environmentclearance.nic.inenvironmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/EIA/27122017X6S7WN1I...Environmental Impact Assessment & Environment Management Plan MINING OF BEACH SAND MINERALS

Environmental Impact Assessment &

Environment Management Plan

MINING OF BEACH SAND MINERALS

Mining Lease Area: 141.2269 Ha.

Village(s): Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram and Colachel

Taluk: Kalkulam

District: Kanyakumari, State: Tamil Nadu

PROJECT PROPONENT

M/s INDIAN RARE EARTHS LIMITED

Manavalakurichi Plant,

Manavalakurichi P.O.

Kanyakumari District

Tamil Nadu – 629 252.

May - 2013

BHAGAVATHI ANA LABS LTD.,Road No.3, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad – 530 034

EIA Consultant

EIA/EMP for Manavalakurichi Beach Sand Mineral Mine (141.2269Ha) IREL (Indian Rare Earths Limited)

M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad I

CONTENTS

Chapter No Description Page No.

High Court Orders dated 18.10.2010 & 10.11.2010 1-8

Reply to the issues raised by Coastal Environment &

Ecological Conservation Committee.

(ToR No:2&33)

1-13

TOR issued by MoEF & Its Compliance 1-14

Executive Summary i-xii

Chapter – 1 INTRODUCTION 1 – 5

1.1 Introduction 1

1.2 Project Proposal 2

1.3 Project Location 2

1.4 Climate 3

1.5 Name and Address of the Applicant 4

Chapter – 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 6 – 22

2.1 Topography 6

2.2 Drainage Pattern 6

2.3 Geology 6

2.3.1 Regional Geology 6

2.3.2 Local Geology/ Mineral Deposit 7

2.4 Exploration Details 8

2.5 Mineral Reserves 8

2.5.1 Beach Deposits 8

2.5.2 Inland Deposits 9

2.6 Mining 9

2.7 Mineral Beneficiation 12

2.8 Water Requirement 15

2.9 Proposed Rate of Production and the Expected Life of

the Mine

16

2.10 Land use Pattern of Mine Lease Area 16

2.11 Extent of Mechanization 17

2.12 Stacking of Mineral Rejects and Disposal of Waste 19

2.12.1 Nature of Waste 19


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad II


2.12.2 Disposal of Waste 20

2.12.3 Selection of Dumping Site

20

2.12.4 Maximum height and spread of dumps 20

2.13 Use of Mineral 20

2.14 Site Services 22

2.15 Employment Potential 22

Chapter –3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 23 – 39

3.1 Introduction 23

3.2 Micro Meteorology 24

3.3 Ambient Air Quality 25

3.4 Noise Environment 26

3.5 Water Environment 28

3.5.1 Water Regime 28

3.6 Soil Quality 34

3.7 Land use 36

3.7.1 Mine Lease Area 36

3.7.2 Study Area 36

3.8 Biological Environment 37

3.8.1 Flora 37

3.8.2 Fauna 37

3.9 Demography and Socio- Economics 38

3.9.1 Socio- Economic Aspects of the Villages Falling In

study area

38

3.9.2 Demography 38

3.10 Places of Archaeological / Historical/Religious /

Tourist importance

39

3.11 Disasters 39

Chapter – 4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS &

MITIGATION MEASURES

40 –60

4.1 Introduction 40

4.2 Impact on Air Environment 40

4.2.1 ISC - AERMOD VIEW 41

4.2.2 Data Analysis of Predicted Concentrations 47


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad III


4.2.3 Radioactivity impacts and safeguard Measures 47

4.3 Noise Environment and Traffic Density 48

4.3.1 Noise Levels 48

4.3.2 Traffic Density 49

4.4 Water Environment 50

4.4.1 Water Requirement 50

4.4.2 Impact on Water Regime 51

4.4.3 Wastewater Generation 51

4.4.4 Impact on Surface Water 52

4.4.5 Impact on Ground Water 52

4.4.6 Control Measures for Ground Water 52

4.4.7 Rainwater Harvesting Measures 53

4.5 Solid Waste Generation and Management 53

4.5.1 Solid waste generation 53

4.5.2 Solid Waste Management 54

4.6 Land use Pattern 54

4.6.1 Impact on land use pattern 54

4.6.2 Backfilling and Rehabilitation of Mined out areas 55

4.7 Socio-Economic Environment 56

4.8 Biological Environment 56

4.9 Occupational Health & Safety 57

4.9.1 Occupational Health & Safety Assessment

59

Chapter – 5 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM 61-63

5.1 Environmental Monitoring 61

5.2 Environmental Monitoring Programme 61

5.2.1 Air Quality Monitoring 62

5.2.2 Noise Levels Monitoring 62

5.2.3

5.2.4

Water Quality Monitoring

Soil Quality Assessment

62

62

5.3 Environmental Management Cell 63

Chapter – 6 ADDITIONAL STUDIES 64-72

6.1 Introduction 64

6.2 Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan 64

6.2.1

Risks / Hazards Involved in Existing mine and Mineral 65


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad IV


Separation Plant

6.2.2 Disaster Management Plan 69

Public Consultation 72

Chapter – 7 PROJECT BENEFITS 73-78

7.1 Improvement in Physical Infrastructure 73

7.2 Improvement in Economic Status 73

7.3 Socio-Economic Development Measures 73

7.4 Community Development 77

7.5 Job Creation 77

7.6 Corporate Social Responsibility Activities 78

Chapter –8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 79-86

8.1 Introduction 79

8.2 Air quality management 79

8.3 Noise Pollution Control 80

8.4 Vibration 80

8.5 Water Pollution Control Measures 80

8.6 Land Degradation control Measures 81

8.7 Plantation Programme 82

8.8 Solid Waste Management 83

8.9 Hazard Control 83

8.10 Radioactivity Control 83

8.11 Tailing Dam Management 85

8.12 Budget Provision for EMP 85

Chapter –9 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 87 – 98

9.1 Introduction 87

9.2 Project Description 88

9.3 Description of the environment 90

9.4 Anticipated Environmental Impacts & Mitigation

Measures

92

9.5 Environmental monitoring programme 96

9.6 Additional studies 96

9.7 Project benefits 97


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad V


9.8 Environmental management Plan 98

9.9 Conclusion 98

Chapter 10 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS 99


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad VI

TABLES

Table No Title Page No.

Chapter – 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Khasra/Patta details of the Mine lease area 2

1.2 Salient Features of the Study Area 3

1.3 Status & Stage of Regulatory Clearances 4

Chapter -2

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Summary of Litho Units in the mine lease area 8

2.2 Mineable reserves in Inland Deposits 9

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.8

2.9

Year wise production for the first five years (Quantity

in Tonnes)

Capacities of BWP/HUP

Grade of MSP Feed and End products

Existing land use of the mine lease area (Area in Ha)

Loading Equipment

Transportation Equipments

Other Equipments

11

13

15

17

18

18

18

Chapter –3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Salient Features of Baseline Environmental Studies 23

3.2 Summary of Micro Meteorological data monitored at

site

24

3.3 Ambient Air Quality Locations 26

3.4 Summary of Ambient Air Quality 26

3.5 Details of Noise Monitoring Locations 27

3.6 Noise Levels during Study Period 28

3.7 Ground Water Quality Locations 29

3.8 Surface Water Quality Locations 30

3.9(a) Ground Water Quality Data 30

3.9 (b) Ground Water Quality Data 31

3.10 Surface Water Quality 32

3.11 Details of Soil Sampling Locations 34

3.12(a) Soil Quality 34

3.12(b) Soil Quality 35

3.13

3.14

Existing land use of the mine lease area (Area in Ha)

Land use of the study area as per Satellite Imagery

36

37

3.15 Socio Economic details of the Study area 38


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad VII

Table No Title Page No.


MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Area Source Emissions – Mineral Sand Mining

(141.2269 Ha ML Area)

44

4.2 Haulage Emissions – Mineral Sand (141.2269 Ha ML

area)

45

4.3 Stacks & Emission details of Mineral Separation Plant

(MSP)

45

4.4 Area Source Emissions – Production (44.6212 Ha ML

area)

45

4.5 Haulage Emissions – Mineral sand transport from

Both ML to MSP/BWP

46

4.6 Area Source Emissions – Production 46

4.7 Haulage Emissions – Mineral sand Transport from

7.06 ha ML to BWP

46

4.8 Predicted Ground Level Concentrations 47

4.9

4.10

4.11

Existing and proposed land use of ML Area (Area in Ha) Habitation in the Mining Lease area Occupational Health and Safety Assessment

55

56

60

Chapter – 5 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

5.1 Environmental Monitoring Program 62

Chapter – 7 PROJECT BENEFITS

7.1 Year-wise funds provision for CSR Activities (Figures

in Rs.)

78

Chapter –8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

8.1 Reclamation Plan of the Mine Lease Area (Area in Ha) 81

8.2

8.3

Post Mining Land Use Plan of the Mine Lease Area

(Area in ha)

Progressive Green belt/Plantation development

programme in the Mine Lease Area (Area in Ha)

82

82

8.4 Budget for Environmental Protection (Rs. in Lakh) 85


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad VIII

FIGURES

Figure No Title Page No.

Chapter – 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Location of the existing mine 2A

1.2 The 10 km radius topographical map of the study

area

2B

Chapter – 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Surface Plan of the Mine lease area 7A

2.2 Geological Plan 7A

2.3

2.3a

2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

Geological Section of the mine lease area

Schematic diagram of inland mining activities

Flowsheet-Mining method of Beach Sand Minerals

Flow sheet of Beach Washing Plant (BWP) / Heavies

Upgradation Plant (HUP)

Flow sheet of Mineral Separation Plant (MSP)

Water Balance Diagram of BWP & MSP

7B

7C

12

13

14

16

Chapter –3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Wind Rose Diagram in study period 24

3.2 Map showing air quality monitoring locations 26A

3.2a, 3.2b, 3.2c,

3.2d

Air quality contours ( PM10, SO2, NOx and CO) 26A

3.3 Map showing noise level monitoring locations 28A

3.4 Map showing water sampling locations 30A

3.5 Map showing soil sampling locations 34A

3.6 Satellite imagery of the study area 36A

3.7 Land use land cover map based on satellite imagery 36B


MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Isopleths for predicted ground level concentrations

of PM10

47A


of SO2

47A


of NOX

47A


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad IX

ANNEXURE

I Yearwise production details for Beach Sand Mine

(141.2269Ha), Manavalakurichi

I(A) Year-wise production details from 1970-71 to 2012-2013 for

Mineral Separation Plant

II Issues raised in the petition of the Coastal Environment and

Ecological Conservation Committee along with counter court

affidavit

III

IIIA

Lease deed for 141.2269 hectares

Permissions for 141.2269 hectares

IV Ambient air quality monitoring Results

V Ambient Noise Level monitoring results

VI Authenticated list of flora and fauna of the study area

VII Socio- Economic Details

VIII Legal Status of Existing Mine Lease Areas

IX Detailed Hydrogeological Report

X Meteorological Data

XI Copy of Approval letter of mining plan and a copy of approval

letter of scheme of mining by IBM, Chennai

Copy of NIO, Kochi report ( relevant pages )

Copies of Air & Water consents

XII List of Survey Numbers and land classification details

XIII Radiation Monitoring Survey report, RSO appointment copy,

HPU Radiation dose report. Pictures showing radiation levels in

mine lease areas.

XIV Questionnaire

XV Manuals of Cyclone & Flood protection Relief, b) Fire Protection

and Emergency preparedness, c) Radiation Protection

procedures and d) Risk Assessment and Management in Mining

Operations

XVI CRZ study report and Maps ( Prepared by IRS, Anna University,

Chennai as per CRZ-2011 notification)

TOR-2. : Issues raised in the petition of the coastal Environment and Ecological Conservation Committee (CEECC). Pointwise compliance details.

All the issues raised by the Coastal environment and Ecological Conservation Committee ( petitioner in W.P. No: 5678 of 2007 in the High Court of Madras) have been replied to the Director, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Paryavaran Bhawan, CGO Complex, Lodi Road, New Delhi on 28.2.2011 and a copy of the same along with a copy of counter affidavit had been enclosed as Annexure-II in the draft EIA document as compliance to TOR-no2.

The public hearing conducted on 22.3.2013 for 141.2269 hects, 7.06 hects and 44.6212

hects ML areas as per EIA-2006 notification. During public hearing, M/s VV Minerals submitted objections stating that the issues raised by CEECC have not been addressed in the EIA Report. IREL again submitting the pointwise reply of CEECC and enclosing with EIA document as follows:

IREL had submitted 3 EC applications for the four mining lease areas for obtaining

clearance under EIA-2006 notification. IREL Manavalakurichi is not proposing or pursuing for any expansion activity.

(issues raised by CEECC- in italic font and IREL, MK justification – in normal font)

“1) India Rare Earth has suppresses some very importance facts which in the perception of the applicant would require consideration before even considering the application submitted in the present form. The Expert appraisal committee had on an earlier occasion 20.1.2011 had advised M/s India Rare Earth to file separate application for each mining area and the Factory. Whereas the proposal in the present form does not even comply with the said earlier direction. M/s India Rare Earth has submitted a common proposal by clubbing 2 different mining leases situated in two different taluk and one MSP company/factory. There is no clearance from the state pollution control board obtained for the mining leases. Knowing fully well about this fact M/s India Rare Earth has deliberately clubbed the same to pass off before this Hon’ble Authority as if it has obtained clearance for all which is a falsehood.”

As advised by MoEF Vide letter no: J-11015/387/2010-IA-II(M), dated: 9.2.2011, IREL, MK has submitted three EC applications for 141.2269 hects, 7.06 hects and 44.6212 hects ( 29.781 hects + 14.84 hects – both leases covered by single mining plan approved by AMD in 1996). Thus IREL, MK has not submitted any false information to MoEF. “2) In the proposal submitted before this Hon’ble Authority there are deliberate concealment of facts which can be found from a cursory glance on the Executive summary in respect of the Environment Impact Assessment and Environment Management Plan submitted by M/s India Rare Earth before the State Authorities. On seeing the said summary, the State authority have declined to issue any clearance. This fact has been suppressed. For the ready reference of the Executive summary a copy is attached to this objection.” The executive summary, EIA and EMP as described above are in relation to earlier expansion proposal of IREL, MK and presently IREL, MK is not pursuing for expansion. The EC

applications ( 3 nos) now submitted are related to the existing ML areas only. No facts have been suppressed. “3) M/s India Rare Earth have deliberately at Column 24 mentioned that there is no litigation pending in respect of ML area for which clearance is sought whereas litigation are pending in the District Court, Tirunelveli as appeal no: 10/2009 for an extent of 20 hect out of the total 29.78 Hect. Earlier there is a decree by a civil court in respect of the same 20 hect of land.” M/s VV Minerals had filed a OS no 83 of 2006 before the Sub-Court, Tirunelveli against the TN Government and obtained a Judgment and Decree forbearing the TN Government from considering and granting any mining lease to third parties (like IREL) in respect of the land belonging to M/s VV Minerals. This led to filing of appeal suit no: 10 of 2009 ( after obtaining leave to file appeal since IREL was not a party in the Os No: 83 of 2006) before the District Court, Tirunelveli This appeal was necessitated since IREL’s renewal ML applications and fresh ML applications are pending with the TN Government and the said Judgment and Decree of the lower court would bar the TN Government in acting on the pending ML and renewal ML applications of IREL since some of the land under the renewal MLs and fresh L applications, M/s VV Minerals had purchased the land. Hence this appeal suit filed by IREL was a general one and not specific as stated in the objection like 20 hects. Out of 29.7812 hects. Further the said appeal suit was to highlight the lack of jurisdiction of the civil court in passing the said Judgment and Decree as no direction could be issued by any court either to request the Statutory Authorities to perform a specific function prohibited by law (or) forebearing the Statutory authorities from discharging their statutory duties in respect of processing or not to process ML applications which are governed under specific statues like MMDR Act 1957 and MCR 1960. Due to the above, it is submitted, there is nothing wrong whatsoever on the part of IREL is stating that there is no litigation pending in respect of ML area for which clearance is sought under column 24. Ministry of Mines, Govt.of India vide their document no: 27(1)/2003-RC II , New Delhi, the 25th Mach 2010 (Final order no: 48/2010, Dated 25.3.2010) quashed the impugned order passed by the State Govt and further directed to consider the renewal application filed by IREL, MK (29.7812 hects) in accordance with the provisions of the MMDR Act 1957 and the rules framed there under. List of cases ( 10 nos) pending with courts and tribunal are enclosed in EIA document. “4) In page 8 of 62 M/s India Rare Earth have themselves accepted that before mining and dredging operation coconut trees about 50 to 60 number per hect will be removed which would mean that the agriculture land is proposed to used for mining. This has been accepted by them in point 2.1 of page 12 of 62. In summary before the State Authorities it is stated that a large extent of agricultural land is likely to be impacted whereas no such fact has been brought forth before this authority. “

