the changes in the habitats and therefore serve as one of the best indicators

for evaluating the ecological status and functioning of ecosystems of the

area. Therefore, we created baseline data on birds by systematically

collected data on occurrence in the core and buffer areas separately. For


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creating baseline data on birds, we carried out bird surveys in different

habitats as differential habitat preferences are seen in birds. In order to study

species richness of birds in core and buffer areas, we employed „Area

Search Method‟ or extensive search within core and buffer areas. We carried

out observations on bird species in small ponds, open areas, scrubland,

dense Prosopis bushes, isolated trees, village peripheries, coastal areas,

mudflats, surrounding agriculture areas etc. Extensive Search Method is a

qualitative method being used for improving the total species richness for

each site in totality. In this method we slowly and randomly walked in the

core and buffer areas and looked for birds and their calls. We walked in the

study area during early morning i.e. 7:00 AM to 9:00AM and 4:00PM to 6:00

PM. These time periods of the day are when maximum bird movements are

expected. We identified birds based on their size, colour, behaviour, flight

pattern, feeding habits, calls, etc. using binoculars and standard reference

books. The species checklist for core and buffer areas is prepared based on

this method. The bird surveys were carried out winter season so as to

include migratory species also. Following equipments were used during the

bird survey.

Nikon 10x50 Binoculars

Nikon 8x40 Binoculars

Nikon D500 with 100-500Tele lenses DSLR Digital Camera

Nikon P-900 DSLR Digital Camera

A comprehensive checklist of birds was prepared with information on their

habitats (i.e. Aquatic and Terrestrial), migratory non-migratory status, IUCN

Red list Categories, Wildlife Protection Act (1972) Schedules, checklist of

birds is prepared for the core and buffer areas.

3.5.3. METHODOLOGY FOR MAMMALS

Like birds, mammals are also occupying higher trophic levels in many

ecosystems and respond quickly to the changes in their habitats therefore,

serves as best indicators of the ecosystem health. We therefore, chose to

create baseline information on distribution and presence and absences of

mammal species. Since the presence of mammalian species is low affecting


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probability of their sightings, in the study area, it was difficult to estimate their

population using line transect method. More importantly, it was difficult to

accommodate the sightings of nocturnal and diurnal animals in the study.

Therefore, we prepared a qualitative check list of mammals based on their

presences and absence using indirect evidences and signs such as

footprints, droppings, diggings, scrap marks, etc. in the study area (core and

buffer) area.

Apart from these, search efforts were also made for various signs of

important wildlife species in the study area which includes looking for wildlife

signs such as dens, diggings, scrap marks, droppings etc. The sites where

likelihood of animals is higher such as shady trees, waterholes and

undisturbed bushes etc. were surveyed intensively during the survey in the

study area. This survey helped us in identifying various species, their

behaviour and characteristics. For mammal inventory, both direct sightings

and indirect evidences (like dung, scats, pellets, foot prints, nests, dens etc.)

were accounted.

3.6. IMPORTANT WILDLIFE HABITATS AND PROTECTED AREAS

We assessed the presence and distances of important wildlife habitats and

hotspots such as protected areas, mangroves, breeding and nesting

habitats, coastal habitats, important wetlands, and grassland area from core

area. These important areas include areas such as Protected areas

(National Park, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves etc.), Wetlands

of national importance, Ramsar sites, Important Bird Areas (IBAs), classified

by the Birdlife International etc.

3.7. RARE, THREATENED & ENDEMIC WILDLIFE SPECIES AND THEIR

CORRIDORS

We also assessed the presence of rare, endangered, endemic wildlife

species in the project area/core area and buffer area. Two major standards

were used for assessing the status of species of flora and fauna of the

project area 1) Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 and IUCN Red List


Page | 15

Categories to know the global status of the species. Apart from their status

of migratory or resident etc. were also assessed. Special search efforts were

made during the field visits to identify any such sensitive species or their

corridors etc. in the project area and the buffer area. Apart from field visits

we relied on interview surveys and consultation with local people.

3.8. LITERATURE REVIEW

Considering the time limitation to undertake statistically rigorous data

gathering system, study also relied on existing knowledge about the ecology

and biodiversity of the region. Importantly, there are quite a few studies

undertaken in the past dealing with the impacts of Cement Plants, mining

activities on flora and fauna and other concerns of biodiversity conservation.

Literature on Cement projects and associated environmental issues were

downloaded and collated through internet. Various relevant literatures were

surveyed during the study for collection of baseline information. Maps,

reports and documents collected from the project proponent were also

reviewed and used in the present study. Books on flora, fauna and wildlife

were also studied in order to understand the biology of several species.

Other than the above, for the purpose of this study, relevant information was

also collected and reviewd from following sources:

Research papers on flora and fauna around Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

Report on Critically endangered species of India.

Important Bird Area book

Mangrove Atlas published by Gujarat Ecology Commission

Research papers on Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary

Great Indian Bustard conservation Action Plan by Gujarat Government

Google imageries/Google Maps

Project related Maps provided by ACL


Page | 16

3.9. CONSULTATIONS

During the study, series of consultations were made with both technical and

non technical stakeholders to get better picture on the project area/core area

and buffer zone habitats. In order to know more about the seasonal

presence of several faunal species and their movement, study team

informally consulted and discussed with local people, from the villages,

herders and farmers who inhabit close to the proposed project area.

3.10. ANALYSIS TO EVALUATE THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS

The information collected on status of flora and fauna and, their spatio-

temporal distributions, hotspots, and potential impacts of proposed project

development were logically analyzed and conclusions were extracted for

preparation of conservation plan for the project proponent to implement.

3.11. PREPARATION OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN

After identification of key impacts of the project, on flora, fauna or any key

habitats of any important species or their corridors, a comprehensive wildlife

conservation action plan was prepared for 5 years with monitoring

mechanism and financial projections.

3.12. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The study undertaken is structured around the project information as

provided by the project proponent, any change in the proposed activities

may result in variation of outcome. The study is based on field visits,

literature survey, consultation with local people etc. for the duration

mentioned in the report. Professional judgment and subjective interpretation

of facts has been applied for this study. All information‟s and inferences

presented herein are based on the specifics currently available within the

limits of the scope of work, information provided by the client or its

representative, existing secondary data and schedule.


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4. ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

The observations and assessment of overall ecological scenario presented

in this chapter include details of flora, fauna, natural habitats, protected

areas, wildlife species and their migration corridors etc. Such baseline

information provides better understanding of the situation and overall

ecological importance of the area. This baseline information viewed against

proposed project activities help in predicting their impacts on the wildlife and

their habitats in the region. Data collected and information gathered from

secondary literature on flora, fauna, protected area, natural habitats, wildlife

species etc., were analyzed and results are presented as follow.

4.1. BIOGEOGRAPHIC ZONE

The region falls in Indo-Malay Realam (IM 1303) and Deserts and Xeric

Shrublands Biome as defined by WWF. The North-western Thorn Scrub

Forests [IM1303] ecoregion represents a large expanse of degraded dry

forest surrounding the Thar Desert. Neither exceptionally species-rich nor

high in endemism, the ecoregion nevertheless harbours viable populations

of antelopes.

As per classification of Indian Biogeographic zones by Rodgers et al. (2000),

Kachchh district falls under Biogeographic Zone 3 - the Indian Desert and

the Biogeographic Province Kutch Desert- 3B. The coastal areas of Kutch

also falls in Biogeographic Zone -8 the Western Coast.

4.2. PROTECTED AREAS

As per our information and survey there is no Sanctuary, National Park, their

eco-sensitive zones or wildlife corridors within the core area Map-4.1.

However Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 3.4 km south of

mining lease area and Eco-sensitive zone of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary is located at 2.4 km south of mining lease area. An inland

mangrove site at Guneri village is identified by Gujarat State Biodiversity

board and it is being considered for notifying as Biodiversity Heritage of


Page | 18

Gujarat (Map-4.2). This site maintains 13.2 km from mining block and 15.0

km from proposed cement plant in North-East direction. Chhari Dhand

Conservation Reserve is located at 59 km South-East direction from the

mining block. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary located is located at 59 km south of

the mining block. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Great

Rann of Kutch at 109 km east of the mining block. Lakhpat fort is located at

12 km North-East of mining lease. Wild Ass Sanctuary is located in the Little

Rann of Kutch at 162 km distance (Table-4.1, Map-4.1, Map-4.2). Various

landuse categories are mapped (Map-4.3 and Table-4.1). There are also

numbers of reserve forest areas in surrounding villages in the 10 km buffer

areas. Details are given in the Table-4.3.

Table-4.1: Protected area and their distances from proposed project site.

No Protected Areas & Biodiversity

sites

Distance in Km

Direction Mining block

Cement Plant

1 Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary 3.4 5.7 South

2 Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone

2.4 5 South

3 Proposed Guneri Mangrove Biodiversity Heritage Site

13.2 15 North-East

4 Kutch Bustard Sanctuary 58 60 South

5 Chhari Dhand Conservation Reserve

59 64 South-East

6 Kutch Desert Sanctuary 112 115 North-East

7 Wild Ass Sanctuary 163 166 East


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Map-4.1: Project site location and the locations of Forest Areas in the study area.


Page | 20

Map-4.2: Project site location vs. protected areas in Kutch district.


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4.3. LANDUSE TYPES IN THE STUDY AREA

We mapped various landuse types of the study area using field surveys and

various references available online. The major landuse features are

agriculture, sea, mudflats, open scrubland, sparse wasteland, mangroves etc

(Table-4.2, Map-4.3, Figure-4.1).

Table-4.2: Area & percentages of various landuse types in the study area.

Sr. No. Landuse Type Area in ha. % Area

1 Agriculture 12511.202 19.79

2 Built up 448.867 0.71

3 Creek 11504.193 18.19

4 Industry 285.203 0.45

5 Jetty 1.124 0.002

6 Mangrove 2084.651 3.30

7 Mining area 1239.415 1.96

8 Mudflat 12725.917 20.13

9 Scrubland 20965.889 33.16

10 Waterbody 1467.814 2.32

63234.27 100

Figure-4.1: Percentage of various landuse classless in the study area.


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Map-4.3: Landuse pattern in the study area.


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4.4. IMPORTANT ECOLOGICAL HABITATS

Due to geographical situation and prevailing physio-climatic condition, this

region supports the various habitats such as tropical thorn forest, grassland,

savannah, mangrove, saline desert and small fresh water wetlands in the

study area. Based on our field visits and literature survey we identified two

important and ecologically sensitive habitats that are located within 10km

buffer zone. These habitats are listed below.

i. Forest Area

ii. Mangrove ecosystem

iii. Waterbodies

4.4.1. FOREST AREA & FOREST TYPES

As per the forest classification of Champion and Seth (1968), forest of

Kachchh district classified under the “Northern Tropical Thorn Forest”.

Our field observation suggests that there is no classified forest as such

falling in the proposed Cement plant or Mining block core area. However,

total 2.6564 ha. of Unclassed Forest land of Malda and Kapurasi villages

would be utilized for laying conveyor belts. An application for the diversion of

the same is submitted to the forest department with due procedure. During

our field visits we noticed presence reserve forest areas in the buffer zone

which are under the jurisdiction of Kutch West Forest Division of Gujarat

Forest Department (Table-4.3). These forest areas have mostly vegetation

type which is known as Open scrub thorn forest. In general, due to poor

canopy formation, these forests form open canopy cover that is mainly

constituted by Acacia senegal and A. nilotica. The occurrence and

distribution of co-dominant species varies greatly within the study area due to

high variability within soil taxonomy, moisture regimes and site-specific

geological formations. Such species include Acacia nilotica, Acacia

leucophloea, Prosopis cineraria, Salvadora persica, Salvadora oleoides,

Euphorbia caducifolia, Grewia tenex, Cordia perrottetii, Capparis deciduas,

Zizyphus numularia, Balanites aegyptica, Casia auriculata etc. The invasion


Page | 24

Table-4.3: Details of Forest area and forest types in study area.

Sr.No Village Survey No Forest Type Area in ha.

1 Baiyava 56/P Reserved 328.24

2 Baiyava 56/P Reserved 125

3 Dedhapar 55/P Reserved 436.32

4 Dedhapar 55/P Reserved 448.6

5 Dhunay 2/P Reserved 458

6 Fatehpur 15/P Unclassed 193.82

7 Guhar Nani 14/3 Reserved 473.2

8 Kaiyari 34 Reserved 1168.52

9 Kaiyari 16 Reserved 846.24

10 Kanoj 60/P Reserved 345

11 Kapurasi Unsurveyed Unclassed 1585.81



14 Khengarpar 16/P Unclassed 270.88

15 Khengarpar 16/P Unclassed 274.66

16 Corry Creek Unsurveyed Unclassed 2008.41

17 Malda 24/P Unclassed 728.27

18 Mundhvay 24 Reserved 16.27



21 Mundhvay 3/P Reserved 290.09







28 Narayan Sarovar Unk Unclassed 10.12

29 Naredi 38/P Reserved 1227.52

30 Pranpar 9-1/P Reserved 615

31 Godhatad 33 Landbank 40

32 Godhatad 33/P Reserved 790.4

33 Godhatad 33/P Reserved 790.4

34 Panandhro 255/P Reserved 750

35 Panandhro 255/P Unclassed 3250.2

36 Kori Creek Unsurveyed Mangrove 57.75

Total 21145.22


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of Prosopis juliflora is very common in these forests, which has changed the

floral composition and vegetation structure. The details of village wise forest

areas are given in Table-4.3. The other type of reserve forests are located in

the form of coastal mudflats area i.e. on high tidal mudflats which are

harbouring sparse patches of mangroves and coastal vegetation details of

these area is given in the section on mangroves.