The summary report mentioned above is about earlier expansion project and hence does not have any relation with our present EC applications submitted to MoEF. Presently IREL is not pursuing the Expansion Activity. The virgin inland areas (non-replinishable) available within mining lease area are covered with coconut plantation. No paddy fields are available within the ML areas. During the mining operations, coconut trees are cut for surface preparations and the mining / dredging operations are carried out. These virgin lands are devoid of overburden & top soil and hence there is no generation of spoil. The mined out areas are simultaneously backfilled with tailings (mostly consists of quartz) to bring the surface area to the original topography and followed by plantation with Coconut, Casurina etc. (The survival rate of this plantation over the backfilled areas is about 85 to 90%). The above details have been clearly mentioned in Form-1 and Feasibility report while submitting our EC application vide dated 25.1.2011 to MoEF, New Delhi. Mining will be commenced over the private patta lands (available within the mining lease areas) only after obtaining the consents / surface rights from the concerned land owners. This has been strictly followed by IREL, Manavalakurichi. There will not be any involuntary displacement/dislocation of people due to mining operations. Under no circumstances, the tailings generated by IREL will be dumped in agricultural lands, canals, unauthorized areas. “5) It is stated that by proceedings dated 26.6.07 T.N.Coastal Zone Management Authority has found that M/s India Rare Earth have operated and carrying on mining lease in the CRZ Zone without any clearance under the CRZ notification and in this regard a notice under section 5 of the Environmental Protection Act, 1986 was issued and it is stated that non-compliance of the same attracts penal consequenes and to the information of the application no such permission has been obtained even till date.” IREL, MK has been operating the mineral separation plant since 1966. The mining lease areas granted by Tamilnadu Government for 141.2269 hects, 7.06 hects and 29.7812 hects are prior to CRZ-1991 notification. On 20.7.2001, IREL, MK had submitted the CRZ application seeking CRZ clearance over an extent of 1201 hects comprising of existing ML areas and new ML areas. DCZMA has recommended our application to TNSCZMA. On 28.2.2009, three members of TNSCZMA had visited IREL, MK premises and given their considerations as well as recommendations over an extent of 716.59.69 hects (out of 1201 hects). TNSCZMA has requested IREL, MK to submit three sets of EIA documents / CRZ Maps on 30.3.2009. Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai has prepared the CRZ maps for IREL, MK during 2003 as per CRZ-1991 notification. On 6.1.2011, CRZ-1991 notification has been superseded by new CRZ-2011 notification. The earlier CRZ application submitted on 20.7.2001 was for expansion purpose based on the CRZ-1991 notification. During the meeting held on 23.2.2011, the members of EAC(Mining), MoEF suggested IREL to follow the latest guide lines as per CRZ-2011 notification for obtaining recommendations of TNSCZMA as the new CRZ-2011 notification is in force superseding CRZ 1991 notification. IREL, MK has again engaged IRS, Anna University, Chennai for preparation of the CRZ maps for the four mining lease areas as per CRZ-2011 notification and submitted the CRZ applications as per CRZ-2011 notification vide our letter no(s): a) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-7.06/2012-13/851, dated: 9th Feb 2013, b) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-141.2269/2012-13/852, dated: 9th

Feb 2013 and c) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-44.6212/2012-13/853, dated: 9th Feb 2013 in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Conveyor, District Coastal Zone Management Authority, Nagercoil(DCZMA) for obtaining the recommendations from TNSCZMA . DCZMA vide their letter dated: 8.4.2013 (Received by IREL on 22.4.2013) returned the CRZ applications along with enclosures and asked IREL to resubmit the CRZ applications along with details of land owners and consents of land owners for 7.06, 44.6212 hects ( 2 ML areas) and 141.2269 hects. IREL is in the process of resubmitting three CRZ applications to DCZMA for obtaining the recommendations of TNSCZMA. (DCZMA, Kanyakumari District recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects proposals and forwarded to TNSCZMA, Chennai on 19.7.2013 and TNSCZMA, Chennai recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects and forwarded to NCZMA, New Delhi on 13.11.2013) “6) No AAq survey has been carried out in respect of the Mining Area. At page 18 of 62 M/s India Rare Earth have mentioned that AAQ survey has been carried out by TNPCB whereas the reports annexed relates to factory alone and not for mining area. Moreover TNPCB themselves informed that they did not issue any consent for IRE mining operations vide its letter 21.8.06. hence a false information is furnished. (copy annexed).” This is pertaining to our EC application – 44.6212 hects( 2 ML areas). Mining and Mineral separation are integral activities for beach sand mining industry. Tamilnadu Government granted Mining lease to IREL, MK for mining of Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Sillimanite and Garnet minerals. TNPCB granted the water and the air consents to IREL, MK for the production of Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite and Garnet. As per section 2(1)(h)(i) of the Mines Act 1952, the definition of mining operations includes, any concomitant operations of handling and transportation of minerals upto the point of dispatch and of gathering of sand and transport thereof to the mine. Section 2(1)(j) the definition of “mine” means any excavation where any operations for the purpose of searching for or obtaining minerals has been or is being carried out which includes “(xi) any premises in or adjacent to and belonging to a mine on which any process ancillary to getting, dressing or operation of sale of minerals or coke is being carried out. Hence consents are not required separately for mining operations over mining lease areas. The method of mining adopted by IREL, MK for extraction of mineral sand from the ML areas do not create any air and water pollution. The mined out sand from the mining lease areas is transported to mineral separation plant for the production of individual minerals viz: ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite and Garnet etc. TNPCB conducts annually AAQ surveys as per the consents granted to IREL, MK. The method of mining adopted by IREL, MK over replenishable areas and non-replenishable areas do not generate any solid waste, effluent, sewage etc. No chemicals are handled during mining operations. However in order to comply the TOR No: 10, IREL, MK has submitted the applications requesting NOC for undertaking mining operations over 141.2269 Hects MLarea, 7.06 hects ML area, 14.84 hects ML Area and 29.7812 hects ML area in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Nagercoil vide our letter dated: 19.4.2013 and 22.4.2013.

“7) M/s India Rare Earth at page 20 of 62 in column 7.2 have mentioned that no effluent will be generated and domestic sewage is treated in existing 50KL sewage treatment plant. This also false because TNPCB water consent capacity (page 73), M/s India Rare Earth have been permitted to discharge 125 KL sewage and 1525 KL trade effluent. No correct figure has been submitted. Moreover as per the document ‘F’ M/s India Rare Earth is continuously drawing water as per permitted quantity and remitted water charges in advance. The permitted quantity is 4.5 million litters per day. Hence they have violated water act consent condition and give false information for getting clearance. Moreover the picture of dredging annexed to the report also reveals that the water is used for mining operation. Whereas this has not mentioned in column 7.2.” The water consent granted by TNPCB also includes Zirconium Oxide Plant (ZOP) for production of Zirconium oxide, Zirconium dry chloride, Zirconium dry frit and Zirconium fusion frit. The water consent ( Page 73) permits IREL, MK to discharge 125 KLD of sewage and 1525 KLD of trade effluent. Presently the trade effluent is not generated by IREL, MK as ZOP is not in operation since 2003. The domestic sewage 40 to 50 KLD generated is treated by sewage treatment plant and the discharge quantities are well within the permitted levels. The mining operations do not generate any trade effluents. The Document-F enclosed along with EC application permits IREL, MK to draw water quantity @ 4500 KLD of water from valliyar river for industrial use. Presently IREL, MK is drawing about 2250 KLD from the valliyar river for industrial use which is well within the permitted quantity.

The method of mining adopted for extraction of inland deposits is the excavator- tipper combination and dredging. Generally the mineralization in the deposit extends upto a depth of 5 to 9 meters below the surface depending upon the topography of the land. The minerals available below ground water table are extracted with dredging. The ground water table in the inland areas of 29.7812 hects ML area ( Midalam-Keezmidalam villages) varies from 1 to 2 meters above mean sea level. Dredge unit floats in an artificial dredge pond ( 40m x 30m), cuts the mineral sand and transports it to the bank of the dredge pond. The slurry is dewatered at the bank of dredge pond and the water goes back and recycled to the dredge pond. No additives or chemicals are used during dredging operations. Ground water table never gets disturbed as the dredging method adopted at IREL, MK recycles the water to the dredge pond simultaneously and there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond. The dewatered sand available at the bank of dredge pond is transported to Mineral separation plant for further separation activities. IREL, MK has submitted the facts and figures clearly along with EC application, IREL, MK is not generating any waste water during mining or mineral separation activities, however most of the water is recycled for wet operations.

“8) At page 21 of 62 M/s India Rare Earth have accepted that the lease area is likely be get affected due to natural disaster like Tsunami etc. whereas it is not mentioned that the area is sensitive to natural disaster and about 400 people died during the Tsunami. Hence the application itself content incorrect information.”

Tsunami hit Tamilnadu and Kerala on 26.12.2004. Due to Tsunami, the coastal districts of Tamilnadu viz: Chennai, Nagapatnam, Cuddalore, Toothukudi, Kanyakumari etc were affected. Tsunami had also affected the coastal areas of Kerala severely. IREL, MK has been operating the

mineral separation activities since 1966 and the coastal areas of Kanyakumari District never got affected by any Tsunami prior to 26.12.2004. In Kanyakumari district, the coastal areas are thickly populated. The mining lease areas of IREL, MK are located near to the coast. The death figures quoted above are not relevant to the present EC applications as Tsunami has struck entire Coastal areas and not only the mining areas. It may kindly be appreciated that Tsunami struck not only India but other countries also. Due to Tsunami on 26.12.2004, IREL, MK’s activities did not cause any environmental damages.

“9) It is stated that the Mining surface Area false under CRZ zone. However the same is not even mentioned in as may be seen at page 35 of 62 wherein MSP Survey no: 387 of Manavalakurichi is shown. The plant layout furnished by them shows that the factory area all are adjacent to the sea almost at the mouth within the prohibited area. Further at page 41 of 62, it is simply mentioned that the lands are located very near to sea coast and are excavated manually and in the other area with tipper excavator combination and dredging. How much extent comes within prohibited 50 meter and how much within 150, and 200, 250 meters etc is not reflected. Again at page 42 of 62, IRE have mentioned that vegetation available over the deposit is cut and removed. But have not mentioned about the top soil apart from the fact that nothing is mentioned about the use of acid whereas as per the TNPCB annexure I, process and boiler is used as its scrubber.” IREL, MK has enclosed a copy of CRZ map developed by IRS, Anna university (an authorised agency by Ministry of Environment and Forests vide letter No.J-17011/8/92-IA-III, dated 29.12.1999) along with EC Application ( Plate-5). The CRZ map shows the location of MSP superimposed and is clearly visible. The MSP has been operating since 1966 prior to the CRZ notification-1991. The mining lease areas and the mineral separation plant (MSP) are within CRZ (mentioned in page 23 of 62 – Form-1). The CRZ maps developed by IRS, Anna university demarcated with HTL, LTL, 200 metres and 500 metre lines. The replenishable areas are mined manually and the inland areas beyond HTL towards landward side are mined with excavator - tipper combination and dredging. The MSP is located in between HTL and 200metres line and the sea side is protected with rubble sea wall. The ML area 14.84 hects is located at a distance of 50 to 100 metres away from Arabian Sea. The ML area 29.7812 hects is having coastal length about 2.2 Kms located in between HTL and 300 metres ( width of 29.7812 hects ML area along with coast varies between 50 metres to 250 metres). The minedout inland areas will be simultaneously backfilled with tailings to bring the surface upto the original topography. The beach sand mineral deposits available within the ML areas of IREL, MK are devoid of overburden and top soil. The mineralization occurs right from the surface . The consent granted by TNPCB also includes Zirconium Oxide Plant ( Document-G of EC application). The ZOP is not in operation since 2003 and hence use of acid & boiler are not mentioned in the EC application. “10) Apart from agricultural land which forms part of the Mining lease area for which clearance is sought there are canals flowing through the lease area as may be seen at page 40 of 62, wherein it accepted the canal also in the mining area. The same is not even included in the impact assessment report.”

As already explained in (2) above, the above is irrelevant to our present EC application. However, as mentioned in Page 40 of 62 of our application, the ML area 29.7812 hects also covers canal ( Voikal & Pothunar) poromboke areas. The mining operations will not disturb these canal poromboke areas.

“11) At page 44 of 62 IRE have mentioned that they have obtained consent from TNPCB whereas they did not obtain even NOC from TNPCB for mining operations and the statement is patently false as narrated earlier.” Mining and Mineral separation are integral activities for beach sand mining industry. Tamilnadu Government granted Mining lease to IREL, MK for mining of Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Sillimanite and Garnet minerals. TNPCB granted the water and the air consents to IREL, MK for the production of Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite and Garnet. Hence consents are not required for mining operations separately. The same has also been clarified in para (6). The method of mining adopted by IREL, MK over replenishable areas and non-replenishable areas do not generate any solid waste, effluent, sewage etc. No chemicals are handled during mining operations nor any waste waster is discharged. Water is recycled completely towards conservation and reuse. However in order to comply the TOR No: 10, IREL, MK has submitted the applications requesting NOC for undertaking mining operations over 141.2269 Hects MLarea, 7.06 hects ML area, 14.84 hects ML Area and 29.7812 hects ML area in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Nagercoil vide our letter dated: 19.4.2013 and 22.4.2013. “12) Again in page 45 of 62, IRE have mentioned that the sub grade minerals monazite rich fraction are stocked for future use and recovery however the survey no where the same would be stocked or the method of process not mentioned.” The monazite rich fraction produced by MSP are stocked in pits topped with tailings (mostly consists of quartz) as per the guide lines of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board(AERB). The monazite pits are located within the acquired lands of IREL,MK near to MSP. The location of Monazite pits were shown to EAC(Mining) during the presentation made on 23.2.2011. As per the permissions obtained from AERB, the Monazite fraction is stocked in the underground pits topped with silica sand. ( IREL acquired land under survey nos 388 and 402 in the village Manavalakurichi). “13) In page 47 of 62, they mentioned that no liquid waste is generated. Whereas the picture designed in page 41, shows the liquid waste generation in dredging. This has been confirmed by page 73 TNPCB consent as well as GO 2D No: 49, Dated: 23.7.2010 (Doc.F).” Dredging operations do not generate any liquid waste. The method of mining adopted for extraction of inland deposits is the excavator- tipper combination and dredging. Generally the mineralization in the deposit extends upto a depth of 5 to 9 meters below the surface depending upon the topography of the land. The minerals available below ground water table are extracted with dredging. The ground water table in the inland areas of 29.7812 hects ML area ( Midalam-Keezmidalam villages) varies from 1 to 2 meters above mean sea level. Dredge unit floats in an

artificial dredge pond ( 40m x 30m), cuts the mineral sand and transports it to the bank of the dredge pond. The slurry is dewatered at the bank of dredge pond and the water goes back to the dredge pond. No additives or chemicals are used during dredging operations. Ground water table never gets disturbed as the dredging method adopted at IREL, MK recycles the water to the dredge pond simultaneously and there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond. The dewatered sand available at the bank of dredge pond is transported to Mineral separation plant for further separation activities. As already explained in 7 above, no trade effluent is generated since 2003. IREL, MK is not generating any waste water during mining or mineral separation activities, however most of the process water is recycled for wet gravity operations. “14) In Page 48 of 62, IRE have accep that in the ML area there are coconut trees and channel whereas in page 49 they have mentioned agriculture lands are available at a distance of more than 5 Kms from the mining lease boundary which is not only false but also contrary to the summary submitted to the state agencies.” The summary referred is about earlier expansion project and as explained earlier does not have any relation with our present EC applications submitted to MoEF. The virgin inland areas available in the ML area are covered with Coconut plantation. IREL, MK has stated in Form-I that the vacant private patta lands available within the ML area are covered with coconut plantations. No paddy fields are present within ML area. In Page 49 ( Pre-feasibility report), IREL,MK has mentioned that Coconut plantation available within ML area over the private patta lands of 29.7812 hects. In the same paragraph, IREL, MK wants to submit that no pre-dominant paddy fields are available in and around the ML areas. “15) In page 51 of 62, they have simply mentioned fishermen hamlets are available. But did not mention how much hamlet and other details of human habitation. According to the executive summary submitted by IRE itself 11182 person loose land only, 688 people will loose home stead only and 991 person will loose land and homestead. Moreover in operational stage impact on the land use is expected due to loose of 1049 hects agriculture land and 34 hect village settlement out 1201 Hect. This has not been bringing to the notice of authority.” As explained at (2) above, the executive summary referred is irrelevant to our present EC applications. Presently IREL, MK has submitted three EC applications for four mining lease areas. Fisherman hamlets are available within ML areas 141.2269 hects and 29.7812 hects. The details are furnished below :

ML area Fisherman hamlets

Human inhabitation ** panchayat records ( 2010) * Census - 2001

141.2269 hects Chinnavilai 1216* Periavilai 1206* Puthoor 700*

14.84 hects No hamlets ( IRE’s own land) 7.06 hects No hamlets ( Sea beach Poromboke land) 29.7812 hects Midalam 1706**

There is no involuntary displacement / dislocation of people involved due to IREL mining operations. The draft EIA documents have been prepared based on the prescribed TORs. Public Hearing activity as per EIA-2006 notification completed on 22.3.2013. Mining operations over private patta lands within ML will be commenced only after obtaining consents or surface rights from the concerned land owners. The private lands obtained through consents from the land owners, after mining, the same lands will be returned back to the concerned land owners with complete backfilling. “16) In page 52 of 62, they have mentioned that the mining operations has/would improve the local people living standards whereas the local people made objection. The collector report not to grant mining lease in kanyakumari district because of the sea erosion and damage to the fisherman hamlet.” IREL, MK provides indirect employment to the local fishermen societies for collection of beach washings and other local people towards transportation of mineral sand from the mining site. Details of local people getting benefitted out of mining operations carried out by IREL, MK are detailed below:

ML area Fisherman hamlets available

within and around ML areas Society members ( for mining

activities – indirect employment) 141.2269 hects

Chinnavilai 250 Periavilai 348 Kottilpadu 334 Puthoor 500

14.84 hects No hamlets ( IRE’s own land) 7.06 hects No hamlets ( Sea beach Poromboke land) 29.7812 hects

Kurumpanai 350 Midalam 160 Mel-Midalam 306

Presently the mining operations are not carried out over 29.7812 hects ML area. Local people have not objected to our operations. In fact about 1500 fisherman society members are being benefitted and the living standards of these people and their families have been vastly improved. In addition to the above IREL, MK also provides indirect employment to local people about 250 towards transportation from mines to mineral separation plant, plantation over backfilled areas, house keeping etc. Further, the down line industries viz: DCW (Dharangadhara Chemical Works), Tuticorin, Travancore Titanium Products (TTP), Kerala etc. are mostly dependent upon the total Ilmenite produced by IREL, MK. Many industries for manufacture of Welding Electrode, Grinding stone,

Abrasive products etc. use Rutile, Garnet products from IREL, MK. These downline industries generate employment opportunities to the district as well as in the state level. The statement made by the petitioner in W.P. 5678 / 2007 in this regard is baseless and false. IREL is not aware of any ‘ Collector report’ mentioned by the petitioner. “17) It is stated when land was acquired for the benefit of IRE the condition that was imposed that the land looser be given employment opportunity. With that condition IRE took the land and mined the mineral. But failed to give employment opportunity for last 25 years. When high court directed IRE to give the employment IRE filed appeal that govt. company cannot give employment directly. When the Collector wrote letter to give employment they refused to give employment. Hence the land losers lost everything including compensation.” The owners of land acquired by IREL, MK through Tamilnadu Government for mining activities have been suitably compensated as per the Government norms and wherever enhanced compensation is ordered by courts, the same was also paid. IREL, MK has never committed any guarantee for employment to the land owners from whom the land was acquired. In fact, the alleged promise for job to the land owners was contended before the High Court of Madras and the Court vide order dated 25.9.2006 has rejected the contention. Hence the objection mentioned above is false and baseless. “18) In page 58 they have mentioned that no solid waste is generated. Whereas more than 80% is waste material.” The Mining operations do not generate any solid waste. The mined out mineral sand from ML areas is transported to Mineral Separation Plant for separation of individual minerals. The tailings generated at Heavies Upgradation Plant(HUP) mostly consisting of quartz in its naturally available form (without any physico-chemical changes) are transported back to mined out areas for backfilling and restore the areas. The mineralization over the deposit occurs right from the surface and there is no overburden/top soil available. Hence there is no generation of solid waste. The mined out inland areas are simultaneously backfilled with tailings followed by plantation. “19) In page 59 they have mentioned that in only 3 hect there are fishermen hamlet and they are not disturbing that. Whereas in the report available in the State Director of Environment submitted by IRE 34 hect and 1049 hect agriculture.”

As explained in (2) above, the report referred to is not relevant to the present EC applications.

“20) In page 61 of 62 they have mentioned that the Govt. of Tamilnadu has recommended to reserve an extent 115.78 hects in favour of IREL. Whether the above said survey no. included in the EIA has to be verified.”

Tamilnadu Government has recommended reservation of areas over an extent of 115.78 hects vide letter no: 24673/MMA.1/2009-39, Dated: 22.6.2009 in favour of IREL, MK towards mining operations in Ezhudesam, Kollengode, Midalam, Keezmidalam and Keezkulam villages as per

section 17A(1A) of MMDR Act-1957. The present applications do not include the above mentioned 115.78 hects. “21) In Doc.4, the EIA clearance required area the hutment or fisherman habitation and agriculture land has not been mentioned.” No clarity is there in the objection statement. The location of fisherman habitations are shown in the plan ( 1:5000) enclosed along with EC application. Plate-4 enclosed along with EC application is a reduced version of cadastral plan (1:5000) to A4 size. Environmental Clearance is required for the all four mining lease areas. The location of fisherman habitations over the ML areas have been shown to EAC(Mining) during presentation on 23.2.2011. “22) Doc. No 6, shows the factory also within CRZ. IRE letter dated 1.11.2006 mentioned that expansion activity is carried out with additional investment of 56.50 Cr. Whether clearances under EIA notification or CRZ notification has not been mentioned.” As already explained in (2) above, the expansion project proposed earlier is not being pursued now and hence irrelevant to the present EC applications. “23) In the mining plan duly approved by Atomic Minerals Director in chapter 1 page 2 it is clearly mentioned that the proposed mining/dredging and the present mining and dredging is restricted to the land owned by IRE Ltd only. Hence the clearance to be considered only for land owned by IRE Ltd alone. In Annexure 1 and 2 air act issued by TNPCB serial no. 20 acid scrapper (existing) where as there is no mention about the acid in the MSP.” Tamilnadu Government has granted ML area over an extent of 29.7812 in the village Midalam and Keezmidalam on 21.9.1977. Out of 29.7812 hects, IREL, MK owns 4.46 hects. About 20 hects of private land out of 29.7812 hects are available for mining. IREL, MK will carry out mining operations only after obtaining consents or surface rights from the concerned land owners as per Section 24A of the MMDR Act 1957 and rule 72 & 73 of the Mineral Concession Rules 1960. Atomic Mineral Division, Hyderabad has approved the mining plan for the whole ML area 29.78 hects. The approved mining plan also contains the land details of 29.78 hects. IREL, MK is in the process of obtaining the surface rights from the private land owners and after obtaining the surface rights, the mining operations will be carried out in the private lands. Environmental clearance is required for 29.7812 ML area and 14.84 hect ML area for carrying out mining operations. As already explained in (9) above, no acid is being used since 2003. “24) There is no mention about the 9 dryers used in MSP.” The EC application ( Form-1 & pre-feasibility report) is submitted furnishing the required information briefly about the mining lease areas and mineral separation plant as per the format. The stack emission reports generated by TNPCB are also enclosed along with EC application as Document-N. “25) In the GO Ms No: 1085 in appendix 1, the village survey no and extent are specifically mentioned. Whereas the in document no. 1 GO Ms No: 1085 irrevelant survey no and irrevent

extent are mentioned. That too without mentioning sub division no. that is mentioned simply as part.” The GO Ms No: 1085 in appendix-I, the survey numbers are mentioned as per the old settlement and the area is in acres. The Re-Survey numbers mentioned in Document-I are based upon the new settlement. The cadastral plan ( 1:5000) showing the Re-Survey numbers of 29.7812 hects ML area has been enclosed along with EC application. “26) In application column no. 20, the Mineral separation plant which is situated CRZ area has not been mentioned.” 26) IREL, MK has enclosed the CRZ map showing the location of MSP ( superimposed). Mining leases and mineral separation plant are located within the CRZ areas mentioned in page 23 of 62 of EC application. “27) The village account no: 2 adangal which contained in column 2 the old survey no. of by mass number of village has not been produced or enclosed with the report.” There is no clarity in the objection statement. Adangal is a document contains the survey numbers of the area, extent, sub divisions, classification etc. There is no requirement to enclose ‘adangal’ with application for EC. The list of Re-survey numbers are enclosed with EIA document. “28) According to document no: “O” the mining site is categorized as CRZ I(ii) and (iii). The mining site include in inter tidal zone and sea poromboke. The survey number which have not been recommended by the district coastal zone management authority and the survey disputed by the 3rd party have been deleted and the balance available mining area are 716.59.69 hect may be considered out of 1201 hect and the state coastal zone management authority has decided to recommend with certain conditions for the above said extent.” As already explained in (5) earlier, 716.5969 hects includes 192.90.81 hects covered in the present EC applications and the balance area for expansion. However, IREL is not pursuing with the expansion now. On 6.1.2011, CRZ-1991 notification has been superseded by CRZ-2011 notification. The earlier CRZ application was submitted on 20.7.2001 was for expansion purpose based on the CRZ-1991 notification. During the meeting on 23.2.2011, the members of EAC(Mining), MoEF suggested IREL to follow the latest guide lines as per CRZ-2011 notification for obtaining recommendations of TNSCZMA as the new CRZ-2011 notification is in force superseding the earlier CRZ 1991 notification. IREL, MK has again engaged IRS, Anna University, Chennai for preparation of CRZ maps for the four mining lease areas as per CRZ-2011 notification and submitted the CRZ applications as per CRZ-2011 notification vide our letter no(s): a) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-7.06/2012-13/851, dated: 9th Feb 2013, b) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-141.2269/2012-13/852, dated: 9th Feb 2013 and c) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-44.6212/2012-13/853, dated: 9th Feb 2013 in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Conveyor, District Coastal Zone Management Authority, Nagercoil(DCZMA) for obtaining the recommendations from TNSCZMA . DCZMA vide their

letter dated: 8.4.2013 (Received by IREL on 22.4.2013) returned the CRZ applications along with enclosures and asked IREL to resubmit the CRZ applications along with details of land owners and consents of land owners for 7.06, 44.6212 hects ( 2 ML areas) and 141.2269 hects. IREL is in the process of resubmitting three CRZ applications to DCZMA for obtaining the recommendations of TNSCZMA. (DCZMA, Kanyakumari District recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects proposals and forwarded to TNSCZMA, Chennai on 19.7.2013 and TNSCZMA, Chennai recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects and forwarded to NCZMA, New Delhi on 13.11.2013) “29) In the last page of report, it is mentioned that the state coastal zone management authority requested IRE vide its letter no: P1/1898/2001, dated: 30.3.2009 to produce 3 sets of map , EIA report, details of questionnaire etc. for which IRE Ltd intimated in their letter dated 6.4.2009 that they will produce the documents shortly. Hence the details of the area of 716.59.69 hects with survey no. sub division no and extent to be mentioned in this report out of which this survey number to be covered. The above details has not been mentioned in the EIA report itself.” Presently, IREL, MK is requesting the environmental clearance for the existing & granted ML areas ( 4 nos). The four ML areas viz: 7.06 hects, 14.84 hects, 29.7812 hects and 141.2269 hects are a part of 716 hects TNSCZMA recommended area. Presently IREL is not pursuing with expansion activities. In the mean time on 6.1.2011, CRZ-1991 notification has been superseded by CRZ-2011 notification. The earlier CRZ application was submitted on 20.7.2001 was for expansion purpose based on the CRZ-1991 notification. During the meeting on 23.2.2011, the members of EAC(Mining), MoEF suggested IREL to follow the latest guide lines as per CRZ-2011 notification for obtaining recommendations of TNSCZMA as the new CRZ-2011 notification is in force superseding CRZ 1991 notification. IREL, MK has again engaged IRS, Anna University, Chennai for preparation of CRZ maps for the four mining lease areas as per CRZ-2011 notification and submitted the CRZ applications as per CRZ-2011 notification vide our letter no(s): a) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-7.06/2012-13/851, dated: 9th Feb 2013, b) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-141.2269/2012-13/852, dated: 9th Feb 2013 and c) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-44.6212/2012-13/853, dated: 9th Feb 2013 in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Conveyor, District Coastal Zone Management Authority, Nagercoil(DCZMA) for obtaining the recommendations from TNSCZMA . DCZMA vide their letter dated: 8.4.2013 (Received by IREL on 22.4.2013) returned the CRZ applications along with enclosures and asked IREL to resubmit the CRZ applications along with details of land owners and consents of land owners for 7.06, 44.6212 hects ( 2 ML areas) and 141.2269 hects. IREL is in the process of resubmitting three CRZ applications to DCZMA for obtaining the recommendations of TNSCZMA. (DCZMA, Kanyakumari District recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects proposals and forwarded to TNSCZMA, Chennai on 19.7.2013 and TNSCZMA, Chennai recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects and forwarded to NCZMA, New Delhi on 13.11.2013)

“30) It is not know whether IRE has submitted the above document to the state coastal zone management authority and whether TNSCZMA and Govt. Of Tamilnadu have recommended the proposal to Govt. of India.” IREL, MK has again prepared the CRZ maps for the four mining lease areas as per CRZ-2011 notification and submitted the CRZ applications as per CRZ-2011 notification vide our letter no(s): a) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-7.06/2012-13/851, dated: 9th Feb 2013, b) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-141.2269/2012-13/852, dated: 9th Feb 2013 and c) IRELMK/Res/CRZ-44.6212/2012-13/853, dated: 9th Feb 2013 in the office of the District Environmental Engineer, TNPCB, Conveyor, District Coastal Zone Management Authority, Nagercoil(DCZMA) for obtaining the recommendations from TNSCZMA . DCZMA vide their letter dated: 8.4.2013 (Received by IREL on 22.4.2013) returned the CRZ applications along with enclosures and asked IREL to resubmit the CRZ applications along with details of land owners and consents of land owners for 7.06, 44.6212 hects ( 2 ML areas) and 141.2269 hects. IREL is in the process of resubmitting three CRZ applications to DCZMA for obtaining the recommendations of TNSCZMA. (DCZMA, Kanyakumari District recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects proposals and forwarded to TNSCZMA, Chennai on 19.7.2013 and TNSCZMA, Chennai recommended 7.06 hects and 141.2269 hects and forwarded to NCZMA, New Delhi on 13.11.2013)

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TOR issued by MoEF and Point-wise compliance status of the TOR for Beach Sand mineral Mining (141.2269 Ha Mining Lease area) of IREL, Manavalakurichi

MoEF letter no: J-11015/387/2010-IA.II(M)

S.no Terms of Reference Compliance

1 Year-wise production details since 1994 onwards should be given clearly stating the highest production achieved in any one year prior to 1994. It may also be categorically informed whether there had been any increase in production after the EIA Notification, 1994 coming into force w.r.t. the highest production achieved prior to 1994. Information for the mining component and the mineral separation plant should be given separately in support of the claim that here has not been any increase in production.

Year wise production details from mining lease area since 1985 to 2013 are provided in Annexure- I of EIA/EMP report The production details of mineral separation plant are provided in Annexure –I(A) of EIA/EMP Report.

2 All the issues raised in the petition of the Coastal Environment and Ecological Conservation Committee should be addressed in he EIA report and point wise details and how it has been complied with/addressed should be given.

The issues raised in the petition of the Coastal Environment and Ecological Conservation Committee are addressed in the EIA/EMP report and the point-wise reply is given in Annexure II. As desired in the public hearing on 22.03.2013, the details are addressed separately and enclosed in the EIA/EMP report.

3 A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given

Copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lease of the mine is enclosed as Annexure III.

4 All documents including approved mine plan, EIA and public hearing should be compatible with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology and should be in the name of the lessee.

All documents are compatible w.r.t. approved mining plan, EIA in terms of mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology in the name of IREL. Public

Hearing conducted on 22.03.2013. All the

documents are in the name of Indian Rare Earths Ltd. (IREL). Manavalakurichi

5 The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine/lease period.

The study area comprises of 10 km radius around the mine lease boundary. The data mentioned in the EIA/EMP report viz: production, waste generation etc are given for the life of the mine in Chapter 2

6 Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features should be indicated.

There is no land comprising of forest area, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park and other eco sensitive areas available within 10 kms from the boundary of both the mining leases. Land use of 10 km study area is provided based on satellite imagery delineating forest area, crop land, grazing land, wild life sanctuary and water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features are indicated in Figure 3.6 & Figure 3.7 in Chapter 3 of the EIA/EMP report.

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7 Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

The present and proposed land use of the mine lease area is given in Table 4.9 in Chapter 4 and the post mining land use of the mine lease area is given in Table 8.2 in Chapter 8 of the EIA/EMP report.

8 Location of National Parks, sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/Chief Wildlife warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

There are no national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, wildlife corridors, tiger/elephant reserves exist within 10 km radius of the mining lease area. The list of flora and fauna authenticated by District Forest Officer (DFO), Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu enclosed as Annexure–VI in EIA/EMP report.

9 Identification of CRZ area. A CRZ map duly authenticated by one of the authorized agencies demarcating LTL, HTL, CRZ area, location of the mine lease and other project activities w.r.t. CRZ, coastal features such as mangroves, if any. Recommendations of State Coastal Zone Management Authority for the project should also be furnished.

IREL appointed Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai for preparation of CRZ studies & maps as per CRZ Notification-2011. Copies of maps are enclosed. IREL, MK, submitted application along with CRZ maps and EIA/EMP reports as per 2011 Notification on 09.02.2013 to District Coastal Zone Management Authority, Nagercoil (DCZMA) for obtaining recommendations of TNSCZMA. DCZMA recommended the 141.2269 hects proposal on 19.7.2013 and forwarded to TNSCZMA for further action. IREL, MK submitted 15 copies of documents to TNSCZMA. On 9th Oct 2013, TNSCZMA conducted the CRZ meeting for 7.06 hects, recommended and forwarded the proposal on 13.11.2013 to NCZMA for grant of CRZ Clearance.

10 NOC from State Pollution Control Board as required under CRZ Notification, 2011 should also be furnished.

Air & Water Consents from TNPCB are available w.e.f. 1991 for the production of Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite and Garnet. IREL has submitted application to TNPCB seeking NOC for mining operations over 141.2269 ha on 19.04.2013 after public hearing.

11 A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)], both terrestrial and aquatic shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished

Biological study was carried out and the authenticated list of flora and fauna i.e. ( terrestrial and aquatic ) is enclosed in Annexure- VI of draft EIA /EMP report.

There are no schedule I fauna observed in the 10 kms radius of the periphery of the

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based on 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 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.

mining lease area.