4.4.2. MANGROVES ECOSYSTEM

The coastal mudflats area located inside the Kori creek are part of reserve

forests which is part of un-surveyed land (Map-4.1, Map-4.3). The mudflats

located on the western bank of Kori creek beyond 7.5 from proposed jetty

location and from the coast have presence of sparse to dense mangroves.

Most of the mangroves are located on high-tidal mudflats of Kori creeks

western bank. These include natural and old mangrove stock along with

planted by forest department. The density of the mangroves varies from

sparse to dense (1900/ha.) in this area. Mangroves in the Kori creek have

height variation of 1 m to 7.5 meters. Majority of the mangrove areas are

dominated by one species i.e. Avicennia marina.

The other species i.e. Rhizophora mucronata and Ceriops tagal are planted

by the forest department as part of their mangrove conservation schemes.

Kachchh mangroves distributed in the arid to semi-arid coastal belts are

traditionally considered as the low dense mangroves which are mostly

degraded. Structural attributes of Kachchh mangrove are not comparable

with other luxuriant mangrove formations on other coasts of India (Sawale

and Thivakaran, 2013).

The recent spurt in inland watershed development schemes deprive the

meagre seasonal run-off to neretic waters, rendering it singly conspecific

formations of Avicennia, marina; a hardy species capable of tolerating high

physiological stresses (Sawale and Thivakaran, 2013). Though eight true

mangrove species were reported earlier from the Gulf of Kachchh, A. marina

was the only species recorded on the coast of Lakhpat i.e. Kori creek area


Page | 26

with sporadic occurrence of Rhizophora mucronata and Ceriops tagal which

are planted recently by the forest department.

4.4.3. WATERBODIES

Since India is signatory to various conventions related to conservation of

wetlands and migratory bird, the study should reflect the concerns if any

related to these international obligations of India. Our observation and

literature review suggests that there are no major inland wetlands present

within the study area i.e. 10.0 km buffer area of the project site. However,

the „Kori Creek‟ aligned between international boundary and project area in

North to North-Eastern direction is an important tidal creek which is

supporting several important flora and fauna. The creek is uninhabited

marshlands. This creek is one of the major mangrove sites of Gujarat.

During the monsoon season between June and September, the creek floods

its banks and envelops the low-lying salty mudflats around it. During the

winter season, the area is home to flamingos and other migratory shore

birds. Some of the mudflats located in Kori creek are part of forest areas

meant for conservation and protection of mangroves. Forest department

regularly maintains and plants mangroves in this areas.

Apart from Kori Creek, the study area has numerous small ponds and check

dams located on seasonal drainages. These check are known to accumulate

overflowing runoff water for a short period. Apart from being important

hydrological features in the semi-arid area, these check dams provide

important habitat for many bird species and water source for wildlife in the

region. One such drain is known as Kapurasi River which flows from South

to North in Kori creek. There are no major inland wetlands located within the

proposed cement plant area or proposed mining site. There is no check dam

or river in the vicinity of proposed cement plant area and proposed mining

site. However, all such drainages are seasonal in nature and flows only

during rainy days. These drainages flows water from main land to Kori creek

areas. Most of the stagnant water sources i.e. check-dams are located at


Page | 27

substantial distances from the proposed cement plant area and proposed

mining site.

4.5. FLORAL DIVERSITY AND VEGETATION TYPE

We evaluated species richness of vegetation/plant species in the core area

and in the buffer area of the project site.

4.5.1. VEGETATION TYPE & COMMUNITY

Core area: The proposed project site falls in the arid-semi arid climatic

condition. Our field survey and literature review suggest that the vegetation

types and community in the project area is that of semi arid-arid regions. It is

represented by sparse thorny scrub vegetation on the exposed limestone

substratum. The major part of the project area is devoid of large trees and

mainly consists of highly scattered and sparse shrubs i.e. Prosopis juliflora,

Prosopis cineraria, Acacia nilotica, Casia auriculata and Zizyphus numularia,

caparis deciduas etc. the major grasses include several species of Cyperus

and herbs Indigofera. Details of vegetation survey results are discussed in

forth coming sections.

Buffer area: The buffer area (10.0 km periphery) comprises mainly of Kori

creek area, coastal mudflats, open scrubland, dense and sparse Prosopis

patches, wastelands, small wetlands, mangroves, forest plantations,

scattered bushes of Prosopis juliflora, Prosopis cineraria, Acacia nilotica,

Azadirachta indica. Prosopis juliflora and Zizyphus numularia among the wild

plants and cotton among the cultivated crops are the most dominant plants

in the buffer area. Except for highly scattered and small plants of

Commiphora wightii, there were no rare, endangered or conservation

concern species present in the close vicinity of the project area in the buffer

zone.

Major part of the buffer area is agriculture fields particularly on the Eastern

side of the project area. Since ground water is saline up to 15 km from the

coast and highly saline up to 4 km from the coast. Thus, dry land farming is


Page | 28

practiced near the coast and irrigated farming is practiced in the farms that

are 5-6 km away from the coast. Cotton, Jowar, Bajra are the main crops

grown here. Some areas i.e. near Lakhpat fort are endowed with good

quality ground water which is used for irrigated agriculture.

Being semi-arid, arid zone, this region support low plant growth and

therefore, not many large trees with sizable canopies are present in the

buffer zone. However, in most of the villages local people have managed to

grow a few trees for shade, aesthetic and religious values.

4.5.2. FLORAL SPECIES RICHNESS

Core Area: During our random survey, found total 56 species of plants

within the core area i.e. proposed Cement plant site, proposed Mining Site,

and Corridors. The number of floral species could be even more as it was

not possible to carryout intensive floral survey in the entire stretch 450 ha. of

the core area. We reported 1 species of Climber, 17 species of Grass, 24

herbs, 6 shrubs and 8 tree species in the project core area (Table-4.4,

Figure-4.2). This suggests that the area falls in Arid-semi arid condition. As

per classification of biome, biogeographic zone, biogeographic province, this

area falls in Indian Desert/ Kutch Desert/Northern Thorny Scrub Forest.

These classifications of the study area suggest lower abundance, density

and diversity of plants in the region is reflected in our floral study of the

project area.

Buffer Area: We recorded total 99 species of plants within the buffer area or

10 km periphery of the core area. The number of floral species could be

even more in buffer area as it was not possible to carryout intensive floral

survey in the entire stretch of around 630 km2 buffer area. We reported 2

species of Climber, 4 species of Sedges, 24 species of Grass, 33 herbs, 16

shrubs and 20 tree species in the buffer area (Table-4.4, Figure-4.2). This

also suggests that the area falls in Arid-semi arid conditions. As per

classification of biome, biogeographic zone, biogeographic province, this

area falls in Indian Desert/ Kutch Desert/Northern Thorny Scrub Forest.

These classifications of the study area suggest lower abundance, density


Page | 29

and diversity of plants in the region is reflected in our floral study of the

project area.

4.5.3. DOMINANT PLANT SPECIES

Based on our direct qualitative observations we found that Prosopis juliflora,

Acacia nilotica, Salvadora persica, Salvadora oliodes, A leucofolia and

Caparis deciduas etc. in trees and shrubs whereas, in shrubs and Cynodon

sp. Sporolobus Cynodon sp. & Cymbopogon martinii in grasses and Casia

auriculata, Fagonia sp., Suaeda, Cressa sp., Aerva javanica in herbs are the

most dominant species in the region (Table-4-4).

4.5.4. INVASIVE OR EXOTIC SPECIES

Prosopis juliflora is an evergreen tree native to South America, Central

America and the Caribbean. In the United States, it is well known as

mesquite. It is fast growing, nitrogen-fixing and tolerant to arid conditions

and saline soils. Prosopis juliflora is an exotic and invasive widespread,

multi-branched shrub/tree species in the India. It has been invading

grasslands, native scrubland and forests of Gujarat and India.

Our study showed that the Prosopis juliflora is one of the most dominant and

wide spread in the core and buffer areas of the project site. Our biodiversity,

abundance, density measures suggests Prosopis juliflora is fast growing in

the area.

4.5.5. ENDANGERED/THREATENED/PROTECTED SPECIES

During our field survey we found an important plant species i.e. Commiphora

wightii in the core as well as buffer areas with low abundance. These plants

have high medicinal values and are facing the threats of extinction by

overexploitation for commercial purpose (Silori et al., 2004; Joshi, 2002;

GUIDE 2009) from Kachchh. According to IUCN this plant species is listed

as „Critically Endangered‟.


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As per IUCN justification for rating it as Critically Endangered is that the

global distribution and the wild occurrence of this species is limited mainly to

the dry regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh

States of India and the adjoining regions of Pakistan. Oleo-gum resin tapped

from the stems of this species constitutes the well known Ayurvedic drug

"Guggul" which is consumed in high volumes by the Indian herbal

industries. Field observations over the last several decades have confirmed

a severe decline in its wild population, as the shrubs tapped for oleo-gum

resin die within two to three years a (IUCN). Over the past 84 years (three

generation lengths) there has been a decline of more than 80% in the wild

population as a result of habitat loss and degradation, coupled with

unregulated harvesting and tapping of oleo-gum resin. This species is

therefore assessed as Critically Endangered.

Table-4.4: Checklist of different forms of plants observed in the core and

buffer area in the study area.

No Species Plant Form Core Buffer

1 Daemia extensa Climber 1

2 Citrullus colocynthis Climber 1 1

3 Cyperus bulbosus Sedge 1

4 Cyperus compressus Sedge 1

5 Cyperus rotundus Sedge 1

6 Cyperus triceps Sedge 1

7 Aeluropus lagopoides Grass 1 1

8 Apluda mutica Grass 1 1

9 Aristida adscensionis Grass 1 1

10 Aristida funiculata Grass 1 1

11 Aristida histricula Grass 1 1

12 Aristida hystrix Grass 1

13 Cenchrus ciliaris Grass 1 1

14 Chloris montana Grass 1

15 Chrysopogon fulvus Grass 1 1

16 Cymbopogon martinii Grass 1 1

17 Cynodon dactylon Grass 1 1

18 Cyperus flavidus Grass 1

19 Dactyloctenium aegypticum Grass 1 1

20 Dactyloctenium sindicum Grass 1 1

21 Desmostachya bipinnata Grass 1

22 Dichanthium annulatum Grass 1 1


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23 Echinochloa colonum Grass 1 1

24 Eleusine compresso Grass 1

25 Eragrostis ciliaris Grass 1 1

26 Heteropogon contortus Grass 1 1

27 Paspalidium jlavidum Grass 1 1

28 Sporobdlus coromendalianus Grass 1

29 Sporolobus maderaspatenus Grass 1 1

30 Urochondra setulosa Grass 1

31 Abutilon indicum Herb 1 1

32 Acalypha indica Herb 1 1

33 Achyranthus aspera Herb 1 1

34 Aerva javanica Herb 1 1

35 Aerva persica Herb 1 1

36 Aloe barbandensis Herb 1

37 Boerhavia diffusa Herb 1 1

38 Casia auriculata Herb 1 1

39 Commicarpus verticillatus Herb 1 1

40 Convolvulus auricomus Herb 1 1

41 Cressa cretica Herb 1 1

42 Crotalaria burhia Herb 1 1

43 Datura metel Herb 1

44 Enicostema axillare Herb 1 1

45 Evolvulus alsinoides Herb 1

46 Fagonia schweinfurtii Herb 1 1

47 Indigofera cordifolia Herb 1 1

48 Indigofera oblongifolia Herb 1

49 Indoneesiella echioides Herb 1

50 Justicia procumbens Herb 1 1

51 Launaea procumbens Herb 1 1

52 Salicornia brachiata Herb 1

53 Salsola baryosma Herb 1 1

54 Scirpus tuberosus Herb 1 1

55 Sesuvium sesuvioides Herb 1 1

56 Solanum surattense Herb 1

57 Solanum xanthocarpum Herb 1 1

58 Suaeda fruticosa Herb 1

59 Suaeda nudiflora Herb 1 1

60 Taverniera cuneifolia Herb 1

61 Tephrosia purpurea Herb 1 1

62 Tribulus terrestris Herb 1 1

63 Tridax procumbens Herb 1 1

64 Balanites aegyptica Shrub 1 1

65 Cadaba fruticosa Shrub 1


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66 Calotropis gigantea Shrub 1

67 Calotropis procera Shrub 1 1

68 Capparis decidua Shrub 1 1

69 Cappris grandis Shrub 1

70 Commiphora wightii Shrub 1 1

71 Euphorbia nerifolia Shrub 1 1

72 Grewia tenax Shrub 1

73 Grewia villosa Shrub 1

74 Lantana camara Shrub 1

75 Maerua oblongifolia Shrub 1

76 Maytenus emarginata Shrub 1

77 Tamarix aphylla Shrub 1

78 Tamarix gallica Shrub 1

79 Zizyphus numularia Shrub 1 1

80 Acacia catechu Tree 1 1

81 Acacia leucophloea Tree 1 1

82 Acacia nilotica Tree 1 1

83 Acacia senegal Tree 1 1

84 Avicennia marina Tree 1

85 Azadirachta indica Tree 1

86 Butea monosperma Tree

1

87 Cassia fistula Tree 1

88 Ceriops tagal Tree 1

89 Cocos nucifera Tree 1

90 Ficus benghalensis Tree

1

91 Ficus religiosa Tree 1

92 Phoenix sylvestris Tree

1

93 Pithecellobium dulce Tree 1

94 Propis cineraria Tree 1 1

95 Prosopis juliflora Tree 1 1

96 Rhizophora mucronata Tree 1

97 Salvadora oliodes Tree 1 1

98 Salvadora persica Tree 1 1

99 Tamarindus indica Tree 1

56 99


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Figure-4.2: Composition of flora in core and buffer area in the study area.