12 Impact of change of land use should be given.

Mining operations involve beach washing collection in the replenishable areas and inland mining activities with simultaneous backfilling operations followed by plantation. The impacts of the change in land use pattern and the proposed mitigation measures are discussed in Para 4.6 in Chapter 4.

13 R&R plan/compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs/STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

The mining operations will not be carried out in inhabitated areas. The private lands are mined only after obtaining the consents from the land owners. R & R plans are not applicable as there is no involuntary relocation or resettlement of people because of mining operations. IREL disburses compensation to the land owners who are offing consents for mining on mutually agreed terms and the mined out and back filled lands will be handed over to the concerned land owners. The detailed activities are provided in Chapter- 7 of EIA/EMP report.

14 One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM10, SO2) and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500m of the mine lease in the predominant downwind direction. The mineralogical composition of PM10 particularly for free silica should be given.

One season (summer 2011) baseline environmental studies have been carried out for air quality, noise levels, water quality, soil quality, and biological environment and are incorporated in Chapter 3 of the EIA/EMP report. The date-wise AAQ results are given in Annexure IV. Site specific micro meteorological data using temperature, relative humidity, hourly wind speed and direction and rainfall is given in Annexure-X

One AAQ monitoring location (Kadiapatnam) is located at 0.3 km SE i.e. in down-wind direction. The mineralogical composition of PM10 for free silica was found tobe less than 0.01% at all AAQ monitoring stations.

15 Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on

Air quality modeling has been carried out by using ISC-AERMOD view for GLCs

10


the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

prediction and impact of the project along with movement of vehicles for transportation. The cumulative impact has been assessed for simultaneous operation of all the mines in the vicinity and the MSP. The input parameters used for modeling are provided in Table 4.1 to Table 4.7 and the predicted concentrations are given in Table 4.8. The isopleths showing predicted concentrations for PM10, SO2 and NOx are given in Figure 4.1, Figure 4.2 and Figure 4.3 in Chapter 4 of the EIA/EMP report. The air quality contours for PM10, SO2 and NOx along with Wind-rose diagram are shown in Figures 3.2a, 3.2b, 3.2c and 3.2d

16 The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be provided.

No water is required for mining operations, however water is required for Mineral Beneficiation operations. The Mineral Beneficiation Plant ( BWP & MSP ) is located within the ML area. The details of water requirement, its availability, source and water balance are discussed in Para 2.8 in Chapter 2 of EIA/EMP report.

17 Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

IREL has water drawl permission for a quantity of 4500 KLD from Valliyar River vide PWD GO 2 (D) No:47, dated:23-7-2010 for Industrial use ( MSP and HUP) No drawl of water from external source is required for mining operations

18 Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

Water conservation measures already implemented by means of rain water harvesting plan. The details are provided in Para 4.4.7 in Chapter 4 of EIA/EMP report.

19 Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

There is no impact of impact on ground and surface water quality due to mining operations. Details of impact on ground and surface water quality and mitigation measures are given in Para 4.4 in Chapter 4 of draft EIA/EMP report.

20 Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from central

The mineral rich sand deposits on the beaches are scrapped with spades upto a depth of 0.25 to 0.3 m and heaped manually by the local village society members. In the inland areas the mining is carried out with excavator-tipper combination and dredging. The depth of mining varies in inland from 5 to 6m bgl depending on mineralization of the area.

11


Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

Mining in inland areas, the workings intersect groundwater table. During dredging operations there is no additional requirement of water and the net drawl of water from the dredge pond is zero. Dredging operations that do not affect the ground water table and ground water regime of the area. The Hydro-geological study report is given in Annexure IX.

21 Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/diversion proposed, if any and the impact modification/diversion proposed, if any and the impact of mining/dredging on the flowing waters and the water table should be brought out. The specific safeguard measures to protect the canal passing through the lease area should also be given.

Two small canals passing through ML area. Mining operations will not disturb these canals flow.

22 Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

The mineral rich sand deposits on the beaches are scrapped with spades upto a depth of 0.25 to 0.3 m and heaped manually by the local village society members. In inland mining areas the depth of working ranges from 5 to 6 m below ground level. The ground water table in inland areas within ML is 1 to 2 AMSL. A schematic diagram showing site elevation, working depth, ground water table etc. provided. The schematic diagram showing surface levels and ground water table are given in Figure 5, 6 and 7 in the Hydro-geological report attached as Annexure IX in the EIA/EMP report.

23 Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilization (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out). Specific safeguard measures to deal with the radioactive waste should be addressed and details furnished.

The mineral deposit is devoid of overburden and topsoil. There is no generation of Solid waste during mining operations. The tailings generated from BWP and their Management are discussed in Para 4.5 in Chapter 4 of the EIA/EMP report. Storage and preservation of top soil is not applicable as there is no top soil. Mineralization occurs right from the surface. The tailings are disposed within the ML areas over inland minedout pits. The monazite fraction produced is preserved in underground pits and fenced as per the guidelines of AERB/DAE.

12


24 The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

The reclamation plan is given in Table 8.1, Post mining land use plan is given in Table 8.2 and the progressive greenbelt/plantation development plan is given in Table 8.3 in Chapter 8 of the EIA/EMP report.

25 Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

There is no significant impact on local transport infrastructure due to mining operations. Impact on local transportation and mitigative measures are discussed in Para 4.3.2 in Chapter 4 of the EIA/EMP report.

26 Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

Details of the infrastructure facilities provided for the mine workers are mentioned in Para 2.14 in Chapter 2 of EIA/EMP report.

27 Conceptual post mining land use and reclamation and rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

Conceptual post mining land use and reclamation and rehabilitation of mined out area are discussed in Para 4.6.2 in Chapter 4 of EIA/EMP report.

28 Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted. The details of plantation already done should be given

Stage wise Plantation development programme is given in Table 8.3 in Chapter 8 of the EIA/EMP report.

29 Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP. The impacts of radiation on the workers and the safeguard measures proposed should be discussed and highlighted in the EIA report.

Occupational health and safety measures are discussed in Chapter 4 and Chapter 6 of EIA/EMP report.

30 Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

Measures of socio-economic significance and influence to the local people are discussed in Para 4.7 in Chapter 4 and Chapter 7 of EIA/EMP report.

13


31

The risk and hazards due to radioactive material and the requisite safeguard measures should be discussed in detail.

The risk and hazards due to radioactivity is discussed in Para 6.2.1 in Chapter 6 of EIA/EMP report.

32 Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia, also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

Detailed environmental management plan is given in Chapter 8 of EIA/EMP report.

33 Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

Public hearing points raised and

commitment of the project proponent on the same are provided in EIA/EMP report.

34 Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction/order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

There is no litigation pending w.r.t. to 141.2269 hects ML area in any court of law

35 The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

The mining operations over 141.2269 hects have been continuing w.e.f. 1984. The Land value = 515 Lakhs (approx.) The Beneficiation Plant = 4507 Lakhs (approx.) EMP Capital Cost: 580 Lakhs EMP annual recurring cost = 350 lakhs Details mentioned in Chapter-8 of the EIA/EMP report

Executive Summary for Mining of Beach Sand Mineral (141.2269 ha.) IREL (Indian Rare Earths Limited.)

M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.0 Project Description

Indian Rare Earths Ltd. (IREL), A Govt. of India Undertaking under the administrative control of

Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is engaged in mining and processing of beach sand

minerals like Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sillimanite and chemical processing

of some of these minerals. IREL is having 3 mining units located in Orissa, Tamilnadu and

Kerala and one Chemical unit at Alwaye, Kerala. IREL intends to renew the mine lease for the

production of 1.0 MTPA of beach mineral sand along with a mineral separation plant with a

throughput capacity of 200 tonnes/hr to Beach Washing Plant to produce 114600 TPA of total

finished products (Ilmenite- 91200 TPA, Rutile-3000 TPA, Zircon-7800 TPA, Monozite-5400

TPA and Garnet-7200 TPA). The extent of area is 141.2269 hectares with survey numbers

Manavalakurichi-100 to 105, 109, 111, 377 to 380, 384 to 392, 396 to 404, 410,411,650 to 654;

Lakshmipuram- 867/1 to 5, 868/1 &2 and 878/1 to 4, Colachal Ward- D1 -3 to 23 (21 part), 31

part and beach poromboke areas.

Re- Survey numbers along with classification details of 141.2269 hects ( downloaded from

www.tnreginet.com) are enclosed in the EIA/EMP document.

Salient Features of the Project

Details of The Area

District & State Kanyakumari & Tamilnadu

Mandal/Taluk Kalkulam

Villages Manavalakurichi

Total Mine Lease Area 141.2269 ha.

Ownership of the land Private Patta/Poromboke/IREL acquired land

Type of land Uncultivable sandy stretches of beach mineral sand with

coconut and casurina plantations.

Latitude N 8°8’14” to 8° 10’ 31” N Longitude E 77° 15’ 50” to 77° 18’ 16” E

Mineral Separation Plant 8°8’52” to 8° 9’ 17” N 77° 17’ 43” to 77° 18’ 00” E

Elevation 3-12m

Toposheet No. 58 H/8/NW

General Climatic Conditions

Maximum Temperature 34.8°C

Minimum Temperature 20°C

Annual Rainfall 796.9 mm

Wind Pattern during study Period

(summer 2011) Northwest

Accessibility

Road Connectivity

State Highway SH-179 (0.5 km) from Mineral Separation Pant

National Highway NH-47 (14 km) from Mineral Sepaartion

Plant

http://www.tnreginet.com/


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. ii

Rail Connectivity Eraniel (12 km)

Airport Trivandrum/Thiruvanathapuram (65 km)

Seaport Colachel (5 km), Toothukudi (160 km)

ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVE AREAS:-

Water Bodies Valliyar River is 1.0 km away from Mineral

Separation Plant (IREL, MK) and passes towards

East.

Sea Arabian Sea is adjacent to mining lease area

(South-West direction)

Archaeological/Historical/Ancient Monuments None within core & 10 km radius of Mining Lease

Boundary

Forest None within core & 10 km radius of Mining Lease

Boundary

Sanctuaries/National Parks None within core & 10 km radius of Mining

Lease Boundary

CRZ ML area falls under CRZ

Seismicity Seismic Zone-III as per IS: 1893-2002, BIS, GoI

Topography & Drainage pattern

The present Manavalakurichi deposit occupies a relatively plain area, with very few elevated

areas and devoid of forest land. The general flow of the sub-terranean rock is towards the sea.

The average ground elevation of the inland deposit varies from 3-12m above MSL. The hinter

land area is drained by Valliyar River which flows along the Eastern boundary of the mining. It

confluences with Arabian Sea near South Eastern corner of mining area.

Geology

The deposit is covered by sedimentary formation comprising coastal alluvium, beach sand and

sandy clay of recent period. This is underlain by the crystalline rock of the Archean age. The

rock type is Granitiferous Granitic Gneisses. Rock exposures are found in the sea shore and it’s trend being east west and dipping at 75° North.

Reserves and Anticipated life of the mine

Beach Deposit: Based on past records it can be expected that barring unforeseen situations

about 5.00 lakhs MT of raw sand of 10-12% HM will be available for mining per year

considering beach areas within the lease hold area.

Inland deposit: Total balance mineable reserves in the inland deposits in the mine lease area

are estimated to be 59.72 Lakh tones as on 2005-06.

Proposed production and Life of Mine: The proposed maximum rate of production from the

mine (ROM) would be 1.0 million tonnes / annum comprising of 5 LTPA from inland and 5 LTPA

from beach areas. The life of the replenishable deposits can not be predicted as they re-occur


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. iii

regularly with tidal actions. However, considering the availability of raw sand in the inland areas

of 141.2269 Ha ML area, the anticipated life of present inland reserves will be around 20 years.

Method of Mining

Replenishable Beach Deposits: The top layer of beach washings deposited along the

beaches as a result of wave and tidal currents is scrapped up to a depth of 0.2 to 0.3m and

collected manually by deploying local village societies and the heaped raw mineral sand is

transported to Beach Washing Plant (BWP) utilizing 1.5m3 front end loaders and 10/15 MT

tipper combination.

Non Replinishable Inland Deposits: In these deposits, two types of mining are adopted.

a) Dry Mining – Tipper and excavator Combination

b) Wet Mining - Dredging

Table: Year wise production for the first five years (Quantity in Tonnes)

S. No Deposit 1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year 4th Year 5th Year

1 Inland Deposits. 1,00,000 2,00,000 2,00,000 to

3,00,000

5,00,000 to

7,00,000

5,00,000 to

8,00,000

2 Beach Washings 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000

Source: Approved Mining Plan

Mineral Beneficiation

Beach Washing Plant / Heavies Up gradation Plant: The dry raw sand containing around 10-

12% heavy minerals mined in the beaches is transported in tippers to plant area and is directly

fed to beach washing plant (BWP) along with other raw sand mined from other mining lease

areas. About 26 TPH of 90%HM grade intermediate concentrate obtained from BWP is fed to

Heavies upgradation plant (HUP). In HUP, 90% HM grade is upgraded to 97% HM using series

of spiral gravity separators and floatex density separator.

Mineral Separation Plant: About 420 MT of 97% HM -HUP output is fed to the mineral

separation plant per day and about 285 MT of minerals are produced as final products. The 135

MT of unrecovered material consists of Monazite-Garnet rich and Sillimanite rich fractions which

are stock piled for future use and recovery.

Water Requirement

No external water is required for mining activities. However for MSP & HUP operations,

industrial water requirement is about 11,829 cum/day, of which, 8265 cum/day is recycled and

reused and 3564 cum/day is lost in seepages and the make up water is pumped from Valliyar

river. Drinking water and other domestic requirement for the Administrative Office and utilities is

about 25cum/day.

Employment potential

The direct employment of IREL, Manavalakurichi is 373 (73 management & supervisory staff

and 300 workmen). Apart from this, 800 local fisherman village society members of Periavilai


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. iv

and Puthoor villages are working in the mines for the collection of beach washings and about

77 transport contract persons for transportation activities in the mines.

2.0 Description of the Environment

Baseline environment studies were carried out in 10 km radius from the mine lease boundary

during Pre-Monsoon 2011 (March – May 2011). The Predominant wind direction during study

period was from North West( NW).

Wind Rose Diagram

Air Environment

Baseline Ambient Air Quality was monitored at 10 locations, 2 in core zone and 8 in buffer zone.

The summary of air quality is as follows:

Summary of Ambient Air Quality (maximum values) units: µg/m3

S.no Location PM10 SO2 NOx CO

1 Mine lease area 53.8 13.1 17.2 0.80

2 Mineral Separation Plant (MSP) 51.2 13.6 17.7 0.83

3 Kovitamvilai 46.2 12.0 13.8 0.72

4 Kuttumangalam 46.2 13.3 15.0 0.73

5 Naduvukura 49.1 12.1 13.9 0.74

6 Colachel 48.4 12.3 13.2 0.76

7 Muttemtura 47.1 13.3 15.2 0.66

8 Mandakad 44.8 11.3 13.1 0.72

9 Manavalakurichi 47.3 12.9 16.7 0.79

10 Kadiapattinam 43.2 12.3 14.0 0.78

The ambient air quality at all the monitoring locations was observed to be within the permissible

limits as per National Ambient Air Quality Standards.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. v

Noise Environment

Noise Levels During Study Period [units: dB(A)]

N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10

Min 42.8 43.9 40.1 40.6 41.1 40.3 40.5 41.3 40.7 41.8

Max 57.2 57.8 53.9 54.0 54.9 55.3 55.2 56.6 55.1 56.1

Ld 53.5 54.4 50.4 50.9 51.6 51.2 51.6 52.1 51.3 52.4

Ln 43.2 45.6 40.5 41.2 41.5 42.6 41.5 43.6 41.2 43.4

The ambient noise levels recorded in the study area were well within the prescribed Ambient

Noise Level Standards.

Water Environment

Eleven ground water samples and six surface water samples were collected and analyzed the

water quality in study area. Physico chemical analysis of water shows that the water quality is

within the prescribed drinking water IS 10500 standards except for the sea water samples.

Soil Quality

Soil samples were collected at 10 locations from the core and buffer zone to evaluate the soil

quality in the study area. All the samples are showing sandy and moderately fertile nature.

Biological Environment

The mitigation measures for air, water and solid waste management will be followed as a result

of that, there would not be any significant impact on biodiversity in the 10 km study area.

Socio-Economic Environment

The study area has 20 revenue villages with a population of 265539. SC & ST population

comprise of 11092 and 184 of the total population respectively. The literates are 207081 in the

project study area. The area is marked with reasonable good literacy rate with basic facilities for

education, health, roads, transportation and communication etc.

3.0 Anticipated Environmental Impacts & Mitigation Measures

Air Environment

Since the mine lease area is adjacent to another mine lease area (7.06 Ha) and the other two

mine lease areas (Total 44.6212 Ha), cumulative impact assessment has been carried out for

the air quality due to emissions from the three mines and the mineral separation plant.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. vi

Predicted Ground Level Concentrations

Season Year Maximum Incremental Concentrations (g/m3)

PM10 SO2 NOx

Pre-monsoon season

(March, April & May) 2011 12.23 12.00 9.56

Mitigation Measures & Management Plan

Haul roads are periodically wetted to suppress dust

Green belt development

Development of green barriers along roads, near villages etc.,

Asphalting of approach roads

No drilling and blasting is required

Machinery deployed for mining is strictly monitored for emission levels

Casuarina saplings are planted immediately after refilling the dredged out area.