4.6. FAUNAL DIVERSITY AND SPECIES INVENTORY

The present study has made assessment of 4 major higher vertebrate

classes such as Amphibians & Reptiles (Herpetofauna), Birds and

Mammals. The assessment of fauna representing higher trophic levels in the

ecosystem was carried out since their diversity acts as indicators of the

health of the ecosystem in which they live. The details of the

results/observations are given as following.

4.6.1. HERPETOFAUNA SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY

Majority of the reptile species are fossorial in habit, therefore the assessment

of reptiles and their diversity etc. holds special significance for any

development project. In the present study we identified a total of 2 species of

Amphibians and 15 species of n reptiles in the buffer area. Whereas, we

reported total 1 species of Amphibian in core area and 7 species of reptiles

inside the core area (Table-4.5).

Of the reported herpetofauna, species in the buffer area, 1 species of turtles

(Indian Flap shell turtle) belong to Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act


Page | 34

1972 and it is classified as „Least Concerned by the IUCN. The Indian Flap

shell turtle was also reported from waterbodies in buffer area which is

common throughout country. However, three species belong to Schedule-II

(Spiny tailed Lizard, Common Cobra and Indian Monitor Lizard) where as

reset of the species belong to Schedule-IV. Majority of the reptile species

(except Seaturtles and tortoise) reported from the buffer area either fall in

„Least Concerned‟ or Not Evaluated category of IUCN. During our survey,

we found total 1 species of amphibian in core area whereas, 7 species of

reptiles from the core area, no endangered, rare, threatened or endemic

species of reptiles was reported from the project core area (Table-4.5).

Table-4.5: Checklist of Herpetofauna reported form the core and buffer area.

No Species Scientific name IWPA (1972)

IUCN Status

Core Buffer

1 Bufo melanostictus Common Indian toad Sch-IV LC 1 1

2 Bufo stomaticus Indian Marbled toad Sch-IV LC 1

3 Agama minor Short tailed Agama Sch-IV LC 1 1

4 Bungarus caeruleus Common Krait Sch -IV NE 1

5 Calotes versicolor Garden lizard Sch -IV NE 1 1

6 Champacuon zeylanicus Indian Chameleon Sch-IV

LC 1

7 Echis carinatus Saw scaled Viper Sch-IV NT 1 1

8 Eryx johni John Sand Boa Sch-IV LC 1 1

9 Hemidactylus flaviviridis Northern house gecko Sch -IV NE 1

10 Lissemus punctatea Flap shell Turtle Sch -I LC 1

11 Mubuya carinata Common Skink Sch-IV LC 1

12 Naja naja Common cobra Sch -II NE 1

13 Natrix piscator Cheakered Keelback Sch-IV LC 1

14 Ophiops jordoni Jordon‟s snake-eye Sch-IV LC 1

15 Saara hardwickii spiny-tailed lizard Sch -II NE 1 1

16 Sitana ponticeriana Fan throated lizard Sch -IV LC 1 1

17 Varanus bengalensis Indian monitor lizard Sch-II LC 1 1

8 17

4.6.2. BIRDS SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY

During the study we observed 107 bird species in buffer area and 63 from

core area. Majority of the species (71) are resident specie where as only 36

species were found to be migratory (Table-4.6). Of these 107 recorded bird


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Table-4.6: Inventory of birds reported from the study area with their conservation status.

S. No.

Name of Species Conservation Status as per IWPA-1972 (Schedule I

to VI)

Conservation Status as per

IUCN

Residant/ Migratory

Observed /Reported

Scientific Name Common Name Core Area

Buffer Area

1 Ashy-crowned Sparrow Lark Eremopterix grisea Sch-IV LC R 1 1

2 Asian Koel Eudynamys scolopacea Sch-IV LC R 1 1

3 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Sch-IV LC R 1 1

4 Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus Sch-IV LC R 1

5 Black drongo Dicrurus macrocercus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

6 Black Francolin Francolinus francolinus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

7 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros phoenicuroides Sch-IV LC M 1 1

8 Black shoulder kite Elanus caeruleus Sch-I LC R 1 1

9 Black winged stilt Himantopus himantopus Sch-IV LC R 1

10 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Sch-IV NT M 1

11 Blue rock pigeon Columba livia Sch-IV LC R 1 1

12 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica Sch-IV LC M 1 1

13 Brown-headed Gull Larus brunnicephalus Sch-IV LC M 1

14 Cattle egret Bulbulcus ibis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

15 Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

16 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola Sch-IV LC M 1 1

17 Common babbler Turdoides caudatus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

18 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis Sch-IV LC M 1 1

19 Common Coot Fulica atra Sch-IV LC R 1

20 Common Crane Grus grus Sch-IV LC M 1 1

21 Common Crested Lark Galerida cristata Sch-IV LC R 1 1

22 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Sch-IV LC M 1

23 Common Hoopoe Upupa epops Sch-IV LC R 1 1

24 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia Sch-IV LC R 1

25 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Sch-IV LC M 1

26 Common myna Acridotheres tristis Sch-IV LC R 1 1


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27 Common Redshank Tringa totanus Sch-IV LC M 1

28 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Sch-IV LC M 1

29 Common Stonechat Saxicola torquata Sch-IV LC M 1 1

30 Common tailor bird Orthotomus sutorius Sch-IV LC R 1

31 Common Teal Anas crecca Sch-IV LC M 1

32 Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala Sch-IV LC R 1

33 Demoiselle Crane Grus virgo Sch-IV LC M 1

34 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti Sch-IV LC M 1 1

35 Dunlin Calidris alpina Sch-IV LC M 1

36 Dusky Crag-Martin Hirundo concolor Sch-IV LC R 1

37 Eurasian collared dove Streptopelia decaocto Sch-IV LC R 1 1

38 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Sch-IV NT R 1 1

39 Franklin's Prinia Prinia hodgsonii Sch-IV LC R 1 1

40 Graceful Prinia Prinia gracillis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

41 Greater couckal Centropus sinensis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

42 Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber Sch-IV LC R 1

43 Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla Sch-IV LC M 1 1

44 Green bee eater Merops orientalis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

45 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Sch-IV LC M 1

46 Grey francolin Francolinus pondicerianus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

47 Grey heron Ardea cinerea Sch-IV LC R 1

48 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Sch-IV LC M 1 1

49 House crow Corvus splendens Sch-V LC R 1

50 House sparrow Passer domesticus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

51 Indian Courser Cursorius coromandelicus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

52 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus Sch-I LC R 1

53 Indian pond heron Ardeola grayii Sch-IV LC R 1

54 Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicata Sch-IV LC R 1 1

55 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

56 Indian silverbill Lonchura malabarica Sch-IV LC R 1 1

57 Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus Sch-IV LC M 1 1

58 Isabelline wheatear (Oenanthe isabellina Sch-IV LC M 1 1

59 Jungle Crow Corvus macrorhynchos Sch-IV LC R 1


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60 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus Sch-IV LC M 1

61 Laughing dove Streptopelia senegalensis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

62 Lesser Flamingo Phoenicopterus minor Sch-IV NT R 1

63 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca halimodendri Sch-IV LC M 1 1

64 Little cormorant Phalacrocorax niger Sch-IV LC R 1

65 Little egret Egretta garzetta Sch-IV LC R 1

66 Little grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Sch-IV LC R 1

67 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Sch-IV LC M 1

68 Long tailed shrike Lanius schach Sch-IV LC R 1 1

69 Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus Sch-I LC M 1

70 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis Sch-IV LC M 1

71 Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia Sch-IV LC R 1

72 Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus Sch-I LC M 1 1

73 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata Sch-IV LC M 1

74 Oriental magpie robin Copsychus saularis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

75 Orphean Warbler Sylvia hortensis Sch-IV LC M 1 1

76 Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

77 Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola Sch-IV LC M 1 1

78 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala Sch-IV NT R 1

79 Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus Sch-I NT M 1 1

80 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis Sch-IV LC R 1

81 Purple sunbird Nectarinia asiatica Sch-IV LC R 1 1

82 Red vented bulbul Pycnonotus cafer Sch-IV LC R 1 1

83 Red wattled lapwing Vanellus indicus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

84 River Tern Sterna aurantia Sch-IV NT R 1

85 Rose ringed parakeet Psittacula krameri Sch-IV LC R 1 1

86 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus Sch-IV LC M 1 1

87 Rufus tailed lark Ammomanes phoenicurus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

88 Sanderling Calidris alba Sch-IV LC M 1

89 Shikra Accipiter badius Sch-I LC R 1 1

90 Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus Sch-I LC R 1

91 Singing Bush-Lark Mirafra cantillans Sch-IV LC R 1 1


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92 Sirkeer Malkoha Phaenicophaeus leschenaultii Sch-IV LC R 1 1

93 Southern Grey Shrike Lanius meridionalis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

94 Spotted Owlet Athene brama Sch-IV LC R 1 1

95 Stone-Curlew Burhinus oedicenemus Sch-IV LC R 1

96 Sykes's Crested Lark Galerida deva Sch-IV LC R 1 1

97 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris Sch-IV LC M 1 1

98 Variable wheatear Oenanthe picata Sch-IV LC M 1 1

99 Western Reef-Heron Egretta gularis Sch-IV LC R 1

100 Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Sch-IV LC M 1 1

101 White throated kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis Sch-IV LC R 1

102 White Wagtail Motacilla alba Sch-IV LC M 1 1

103 White-eared Bulbul Pycnonotus leucotis Sch-IV LC R 1 1

104 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa Sch-I LC R 1

105 Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii Sch-IV LC R 1

106 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Sch-IV LC M 1

107 Yellow wattled lapwing Vanellus malarbaricus Sch-IV LC R 1 1

NT=Near Threatened, LC=Least Concerned 63 107

NT=Near Threatened, LC=Least Concerned; R=Resident, M=Migratory


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species, 101 belong to „Least Concerned‟ category rated by IUCN where as

total 6 species are i.e. Painted Stork, Eurasian Curlew, Lesser Flamingo,

Pallid Harrier, River tern and Black tailed Godwit belong to Near Threatened

Species (Table-4.6).

Majority of the birds reported i.e. 98 species in the study area belong to the

Schedule-IV of Wildlife Protection Act 1972 (Table-4.6). Whereas, only 8

species i.e. Black shoulder kite, Shikra, Long-legged Buzzard, Montagu's

Harrier, Pallid Harrier, Short-toed Snake Eagle, White-eyed Buzzard and

Indian Peafowl belong to Schedule-I of IWPA 1972. Whereas House crow

belong to Schedule-V. The birds were recorded mainly from non-forested,

degraded areas and in the surrounding open scrubland, wetlands, creeks,

and fallow agriculture landscape interspersed with scattered trees and

drainages. The bird species groups observed in the study area were

represented by species of open scrubland such as Raptors, Passerines,

Shrikes, Francolin, Quails etc. and waterbodies birds such as

Waders/shorebirds, Waterbirds, Egrets, Herons sandpipers, plovers etc.

Majority of the birds observed in the study area represent birds of coastal

mudflats, wetland and semi arid non-forested landscapes etc. Moreover,

majority of the bird species reported in the present study are abundant and

common even in human dominated landscapes such as urban cities, lakes

and ponds etc.

Majority of the resident species reported in the study area are known to

breed in this region as well as in entire Gujarat. No Rare, Threatened or

Endemic bird species were found to breed in the core project area.

4.6.3. MAMMAL SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY

Based on direct and indirect survey, we reported a total of 20 mammal

species in the buffer area and 7 in the core area of the project site (Table-

4.7). The common mammalian species that were directly observed in the

core area include Indian Jackal, Jungle Cat, Nilgai, Wild Pig, Grey

Mongoose, Indian Hare, and Five Striped Squirrel etc. We got signs of


Page | 40

presence of Indian Porcupine from buffer area in the form of quills. No

Threatened or Schedule-I species reported from the core area of the project

site (Table-4.7).

Table-4.7: Inventory and conservation status of mammals reported from study area.

No.

Name of Species IWPA Status

IUCN Status

Observed /Reported

Scientific Name Common Name Core Area

Buffer Area

1 Nilgai Boselaphus tragocamelus

Sch-III LC

1 1

2 Indian Jackal Canis aureus Sch-II LC 1 1

3 Indian Grey Wolf

Canis lupus pallipes

Sch-I UNK 1

4 Caracal Caracal caracal Sch-I LC 1

5 Jungle cat Felis chaus Sch-II LC 1 1

6 Desert Cat Felis silvestris Sch-I LC 1

7 Palm squirrel

Funambulus pennanti

Sch-IV LC

1

8 Chinkara Gazella bennettii Sch-I LC 1

9 Long-eared hedgehog

Hemiechinus collaris

Sch-IV LC 1 1

10 Common mongoose

Herpestes edwardsi

Sch-II LC 1 1

11 Hyena Hyaena hyaena Sch-III NT 1

12 Indian porcupine Hystrix indica Sch-IV LC 1 1

13 Indian Hare Lepus nigricollis Sch-IV LC 1 1

14 Honey badger

Mellivora capensis

Sch-I LC 1

15 Indian Desert Gerbil

Meriones hurrianae

Sch-IV LC 1

16 Indian pipistrelle

Pipistrellus coromandra

Sch-IV LC

1

17 House rat Rattus rattus Sch-V LC 1

18 Wild Pig Sus scrofa Sch-III LC 1 1

19 Indian Gerbil Tatera indica Sch-IV LC 1 1

20 Indian Fox Vulpes bengalensis

Sch-II LC 1

Unk= Unknown, NT=Near Threatened, LC=Least

Concerned 9 20

Indian Grey Wolf, Caracal, Desert Cat and Honey Badger are included in the

list as these species are reported in various literatures and studies carried


Page | 41

out for Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary. No direct or indirect evidences

(signs, scats, footprints, dens etc.) of these species were recorded during

out survey inside core and surrounding buffer area. Since a small northern

part of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary area falls in the study (10 km

buffer), these species are included in the list of species occurring in the

study area. Chinkara was spotted by us directly in the buffer area during

survey in part of eco-sensitive zone of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary. These

species belong to Schedule-I of WPA. Whereas Indian Jackal, Jungle cat,

Common Mongoose were reported from both core and buffer area and

Indian Fox was reported from buffer area only, belong to Schedule-II of

IWPA 1972. Whereas Nilgai, and Wild pig also reported from core and buffer

areas and Hyena reported from only buffer area belong to Schedule-III of

IWPA 1972. Palm squirrel, Indian porcupine, Indian Hare, Indian pipistrelle,

Long-eared hedgehog, Indian Desert Gerbil, Indian Gerbil belong to

Schedule-IV of WPA. Whereas, House rat belong to Schedule-V of WPA.

House rat belong to Schedule-IV of WPA.

4.6.4. DOMINANT FAUNAL SPECIES

Based on our observations, interview survey of local people, cattle herders in

the study area, we found that Nilgai, Wild Pig, hare are most common and

dominant mammal species present in the landscape. Whereas there were

several birds species belong to Passerine were most common and dominant

group of birds present in the core and buffer area of the project site. Among

reptiles, Spiny tailed Lizard, common garden lizard, monitor lizard etc. were

most common species present in the buffer areas of the project site.

4.6.5. WILDLIFE CORRIDORS

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), constituted under the

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (amendment 2006), defines wildlife corridors

as inherent geographical linkages (through forests, river courses or other

habitat attributes) which facilitate movement of tigers and other wild animals

from one source area to another. While the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972,

under section 38V mandates that the state government shall prepare a Tiger


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Conservation Plan, when notifying an area as a tiger reserve, so as to

ensure “ecologically compatible land uses in the tiger reserves and areas

linking one protected area to another for addressing the livelihood concerns

of local people, so as to provide dispersal habitats and corridor for spill over

population of wild animals from the designated core areas of tiger reserves

or from tiger breeding habitats within other protected area”, the term corridor

has not been defined in the act.

The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)

issued certain guidelines in 2011, to notify eco-sensitive zones in

accordance with the Wildlife Conservation Strategy 2002, the National

Wildlife Action Plan (2002), the National Board for Wildlife‟s letter dated 27

May 2005, and the Supreme Court‟s directions to states, to declare ESZs

around protected areas. According to these MoEF&CC Guidelines, a corridor

can be included in an eco-sensitive zone. Section 4.2 of the Guidelines

states: „In cases where sensitive corridors, connectivity, and ecologically

important patches, crucial for landscape linkages, are even beyond 10 KM

width, these should be included in the Eco-sensitive Zone. The eco-sensitive

zone around Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary has been identified and declared

vide S.O 1257 Dated: 31st May 2012. This notification encompassed various

important habitats in the periphery of the sanctuary as eco-sensitive zone.

However, the proposed project core areas falls outside the notified eco-

sensitive zone of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Our observations suggested that there is no rare, threatened or endemic

species of fauna present within the proposed project core area. Moreover,

water is a limiting factor in the semi arid zones for wildlife. Generally wild

animals regularly move for food and drinking water to their foraging ground

and the waterholes. Often they select their breeding sites in the close

proximities to the water sources. Since the proposed project area for Cement

Plant, Mining block and conveyor belt do not have waterbodies, such regular

movements of wildlife are not noticed within the project core area.


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4.6.6. SPECIES OF HIGH CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE

Based on our extensive field visits, literature survey, and consultation local

people, we found 14 faunal species of high conservation significance as they

belong to Schedule-I of Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972 (Table-4.8). No

globally Threatened or Endemic species of fauna as per IUCN of reported

from core or buffer area of the project site. However, a Plant species

categorized as Critically Endangered by IUCN i.e. Commiphora wightii is

reported from both core and buffer areas of the project area (Table-4.8).

Table-4.8: Species of high conservation significance (Critically endangered

or Schedule-I) present in the study area.

No Class Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status

Core Buffer

1 Reptile Lissemus punctatea

Flap shell Turtle LC 1

2 Bird Elanus caeruleus Black shoulder kite LC 1 1

3 Bird Pavo cristatus Indian Peafowl LC 1

4 Bird Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard LC 1

5 Bird Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier LC 1 1

6 Bird Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier NT 1 1

7 Bird Accipiter badius Shikra LC 1 1

8 Bird Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Snake Eagle

LC 1

9 Bird Butastur teesa White-eyed Buzzard LC 1

10 Mammal Canis lupus pallipes

Indian Grey Wolf UNK 1

11 Mammal Gazella bennettii Chinkara LC 1

12 Mammal Caracal caracal Caracal LC 1

13 Mammal Felis silvestris Desert Cat LC 1

14 Mammal Mellivora capensis Honey badger LC 1

Floral Species

15 Shrub Commiphora wightii

Gugal CR 1 1

CR=Critically Endangered Unk= Unknown, NT=Near Threatened, LC=Least Concerned

5 15

Of the reported 14 faunal species, 5 species are reported from the core area

i.e. proposed cement plant area and proposed mining block. One species of

Reptile, 8 species of birds and 5 species of mammals are Schedule-I

species reported from the study area. The species reported from core area


Page | 44

are mostly bird species which are Black shoulder kite, Indian Peafowl,

Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier and Shikra. Among the bird species, except

Indian Peafowl, rest of the species are recently added to Schedule-I list by

last amendment made in IWPA 1972 in the year 2013.


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5. POTENTIAL IMPACTS & MITIGATIONS

Impacts of integrated Cement unit along with Clinkerization/Cement plant,

Conveyor belts, Berthing jetty, Limestone mining block, on flora and fauna of

surrounding area were identified mainly by using information presented in

previous Chapter-4. Due to limitations of the study period, the baseline

information was also substantiated through secondary information. Finally,

the baseline ecological information was juxtaposed with the project activities

and impacts arising due to its construction and operation phases were

assessed. Specific impacts were visualized in terms of seasonal issues

related with the ecology of important species and their habitats.

Following the above mentioned approach, impacts on various components of

biodiversity were assessed. The general ecological impacts during the

construction and operation phases may be either short term, temporary or

long term and permanent or irreversible in nature. Some of the impacts may

be confined to the close boundary of the project site and some may extend

to the surrounding areas. Scientific studies revealed that loss of vegetation

cover, pollution of water, soil and air, depletion of natural flora and fauna,

reduction in biodiversity, erosion of soil, instability of soil and rock masses,

changes in landscape and degradation of agriculture land are some of the

conspicuous ecological and environmental implications of limestone mining.

Following are general and specific ecological impacts in absence of

mitigation measures during construction and operation phases of the

proposed integrated cement plant with mining block and conveyor belts.

5.1. HABITAT DEGRADATION

As reported in the baseline ecological data in chapter-4, the core and buffer

area of the proposed integrated project represents unique coastal xeric

desert eco-system. This area has vegetation representative that of typical

dry deciduous tropical thorn forests. The fauna of the study area are also

typical representatives of desert, arid and semiarid region. The proposed

project activities in absence of any mitigation measures could potentially

alter the habitat and degrade the eco-system, their functions as following.


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Though, not part of any identified or protected or sensitive ecological

habitats such as protected area and their eco-sensitive zone,

biodiversity heritage site, important bird area, important wetland etc.

this area has sparse scrubland interspersed with fallow agriculture

fields in the coastal arid zone which is relatively undisturbed with very

low human density and contiguous with Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary. This project would change landuse worth the project area

as the area would be occupied by the project components such as

cement plant, mining area, conveyor belt etc. This would be the gross

loss of habitats for flora and fauna in the region.

The project set up would require excavation and vegetation removal

from this area. This would result in removal or displacement of

existing vegetation/flora and fauna from the project core area i.e. 450

ha.

During construction of cement plant and operation of mining area, top

soil would be removed which is a gross loss of productive soil form

the eco-system.

During the construction work, construction wastes such as oil, grease

and debris could pollute the soil in the surrounding area and decrease

its productivity.

The major impact of construction and operation of cement plant on

terrestrial ecology is due to constant emission of construction related

dust and airborne cement dust which will settle on surrounding area

soil and on vegetation and it would gradually degrade vegetation

cover and degrade the land and decrease biomass productivity of the

surrounding area.

The major impact of operation of limestone mining on terrestrial

ecology is due to constant emission of airborne lime dust which will

settle on surrounding area soil and vegetation and it would gradually


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degrade land and decrease biomass productivity of the surrounding

area.

Cement dust falling on the soil are known to have effects such as

change in the soil pH making it more alkaline and unfavourable for

certain plants species and also causing leaf injury or death in plants

due to blocking of light for photosynthesis.

Chronic spillage and flow of cement or sediments from the cement

plant and limestone mining site through runoff could alter the texture

of soil in surrounding areas. This in long term potentially affects the

vegetation and biotic components of the surrounding area.

5.2. IMPACTS ON WATERBODIES

Sediments, material and pollutants that flow through runoff from

cement plant into drainages could potentially choke hydrology and

degrades and affect the water quality and degrade aquatic eco-

systems in the long term. As per the our study there are minor

drainages located in proposed cement plant and the proposed mining

block area that drains into Kori creek through Kapursai River (Map-

4.3). If these drainages carries sediments of cement, lime and

contaminated mine discharge etc. from cement plan and mining area,

it could affect the drainages, Kapursai River, its fan area and the

mudflats of Kori creek coast. This in long term potentially affects the

vegetation and biotic components of these waterbodies.

5.3. IMPACTS ON FLORA

Impacts of proposed activities on flora are identified as impacts on

surrounding forest area, general vegetation and the mangrove of Kori Creek

as follow.


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5.3.1. IMPACTS ON SURROUNDING FOREST AREA

As per our observations, forest vegetation in this area has sparse and dry

deciduous scrub type dominated with Prosopis juliflora, Acacia nilotica,

salvadora persica, salvadora oliodes, Ziziphus, Caparis, Euphorbia species.

As per our observations and study of maps it is revealed that there a total of

2.65 ha. area of Unclassed forest would be diverted for the construction of

conveyor belt for the project. Hence, this area would be the gross loss from

the forest area along with their vegetation and faunal assemblages. Apart

from this there are forest areas located in on the immediate northern and

north-eastern boundary of the proposed cement plant. The forest areas are

also located on the immediate surroundings of the proposed limestone

mining area.

These areas would be subjected to air, water, light and noise pollution during

the construction and operation phases of the proposed integrated project if

proper mitigation measures are not in place. Company should take utmost

precautions not to degrade these areas by constructing temporary roads,

worker camps, dumping construction materials, overburden, solid wastes,

garbage or any other form of materials within these forest areas. The fugitive

emission from the construction and operation activities shall be strictly

controlled so that it does not affect the growth of vegetation in these forest

areas. It is also known that workers collect fuel wood from the easily

available sources. Since forest areas are located on immediate peripheries

of the proposed project sites, ACL shall take utmost care and instruct the

workers not to collect fuel wood cut any trees from the surrounding forest

areas.

Since the predominant wind directions in this region is from South –West to

North-East, the pollutants from mining block and the Cement plant both can

potentially affect the surrounding forest area and the vegetation. It is

therefore, the company shall ensure that there would be no impact of project

activities on these forest areas through proper environmental planning and

monitoring policy during the construction and operation phases. Detailed


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recommendations are made to minimize impact of the project activities on

the surrounding forest areas in Ecological Management Plan (EMP).

5.3.2. IMPACTS ON SURROUNDING VEGETATION

Baseline status of terrestrial vegetation clearly suggests that the project sites

falls in semi-arid biogeographic zone with low floral density and diversity.

The Cement Plant, Conveyor belts, Back up area and the mining lease area

referred here as core area which totals up to 454.2 ha. of land area which is

presently having natural vegetation. Construction and mining operation in

this land area 454.2 ha. would require clearing of existing natural vegetation.

This means displacement of existing vegetation/flora from the project core

area. This include a species of climber, 17 species of grass, 24 species of

herbs, 6 species of shrubs and 8 species of trees. This also include a

species of shrub i.e. Commiphora wightii which is categorized as Critically

Endangered by IUCN.

Though, the project core area does not have other important plant species

except Commiphora wightii, the unavoidable removal of vegetation during

construction activity could not be considered negligible in otherwise known

as xeric condition. However, it is recommended that minimum vegetation

shall be removed from the project site and the naturally occurring important

plant and tree species on the periphery of the project site be left as part of

green belt development.

As per our survey, we noticed that the core area supports only a few plant

species of higher conservation significance (e.g. Commiphora wightii).

Commiphora wightii which is medicinally and economically important plant

which has very slow growth rate in semi-arid zones. Though, their population

is quite small and isolated in the core area, it is recommended that this

plants should not be disturbed as far as possible. Also Company shall take

up plantation of Commiphora wightii in the green belts as well as in the

adjoining buffer area along with the forest department.


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5.3.3. IMPACTS ON MANGROVES

Kori Creek Mangroves: The baseline information suggests that the coastal

area Lakhpat particularly on the mudflats located on western bank of Kori

creek has dense to sparse patches of mangrove. It maintains more than 7.5

km from the proposed jetty and about 9.5 km from the coast. A large patch of

mangrove area is located in the Mangrove Forest areas of Kori creek (Map-

4.3). Since the jetty would maintain more than 7.5 km from the mangrove

area, there are negligible chances that the mangroves located west of the

jetty site would be affected due the project activities. However, the impact of

jetty operations on mangrove eco-system of Kori creek would be studied in

marine EIA. Therefore, jetty operations shall be carried out as per the

recommendations made in the Marine EIA to minimize its impacts on

mangrove.