Noise Pollution Control

Noise is generated due to the deployment of machinery, material handling and due to plying of

vehicles during transportation of sand to the plant. The noise levels are within the permissible

limits; in all the existing operations ear plugs/ear muffs are supplied to the employees to protect

them from high noise level. Regular monitoring of noise levels are conducted and recorded.

Water Environment

Impact on Water Regime

The mining activity is likely to encounter the ground water table at some places in the mine

lease area.

Impact on Surface Water

During the monsoon rain water flows through the small streamlets formed along the slopes of

the area. There is possibility of transportation of sand silt and sediments from the mine face into

surface water bodies.

Impact on Ground Water

Mining operations do not require any external source of water supply. During dredging

operations , there is no net drawl of water from the pond and hence there is no impact on

ground water.. The pumping of Valliyar River water for Mineral Beneficiation Plant operations is

carried out with much care so that there is no adverse impact.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. vii

Water Pollution Control Measures & Management Plan

Mining operations are carried out near water bodies by maintaining a safe distance.

The dredging methods do not require any external source of water .There is no net drawl of

water from the dredge pond during mining activity. No chemicals are used during mining

activity. Hence no impact on ground water table.

The fresh water gradient towards the mining areas is maintained by close monitoring of the

water table.

The rain water collected around the mineral separation plant is drained inside the harvesting

pond and utilized for ground water surging.

To prevent saline back water entry from the sea into the Valliyar River in the summer

months, construction of check dam in Valliyar River is completed.

Major chunk of the process water in mineral beneficiation plant is recycled.

Waste Management

Mining operations do not generate any solid waste as the deposit is devoid of top soil as well as

overburden. The mineralization occurs right from the surface of the deposit. The raw sand

containing heavy minerals are transported to Beach Washing Plant located within the ML area

where the heavy minerals are upgraded using spiral gravity separators. The lighter reject silica

sand from BWP is transported back and refilled in the already mined out inland area and

leveled. The refilling of the mined out areas were taken up simultaneously along with the mining

activity. Plantation is carried out over the backfilled areas to develop greenery in the locality.

Solid Waste Management

The mineral deposit is devoid of overburden and topsoil. Hence there is no spoil or solid waste

is generated due to mining activity. The tailings generated from Beach Washing Plant mainly

consisting of quartz are used as backfilling material in the mined out area. A quantity of 8.9 to 9

lakh tons of tailings per annum handled out of 10 lakh tons of minedout mineral sand and

utilized for backfilling activities. Under no circumstances, tailings are dumped in active

agriculture areas, flowing nalahs, paddy fields etc. during backfilling operations

Hazard Control

Mining is carried-out as per Metaliferous Mines Regulations- 1961. Spent oil generated during

MSP operations (transformer oil, Engine oil waste etc) are recycled through authorized vendors

of Tamilnadu Pollution Control Board. The persons employed in the mining and transportation

operations is imparted with the Mines Vocational Training as well as personal protective devices

for safety.

The persons employed in dredging operations are provided with life-jackets. The floating

pontoon is provided with 6-7 lifebuoys towards safety during operations. Vocational training is

imparted to the persons employed in dredging activity. Inland mining activities are undertaken

as per the permissions granted by DGMS under regulation 106 (2) (b) of MMR-1961.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. viii

Radioactivity Control

The background radiation over the deposit is about 1 to 4 Sv/ hr in 141.2269 hects. Since the

minerals in the mine lease area are found in its natural state, no radioactivity impact is

envisaged on villagers involved in the collection of the beach mineral sand. Also, the village

society members collect the sand only two hours a day and are not exposed to high

concentrations of the mineral. However, in order to ascertain the dosage of radiation received

by the employees during work in Mineral Separation Plant and Beach Washing Plant, they are

provided with TLD badges.

These badges are periodically monitored by Health Physics Unit of BARC for finding out the

dosages of radiation received by each employee. Based on the monitoring done it is ensured

that the radiation doses received by each employee are within the permissible limit set by the

statutory authorities. The monitoring of radiation prone areas is being carried out as per the

guidelines issued by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board so that no person receives excess

doses of radiation.

Health Physics Department of BARC conducts the radiation survey in and around mining areas

and generates the reports. Copies of radiation survey reports are enclosed in EIA/EMP report.

Plantation Programme

Casuarina saplings are planted after refilling the mined / dredged out areas. Usually this is done

before the onset of monsoon.Casuarina (Casuarinas equisatifolia) seedlings are raised in two

stages. The seedlings are raised in the primary nursery and then transplanted and maintained

in the secondary nursery. It is proposed to carry out casuarinas plantation @ 5000

saplings/hect and plantation area is about 3 hects per year. Hence, every year about 15000

saplings are proposed to be planted in 141.2269ha area for development of greenery over the

mined out and backfilled areas.

Occupational Health and Safety Measures

All the village society members engaged in the collection of beach mineral sand from the

mining lease area and the transportation contract employees are given vocational

training prior to commencement of work.

Medical Insurance policy is covered for the members engaged in the mining of beach

sands from the ML area.

The mining operations are carried out under the supervision of an IREL authorized

officials and safe operations are strictly ensured.

Traffic signals, speed breakers, water sprinklers are provided over the haul roads.

Mining activities often temporarily suspended during cloudy and rainy days to avoid

thunder hazards in the beach areas.

Audio Visual Alarm is mandatory for all the vehicles and loaders deployed in the mining

area.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. ix

Initial and periodical medical examinations for the persons employed in the mines

In MSP and BWP

All workers engaged in material handling system are regularly examined for lung

function tests, Spirometry etc.

Occupational Health Surveys of employees, Health awareness and Training Programs

are conducted at regular intervals.

Designing and implementation of Hazards based Medical Surveillance System

consisting of Preventive Health Examinations e.g., Pre-employment, Periodic health

check ups

Initial and periodical medical examinations as per the rules.

Hazards based Medical Surveillance for health impacts of Respirable dust and

chemical hazards on lungs by Spirometry (Lung Function Testing) and impact of noise

on ears by Audiometry (Hearing capacity testing), Bio-medical surveillance program

Organization policy development for decreasing Tobacco, Alcohol etc

Conducting Training workshops on “Occupational Health & Safety issues” Diseases Screening Programs for Diabetes, Hypertension, Tuberculosis, and other Occupational

Diseases etc

Emergency Medical Response Preparedness including Hazard Communication, First aid

and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Evacuation plans etc

Health awareness and Training Programs on key health issues e.g., workplace hygiene,

personal protective devices, first aid measures, nutrition,

communicable diseases e.g., Pulmonary diseases such as TB, Hepatitis,

Malaria control, family welfare, tobacco and alcohol health impacts, HIV

and other relevant issues

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Program Health Information System Development

including reporting formats, check lists

Health Facilities e.g. Medical Center, Occupational Health Center for plant & township

and Ambulance facility.

Mining activities are carried out as per DGMS permission under regulation 106 (2) (b) of

MMR 1961.

4.0 Environmental Monitoring Programme

Table: Summary of Monitoring Programme

S.No Subject of

study Specific Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

1 Ambient Air

Quality PM10, SO2, NOx, & CO

24 hourly samples twice a week for

12 weeks in a season except

monsoon

2 Meteorology

Surface: Wind Speed and

direction, temperature,

relative humidity and rainfall

Continuous monitoring

3 Water Quality Physical, Chemical and Bacteriological Parameters

Once in a season for all four seasons (surface as well as ground water quality)


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. x

4 Ecology Existing Flora and Fauna Once in a year.

5 Noise Levels Noise levels in dB (A) Hourly observations once in a

season except monsoon

6 Soil

Characteristics

Parameters related to

agricultural and afforestation

potential

Twice during a year

7 Land Use Trend of land use change for

different categories

Data from various government

agencies

8 Socio-economic

aspects

Socio economic development

measures

Once in two years and depending

on the need the frequency may

increase or decrease

5.0 Additional Studies

The company has OSHAS 18001 certification and has identified the risks and the hazards

involved with various jobs. The risk assessment for the mine and mineral separation plant has

been carried out and accordingly a Disaster Management Plan has been chalked out. The risks

due to inundation, radioactivity, land slide, surface fire, dust from loading and transportation,

noise, loading, operation of heavy vehicles, etc were identified and corrective measures are

suggested.

IREL engaged Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai and prepared the CRZ

maps as per CRZ notification-2011. (copies of CRZ Reports and Maps of 141.2269 ha are

enclosed).

IREL engaged National Institute of Oceanography (NIO, Kochi) and conducted scientific study

on near shore sediment transport control mechanism in Manavalakurichi and Midalam beach

areas during the year 2010-11. The reports of NIO reveals that there is no significant shoreline

change from Muttam to Midalam area for the last 37 years.

6.0 Project Benefits

Corporate Social Responsibility and other Welfare Activities

One acre land handed over to Tamil Nadu Govt. for building houses for the fishermen of

Chinnavilai village (Tsunami housing)

0.76 acres of land donated to Manavalakurichi town Panchayat for bus stand

Aids to local schools for building classrooms, compound walls, furniture, books, uniforms

etc.

Arranging free medical camps, eye camps to nearby villagers periodically

Providing drinking water facilities including provision of pipelines, constructing OH water

tanks etc.

Laying black top roads in the villages connecting to WCR to improve the communication

facilities


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. xi

Promoting and conducting livelihood training programmes among the local villagers to

improve their living standards

During tsunami in December 2004, medical facilities, food and shelter etc were

provided.

Insurance to Beach Washing society members

Allocation of village development funds for 7 villages @ Rs.14,00,000/- per annum

Providing medical fund @ Rs. 3,00,000/- annually for treatments

Medical Insurance to Beach Washing Society members engaged in collection of beach

washings @ 4 to 5 lakhs / year.

Plantation over mined out areas brings greenery to the local surroundings

Removal of monazite from the deposit and backfilling with tailings reduces the

background radiation significantly

Promotes job opportunities to the local villagers in addition to their traditional fishing

activities enhancing their living standards

The following are the CSR activities undertaken for the benefit of local inhabitants in and around the mining areas (7 villages)

Table: CSR Activities undertaken (Amount in Rs.)

Development/Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

School development

(furniture, table, books etc.)

in the villages within and

surrounding mining lease

areas

1,36,500 1,48,250 12,04,000 5,14,050 2,04,561 3,15,051

Village development (roads,

primary health centre,

annual day etc.)

29,225 25,000 25,000 5,70,900 74,736 34,900

Medical camps (eye) 70,000 - 25,000 - 16,032

Drinking water 18,840 - 7,47,367 - 25,000

Fisherman welfare fund 10,50,000 10,50,000 10,50,000 10,50,000 14,00,000 14,00,000

Fisherman medical fund 3,00,000 3,00,000 3,00,000 3,00,000 - -

Medical insurance - 4,62,800 5,70,000 4,08,960 3,53,400

Total 16,04,565 15,23,250 38,14,167 30,04,950 21,29,289 21,03,351

7.0 Environmental Management Plan

The Environment Management Plan (EMP) is prepared for the mine and the mineral separation

plan to ensure sustainable development in the study area. It includes covers the existing and

proposed measures required for meeting the prevailing statutory requirements of air emissions,

waste water discharge characteristics, noise levels etc. for environmental management purpose

in connection with the mining and mining related activities in the study area.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. xii

Table: Budget for Environmental Protection (Rs: Lakhs)

Capital Cost Annual Recurring Cost

Pollution Control(includes stacks,

dust filters, STP, etc. at MSP) 500 10

Pollution Monitoring 30 20

Occupation Health & Safety 50 20

Backfilling/Plantation -- 300

Total 580 350

Gross Fixed assets of 141.2269 Hects ML area; ( during 2010-11)

Land Value =515 Lakhs (approx.)

Beneficiation Plant(MSP & BWP) =4507 Lakhs (approx..)

8.0 Conclusion

It can be concluded that there would be a marginal impact due to the existing mining activity.

However, overall, there will be positive impact through contribution towards employment, socio-

economic development, strengthening of infrastructural facilities like medical, educational etc.

Mining will be carried out keeping “Sustainable Development” of the region in mind.


Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad 1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

Indian Rare Earths Ltd. (IREL), A Govt. of India Undertaking under the administrative

control of Dept of Atomic Energy (DAE) is engaged in mining and processing of beach

sand minerals like Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sillimanite and chemical

processing of some of these minerals. At present IREL is conducting mining and mineral

processing operation at Manavalakurichi in Tamilnadu, Chavara in Kerala and Chatrapur

in Orissa.

The Manavalakurichi deposits are distinguished as the first in the country to attract the

mineral Industry since its discovery by Schomberg – a German Scientist in 1909.

Production of Monazite in varying amounts for export was continued from 1909 to 1917

after which its demand in the world market gradually declined for various reasons.

Ilmenite, the major heavy mineral in these placer deposits, gained importance for which

they were worked again since 1927.

Indian Rare Earths Ltd., which in 1965 became the successors to M/s Travancore Mineral

Ltd. and M/s Hopkin & Williams, took over the assets of these companies, got

nationalized and reorganized the production of heavy minerals. Although sufficient good

quality heavy mineral reserves were available in the beach area and beach washings got

replenished after mining, it was found that the rate of replenishment was not sufficient in

terms of quality and quantity. In order to improve recovery of minerals towards mineral

conservation a few modifications were made in Mineral separation plant. Due to gradual

decrease of heavy mineral content in the replenishable areas of ML area, the raw mineral

sand requirement for Mineral Separation Plant increased. Under these circumstances,

inland deposits of different strips, where low quality deposits are available, were surveyed

by AMD and mining commenced.

IREL, Manavalakurichi is an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certified

organization. Further, in view of the excellent environmental and safety records achieved

during the last several years, IREL, Manavalakurichi unit has been the recipient of several

environmental safety awards instituted by various Government agencies, statutory

agencies and professional bodies.



1.2 Project Proposal

IREL, Manavalakurichi intends to renew the mining lease (ML) for the production of 1.0

million TPA of Beach Mineral Sand from ML area along with a Beach Washings Plant

(BWP)/Heavies Upgradation plant (HUP) and a Mineral Separation Plant to produce

about 114600 TPA of finished products. The finished products consisting of 91200 TPA

Ilmenite, 3000 TPA Rutile, 7800 TPA Zircon, 5400 TPA Monazite and 7200 TPA Garnet.

The extent of ML area is 141.2269 Ha. Tamilnadu Pollution Control Board granted

consents under Air (PCP) Act -1981 and Water (PCP) Act 1974 for production of above

minerals. Year-wise past production from the mine and mineral separation plant is given

in Annexure I & I(A) and the copy of the mining lease deed is given in Annexure III.

1.3 Project Location

The Beach Sand Mining Project - Mining Lease Area along with Mineral Separation

Plant is located at coastal stretches of Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram and Colachel

Villages in Kalkulam Taluk, Kanyakumari District of Tamilnadu State. The project area

falls between North Latitude 8°8’14” to 8° 10’ 31” N and East Longitude 77° 15’ 50” to 77°

18’ 16” E. The study area falls in the Survey of India Toposheet No 58H/8/NW. Location

of the existing mine and mineral separation plant is shown in Figure 1.1. The Khasra/

Patta land details of the mine lease area is given in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1: Khasra/Patta details of the Mine lease area

Village and Taluk Area in Ha Classification

Manavalakurichi village,

kalkulam Taluk

121.8400 Patta Land

4.6250 Sea beach Poromboke

Sub total 126.4650

Laxmipuram village,

Kalkulam Taluk

6.8200 Patta Land


Sub Total 9.4000

Colachel Village,

Kalkulam Taluka

3.0569 Patta Land


Sub total 5.3619

Total 141.2269

Source: Approved Mine Plan

Mining Lease area



Survey Number details of ML area

Manavalakurichi-100 to 105,109,111,377 to 380,384 to 392, 396 to 404, 410,411,650 to

654; Lakshmipuram- 867/1 to 5, 868/1 &2 and 878/1 to 4, Colachal Ward- D1 -3 to 23 (21

part), 31 part. and beach poromboke areas.

Re- Survey numbers along with classification details of 141.2269 hects ( downloaded

from www.tnreginet.com) are enclosed in the EIA/EMP document. . The classification

details survey number wise has been published by the Govt. of Tamil Nadu in their

website w.e.f.01.04.2012.

1.4 Climate

The climate of the area is typical of coastal region. It receives good rainfall and

experiences temperature variations from 200 C minimum to 34.8 0C maximum.

The salient features of the study area are given in Table 1.2 and the status of the

regulatory clearances is given in Table 1.3.

Table 1.2: Salient Features of the Study Area

Details of The Area



Villages Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram, Colachel

Total Mine Lease Area 141.2269 Ha.

Ownership of the land Private Patta, Poromboke and IREL own land

Type of land Uncultivable sandy stretches of beach sand

Inland areas with coconut plantations

Latitude N 8°8’14” to 8° 10’ 31” Longitude E 77° 15’ 50” to 77° 18’ 16”


Elevation 3-12m AMSL

Toposheet No. 58 H/8




Annual Rainfall 1465 mm

Wind Pattern during study

Period (summer 2011)

North West ( NW)




Accessibility

Road Connectivity State Highway SH-179 (0.5 km from MSP)

National Highway NH-47 (14 km from MSP)


Airport Trivendrum / Thiruvanathapuram (65 km)


Environmental Sensitivity

Water Bodies Valliyar River is 1.0 km away from Mineral Separation Plant (IREL, MK) and runs along ML boundary in East.