The construction and operation phases of Cement Plant and the mining

lease are likely to have minimum impacts on Kori creek mangroves as the

predominant wind direction is from South-West to North-East direction in the

region. Moreover, a seasonal drainage (also known as Kapurasi River)

located 2.0 km away from proposed cement plant and the mining block. This

river drains from Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary located in south to Kori

creek located in north. Therefore, chances of fugitive emissions or dust

materials flow to Kori creek mangrove areas through air or water/drainage is

negligible and less likely to affect mangroves eco-system.

Guneri Inland Mangroves: Apart from Kori creek mangrove, there is an

inland mangrove site at Guneri village which is identified by Gujarat State

Biodiversity board and it is being considered for notifying as one of the

Biodiversity Heritage sites of Gujarat. This site maintains 13.2 km from

mining block and 15.0 km from proposed cement plant in North-East

direction. It is found in the north-western boundary of the Guneri village

apparently it has no surface connection with the Arabian Sea and its high

tide and low tide lines. The total area of the inland mangrove patch is 2.14

ha in 5 patches. A total of 1232 live individual of Avicennia marina have

been counted in total 5 patches of inland mangrove site. No direct impacts of


Page | 51

project activities on this inland mangrove site are envisaged due to

substantial distance from the project site. However, since the predominant

wind direction in the region is from SW-NE, and the mangrove site is located

in NE direction of the project site, there may be impacts of air pollution on

this mangrove site in the long term.

Since mangroves are important plants and constitutes important eco-system

in the study area, it is recommended that ACL shall strictly control air and

water pollution using state of the art technologies in the project. ACL should

also monitor the mangroves of Kori creek and the inland mangrove of Guneri

as part of their regular ecological monitoring and if there are impacts, than

ACL should chalk out a detailed mangrove conservation plan along with

forest department. Aim & Objective of mangrove conservation plan shall be

to strictly avoid any damage by the project activities, preserve and add more

mangrove areas in the study area or zone of influence.

5.4. IMPACTS ON FAUNA

Though, the impacts of proposed plant and related construction activities

may be on several faunal taxa, but for the present study we focused mainly

on vertebrate classes i.e. herpetofauna, birds and mammals for identification

of impacts and future monitoring purpose. Therefore, in the present study we

identified impacts on the herpetofauna, birds and mammals particularly on

important and Schedule-I species of the landscape.

5.4.1. IMPACTS ON HERPETOFAUNA

The baseline study has reported total 17 species of herpetofauna reported

from the study area and 8 species from core area. No rare, endangered or

Schedule-I species are reported from the core area i.e project site. However,

Flap shell Turtle is reported from the buffer area which belongs to Schedule-I

of Wildlife Protection Act and listed as Least Concerned as per IUCN Red list

categories. However, a species i.e. Uromastix hardwickii belong to Schedule-

II which is reported form core and the buffer area of the study area. This is a

resident and most vulnerable species as it is localized and sedentary unlike


Page | 52

other reptiles such as snakes and lizards. Large scale excavation in core

area and movement of vehicles in buffer area may result in gross loss of their

habitats where they breed and thrive throughout the year. This species is

also often hunted or poached for their oil and meat. Therefore, it is

recommended that during construction and operation phases, no workers

shall be involved in poaching of such species. It is recommended that prior to

clearing vegetation from cement plant area and the mining lease area;

company should ensure safe rehabilitation of this species in to surrounding

safe habitats. The rehabilitation shall not be done in winter as this species is

cold blooded and hibernate during winter. Local biologist or trackers can be

consulted in rehabilitating these individuals from their holes. It is also noticed,

that construction workers sometime engage in poaching of Spiny tailed

lizzard for food as well as selling in the grey market. ACL shall ensure that

none of thier workers shall engage in such acts throughout construction and

operation phases. Taking care of water pollution and safe mining discharges

in to drainages shall take care of Schedule-I Indian Flap Shell Turtle.

5.4.2. IMPACTS ON BIRDS

We observed total 107 species of birds in the study area. Though the study

area, provide favourable and suitable habitats to large number of resident

and migratory birds it is not part or in proximity of the Important Bird Areas

identified by BNHS in Kutch, Gujarat. During our study we reported total 8

species of birds that belong to Schedule-I in Buffer area of the proejct site.

We also observed total 4 Schedule-I species of birds in the core area that

include Black Shoulder Kite, Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier and Shikra.

These bird species were not found to breed in the core area.

Occurrences of birds in the study area are mainly due to the overall

ecological condition which provides them suitable habitats where they obtain

their food and safety for their breeding or wintering in the region. Therefore,

any changes or degradation of air, soil and water quality would lead to

degradation of vegetation and habitats of birds. Increased noise levels and

disturbance levels would result in their displacement form the core area and


Page | 53

its immediate surroundings. Direct disturbance by presence of people,

vehicle, their noise, vibrations, lights etc. can potentially displace most of the

birds‟ species. It is often noticed, that construction workers engage in

poaching of wild animals particularly the birds which are easy to trap using

various methods.

Therefore, it is recommended that ACL shall take utmost care in controlling

dust, fugitive emissions and put in place all pollution control measures during

construction and operation phases which would not result in degradation of

air, soil, water qualities that affect the surrounding forest areas and

vegetation. It is also recommended that construction workers shall be strictly

instructed so that they don‟t engage in poaching of birds. It is further

recommended that ACL shall monitor the ecological status of the study area

including species of birds and their habitats as part of their periodic

comprehensive biodiversity monitoring programme.

5.4.3. IMPACTS ON MAMMALS

We observed a total of 20 mammal species in the buffer area and 7 in the

core area of the project site. No Threatened or Schedule-I species reported

from the core area of the project site. There are total 5 Schedule-I species of

mammals in the buffer area i.e. Indian Grey Wolf, Caracal, Desert Cat,

Chinkara and Honey badger (Ratel). Except Chinkara remaining other

Schedule-I species were not directly or indirectly observed during the

present study; however, these species are known to occur in the Narayan

Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary that falls in the buffer area of the proposed

project site. Local herders are known to kill most of the carnivores‟ species

by smoking their dens, poisoning carcasses, trapping etc. as they lift their

cattle, goats and sheep. This could also be the reason for low abundance of

most of the carnivore species in the study area. We also interviewed few

local herders and they informed us about not observing these species in the

region since long. Since various literatures that we surveyed have mentioned

occurrences of these Schedules-I species in Narayan Sarovar Wildlife


Page | 54

Sanctuary, we mentioned them in the checklist of species occurring in the

buffer area.

Occurrences of mammals in the study area are mainly due to the overall

ecological condition which provides them suitable habitats where they feed,

rest and breed in the region. Moreover, unlike birds most of the mammals

except bats are terrestrial in habits therefore, terrestrial land environment i.e.

their habitats is of utmost importance to them. Therefore, degradation of air,

soil and water quality would lead to degradation of vegetation and the overall

quality of their habitats. Increased noise levels and disturbance levels would

also result in their displacement form the core area and its immediate

surroundings. Direct disturbance by presence of people, vehicle, their noise,

vibrations, lights etc. can potentially displace most of the mammalian

species. It is noticed, that construction workers also sometime engage in

poaching of wild animals particularly the chinkara, Nilgai, hare, pigs etc.

using various methods.

The impact of proposed project on mammals also involves displacement of

the mammalian species occurring in the core area. We recorded presence of

Nilgai, Indian Jackal, Jungle Cat, Common Mongoose, Wild Pig, Indian

Gerbil inside the core area of the project site. These species would be

displaced from the project core area during the project operation. These

species are most common mammalian species which are found throughout

semiarid, non-forested, open scrubland, non protected areas and even in the

periphery of villages in Kutch region.

There are several Schedule-I mammalian species reported in the study area

landscape. However, as per literature survey except Chinkara, all other

schedule-I mammal species are reported from the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary area. Moreover, the important wildlife habitats in the periphery of

Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary have been identified and protected in the form

of eco-sensitive zone. As per our study the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary is located at 3.4 km south of mining lease area and its Eco-

sensitive zone is located at 2.4 km south of mining lease area. Similarly


Page | 55

Cement Plant maintains 5.7 km from Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

and 5.0 km from its eco-sensitive zone. Therefore, habitats of the entire

Schedule-I mammal species (except Chinkara) maintains substantial

distances from proposed limestone mining area, cement plant and conveyor

belts. Moreover, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary lies south of the project

whereas the predominant wind direction is from South-West to North-East in

this region therefore, the chances of pollution load, noise etc. may not be a

cause of concern for the Sanctuary and its Schedule-I mammal species.

Since Chinkara is a Schedule-I mammal species which exist in the entire

study area and even in the periphery of the proposed project site, it requires

attention of the project authority to ensure minimum impacts are caused to

the species. ACL shall ensure that all types of impacts due to mining activity

and cement plant on the surrounding forest areas and vegetation are

minimized through strict pollution control measures. Moreover, there are

incidences of large herbivore species such as Chinkara, Nilgai, etc. falling in

the mining pits. Therefore, the mining pits shall be fenced and the slope of

the mining pits shall not be steep so that animal if visit accidently fall and get

injured or die. Details of the conservation actions for the species are

mentioned in the forth coming chapter.


Page | 56

6. CONSERVATION PLAN FOR SCHEDULE-I SPECIES

Based on our field observations and literature survey we found several

species important plant species as well as Schedule-I wildlife species in the

study area (Table-6.1). We reported a plant species and 14 animal species.

The faunal wildlife species include a species of Reptiles, 8 species of birds

and 5 species of mammals.

Table-6.1: Schedule-I fauna and Critically Endangered plant species

reported from the study area

No Class Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status

Core

1 Reptile Lissemus punctatea Flap shell Turtle LC

2 Bird Elanus caeruleus Black shoulder kite LC 1

3 Bird Pavo cristatus Indian Peafowl LC

4 Bird Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard LC

5 Bird Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier LC 1

6 Bird Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier NT 1

7 Bird Accipiter badius Shikra LC 1

8 Bird Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Snake Eagle LC

9 Bird Butastur teesa White-eyed Buzzard LC

10 Mammal Canis lupus pallipes Indian Grey Wolf UNK

11 Mammal Gazella bennettii Chinkara LC

12 Mammal Caracal caracal Caracal LC

13 Mammal Felis silvestris Desert Cat LC

14 Mammal Mellivora capensis Honey badger LC

15 Shrub Commiphora wightii Gugal CR 1

CR=Critically Endangered Unk= Unknown, NT=Near Threatened, LC=Least Concerned 5

Species wise status, impacts and the mitigation measures are suggested in

as follow.


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6.1. CRITICALLY ENDANGERED PLANT SPECIES:

Gugal: (Commiphora wightii)

Status: Our field survey in the proposed project area revealed that there is a

critically endangered plant species present in the core and buffer areas.

However, this plant was found with

low density in the core and buffer

area. This plant has high medicinal

values and is facing the threats of

extinction by overexploitation for

commercial purpose (Silori et al.,

2004; Joshi, 2002; GUIDE 2009) from

Kachchh. However, recently Gujarat

Forest Department has accomplished

a large scale project on plantation of

Commiphora wightii in Gujarat.

Through this project thousands of

plants were raised and planted in

entire Kachchh region. This project has improved the number and density of

the species in the region.

Impacts: The construction of cement plant, conveyor belts and mining

operations would involve large scale removal or vegetation from the core

area. Therefore, this plant would be removed from entire project area. Apart

from the gross loss of the number of plants from the core area, the habitat

degradation due to air borne dusting from cement plant, mining area, mining

discharge, pollution load, movement of vehicle etc. can potentially affect the

density and distribution of this species in the buffer area.

Recommendations: ACL shall put in place all kind of pollution control

measures so that the surrounding vegetation is not degraded and this

species along other plants survive normally in the study area. ACL shall

carryout comprehensive biodiversity monitoring at regular intervals in order

to check impact of their project activities on surrounding area and special


Page | 58

emphasis shall be given to this species. It is also recommended that

company should take up plantation of Commiphora wightii by involving local

forest department, which has vast experience of carrying out plantation of

this specialized plant species. At least plantation of 10000 plants or more

should be done by the company. Since the survival rate of this species is

very low, the plantation shall be of higher number.

6.2. SCHEDULE-I FAUNA

Among the fauna, we reported total 14 animal species. As mentioned above,

the faunal wildlife species include a species of Reptiles, 8 species of birds

and 5 species of mammals.

6.2.1. REPTILE/ INDIAN FLAP SHELL TURTLE

Status: During our study this species of reptile was recorded form the small

village ponds in the study area. The

species is resident and breeding in

the buffer areas. The Indian Flap

shell Turtle (Lissemys punctata) is a

freshwater species of turtles are

widespread and common in the

South Asian provinces. They are

listed as Schedule-I species under

Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and as Least Concerned as per IUCN threat

categories.

Impacts: Since this species is an aquatic and cold blooded, it may be

subjected to impacts related to water pollution and hydrological impacts

arising due to project activities. These may include degradation of water

sources, soil characteristics, choking of drainages etc. This species is

otherwise not hunted or eaten by the people. Therefore, changes of

degradation of overall aquatic habitat qualities in the buffer area are likely to

affect these species and their distribution.


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Recommendations: ACL shall put all kind of pollution control measures in

place so that surrounding area ecological conditions are not degraded.

During construction it shall be seen that no drainage, ponds etc. are

damaged or altered. ACL shall carryout comprehensive biodiversity

monitoring at regular intervals in order to check impact of their project

activities on surrounding area and special emphasis shall be given to

monitoring of surface (drainage, check dams, ponds) water and wetlands in

the buffer area.