Sea Arabian Sea is the South-Western boundary of the mine lease area

Archaeological/Historical/Ancient

Monuments

None within 10 km radius of Mining lease boundary

Forest None within 10 km radius of Mining lease boundary

Sanctuaries/National Parks None within 10 km radius of Mining lease boundary

CRZ The mine lease area falls in CRZ.


Table 1.3: Status & Stage of Regulatory Clearances

Regulatory Clearance Status

Mining Plan Mining Plan for beach sand minerals containing

Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon and Monazite minerals is

approved by to Atomic Minerals Directorate for

Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad vide

order no: AMD/MPA/3M/IREL-MLC/2005/ 934 dated

26.05.2005. Mining Plan for Garnet and Sillimanite

minerals is approved by Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM)

vide letter no: TN/KK/MP/GNT-1652-/SZ, Dated:

1.8.2006. The scheme of mining ( review of the

approved mining plans) for 141.2269 hects ML area

approved from IBM, Chennai on 15.12.2012.

Terms of Reference J-11015/387/2010-IA.II(M) date 16th May 2011

Public Consultation Completed on 22.3.2013 ( as per EIA-2006

notification)

Environmental Clearance Recommended by EAC(non-Coal mining)

Recommended by DCZMA, KK District, Nagercoil

Recommended by TNSCZMA, Chennai



1.5 Name and Address of the Applicant

Indian Rare Earth Limited

Registered Office:

M/s. Indian Rare Earths Ltd.,

Plot No. 1207, Near Siddhi Vinayak

temple, Veer Savarkar Marg, Prabhadevi,

Mumbai- 400 028

Site Office:

M/s Indian Rare Earths Ltd.,

P.O.: Manavalakurichi

Kanyakumari District

Tamil Nadu – 629 252

Phone : 04651 – 237255 to 258

Fax : 04651 - 237220

Email :[email protected]



CHAPTER 2

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Topography

The present Manavalakurichi deposit occupies a relatively plain area, with very few

elevated areas and devoid of forest land. Coconut trees are seen in the mine lease areas

and no other agricultural activities are practiced in the area. The general flow of the

subterranean rock is towards the sea and hence there is a natural gradient towards the

sea. The average ground elevation of the inland deposit varies from 3-12 m above MSL .

Valliyar River flows along the Eastern boundary of the mine lease area and its course is

North to South. It confluences with Arabian Sea near South Eastern corner of mine lease

area. Surface plan of the mine lease area is shown in Figure 2.1.

2.2 Drainage Pattern

The Drainage pattern in the area is Dendritic to intricate drainage pattern. Valliyar river

flows adjacent to mining lease boundary drains the hinterland areas. River Tamirabharini

flows near villages Ezhudesam and Tengapattinam at a distance of 18 kms away from

ML area in the North – West. AVM canal passes just adjacent to ML boundary in the

landward side parallel to State Highway-179.

2.3 Geology

2.3.1 Regional Geology

A wide variety of minerals with a specific gravity exceeding 3 generally grouped as heavy

mineral, occur in placer deposits. Such heavy mineral deposits of economic value are

found along the western and eastern coast of Indian peninsula. The source rocks for

many of these heavy mineral deposits are the Charnockites and Peninsular Gneisses,

intruded by Leptynites; and Khondalite to some extent.

These deposits are formed by processes of weathering, transportation and deposition in

suitable location. Enrichment of the HM content of the eastern coast is basically due to

wind action whereas those along the western coast are due to cyclic subsidence of the

coast, wind and wave action. Fossiliferious sandstone and limestone constitute the

sedimentary formation overlain by terisand and dune sands are predominant in this

particular Manavalakurichi inland placer deposits.



2.3.2 Local Geology/ Mineral Deposit

The deposit is covered by sedimentary formation comprising coastal alluvium, beach

sand and sandy clay of recent period. This is underlain by the crystalline rock of the

Archean age. The rock type is Granitiferous Gneisses. Rock exposures are found in the

sea shore and it’s trend being east west and dipping at 75° North. The geological plan,

geological section of the mine lease area and a schematic diagram of working section

are shown in Figure 2.2 and Figure 2.3 respectively. There are no geological

disturbances like faults, folds, joints etc. available within the deposit. The different Litho

units observed from the drill hole data for the Manavalakurichi deposit are as follows:

Top Sand

This is the top most layer of 0.5 to 9.0 m thickness, with heavy mineral content ranging

from 5 to 79% and low slime content (0.2 to 14%).

Teri Sand

Underlying the top sands are the Teri sands of thickness ranging from 2.0 to 7.5 m. The

heavy mineral content ranges from 9 to 40% with slime content varying from 1.5 to 18%.

Clayey Sand

Below the Teri sand, lies the band of clayey sand with thickness varying from 0.5 to 6.0m.

The heavy mineral content varies from 7 to 65%. The slim, light gray to dark gray in

colour, varies between 2.3 to 33%.

Sandy Clay

This layer with frequent discontinuous has higher gray to dark gray and soft to hard and

semiplastic clay content. It has thickness varies from 1.0 to 6.0m with heavy mineral

content of 7 to 32% and slime content 4 to 35%.

Clay Bed

This is a dark gray to black and dark chocolate brown semiplastic zone occurring in

lensoidal pockets usually of 1.0 to 6.0m thickness. The heavy mineral content varies from

8 to 27% and slime contributes about 12 to 69%.

Coarse Sand/Gravel

This is the bottom most sedimentary formation with a thickness of 0.2 to 5.2m. The heavy

mineral and slime content varies from 6 to 24% and 2 to 22% respectively.



Bed rock

Banded Granetiferous Gneiss Leptynite is the bed rock in varying degrees of alteration.

Weathered Letynite is met with at different levels in the bore holes. A few exposures of

Leptynite are found in the Valliyar River areas. The summarized characteristics of the

litho units are shown in the Table 2.1.

Table 2.1: Summary of Litho Units in the mine lease area

S.no Litho Units Thickness (in m) HM content (in %) Slime content (in %)

1 Top Sand 0.5 to 9.0 05 to 79 0.2 to 14

2 Teri Sand 2.0 to 7.5 09 to 40 1.5 to 18

3 Clayey Sand 0.5 to 6.0 07 to 65 2.2 to 33

4 Sandy Sand 1.0 to 6.0 07 to 32 4.0 to 35

5 Clay bed 1.0 to 6.0 08 to 27 12.0 to 69

6 Coarse

Sand/Gravel

0.2 to 5.2 06 to 24 2.0 to 22


2.4 Exploration Details

Apart from the beach areas, following inland areas were investigated by Atomic Minerals

Division, Hyderabad for IREL.

Guest House Area

Koottumangalam area

Vettumadai area

Pillayarcoil block

Valliyar area

2.5 Mineral Reserves

2.5.1 Beach Deposit

Beach material is continuously in motion under the influence of waves & tidal currents.

The deposition and replenishment of beach washings along the beach areas is a function

of littoral process. The mined areas are so far being replenished, however, grade of such

replenished sand has been declining gradually. No definite estimate with regard to

replenishment quantity and grade can be made. However, based on past records it can

be expected that barring unforeseen situations about 5.00 lakhs MT of raw sand of 10-



12% HM will be available for mining per year considering beach areas within the lease

hold area. The beach area available within 141.2269 hects ML area is about 9.50 hects

spread in 3.6 Kms along the coast. The beach areas are under continuous littoral activity

leading to deposition of heavy minerals. These areas are called replenishable deposits.

IREL, Manavalakurichi engaged National Institute of Oceangraphy, Kochi (NIO, Govt. of

India) during 2010-11 to conduct scientific study on the near shore sediment transport

control for the beaches ranging from Muttom to Tengapattinam.

2.5.2 Inland Deposits

Inland deposits which are away from the beaches are also called non-replenishable

deposits. Out of 141.2269 hects, inland deposits are spread in 131 hects. Guest house

area, Valliyar area and major portion of Kottumangalam area, the mining operations

were completed and the mined out areas are completely backfilled. Vettumdai area and

Pillayarcoil area are presently under mining operations. The area wise mineable reserves

available in the inland deposits as on 2005-06 are given in Table 2.2.

Table 2.2: Mineable reserves in Inland Deposits (in Lakh tons)

S. No Inland Deposits Mineable

Reserves

Mined till

(31.08.04)

Balance

Reserves

1 Koottumangalam 16.8 12.8 4.2

2 Vettumadai 7.54 Nil 7.54

3 Pillaiyarcoil 47.98 Nil 47.98

Total 72.32 12.8 59.72


2.6 Mining

Method of Mining

The mine is already in operation. The following methods of mining are being followed:

i). Replenishable Beach Deposits:

Beach areas are mined manually from Perivilai, Koottumangalam, Vettumadai beach

stretches. The top layer of beach washings deposited along the beaches as a result of

wave and tidal currents is scrapped up to a depth of 0.2 to 0.3m and collected manually

by deploying local village societies and the heaped raw mineral sand is transported to

Beach Washing Plant (BWP) utilizing 1.5m3 front end loaders and 10/15 MT tipper

combination.



Mine temporary roads within ML area are made with Beach Washing Plant (BWP)

screen-overs and coconut leaves. Frequent sprinkling over the roads is carried out for

suppressing dust and consolidation.

ii). Non Replinishable Inland Deposits

In these deposits, two types of mining are adopted.


b) Wet Mining – Dredging (using submersible agitating sand pump)

Dry Mining

Tipper-Excavator combination: The inland lean grade mineral sand area is mined in two

slices. IREL obtains consent from the private patta land owners prior to commencing the

mining operations in inland areas. Soon after disbursement of compensation to the

private land owners and obtaining consents/surface rights, the vegetation and coconut

plantation available over the deposit is cut and removed for land preparation. As there is

no top-soil available and the inland deposits are devoid of any overburden, straight way

the sand is excavated and transported from these areas to Beach Washing Plant (BWP).

The first slice of extraction is made upto 2 to 2.5 metres from surface i.e. nearly upto

water table with the help of excavator and tipper combination. The deposit available

below water table is extracted through dredging.

Wet Mining

Dredging: Once the first slice extraction is completed, dredging is done through a cutter

suction pump (Submersible agitating pump – dredge pump) connected to an electric hoist

and mounted over a pontoon structure floating in an artificial dredge pond. The agitator

available at the tip of dredge pump cuts the sand, forms slurry and pumps to the dredge

pond bank. A dredging depth of 3 to 5m is maintained depending upon the geology and

mineralogy of the area. The artificial pond made for dredge operation moves ahead with

simultaneous backfilling with BWP tailings in the dredged out areas. The slurry sent by

the dredge is dewatered using hydro-cyclone e immediately on the bank of dredge pond

and the hydro-cyclone over flow water is recycled back to the dredge pond. In this

method, there is no loss of water as there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond.

The dewatered sand is transported by 10/15 tonne capacity tippers to Beach Washing

Plant. This method of mining is environmental friendly and do not disturb the ground

water table. Using the said method of mining in the inland deposits, maximum recovery of

the minerals is achieved and there is no impact over the ground water table.



The mined out inland areas are backfilled with tailings of Beach Washing Plant mostly

consisting of quartz in its native state and surface topography is restored. Restored

mined out areas are followed by plantation with Casurina, Coconut samplings bringing

greenery to the areas.

During Initial phases of mining operations, the dredging was carried out at Valliyar area

inland deposits to mine the reserves spread over an area of 25Ha. The dredging

operations in this area continued till all the mineable deposits were exhausted on March

1995. The Dredge unit was therefore shifted to Koottumangalam area. Dredging

continued in Koottumangalam area till 2001 and thereafter stopped temporarily. Presently

manual collection of beach washings and transportation through tippers is carried out to

meet the raw material requirement. Dredging of inland deposits in Pillayarcoil area is

initiated during September - 2012. The proposed production for five years is given in

Table 2.3 and the beach sand mining method is shown in flow diagram in Figure 2.4.

Mining Method of Beach Sand Minerals – inland areas

Table 2.3: Year wise production for the first five years (Quantity in Tonnes)


1 Inland Deposits. 1,00,000 2,00,000 2,00,000

to

3,00,000

5,00,000

to

7,00,000

5,00,000

to

8,00,000

2 Beach Washings 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000


Backfilled area

Virgin inland area Artificial pond

Mineral Bearing land Cutter Suction pump

Hydrocyclone

Slurry line

Overflow water line to pond



Figure 2.4: Flow Sheet of Mining Method of Beach Sand Minerals

Source: IREL

.

2.7 Mineral Beneficiation

Beach Washing Plant / Heavies Upgradation Plant

In the present scenario, the dry raw sand containing around 10-13% heavy minerals

mined in the beaches is transported in tippers to plant area and is directly fed to beach

washing plant (BWP) along with other raw sand mined from other mining lease areas.

About 26 TPH of 90%HM grade intermediate output obtained from BWP is fed to Heavies

upgradation plant (HUP). In HUP, 90% HM grade is upgraded to 97% HM using series of

spiral gravity separators and floatex density separator. The flow sheet for Beach washing

plant (BWP) / Heavies Upgradation Plant (HUP) is shown in Figure 2.5 and the

capacities of various wet plants are given in Table 2.4.

141.2269 Ha Mine

Manual collection through village society members from Sea beach area (coastal length ~4.0 km)

Transportation by loaders and tippers to Beach Washing Plant

Replenishable area

Non-replanishable area Inland Deposit: Mining carried out Deploying excavator & tipper combination upto water table (about 2

– 2.5m from surface) – DRY MINING

Transportation by tippers to Beach Washing Plant

Deposit available below water table is extracted by Dredging. Dredging is carried out with submersible suction cutter pump upto a depth of 3 – 5m from water table. –

WET MINING

Backfilling the mined out areas with tailings mostly consisting of Quartz followed by plantation activities.

Slurry is dewatered on the dredge pond bank using Hydro-cyclone and overflow water is sent back to dredge pond. (No net drawl of water). The dewatered sand is allowed for sun-drying.

Transportation by tippers to Beach Washing Plant

Non - Replenishable area



Table 2.4: Capacities of BWP/HUP

Plant Feed TPH x grade Output TPH x grade Recovery

BWP 200 x 13%(HM) 26 x 90% 90%

HUP 26 x 90%(HM) 23 x 97% 95%

Source: IREL

The HUP output (97%HM grade) is passed through 22 TPH Fluidized Bed Drier (FBD) for

drying and complete removal of moisture prior to feeding in Mineral Separation plant.

Figure 2.5: Flow Sheet of Beach Washing Plant/Heavies Upgradation Plant

Source: IREL

Mineral Separation Plant

The individual minerals are separated at mineral separation plant depending upon their

physical properties like electrical conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, specific gravity,

particle size etc. The major constituents are Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Sillimanite

and Garnet. About 420 MT of 97% HUP output is fed to the mineral separation plant per

day and about 285 MT of minerals are produced as final products. The 135 MT of

unrecovered material consists of Monazite-Garnet rich and Sillimanite rich fractions which

are stock piled for future recovery and use. The recovery of individual minerals in the

mineral separation plant is affected by large variation in the grain size of minerals mined

from different areas. The spillage material in the MSP is transported to the BWP from

time to time for reprocessing and recovery of valuable minerals. The tailings from the



separation plant contains bulk of the gangue minerals like quartz and the un-recovered

minerals. The recycled water from the plant contain slime as impurity and there will not be

any chemical contaminants as no chemical is used in the process. The grade of feed to

the Mineral Separation Plant and that of end products are given in Table 2.5. The

process flow sheet of the MSP is given in Figure 2.6.

Figure 2.6: Flow Sheet of Mineral Separation Plant (MSP)

Source: IREL

Wet Gravity Separation

(BWP/HUP)

Dryer (MSP)

Tailings dumped in

the mined out areas

Medium Intensity

Magnetic Separation

High Tension Electrostatic

separation

High Intensity

Magnetic Separation

RED OPERN HT OPERN

Ilmenite

12.5 TPH

Rutile

0.4 TPH

Low Intensity Magnetic

Separation Air Table Operation

Wet Gravity

Separation

Sillimanite rich fraction 3.1 TPH

(Stocked for future use)

HT OPERN

HT OPERN

Monazite Earth trenches 1.9 TPH

(Monazite rich)

Garnet

1.7 TPH

Unrecovered Fraction 1.4 TPH

(Stocked in protected areas for future use and recovery)

Zircon

1.0 TPH

Cond Mag

Mag

Non-Mag

Non-Mag

NC

14.5

TPH

Cond

7.5 TPH

NC

1.6 TPH Mag Non-Mag

Conc Tails

Conc

Tails

NC Cond

Cond NC

178 TPH

200 TPH

22 TPH

22 TPH

MINERAL SEPARATION PLANT

ROM from Mines (About 10-13% Heavies)



Table 2.5: Grade of Feed and End Products of MSP

S. No Minerals Feed Grade to MSP End products Purity

1 Ilmenite 54.00% -96.00% plus

2 Rutile 2.00% -89.00% plus

3 Garnet 14.00% -97.00% plus

4 Monazite 5.00%

5 Zircon 5.00% -97.00% plus

6 Silliminate 17.00%

7 Quartz 3.00%

Source: IREL

2.8 Water Requirement

There is no external water requirement for mining operations over 141.2269 hects ML

area. There is no waste water/effluent generation during mining operations. For domestic

purposes, the drinking water is drawn from the wells. For industrial use i.e. mineral

beneficiation purposes for BWP and MSP operations, water is drawn from Valliyar River,

which is situated at a distance of about 1.0 km from the mineral separation plant.

Industrial water requirement is about 11,829 cum/day for BWP, HUP and Mineral

Separation Plant, of which, 8265 cum/day is recycled & reused and 3564 cum/day is lost

in seepages and the make up water is pumped from Valliyar river. IREL, Manavalakurichi

has been permitted to draw 4.5 Million Litres per day (4500 KLD) water from Valliyar

River for industrial purpose vide Tamilnadu Public Works Department vide GO 2(D) no:

49, dated: 23.7.2010 ( Valid upto 30.11.2014). Domestic water requirement for the

Administrative Office and utilities is about 25cum/day. The water balance diagram of

BWP & MSP is shown in the Figure 2.7.



Total Pumping from Pond = 11829 cum/day

Seepage Loss = 3564 cum/day

Recycling Water = 8265 cum/day

Make water required = 3564 cum/day

Figure 2.7: Water Balance Diagram for the MSP/

HUP (Source: IREL)

2.9 Proposed Rate of Production and the Expected Life of the Mine

The production details for the past are given in Annexure I & I-A. The proposed maximum

rate of production (ROM) from 141.2269 hects ML area would be 1.0 million tonnes /

annum of mineral sand. The life of the replenishable deposits can not be predicted as

they re-occur regularly with littoral actions. However, considering the availability of raw

sand in the inland areas of 141.2269 Ha ML area, the anticipated life of present inland

reserves will be around 20 years.

2.10 Land use pattern of Mine Lease Area

The mine lease is spread in 141.2269 Ha area in three villages namely Manavalakurichi,

Laxmipuram and Colachel, of which, 9.5 Ha is Govt. Land, 71.48 Ha is owned by IREL

and 60.25 Ha is other (Patta land). There is no forest land in the mine lease area. The

existing mine lease area includes beach Poromboke, village built up area, mined out

Legend

Valliyar river water

Make up water

Process water

Recycling water

Seepage water

All figures in Cum/day

Pumping from Valliyar River

Settling Pond - 3 Settling Pond - 1 Settling Pond - 2

BWP and HUP Zircon Wet Ckt Monazite Ckt

8265

960

3564 60 480 590

2434

7300 5

428 57 7429 3855 60

3564

Conc Tails



area, Plant area, Guest house and roads and undisturbed land (Coconut thompu) along

with other village lands. The break-up of the mine lease area is given in Table 2.6.

Table 2.6: Existing land use of the mine lease area (Area in Ha)

S. No Classification Govt.

Land

Patta Land Total % of

Total Own land Others

1 Beach Poromboke 9.5000 0.0000 0.0000 9.5000 6.73

2 Village Built-up area 0.0000 0.0000 19.8100 19.8100 14.03

3 Plant area 0.0000 12.3050 0.0000 12.3050 8.71

4 Guest house and roads 0.0000 3.4050 0.0000 3.4050 2.41

5 Mined out area 0.0000 47.5150 0.0000 47.5150 33.64

6 Undisturbed area (Coconut Thompu & other village-lands)

0.0000 8.2545 40.4374

48.6919 34.48

7 Forest Land 0 0 0 0 0

8 Wet Land 0 0 0 0 0

9 Eco- Sensitive Areas 0 0 0 0 0

10 Grazing Lands 0 0 0 0 0

11 Mangrooves 0 0 0 0 0

Total 9.5000 71.4795 60.2474 141.2269 100.00

Source: IREL

The survey number details of ML area 141.2269 hects and the survey number wise land

classification declared by Govt. of Tamilnadu on 1.4.2012 are enclosed with EIA

document.

2.11 Extent of Mechanization

Dredge (Submersible Agitating Sand Pump)

The Dredge is used for mining of inland raw sand reserves. The system consists of

electrically operated cutter section pump connected to an electrical hoist for lifting and

lowering. The dredge pump i.e. submersible agitating sand pump is mounted over floating

pontoon structure and anchored on the pond bank.

Loading and Hauling

The loading of mineral from the inland mine pits is done by Front end loader / Backhoe

and the material is loaded in tippers. Minerals from beach area is scrapped manually and

collected in heaps. The mineral is loaded by front end loaders into tippers. The details of



the Loading equipment are given in Table 2.7 and those of hauling equipments are given

in Table 2.8.

Table 2.7: Loading Equipment:

Equipment Capacity Size/HP No.

Front End Loader (Departmental) 1.53 cu.m 112 BHP 4

Backhoe loader (Departmental) 0.30 cu.m 94.6 HP 1

Backhoe (Contractor) 0.9 cu.m. - 3

Front end loader (Contractor) 1.53 cu.m - 2

Source: IREL

Table 2.8: Transportation Equipments

Equipment Capacity Size/HP No

Tippers (Contractor

based )

12 Tonne to 16 Tonne 12

Source: Approved Mine Plan

Apart from the above, the many other equipments are being used in the mine and mineral

separation plant as per the requirement. The list of other equipments being used in the

mine and the mineral separation plant is given in Table 2.9.

Table 2.9: Other Equipments

S. No. Equipment Nos.

1 Submersible Sand agitating pump (dredging unit ) with floating

pontoon ( 37KW/50HP)

1

2 High Tension Roll Separator 25

3 Trommel Screen ( 3mm mesh size) 1

4 Electric Static Plate Separator 12

5 Surge Bin 2

6 Cross belt magnetic separator 14

7 Dewatering Hydrocyclone 5

8 Exolon –Magnetic Separator 5

9 Spiral Concentrators ( no of starts) 260

10 Induced Roll Magnetic Separator 3

11 Bins 24

12 Lift type magnetic separator 6

13 Slurry Pumps 33



S. No. Equipment Nos.

14 Air tables 17

15 Water Pumps 10

16 Wet tables 4

17 HDPE / Rubber hose pipe 600

18 Conveyors 196

19 Tractor 1

20 Elevators 116

21 Water sprinkler 1

22 Rare Earth drum Magnetic Separators 3

23 Mini truck 1

24 Floatex Density separators 2

25 Fludized bed drier 3

26 BWP feeding bunkers 3

27 Rotary drier 1

28 Shaft drier 9

29 Fork-lifts 5

30 Vibratory Screens 17

31 6 te capacity Crane - tyre mounted 1

32 DG Sets( 1000KVA, 500kVA, 200kVA, 60 kVA) Each 1

33 Transformers 3

Source: IREL

2.12 Stacking of Mineral Rejects and Disposal of Waste

2.12.1 Nature of Waste

The Mineralization occurs right from the surface of the deposit. There is no waste material

generated in the mining area as there is no overburden or top soil available in the deposit.

There is no solid waste generation during mining operations over 141.2269 hects. The

raw mineral sand collected from the beach areas and inland areas contain about 85 to 90

% of quartz and slimes. No chemicals are added for separation of heavies from the

gangue i.e. quartz. The separation activities at beach washing plant are completely

gravity mechanism oriented. About 139 lakh tonnes of tailings will be generated from 159

lakh tons of ROM from 141.2269 hects mine in 20 years. The tailings generated from the

beach washing plant are used for backfilling purposes in the inland mined out areas to

restore the surface topographic profile .



2.12.2 Disposal of Waste

There is no overburden waste generated in the mine lease area. The raw sand mined

from the beaches as well as inland areas is transported to beach washing plant for further

cleaning activities. Hence there is no waste which requires disposal of dumping

separately in the mining areas. Out of the 139 lakh tonnes of tailings generated from the

beach washings plant in the mine life of 20 years, about 59 lakh tonnes will be backfilled

in the inland mined out areas and near original topography will be restored. About 4 lakh

tonnes of tailings will be utilized for welfare of the local area (with permission from district

administration). About 6 lakh tonnes of tailings will be spread over entire Pillarcoil inland

minedout areas. Rest 70 lakh tonnes of tailings will be filled in a scientific manner over

the demarcated 44 Ha backfilled areas in the mining lease area.

2.12.3 Selection of Dumping Site

The mineral deposit is devoid of over burden and hence there is spoil. No separate

dumping site is required for accumulating the wastes. The dredged out areas will be

backfilled with tailings simultaneously in order to maintain the original contours.

2.12.4 Maximum height and spread of dumps

The backfilled areas maintained to a height of about 4 m above MSL and the topography

is restored. However, the inland mined out areas near to the sea shore area are backfilled

with BWP tailings to a height more than original topographic elevation ( upto 8 to10 m

from ground level- Bund) as a welfare measure to protect the local inhabitants from high

tides, tsunami, high winds etc.

2.13 Use of Mineral

Ilmenite – TiO2, FeO, FeO3 (98% grade, 54% TiO2)

Ilmenite is magnetic and conducting with a specific gravity of 4.54. It is mainly used in the

manufacture of titanium dioxide, a white pigment by the sulphuric acid digestion process

and recently by the chloride process (chlorination followed by oxidation). Because of

whiteness and light scattering ability, titanium dioxide stands alone as a white pigment for

paint, paper, rubber etc. It is also used for the production of synthetic rutile (beneficiated

Ilmenite) and further production of ferro titanium alloys.



Rutile – TiO2 (94% TiO2)

Rutile is non magnetic but is conducting with a specific gravity of 4.25. It is used for

coating of welding electrode to stabilize the electric arc. Titanium dioxide reduces the

viscosity of the metal droplets on the electrodes by yielding very small droplets that gives

satisfactory welds. It is also used for the titanium dioxide pigment by the chloride process

and for the production of titanium metal/sponge.

Zircon – ZrO2, SiO2 (Ceramic grade 97%, 65% ZrO2)

It is a non-magnetic non-conducting mineral with a specific gravity of 4.65. Zircon is

mainly used for the production of zirconium metal, ferro alloys and for refractory purpose.

It is also used in ceramics, paints and chemicals. Zircon sand is usually preferred to silica

sand because of its uniform grain size, higher melting point, low thermal expansion etc.

Zircon and its compounds are essentially used as pacifier in ceramic enamels and lazers

because of their high reflectance and stability. Zirconium oxide is considered as a

potential ceramic material for high temperature application engine components. Zirconium

metal is chiefly used in the production of Ferro-silicon and other alloys. Stabilized Zirconia

is used in structural applications. It is used in rockets, jets and commercial nuclear

energy plants. Zirconium alloy is used nuclear reactor as a cladding material for the fuel.

Hafnium which always found in association and closely reassembling zirconium because

of its high capture cross section for neutrons is used in the control devises of nuclear

reactors.

Monazite (98% grade ThO2-9%, REO-58%, U3O8-0.35%, P2O5-29%)

It is a greenish yellow mineral with a specific gravity of 5.25. Monazite is a phosphate of

Thorium (8 to 10%) and other rare earths. It is feebly magnetic but is non conducting.

Rare earths are used in glass polishing, arc carbons, cracking catalyst flints for lighter

and modularizing agents for iron. Rare earths polishers are used in optical lenses,

television tubes, mirror’s face plate, other glass products and also as cracking catalyst in

petroleum industry. Alloys of misch metal and iron are used in the manufacture of lighter

flints, tracer bullets and luminescent projectiles. Misch metal is also used to make nodular

iron. The more recent use of misch metal containing samarium is in the preparation of

permanent magnets. Uranium also present in monazite in small percentages. Trisodium

phosphate which is a byproduct obtained in monazite processing is used as a detergent

in textiles and industrial water softening.



Garnet (97 % purity)

It is a magnetic but non conducting in nature. Specific gravity is 4.11. Garnet is mainly

iron-aluminum silicate and a common form is almandine Fe3Al2 (SiO2)3. Garnet is used in

the manufacture of abrasive for polishing glass/TV tubes, wood, anti skid tiles , sand

blasting , Water jet cutting and for water filtration.

Sillimanite

Sillimanite is a silicate of aluminium and it is non-mag & non conducting in nature.

Specific gravity is 3.2. It is used as raw materials in foundry, ceramics and in the

manufacture of high grade refractory and porcelain goods. Sillimanite refractory bricks are

extensively used in glass making furnaces.

2.14 Site Services

The mineral separation plant is operating within the mining lease area of 141.2269 Ha.

The mineral separation plant is provided with all facilities like drinking water, canteen, rest

shelter, latrines and urinals, bathrooms, first aid centre, dispensary, vocational training

centre, workshops for electrical, mechanical and civil services etc. Food at the canteen is

supplied at subsidized rate. Medical facilities are available round the clock and the

dispensary is equipped with an ambulance. Drinking water is supplied from the wells

within the lease hold area and the potability of the water is checked periodically. Electric

power supply is provided from the Tamilnadu Electricity Board and the same is

supplemented with captive power generation by generators.

Drinking water supply and temporary rest sheds are also provided near the beach areas

for the persons employed for manual beach washing collections.

2.15 Employment Potential

The Mineral separation plant has been in operation since 1965 whereas the mining

operations over 141.2269 Ha ML area have been continuing since 1984. The direct

employment of IREL, Manavalakurichi is 373 (73 management & supervisory staff and

300 workmen). Other than the above said employees, about 800 contract workers i.e. the

local fisherman village society members of Periavilai and Puthoor villages are working in

the mines for the collection of beach washings and about 77 transport contract persons

for transportation activities in the mines.



CHAPTER 3

DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Introduction

M/s Indian Rare Earths Limited is already operating a beach sand mineral mine and

mineral separation plant 141.2269 Ha area in Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram and Colachel

villages. In order to prepare an environmental impact assessment report for the project, it

is important to know the baseline environmental status in the study area. This section

provides the background information about the study area with an overall description of

environmental baseline of the area where the project is located. The mine lease area is

considered as the ‘core zone’ and area outside the mine lease area within 10 km radius

from the ML area is considered as the ‘buffer zone’ for the baseline environmental

monitoring. The Core zone and Buffer zone together forms the study area of the project.

Baseline data was collected during the Pre-Monsoon season of 2011(March, April & May)

for various environmental attributes. Salient features of the baseline environmental

studies are given in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1: Salient Features of Baseline Environmental Studies

Study Parameter Objective

Micrometeorological Studies

Wind speed, wind direction, temperature, Relative humidity, rainfall, etc.

To assess air pollution impacts on neighboring environment

Air Quality Assessment Studies

Particulate Matter (PM10) Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) Carbon Monoxide (CO)

To assess baseline air quality status of the area

Noise Quality Studies Noise Levels To identify noise producing areas

Water Quality & Soil Quality Studies

Physical, Chemical, and Heavy Metals & Land Use Studies

To identify baseline water quality, Soil quality for future reference and land use pattern in the area

Socio-economic & Demographic studies

Socio-economic To know the socio-economic status of the study area.

Ecology Flora and fauna To know the existing biological status of the area

ToR meeting held on February 23-25, 2011 for 141.2269 Hects ML area and the Hon’ble

Expert Appraisal Committee suggested to carry out the baseline environmental studies



immediately without further delay. Hence the baseline studies were started w.e.f. 1st

March 2011 to 31st May 2011.

3.2 Micro – Meteorology

On site monitoring was undertaken for various meteorological variables in order to

generate site-specific data. The data generated is computed to obtain wind roses of the

area. Wind speed, Wind direction, Temperature and Relative Humidity were recorded in

the Meteorological station and parameters like cloud cover were recorded by visual

observations and rainfall by rain gauge.

Hourly average, maximum and minimum values of wind speed, direction, relative humidity

and temperature were recorded continuously for 24-Hrs duration. The summary of the

monitored micro-meteorological data is given in Table 3.2. The plotted wind rose diagram

representing 16 directions is depicted in Figure 3.1.

Table 3.2: Summary of Micro meteorological Data Monitored at site

S.no Parameters Observed Value

1 Maximum temperature (°C) 34.8

2 Minimum temperature (°C) 20

3 Maximum Relative Humidity (%) 64

4 Minimum Relative Humidity (%) 40

5 Predominant wind direction during study period North West (NW)

Figure - 3.1 Wind Rose Diagram in study period (Pre-monsoon 2011)



3.3 Ambient Air Quality

Assessment of prevailing Ambient Air Quality Status in the vicinity of the project site is an

indispensable part of environmental impact assessment studies. Since the mine and

mineral separation plant is already in operation and there is no proposal for increase in

the production capacity of the mine and mineral separation plant, the emissions from the

mine and mineral separation plant are reflected on the existing baseline ambient air

quality.

The scenario of the existing Ambient Air Quality in the study area has been assessed

through a network of 10 Ambient Air Quality locations. The design of monitoring network

in the air quality surveillance program was based on the following considerations.

Topography / Terrain of the study area

Human Settlements

Wind pattern

Health status

Representation of Regional Background levels

Accessibility of monitoring site

Resource Availability

Pre-calibrated R.D. Samplers have been used for monitoring the existing AAQ status.

Maximum, Minimum, Average and Percentile values have been computed from the raw

data collected at all individual sampling stations to represent the Ambient Air Quality

Status.

The Ambient Air Quality studies were carried out during Pre-monsoon (summer) 2011.

The significant parameters viz., Respirable Particulate Matter (PM10), Sulphur dioxide

(SO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) were monitored in the core

and buffer zones.

The ambient air quality monitoring locations are shown in the Figure 3.2 and given in the

Table 3.3. The air quality contours are shown in Figures 3.2a, 3.2b, 3.2c and 3.2d. The

air quality results are summarised in Table 3.4 and the detailed results are given in

Annexure IV.