6.2.2. BIRDS/ INDIAN PEAFOWL

Status: The Indian Peafowl ( Pavo cristatus) is a resident breeder in

the Indian subcontinent. The bird was justifiably declared as the national

bird of India in year 1963 due to its „flagship‟ value founded on its glorious

position in mythology and its widespread distribution in the country. The

species is found in dry semi-desert

grasslands, scrub and deciduous

forests. It forages and nests on the

ground but roosts on top of trees. It eats

seeds, insects, fruits, small mammals

and reptiles. The Indian Peafowl is a

ground nesting bird and it lays a clutch

of 4-8 eggs which take 28 days to hatch.

The eggs are light brown and are laid

every other day usually in the afternoon.

The male does not assist with the rearing, and is polygamous. Poaching of

peacocks for their feathers and poisoning by feeding on pesticide treated

seeds are known threats to wild birds. Under the law, collection of tail

feathers is allowed only when the bird sheds them. The Indian peafowl is

under various threats that include the demand for feathers and wild meat,

conflict with farmers during cropping season, increased use of chemical

fertilizers and pesticides and habitat degradation.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_bird




Page | 60

Impacts: Our field study reported presence of Indian Peafowl in the buffer

areas of project site. The species was observed in the buffer area of 10 km

radius particularly near human habitations, villages and agriculture fields.

Since our study reported presence of Indian Peafowl in the buffer area, its

possibility of nesting in buffer area could not be ruled out. Since Indian

Peafowl is a ground nester, several project activitie can have adverse

impacts on their nesting grounds such as pollution, degredation of soil and

vegetation from surrounding ara and in the forest areas. Direct disturbance

by presence of people, vehicle, their noise, vibrations, lights etc. can

potentially disturb most of the bird species.

Recommendations: following actions for the conservation and protection

are suggested in wildlife conservation action plan to reduce impacts of

project related activities on the species. Based on our field observation on

the distribution, behavioral ecology, conservation need, and envisaged

impacts of cement plant, mining, and conveyor belts, we identified several

species specific actions that would help reduce the impacts of limestone

mining on Indian Peafowl as under.

i. A rapid survey for the breeding population of Indian Peafowl during

their nesting season shall be carried out in pre-monsoon season by

wildlife experts so as to ensure that no nesting of the species is

present in and around project or corea area.

ii. Since Indian Peafowl is a ground nesting bird, mining activities could

disturb their nesting activities. Therefore if nesting of peafowl is found,

in close proximity of the minig area, mining should not be carried out

in that particular block. Mining activities should resume only after egg

hatching is completed and the fledglings leave the nest.

iii. Avoid vehicle movement in the area where nesting is found. The

movement of vehicles or humans shoul be prohibited in vicinity of the

nesting area.


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iv. Electric lines shall be designed to minimize the potential for

electrocution of indian peafowl and other such large birds.

v. Lightings of within the project area could potentially deter the species

presence. Therefore, ACL shall ensure that minimum illumination

comes out from the project area. This can be done by adjusting the

angles of the light sources and using low intensity focused bulbs

inside the project area.

vi. Tree Plantation shall be carried out by ACL in the surrounding

villages and schools etc. in the buffer area. This would help the

species and provide them much needed roosting place.

vii. Staff involved in construction and mining activities shall be trained

staff and made aware of Indian Peafowl‟s status as National Bird of

India, and Schedule-I species protected under Indian Wildlife

Protection Act 1972. This is important because if there any casualties

of the species are found then they should report to the project

authorities and the local forest department to carryout further

necessary actions.

6.2.3. BIRDS/ SCHEDULE-I RAPTORS

Status: Total 7 bird species i.e. terrestrial Raptors belonging to Schedule-I of

Wildlife Protection Act 1972 are reported

from the study area. These species are

Black shoulder kite, Long-legged Buzzard,

Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier, Shikra,

Short-toed Snake Eagle and White-eyed

Buzzard. Of these 7 species of Raptors, total

4 are reported from the core area and all 7

are reported from buffer area. The species

reported from core area are Black shoulder

kite, Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier and


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Shikra. Harriers are migratory bird species and Shikra and Black Shouldered

Kite are resident species. Almost all the raptor species are recently added to

Schedule-I list through amendment made in year 2013. Of the reported 7

species, Pallied Harrier is listed as Near Threatened by IUCN and rest other

species are listed as Least Concerned. Montagu's Harrier and Pallid Harrier

are migratory raptors that arrive in this area during winter season.

Impacts: These 7 species of terrestrial raptors are predators and occupies

tertiary consumers positions in the food chain and ecological pyramids.

Therefore, any change in primary productivity would affect their distribution,

density and population in the region. Therefore, project activities resulting in

air, water and noise pollution, degradation of vegetation would potentially

affect the habitat of these bird species and their population in the study area.

Moreover, direct disturbance by presence of people, vehicle, their noise,

vibrations, lights etc. can potentially displace most of the raptors species

from the project area and its immediate surroundings.

Recommendations: It is recommended that ACL shall take utmost care in

controlling dust, fugitive emissions using state of the art technologies and put

in place all types of pollution control measures during construction and

operation phases which would ensure minimum degradation of surrounding

vegetation, forest area vegetation and waterbodies. Minimize vehicle

movements around the project areas. Adjust lightings within core area and

ensure minimum illuminations spreads outside the project area. Keep all the

machineries maintained so that minimum noise and vibrations are generated

in the surrounding area. Since most of the raw materials and products are to

be carried through conveyer belts the impact related to vehicle movements

would be low.

6.2.4. INDIAN GREY WOLF (Canis lupus pallipes)

Status: This species is reported in the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Since northern part of this sanctuary falls inside the study area i.e. 10 km

buffer area, therefore, this species is considered to be present in the study


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area. This species is reported in it is a conservation concern endangered

species with its numbers believed to range between 2000-3000 individuals in

the country (Jethva & Jhala 2004, Jethva & Jhala 2000). Indian wolf is

protected as Schedule-I species under the Wildlife Protection Act of India

1972. This species is protected by

law and killing or trading of this

species is prohibited in India.

Majority of the wolf populations in

India survive outside of protected

areas and subsist primarily on

livestock (Jethva and Jhala 2004,

Jethva 2003). It is often killed by

local cattle herders as they fear

lifting of their livestock. Therefore, their population is declining fast from

Kutch region. As such Grey wolf (Cans lupus) are considered as Least

Concerned by IUCN. The Indian subspecies is not evaluated for its status

and the IUCN status is unknown.

Impacts: Since this species is reported in the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary which maintains 3.4 km from the proposed mining block and 5.7

km from the proposed cement plant the direct impact of this project activities

are likely to be low. However, wolves choose their habitats by optimizing on

resource availability such as water; prey and disturbance free habitats which

provide them cover during the day. Wolf is a shy and very sensitive animal

species and it respond immediately to any changes in their habitats

particularly human disturbances. The large scale construction and mining

activities in the core area may involve frequent movement of heavy vehicles

and people etc. Since most of the raw materials and products are to be

carried through conveyer belts the impact related to vehicle movements

would be low. There would also be illuminations in the core area. These

activities may cause considerable disturbance to wolf if it is present in the

vicinity.


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Recommendations: Though the species is not reported from the core area

and its immediate periphery as it is reported from Narayan Sarovar

Sanctuary the impact of the proposed project is likely to be low on their

habitats. However, it is recommended that ACL shall minimize disturbance

caused by noise, vibrations and illuminations in the core area which could

lower impact on the species. Even small vibrations could disturb sensitive

species such as wolf. Conveyor belt vibrations shall be minimized by

maintaining it in best conditions throughout. It is recommended that ACL

shall take utmost care in controlling dust, fugitive emissions using state of

the art technologies and put in place all types of pollution control measures

during construction and operation phases which would ensure minimum

degradation of surrounding vegetation, forest area and waterbodies.

Minimize vehicle movements around the project areas. Adjust lightings within

core area and ensure minimum illuminations spreads outside the project

area. Keep all the machineries maintained so that minimum noise and

vibrations are generated in the surrounding area. No blasting shall be

carried out during construction or operation phases of the project cycle.

Gentle slopes in the mining pits shall be maintained so as to prevent any

accidents of animals during their nocturnal movements. ACL shall also

support forest department in conducting awareness of local people towards

wildlife conservation and law reinforcement and anti poaching activities in

the study area.

6.2.5. RATEL (Mellivora capensis)

Status: This species is reported in the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Since northern part of this

sanctuary falls inside the study

area i.e. 10 km buffer area,

presence of this species is

considered to be present in the

study area. The honey badger,

also known as the Ratel, is a


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species of mustelid native of Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Indian

Subcontinent. Despite its name, the honey badger does not closely

resemble other badger species; instead it bears more anatomical similarities

to weasels. It is classed as Least Concern by the IUCN owing to its

extensive range and general environmental adaptations. It is primarily a

carnivorous species and has few natural predators because of its thick skin

and ferocious defensive abilities. Although mostly solitary, honey badgers

may hunt together in pairs during the breeding season.

Impacts: This species is also reported in the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary which maintains 3.4 km from the proposed mining block and 5.7

km from the proposed cement plant the direct impact of the project activities

are likely to be low. Since the species is likely to be present in the buffer

area of mines in the Lakhpat Taluka. Species being fossorial needs special

attention when mining activities are carried out.






lower impact on the species. Even small vibrations could disturb sensitive,

nocturnal small carnivore species such as Ratel. Conveyor belt vibrations

shall be minimized by maintaining it in best conditions throughout. It is

recommended that ACL shall take utmost care in controlling dust, fugitive

emissions using state of the art technologies and put in place all types of

pollution control measures during construction and operation phases which

would ensure minimum degradation of surrounding vegetation, forest area

and waterbodies. Minimize vehicle movements around the project areas.

Adjust lightings within core area and ensure minimum illuminations spreads

outside the project area. Keep all the machineries maintained so that

minimum noise and vibrations are generated in the surrounding area. No

blasting shall be carried out during construction or operation phases of the

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustelid

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Badger

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weasels

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Least_Concern

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IUCN

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Predator

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breeding_season


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project cycle. Gentle slopes in the mining pits shall be maintained so as to

prevent any

6.2.6. CARACAL (Caracal caracal)

Status: This species is one of the most beautiful, shy and elusive cats of

India. It is protected as Schedule-I species under the Wildlife Protection Act

of India 1972 and listed as Least Concerned by IUCN. It is a found ranging

over Western Asia, South Asia and Africa. The caracal is a slender, yet

muscular cat, with long legs and a short tail. Males can weigh from 13 to 19

kg, while females weigh 6 to 12

kg. They are nocturnal. The

caracal is distributed over Africa,

the Middle East, Pakistan

and India. Its chief habitat is dry

steppes and semi deserts, but it

also inhabits woodlands,

savannah, and scrub forest. They

generally prefer open country, so long as there is sufficient cover, in the form

of bushes and rocks, from which to ambush prey. Though, the species is

least concerned globally as per IUCN category, it is sporadically reported

from Gujarat and Rajasthan in India. The species has sporadic distribution in

Kutch district as it has very few recent records from parts of Abdasa,

Lakhpat and Nakhatrana Taluka. During our study we could not record

presence of Caracal (Caracal caracal) in the core area. However, presence

of the species is reported from buffer area of proposed project site i.e.

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary by forest officials in 2005. The species

is reported from Matano Madh area in 1997 (Jhala and Jethva 1997).

Impacts: Caracal is reported in the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

which maintains 3.4 km from the proposed mining block and 5.7 km from the

proposed cement plant therefore, the direct impacts of the project activities

on this species habitats are likely to be low. However, in view of the similar

landscape extending in the buffer area, their presence cannot be ruled out. It

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tail


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is very shy species and responds to even small disturbances and vacates

the place. Hence direct noise disturbance from the project could displace the

species from the landscape. Similar to Caracal, the Desert Cat is also a shy

and small carnivore cat species. Impacts of the proposed project would be

same on these two cat species in the landscape.






lower impact on the species. Even small vibrations could disturb sensitive,

nocturnal small carnivore species such as Ratel. Conveyor belt vibrations

shall be minimized by maintaining it in best conditions throughout. It is

recommended that ACL shall take utmost care in controlling dust, fugitive

emissions using state of the art technologies and put in place all types of

pollution control measures during construction and operation phases which

would ensure minimum degradation of surrounding vegetation, forest area

and waterbodies. Minimize vehicle movements around the project areas.

Adjust lightings within core area and ensure minimum illuminations spreads

outside the project area. Keep all the machineries maintained so that

minimum noise and vibrations are generated in the surrounding area. No

blasting shall be carried out during construction or operation phases of the

project cycle. Gentle slopes in the mining pits shall be maintained so as to

prevent any accidents of terrestrial mammals are averted.

6.2.7. CHINKARA (Gazella bennettii)

Status: The important herbivore present in the buffer area is Chinkara which

is protected as Schedule-I species in Wildlife Protection Act 1972. During our

survey, we reported presence of Chinkara through direct sightings in the

buffer area in the study area. Indian gazelle is a shy animal and avoids

human habitation. It stands at 65 centimetres and weighs about 23

kilograms. It can go without water for long periods and can get sufficient

fluids from plants and dew. Although most individuals are seen alone, they


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can sometimes be spotted in groups of up to four animals. It lives

in grasslands and desert areas in India. Its population is on the decline due

to it being hunted for game.

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife

Sanctuary and its surrounding

areas are known for Chinkara

population. The sanctuary is also

known as Narayan Sarovar

Chinkara Sanctuary. The species

is common in landscape of Kutch

and North Gujarat. The species is listed as Schedule-I in Wildlife Protection

Act 1972 and as Least Concerned by IUCN. The species needs safe,

undisturbed arid semi arid plains with open and sparse vegetation.

Impacts: These mammals are likely to be using surrounding area for their

feeding and breeding. They are also likely to be using waterbodies in the

buffer area for their requirement of water. The impacts of mining activities on

herbivore are likely to be direct as they are primary consumers in the eco-

system. Degradation of soil, vegetation and habitat due to chronic pollution

loads the species would lose its feeding ground and breeding area.

Moreover, the direct loss of habitat worth the core area is also an irreversible

loss to the species. Therefore, changes in overall habitat qualities in the

buffer area are likely to affect these species. The species being swift runner

prey species it is likely to fall in the deep mining pits if there is no fencing

around mining pits or gentle slopes are not maintained in the mining pits. The

direct disturbance to these species by vehicle traffic, human intrusion in

wildlife habitat is also issue of some concern.

Recommendations: It is recommended that company shall comply with all

the pollution control and other conditions imposed in the environmental

clearance by MoEF&CC. Compliance of all the conditions in environment

clearance by MoEF&CC would take care of major issue of habitat

degradation for the species. Apart from pollution control measures, it is also

important to carefully plan mining pits. Chinkara moving particularly in the

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grassland

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India


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night hours are likely to fall in the pits. It is also suggested that the mining

pits shall be fenced properly or the slopes of the pits needs to be maintained

in such a way so that during night hours herbivore animals do not fall

accidently in to it and get injured or die. ACL shall also support forest

department in conducting awareness of local people towards wildlife

conservation and law reinforcement and anti poaching activities in the study

area. ACL shall support forest department in installing sign boards on roads

and strategic locations of villages informing prohibition of killing, poaching

etc. under wildlife protection act 1972.

6.3. WILDLIFE CONSRERVATION & LIVELIHOOD IMPROVEMENT ACTIVITY

Our study and literature survey suggests that the area around the proposed

project site have great tourism potentials in terms of Narayan Sarovar

Wildlife Sanctuary, Rann of Kutch, inland mangroves, small waterbodies,

Chhari Dhandh, etc. There are more than 17 species of herpetofauna, 20

species of mammals and 150 plus birds. The beautiful landscapes of

Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary and its wildlife and especially the birdlife is

unique that could be a major attraction for eco-tourists. This area already

receives large number of tourists that visit Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar

temples and Lakhpat fort. There are very little eco-tourism infrastructure and

facilities in the region, that provides the tourists with quality infrastructure,

interpretation, nature guides etc. Therefore, provided with quality

infrastructure, lodging facilities and best nature guides, the hardcore eco-

tourists would visit this area and local community could benefit from the eco-

tourism opportunities.

As such economic opportunities for local community are very limited in this

area. They are mainly facing poverty and remain occupied for their daily

quest to meet their basic needs. It is also fact that these people are unaware

of the value of natural resources lying in their surroundings. Nor are they

aware of the link between these resources and their livelihood. The key to

turning this situation around is to help rural people understand not only the

ecological and social values of their resources but also the tremendous


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economic opportunities and “ecotourism” revenue that natural resources can

bring to the region.

It is therefore, recommended that Adani Cementation Limited through their

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Corporate Environment

Responsibility (CER) funds shall support development of a model eco-

tourism facility in one of the surrounding villages. This should be done

systematically after studying eco-tourism potential, site selection in

consultation with forest department, local village panchayat and Bhuj

collector. The proposed Eco-tourism Centre shall employ only local villagers

for day to day management, nature guides, drivers etc. Boys from local

villages shall be trained to become nature guides for eco-tourists. They shall

be given comprehensive training in hospitality, nature guiding, code of

conduct, rules and regulations etc. This centre shall have nature

interpretation centre where local wildlife and eco-system shall be interpreted

through photos, models and audio-visuals. ACL shall bear the cost of

development of this eco-tourism centre and run it for at least initial 3 years.

After hand holding of 3 year period is over this shall be handed over to local

village body to mange and run it. The cost of land, construction, electricity,

training, vehicles etc. shall be borne by ACL. A total budget of around Rs.

3.5 Crore shall be allocated through CSR and ESR.

6.4. IMPACT – MITIGATION MATRIX & CONSERVATION PLAN

Based on our observation, literature review and consultation with local

people, and NGO, we formulated following impact vs mitigation matrix

(Table-6.2). It is advised that company shall follow the suggestions provided

in the following table-6.2. The matrix is created using information and data

collected during our field visits and the information available in public

domain. We calculated distances of sensitive ecological receptors such as

protected areas, their eco-sensitive zones, biodiversity heritage sites,

important bird areas, mangrove, reserve forests, wetlands, rivers etc. from

project core areas. Professional judgements are made based on our

experience and the variables used often for predicting impacts.


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Table-6.2: General Impacts vs. mitigation matrix & Conservation plan.

Issue Status Impacts Mitigation

Ec

os

ys

tem

s

Protected Areas

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in buffer area. It maintains 3.4 km from Mining area and 5.7 km from Cement Plant, It is located in South of project site, Prominent wind direction is from SW-NW

No impacts are envisaged, as predominant wind direction is from SW-NE. However, workers and vehicle trespassing through this area could affect and degrade it.

Ensure no trespassing of vehicle or people are through the sanctuary and it‟s environ.

No resources from sanctuary shall be used (i.e. fuel wood, soil, stone etc.) by workers or project authority.

Thick green belts shall be created using native species of plants in the periphery of mine and cement plant.

Support Forest Department‟s Wildlife Conservation activities

Eco-sensitive zone

Eco-sensitive zone of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary maintains 2.4 km from Mining area and 5.0 km from Cement Plant, It is located in South of project site

No impacts are envisaged, as the prominent wind direction is from SW-NW. However, workers and vehicle trespassing through this area could affect and degrade it.

Ensure no trespassing of vehicle or people are through the eco-sensitive zone.

No resources from eco-sensitive zone shall be used (i.e. fuel wood, soil, stone etc.) by workers or project authority.


Support Forest department

Wetlands & waterbodies

Village ponds are present , whereas no major wetlands, Wetlands of National or International importance are present in the study area

No major and important wetlands are located in close proximity to the project site. Few small to medium wetlands are located beyond 5.0 km south of project area. However, few drainages leading from the surrounding of project site meets Kapursai river which drains into Kori Creek may carry sediments and affect it in long run.

All pollution control measures shall be in place including garland drain in the mines.

Runoff water before releasing from mine and cement plant shall be treated/settled and shall be made free of sediments.


Support water conservation activities in surrounding villages through CSR/CER budget


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Important Bird Areas

Banni & Naliya grasslands are two major IBAs of Kutch

No impacts are envisaged, as these IBAs are located far away from the project site, Naliya Grassland is located 50 km south and Banni Grassland IBA is located more than 45 km East of project site.

Nil

Forest Area Reserve Forest, Unclassed forest areas are located adjacent to Mining lease, Cement Plant and Conveyor belt areas. Total 2.65 ha. of Forest land will be diverted for project use.

Direct loss of forest land worth 2.65 ha. Pollution loads from Mining activities and Cement Plant could potentially degrade forest land as the predominant wind direction is from SW to NE. People and vehicle may enter forest area and damage it.

Compensate loss or damage to Forest area due to pollution by taking up plantation of native species.

Develop thick green belt using native plants.

Maintain minimum 50 mtrs distance from the boundary of mining lease and cement plant.

No roads or trespassing shall be allowed through Forest area.

No collection of fuel wood from forest land shall be allowed.

No worker camps, dumping of solid waste, over burden inside forest land shall be allowed.

Fire and safety precautions shall be in place during construction and operation phases.


Mangroves Located at more than 7.5 km distance from proposed jetty, 9.0 km from coast

No direct impacts on mangrove are envisaged, however, during jetty construction and operation dredging related activities may affect mangroves




Follow recommendations made in Marine EIA for jetty for conservation of mangroves if any.


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Biodiversity Heritage Site

Proposed "Guneri Inland Mangrove Biodiversity Heritage Site" by Gujarat Biodiversity Board. It maintains 13.2 km from Mines and 15 km from Cement Plant in North-East direction.

No direct impacts on this inland mangrove site are envisaged due to distance. Though, the inland mangrove site maintains substantial distance from the project site, Since the wind direction is towards this site (NE) there may be impact in long term due to air pollution.



ACL shall monitor health of this site at regular interval of 3 years and take corrective measures if needed.

World Heritage Site

There are no world heritage sites declared by UNESCO for Nature Conservation. However, Lakhpat Fort Gurudwara is one of the UNESCO World Heritage site

Nil Nil

Ramsar Site There are no Ramsar Sites in Kutch district.

Nil Nil

Flo

ra

General Vegetation

This area has native vegetation representative of semi arid zones. These include typical tropical thorn forest area comprising of Acacia, Salvadora, Caparis, Ziziphus, Commphora species.

There will be irreversible loss of native vegetation from the core area i.e. 450 ha. The native vegetation from the immediate surroundings of the mine and cement plant areas would also be affected due to pollution load.

Remove minimum vegetation from core area.

Strict pollution control measures shall be in place.

Vehicle movements shall be minimum. No vegetation shall be cut by workers from surrounding area.

No collection of fuel wood from surrounding land shall be allowed.

Fire and safety precautions shall be in place during construction and operation phases.


Important plant Species

Commiphora wightii is an important plant which is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN. This plant is present in core and buffer area.

This important species would be displaced from core area and will also be affected in the surrounding area due to air and water pollution loads from cement plant and mining operations

ACL shall remove minimum number of Commiphora wightii plants from core area.



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Fau

na

Threatened or Endemic fauna Species

No threatened species of fauna listed by IUCN (Vulnerable, Endangered or Critically Endangered) are reported from the study area i.e. core or buffer area.

Nil Nil

Schedule-I Reptiles

The Indian Flap shell Turtle (Lissemys punctata) is present in ponds and wetlands of buffer area

Degradation of overall aquatic habitat qualities in the buffer area is likely to affect these species and their distribution.

Strict pollution control measures shall be in place including garland drain in the mines.

Monitoring of biodiversity including this species and take corrective measures.


Schedule-I Birds

Indian peafowl and 7 Schedule-I bird species i.e. terrestrial Raptors are present in study area.

Pollution load and overall habitat degradation, direct loss of habitat worth 450 ha. and direct disturbance due to vehicle movement, illuminations and project activities.


Maintain machinery so minimum vibrations and noise is generated.

Adjust lightings in the core area so minimum illumination spread outside core area.


Monitor biodiversity including bird species and take corrective measures accordingly.

Schedule-I Mammals

Total 5 species of Schedule-I mammals are reported from the study area. None from core area and most of these species are reported from the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary as per literature survey; however Chinkara is reported from entire study area.

Overall degradation of habitat due to pollution. Direct disturbance due to Noise, vibration due to mining, cement plant, conveyor belt and vehicle movements could deter these species. Lighting and illumination could displace the species from surrounding area. Hunting, killing by workers,


Maintain machinery so minimum vibrations and noise is generated.

Adjust lightings in the core area so minimum illumination spread outside core area.


Monitor biodiversity including mammal species and take corrective measures accordingly.

Support Forest department‟ wildlife conservation activities i.e. protection, monitoring, raising awareness and anti poaching law enforcement activities.

Provide financial support to Forest department for


Page | 75

purchasing vehicles for patrolling, water supply for wild animals etc.

Wildlife Corridors

No wildlife corridor is identified under any legal framework in the study area. However, important habitat linkages with Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary are identified as Eco-sensitive zone. Part of Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and Its Eco-sensitive zone falls within 10 km buffer of the project site i.e. study area.

No direct impacts of project activities are envisaged on Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone as the prominent wind direction is from SW-NW.

Ensure no trespassing of vehicle or people are through the sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone.

No resources from sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone shall be extracted (i.e. fuel wood, soil, stone etc.) by workers or project authority.


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6.5. GENERAL MITIGATION/CONSERVATION MEASURES

i. Strict control on dust pollution using various methods and technologies

shall be carried out.

ii. During construction, operation, mining activities water sprinkling on haul

roads, overburden and soil dumps shall be carried out regularly to control

dust pollution.

iii. Gentle slopes in the mining pits shall be maintained so as to prevent any

accidents of terrestrial mammals or wildlife species of the landscape.

iv. During operation phase ambient air quality standards (emission of

pollutants like Particulate Matter) must be maintained as per GPCB/CPCB

norms in and around the project site.

v. Ambient noise pollution and vibrations during construction and operation

phases of Cement plant, mining and conveyor belt shall be within limits of

the standards mentioned.

vi. Plantation of thick green belt on periphery of the project site shall be

created using local and hardy species.

vii. Ensure no movement of vehicles or people through Forest Areas located

nearby the cement plant and mining lease area.

viii. Ensure zero discharge of waste water from the project site into

surrounding area.

ix. Ensure safe passage of runoff through drainages located nearby the

project area.

x. Ensure no cement, fly ash, sediments, or any raw materials spill out from

project areas and flow into nearby drainage during the operation phase of

the project.

xi. ACL shall ensure that their construction workers and other staff during

construction or operational phase shall not be involved in poaching and

hunting activities of birds, reptiles or mammals around the project site.

xii. All other general measures to keep environmental parameters within

permissible standards.

xiii. No trespassing or vehicle or people shall be through, surrounding forest

area or the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary. This shall be instructed to

the workers and staff in advance.


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xiv. No workers camps shall be established within the surrounding forest area,

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone. This shall

be instructed to the workers and staff in advance.

xv. No resources (i.e. fuel wood, stones, sand, soil etc.) from the surrounding

forest area, Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive

zone shall be collected by staff or workers. This shall be instructed to the

workers and staff in advance.

xvi. No workers or staff members shall be involved in poaching or killing of any

wild animals throughout the project life cycle. This shall be instructed to

the workers and staff in advance and sign boards to this effect within

project area.

xvii. ACL shall support forest department in installing sign boards for anti

poaching activities and wildlife protection act enforcement.

xviii. ACL shall conduct regular ecological monitoring in the study area and take

corrective measures accordingly.

xix. ACL through their CER/CSR funds shall provide vehicles for patrolling

(Mahindra Scorpio-S10/11 model) and water supply for wild animals

(Tractor with water Tanker).

xx. Apart from these, ACL using CER/CSR budget shall carryout water

conservation activities in the surrounding villages which would benefit

local wildlife and birds.

6.6. PROPOSED ECOLOGICAL MONITORING PROGRAMME

A special emphasis on ecological conservation shall be given by

extending special responsibility to senior environment authority within the

management of the proposed project authority.

A senior ecologist shall be employed / consulted on regular basis to

oversee ecological/wildlife conservation activates under Green CSR.

The senior personal responsible for the conservation of ecology shall

report directly to the head of the organization.

Substantial budget be allocated to carryout ecological conservation

activities by the company.


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Compliance report for these activities shall be submitted to CWLW,

Gujarat and along with other environmental compliances, as scheduled by

GPCB/SEIAA.

Any additional conditions from any of the Environment Appraisal

Committees at state or central levels or by the Forest department shall be

complied with.

6.7. FINANCIAL ALLOCATION FOR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES

Following is the proposed budget allocation for wildlife conservation after

approval from all statutory bodies permitting the project (Table-6.3).

Table-6.3: Proposed financial allocation for mitigation and conservation measures.

S. No

Activity Agency Duration

Years

Rate/ Year

(Lakh)

Total Amount (Lakh)

1

Plantation of Green Belt using native and local plant species as per norms & Fencing Mining Pits

ACL Cont. till target is achieved

5 100

2 Develop Eco-tourism centre through CSR/CER fund

ACL Initial 3 years

350

3

Provide vehicles for patrolling (Mahindra Scorpio), water supply for wild animals (Tractor & Water Tanker) through CER fund.

Forest Dept.

25

4 Plantation of native vegetation (Commiphora Wightii) 10000 plants and other native trees

ACL 5 years 2 15

5 Comprehensive ecological & Biodiversity monitoring by ACL once every 3 years

ACL

At every 3 year for 10 years

10 30

6 Documentation and preparation of Annual compliance report. 10 years

ACL Annual 1 10

7 Total amount in Lakh 530


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7. REFERENCES

BirdLife International (2001) Threatened birds of Asia: the BirdLife International Red

Data Book. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International.

Champion, H. G. & S. K. Seth. 1968. A Revised Survey of the Forest Types of India.

Manager of Publications, Govt. of India, New Delhi.

GEER. (2001). Ecological status of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary with a management

perspective. Final report. Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj and Gujarat

Ecological Education and Research Foundation (GEER), Gandhinagar. 196 p.

GIDE (2009). Regional environmental assessment in western parts (Lakhpat,

Nakhtrana and Abdasa talukas) of Kachchh district, Gujarat. A draft report

prepared by Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj-Kachchh,

Gujarat, India. 451 p.

Jethva B. and Jhala Y.V. 2000. “Ecological Impact Assessment of Lignite Mining in

Kutch India”. Oral presentation given in an international symposium:

Carnivore-2000, held in November-2000 at Denver, Colorado. USA.

Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 2003. Foraging Ecology, Economics and Conservation

of Indian Wolves in the Bhal Region of Gujarat, Western India. Biological

Conservation: 116: 351-357.

Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 2004. Computing biomass consumption from prey

occurrences in Indian wolf scats. ZooBiology, Volume 23, Issue 6, Pages 513 -

520.

Joshi, P. N. (2002). Study of ethnobotanical angiosperms of Bhuj and Mandavi

talukas of Kachchh, Gujarat. Ph. D thesis, Bhavnagar university, Bhavnagar.

Ministry of Environment and Forests: 2011: Critically endangered animal species of

India March 2011. Government of India publication.

Rodgers, W. A., Panwar, H. S. and Mathur, V. B. (2000) Wildlife Protected Area

Network in India: A Review (Executive Summary). Wildlife Institute of India,

Dehra Dun. Pp. 44..

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/jhome/35728

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/jissue/109855217


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Silori, C. S. Dixit, A. M., Gupta, L. M. and Mistry, N. R. (2005). Observation on

medicinal plant richness and associated conservation issues in district

Kachchh, Gujarat. In: Medicinal plants : utilization and conservation (ed.) P. C.

Trivedi, Rajasthan University, Rajasthan

Wildlife (Protection) Act (1972) 1993. Ministry of Environment and Forests,

Government of India. http://envfor.nic.in/legis/wildlife/wildlife1.html [accessed 6

Nov 2008].


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Annexure- I: Curriculum Vitae of the NABET Accredited Expert, Dr. Bharat Jethva

(Ecology & Biodiversity) Academic qualification:

Ph.D. in Ecology & Environment -FEB-2003 from Wildlife Institute of India-FRI Deemed University-. Thesis title: „Feeding Ecology and Habitat Needs of Wolves in the Bhal Area of Gujarat‟.

M.Phil., Zoology, 1995 Department of Zoology, School of Sciences, Gujarat University Ahmedabad.

M.Sc., Zoology 1994., Department of Zoology, School of Sciences, Gujarat University Ahmedabad. India

B.Sc., Zoology, 1992 from Bahauddin College-Junagadh, Saurashtra University Gujarat, India.

Work experience:

1. Currently working as Category-A Accredited Expert for Ecology & Biodiversity, by National Accreditation Board Government of India and Recognized by Ministry of Environment Forests & Climate Change for Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) experts.

2. More than 25 years of experience in the field of Wildlife Research and Conservation with special emphasis on Endangered species, Conservation and research on Endangered Birds (ornithological), Environment Impact Assessment, Wetlands, Coastal and Marine Ecosystems, Grasslands and Desert Ecosystems.

3. Worked as Asian Waterbird Census Coordinator with Wetlands International-South Asia, New Delhi from September 2008 to June 2011. Coordinated Asian Waterbird Counts in Asian region.

4. Worked as Scientist for 5 years (1st September 2003 to 31st August 2008) at GEER Foundation (an autonomous institute under Gujarat Forest Department), Gandhinagar.

5. As Senior Research Fellow in the Conservation of the India Wolf Research Project at Wildlife Institute of India from January-2000 to August 2003.

6. As Junior Research Fellow, in the Conservation of the India Wolf Research Project at Wildlife Institute of India. From December-1997 to December-1999.

7. As Technical Assistant on Conservation of the Indian Wolf Research Project at Wildlife Institute of India. From November 1995 to December 1997.


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Memberships:

1. Member of IUCN-Flamingo Specialist Group.

2. Member Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat

3. Executive Committee member Mangrove Society of India –Goa,

4. Member- International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems-Japan

5. Member Sirenian International, USA

Technical reports published:-

1. Status, distribution and habitat Survey of Great Indian Bustard Ardeotis

nigriceps in Gujarat, 2008. Project sponsored by Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.

2. Status of Gyps Vultures in Gujarat, 2007- A comprehensive state-wide survey of vulture nests and population. Project sponsored by Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. Published by GEER Foundation.

3. Biodiversity of Purna Wildlife Sanctuary a comprehensive ecological and socio-economic study. Mammals and socio-economic studies 2007.

4. Biodiversity of Jessore Wildlife Sanctuary a comprehensive ecological and socio-economic study. Contribution in studies on mammals 2008.

5. Movement Pattern of Wild Ass Across the Proposed Kachachh Branch Canal (Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited) on the Northern Fringe of Wild Ass Sanctuary in Gujarat, 2006.

6. Status of Gyps Vultures in Gujarat, 2005- A comprehensive state-wide survey of vulture nests and population. Published by GEER Foundation

7. Proceedings of the workshop on “Cranes and Community in Gujarat-a holistic conservation strategy for future” held on 23rd November-2004 at GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.

8. Ecological Impacts of Lignite Mining in Kutch with Special Emphasis on the Indian Grey Wolf and its Habitats, 1997. WII-EIA Technical Report No-19, Wildlife Institute of India.


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Peer reviewed scientific publications:-

1. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 2004. Computing biomass consumption from prey occurrences in Indian wolf scats. ZooBiology, Volume 23, Issue 6, Pages 513 - 520.

2. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 2003. Foraging Ecology, Economics and Conservation of Indian Wolves in the Bhal Region of Gujarat, Western India. Biological Conservation: 116: 351-357.

3. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 2003. Sample Size Considerations for Food Habits Studies of Wolves from Scats: Mammalia 67: 589-591

4. Sankar K, Jethva B. 2002. Notes on Food habits of Stripped Hyena (Hyena hyena) in Sariska Tiger Reserve: short note in Journal of Bombay Natural History Society.

5. Ramesh Sabapara; Suresh Chugh; Bharat Jethva; Budhan Pukazhenth;

David E. Widt; Terri L. Roth (1994) A note on reproduction research. Asiatic Lion Population Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) report, Vadodara, 1993.

6. Sandeep B. Munjpara, B. Jethva, C.N. Pandey: 2011: Distribution of the

Indian Bustard Ardeotis nigriceps (Gruiformes: Otididae) in Gujarat State, India . Journal of Threatened Taxa. 01/2011; 3:2090–2094.

7. Sheetal Punjani, Bharat Jethva, Preeti Shrivastava: 2011: Morphophysiology

of Radiation Induced Lenticular Opacity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, Volume 2, Issue 12, December-2011, ISSN 2229-5518.

8. Sheetal Punjani, Bharat Jethva, Preeti Shrivastava: 2012. Effects of fructose

on Radiation induced lenticular opacity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, Volume 3, Issue 11, November-2012 ISSN 2229-5518.

9. Kalavanti Mokaria, Bharat Jethva, 2018. Diversity, Local Distribution and

Occurrence of Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata: Insecta) In Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary (Ramsar Site), Gujarat. IJSRP, Volume 8, Issue 1, January 2018 Edition [ISSN 2250-3153].

Other Contributions:

1. Newsletter for Asian Waterbird Census December 2008. Published by Wetlands International Malaysia office.

2. Childress, B., Nagy, S. and Hughes, B. (Compilers). 2007. International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Lesser Flamingo (Phoenicopterus minor). AEWA Technical Series No. --. Bonn, Germany.

3. Contribution to Chapter on Dugong of Asia, in a Book on Dugong (Dugong dugon) published by Elen Hinse. James Cook University of Australia.

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/jhome/35728

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/jissue/109855217

http://www.researchgate.net/researcher/60731431_B_Jethva

http://www.researchgate.net/researcher/61190917_CN_Pandey

http://www.researchgate.net/publication/216521118_Distribution_of_the_Indian_Bustard_Ardeotis_nigriceps_%28Gruiformes_Otididae%29_in_Gujarat_State_India




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Trainings obtained:

1. Training Programme on „Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Energy Sector’ held in Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Uttarakhand on 3-5 August 2015.

2. One week Regional Training Programme on Wetland Management and Conservation held between 2-6th May 2008 at GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

3. UNESCO Regional training program on Satellite Image Processing for Natural Resources Management (21-31 January 2002), conducted by Centre for Geo-Sciences and Engineering, Anna University, Chennai.

4. Animal Welfare Training Course 1995. Conducted by Animal Welfare Board of India, Ministry of Environment and Forests held at Sakkarbaug Zoo, Junagadh Gujarat.

Selected presentations/Abstracts in conferences:

1. Jethva Bharatkumar, A. G. Untawale, Jayantibhai Chauhan, Shigeyuki Baba. “Mangrove plantations by local community in Sabarmati Estuary, Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat”. Silver Jubilee Mangrove Conference on July 26-27 2017.

2. Jethva Bharat, A. G. Untawale, Shigeyuki Baba. “Mangrove Plantation in Sabarmati Estuary, Gulf of Cambey in Gujarat”. International Conference on Sustainable Mangrove Ecosystems: Managing A Vital Resource For Achieving The SDGS and the Paris Agreement. 18-21 April 2017, Bali, Indonesia.

3. Conservation Potential of Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) in Gujarat.

National workshop on Marine biodiversity and community held at GEER Foundation with the support of MoEF, Government of India at Ahmedabad.

4. Jethva B. 2005, Vulture Conservation initiatives in Gujarat, Abstract and Oral Presentation in the conference of Society for Conservation Biology Asia Chapter held in Kathmandu, Nepal, November-2005.

5. Jethva B. 2005, Crane Conservation and community in Gujarat, Abstract and Oral Presentation in the conference of Society for Conservation Biology Asia Chapter held in Kathmandu, Nepal November-2005.

6. Jethva B and Jhala Y.V 2003, Foraging ecology, economics, and conservation of Indian wolves. Abstract for an oral presentation in International Wolf congress to be held at Banff, Alberta Canada on September-25–28, 2003.

7. Jhala Y.V., Jethva B, and Chauhan K, 2001. The Role of Predation by Wolves (Canis lupus pallipes) and Jackals (Canis aureus) on Blackbuck (Antelope cervicapra) in Velavadar National Park, India. Presentation in International Canid Conference held in Oxford University U.K.

8. Jethva B and Jhala Y.V 2000, “Food habits, Consumption and predation by wolves in the Bhal, India, Abstract in an international symposium “Beyond


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2000: Realities of Global Wolf Restoration held at Duluth, Minnesota, USA, Feb-2000.

9. Jethva B. and Jhala Y.V. 2000. “Ecological Impact Assessment of Lignite Mining in Kutch India”. Oral presentation given in an international symposium: Carnivore-2000, held in November-2000 at Denver, Colorado. USA.

Documents

ECOLOGICAL STUDY AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PLAN FOR ...environmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/online/... · collected, review of published literature, information and maps furnished