Table 3.3 : Ambient Air Quality Locations

Code Name Of Sampling Station Distance w.r.t to mines Direction

A-1 Mine lease area -- --

A-2 Mineral Separation Plant (MSP) within ML --

A-3 Kovitamvilai 0.9 N

A-4 Kuttumangalam 0.6 NE

A-5 Naduvukura 1.1 NNW

A-6 Colachel 1.0 NW

A-7 Muttemtura 2.3 SE

A-8 Mandakad 0.6 NW

A-9 Manavalakurichi 0.6 E

A-10 Kadiapattinam 0.3 SE

Table 3.4 : Summary of Ambient Air Quality (Maximum Values)

Units: µg/m3

S. No. Location PM10 SO2 NOx CO

1 Mine lease area 53.8 13.1 17.2 0.80


3 Kovitamvilai 46.2 12.0 13.8 0.72

4 Kuttumangalam 46.2 13.3 15.0 0.73

5 Naduvukura 49.1 12.1 13.9 0.74

6 Colachel 48.4 12.3 13.2 0.76

7 Muttemtura 47.1 13.3 15.2 0.66

8 Mandakad 44.8 11.3 13.1 0.72


10 Kadiapattinam 43.2 12.3 14.0 0.78

Note: The mineralogical composition of PM10 for free silica was observed to be less than

0.01% at all monitoring locations.

3.4 Noise Environment

Reconnaissance Survey and Identification of Sampling Locations

A preliminary reconnaissance survey was carried out to identify the major noise

generating sources in the area. The noise at different noise generating sources based on

the mining activities, commercial activities, traffic, noise at sensitive areas have been

identified. The noise monitoring was conducted at all the identified locations in the study

area during the study period Summer 2011.

Measured noise levels, displayed as a function of time, is useful for describing the

acoustical climate of the community. Noise levels recorded at each station with a time

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interval of about 60 minutes are computed for equivalent noise levels. . The equivalent

noise level is defined mathematically as

Leq = 10 Log L / T∑ (10Ln/10)

Where L = Sound pressure level at function of time dB (A)

T = Time interval of observation

Noise levels during the night time generally drop, therefore to compute Equivalent noise

levels for the night time, noise levels are increased by 10 dB (A) as the night time high

noise levels are judged more annoying compared to the day time.

The noise level monitoring locations in the study area are shown in the Figure 3.3 and

are given in Table 3.5. The noise levels recorded are summarised in Table 3.6 and the

noise level readings are given in Annexure V.

Table 3.5: Details of Noise Monitoring Locations

Code Name Of Sampling Station Distance w.r.t to mines Direction

N-1 Mine lease area Within ML --

N-2 Mineral Separation Plant (MSP) within ML --

N-3 Kovitamvilai 0.9 N

N-4 Kuttumangalam 0.6 NE

N-5 Naduvukura 1.1 NNW

N-6 Colachel 1.0 NW

N-7 Muttemtura 2.3 SE

N-8 Mandakad 0.6 NW

N-9 Manavalakurichi 0.6 E

N-10 Kadiapattinam 0.3 SE



Table 3.6 : Noise Levels During Study Period [units: dB (A)]

Code Sampling Station Ambient Noise Levels

Min Max Ld Ln

N-1 Mine lease area 42.8 57.2 53.5 43.2

N-2 Mineral Separation Plant (MSP) 43.9 57.8 54.4 45.6

N-3 Kovitamvilai 40.1 53.9 50.4 40.5

N-4 Kuttumangalam 40.6 54.0 50.9 41.2

N-5 Naduvukura 41.1 54.9 51.6 41.5

N-6 Colachel 40.3 55.3 51.2 42.6

N-7 Muttemtura 40.5 55.2 51.6 41.5

N-8 Mandakad 41.3 56.6 52.1 43.6

N-9 Manavalakurichi 40.7 55.1 51.3 41.2

N-10 Kadiapattinam 41.8 56.1 52.4 43.4

From the above table it can be seen that the ambient noise levels at all the locations are

within permissible limits as per ambient air quality standards.

3.5 Water Environment

Assessment of baseline data on water quality includes

Identification of surface water resources

Estimation of groundwater resources

Assessment of surface and ground water quality

3.5.1 Water Regime

The elevation of the area varies from sea level to about 12.0 m (max) above MSL. The

area is drained by Valliyar River which flows along the eastern boundary of the mine

lease area and its course is north to south. It confluences with the sea near south eastern

corner of mining lease area. Arabian Sea forms the southern boundary of the mine lease.

There are no other perennial surface water sources in the mine lease area.

There are a number of rivers and streams in the study area all flowing towards south and

meeting the Arabian Sea. Apart from the rivers, there are also a number of ponds and

streams in the study area of 141.2269 hects ML area.

The ground water occurs in lenticular sand bodies under perched water table conditions.

From the well inventory conducted in the area, it shows that the total depth of the well

vary from 5 to 8m below ground level and the static water ranges from 4 to 6 m below

ground level. The sand and sandy clay extends to the full depth of the wells. No well has

penetrated the entire thickness of top alluvial sand. The recuperation rate ranges from 8



to 12 hours. The water level comes to ground level during normal rainfall years. The

water level starts depleting from January to June every year.

Geophysical resistivity survey reveals that the thickness of fresh water aquifer ranges

from 8 to 16 meters below ground level followed by the formation with poor quality water

and fresh rock. The depth to bed rock ranges from 15 to 20m below the ground level.

Detailed hydro-geological studies of the mine lease area as well as buffer area has been

conducted and enclosed as Annexure-IX.

To assess the surface and ground water quality in the study area, 11 ground water

samples and 6 surface water samples were collected during the study period. The

surface and ground water sampling locations are shown in the Figure 3.4. The ground

water sampling locations are given in the Table 3.7 and the surface water sampling

locations are given in Table 3.8. The ground water analysis results are given in Table 3.9

and the surface water analysis results are given in Table 3.10.

Table 3.7: Ground water quality locations

S. No Code Location Name Distance from M.L. Direction

1 GW1 Palapalam 5.5 NW

2 GW2 Neyyur 5.5 NNE

3 GW3 Alankottai 5.4 E

4 GW4 Tirunayanarkurichi 3.4 ENE

5 GW5 Mandaikadu 0.5 NW

6 GW6 Kurundancode 6.1 ENE

7 GW7 IREL Plant Site (MSP) Within ML --

8 GW8 Arsanvelai (peyodu) 6.3 ENE

9 GW9 Chinnavelai Within ML --

10 GW10 Colachel 0.8 NW

11 GW11 Midalem 6.8 NW



Table 3.8: Surface water quality locations

S. No Code Location Name Distance from ML Direction

1 SW1 Middalem 6.8 NW

2 SW2 Colachel 0.8 NW

3 SW3 Vellamadi 2.8 E

4 SW4 Valliyar river (Manavalakurichi) 0.5 E

5 SW5 Neyur (water pond) 5.3 NNE

6 SW6 Sea Water (Near Puthoor village) adjacent --

Table 3.9(a) : Ground Water Quality Data

Parameters GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5

I. Essential Characteristics

1. Colour (Hazen Units) <5 <5 <5 <5 <5

2. Odour UO UO UO UO UO

3. Taste A A A A A

4. Turbidity, NTU <1 <1 <1 <1 <1

5. pH 7.10 7.66 6.70 6.54 6.57

6. Total Hardness as CaCO3, mg/l 135 260 85 35 80

7. Iron as Fe, mg/l 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08

8. Chlorides as Cl, mg/l 258 83 75 23 70

9. Residual free, Chlorine, mg/l Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

II. Desirable Characteristics

1. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 715 390 240 70 244

2. Calcium as Ca, mg/l 36 76 16 8 20

3. Magnesium as Mg, mg/l 11 17 11 3.6 7.3

4. Copper as Cu, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

5. Manganese as Mn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

6. Sulphate as SO4, mg/l 114 1.08 6 1 25

7. Nitrate as NO3, mg/l 9 1 35 1 36

8. Fluoride as F, mg/l 0.70 0.60 0.50 0.40 0.50

9. Phenolic Compounds as

C6H5OH, mg/l

<0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

10. Mercury as Hg, mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

11. Cadmium as Cd, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

12. Selenium as Se, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

13. Arsenic as As, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

14. Cyanide as CN, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15. Lead as Pb , mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

16. Zinc as Zn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

17. Anionic detergents as MBAS,

mg/l

<0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02

18. Chromium as Cr6+, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

19. Mineral Oil, mg/l Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent



Parameters GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5

20. Alkalinity CaCO3, mg/l 60 180 50 20 40

21. Aluminium as Al, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

22. Boron as B, mg/l 0.11 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

23. Coliform count, MPN/100ml Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

UO: Unobjectionable

A: Acceptable

Table 3.9(b): Ground Water Quality Data (cont…)

Parameters GW6 GW7 GW8 GW9 GW10 GW11


1. Colour (Hazen Units) <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5

2. Odour UO UO UO UO UO UO

3. Taste A A A A A A

4. Turbidity, NTU <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1

5. pH 7.23 7.43 6.74 7.29 7.22 6.39

6. Total Hardness as

CaCO3, mg/l

80 185 50 30 365 225

7. Iron as Fe, mg/l 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08

8. Chlorides as Cl, mg/l 88 63 38 35 245 508

9. Residual free, Chlorine,

mg/l

Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil


1. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 273 351 130 116 1170 1230

2. Calcium as Ca, mg/l 20 66 10 10 90 66

3. Magnesium as Mg, mg/l 7.3 4.9 6.1 1.2 34 15

4. Copper as Cu, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

5. Manganese as Mn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

6. Sulphate as SO4, mg/l 33 12 11 4 192 144

7. Nitrate as NO3, mg/l <1 2 10 4 100 14

8. Fluoride as F, mg/l 0.40 0.50 0.40 0.50 0.90 0.80


C6H5OH, mg/l

<0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

10. Mercury as Hg, mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

11. Cadmium as Cd, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

12. Selenium as Se, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

13. Arsenic as As, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

14. Cyanide as CN, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15. Lead as Pb , mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

16. Zinc as Zn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

17. Anionic detergents as

MBAS, mg/l

<0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02

18. Chromium as Cr6+, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01



Parameters GW6 GW7 GW8 GW9 GW10 GW11

19. Mineral Oil, mg/l Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent

20. Alkalinity CaCO3, mg/l 55 165 25 30 280 80

21. Aluminium as Al, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

22. Boron as B, mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.13 0.15

23. Coliform count,

MPN/100ml


UO: Unobjectionable

A: Acceptable,

Table 3.10 : Surface Water Quality

S. No. Parameters SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 SW5 SW6


1. Colour (Hazen Units) 5 5 5 5 5 5

2. Odour UO UO UO UO UO UO

3. Taste A A A A A NA

4. Turbidity, NTU 7 6 4 5 4 6

5. pH 7.36 7.49 6.79 7.05 6.98 7.94

6. Total Hardness as CaCO3,

mg/l

60 95 65 100 70 5670

7. Iron as Fe, mg/l 0.15 0.15 0.12 0.15 0.12 0.15

8. Chlorides as Cl, mg/l 45 53 20 65 26 16450

9. Residual free, Chlorine,

mg/l



1. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 156 195 127 250 130 30100

2. Calcium as Ca, mg/l 18 22 16 22 12 273

3. Magnesium as Mg, mg/l 3.7 9.7 6.1 11 9.7 1214

4. Copper as Cu, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

5. Manganese as Mn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

6. Sulphate as SO4, mg/l 11 25 7 30 12 2280

7. Nitrate as NO3, mg/l 4 6 1 3 1 2

8. Fluoride as F, mg/l 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.40 1.30


C6H5OH, mg/l

<0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

10. Mercury as Hg, mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

11. Cadmium as Cd, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01



12. Selenium as Se, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

13. Arsenic as As, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

14. Cyanide as CN, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15. Lead as Pb , mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

16. Zinc as Zn, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0.07

17. Anionic detergents as

MBAS, mg/l

<0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02

18. Chromium as Cr6+, mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

19. Mineral Oil, mg/l Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent

20. Alkalinity CaCO3, mg/l 40 40 60 65 50 250

21. Aluminium as Al, mg/l 0.02 0.02 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.02

22. Boron as B, mg/l <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.1 <0.1 3.8

23. Coliform count MPN/100ml 160 180 201 224 248 310

UO: Unobjectionable

A: Acceptable, NA: Not Acceptable

During the study period, the pH was varying for ground waters from 6.39 to 7.66

and in surface waters the pH observed is 6.79 to 7.94.

The Chloride levels in the ground water samples collected in the study area were

ranging from 23 mg/l to a maximum of 508 mg/l, where as in surface waters levels

are observed as 20-16450 mg/l.

The ground water samples collected from the study area, the hardness is varying

from 30 mg/l to 365 mg/l. In surface waters the hardness is observed 60 to 5670

mg/l.

The ground water samples of study area the fluoride value were in the range of

0.40 mg/l to 0.90 mg/l. where as in the surface waters the fluoride is observed 0.4

to 1.30 mg/l.



3.6 Soil Quality

The core zone being nearer to the coast, the soils are marine in origin and comprise

mainly sandy soils with very little clay and silt content.

Ten locations were selected for analyzing the soil quality status in the study area. The

details of soil samplings locations are given in Table 3.11. The soil samples were

collected from the Core and Buffer areas. All the samples have been analyzed for

physico-chemical parameters and results are given in Table 3.12. Soil sampling locations

are shown in Figure 3.5.

Table 3.11: Details of Soil Sampling Locations

Code Name of the Station Distance km Direction

S1 Palapalem 5.5 NW

S2 Neyur 5.3 NNE

S3 Alan kottai 5.2 ESE

S4 Tirunayanar kurichi 2.6 ENE

S5 Kurundankodu 6.0 ENE

S6 IREL plant site (ML area) Within ML --

S7 Arsan Velai (peyodu) 6.5 E

S8 Chinnavelai Within ML --

S9 Colachel 0.6 NW

S10 Middalem 6.8 NW

Table 3.12(a): Soil Quality

S. No Parameters Results

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

1. pH (1.2 Soil Water Extract) 7.09 6.01 7.76 5.84 5.89

2. E.C ( mhos) (1:2 Soil water

Extract) 430 150 140 630 180

3. Available Nitrogen, Kg/Hec 310 110 190 410 280

4. Available Phosphorous as P2O5,

Kg/Hec 54 28 27 98 42

5. Available Potassium as K2O, Kg/Hec 586 100 158 743 215

6. Exchangeable Sodium as Na, ppm 43 38 29 66 35

7. Exchangeable Calcium as Ca, ppm 960 920 840 720 80

8. Exchangeable Magnesium as Mg,

ppm 146 219 24 316 97

9. Water soluble Chloride as Cl, ppm 90 35 35 140 40

10. Organic Carbon,% 0.66 0.23 0.37 0.87 0.50

11. Texture SL SL SL SL SL

a) Sand, % 70 75 72 83 85



S. No Parameters Results

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

b) Silt, % 12 11 12 7 6

c) Clay, % 18 14 16 10 9

Table 3.12(b) : Soil Quality

S.no Parameters Results

S6 S7 S8 S9 S10

1. pH (1.2 Soil Water Extract) 8.64 7.48 8.61 7.75 8.01

2. E.C ( mhos) (1:2 Soil water Extract) 150 420 160 400 220

3. Available Nitrogen, Kg/Hec 40 480 110 520 60

4. Available Phosphorous as P2O5,

Kg/Hec 18 78 41 253 95

5. Available Potassium as K2O,

Kg/Hec 45 346 20 497 130

6. Exchangeable Sodium as Na, ppm 63 40 36 74 49

7. Exchangeable Calcium as Ca, ppm 80 160 80 1640 80

8. Exchangeable Magnesium as Mg,

ppm 49 49 24 170 97

9. Water soluble Chloride as Cl, ppm 35 95 35 85 45

10. Organic Carbon,% 0.10 0.97 0.20 1.00 0.12

11. Texture SL SL SL SL SL

a) Sand, % 93 73 95 82 85

b) Silt, % 3 12 2 7 7

c) Clay, % 4 15 3 11 9

Note:

SL – Sandy Loam

SC –Sandy Clay

SCL – Sandy Clay Loam

SiCL – Silt Clay Loam

SiL – Silt Loam

In the buffer zone soils are clayey, silty and sandy soils with varying compositions derived

from the fluvial actions of the surface drainage courses and blown from the winds.



Results

The pH values of the soil samples collected were in the range of 5.84 to 8.64

Sodium concentration was in the range of 29-74 mg/l

The nutrients like N, P and K are in moderate concentration in all the samples

3.7 Land use

3.7.1 Mine Lease Area

The mine lease is spread in 141.2269 Ha area. There is no forest land in the mine lease

area. The existing mine lease area includes beach Poromboke, village built up area,

mined out area, Plant area, Guest house and roads and undisturbed land (Coconut

thompu). The break-up of the mine lease area is given in Table 3.13.

Table 3.13: Existing land use of the mine lease area (Area in Ha)

S. No

Classification Sea Beach Poromboke (Govt.Land)

Patta Land Total % of Total Own

land Others

1 Beach Poromboke 9.5000 0.0000 0.0000 9.5000 6.73

2 Village Built-up area 0.0000 0.0000 19.8100 19.8100 14.03

3 Plant area 0.0000 12.3050 0.0000 12.3050 8.71

4 Guest house and

roads

0.0000 3.4050 0.0000 3.4050 2.41

5 Mined out area 0.0000 47.5150 0.0000 47.5150 33.64

6 Undisturbed area (Coconut Thompu & other village-lands)

0.0000 8.2545 40.4374

48.6919 34.48

Total 9.5000 71.4795 60.2474 141.2269 100.00

7 Active mining area 9.5000 3.0000 0.0000 12.5000

8 Backfilled area 0.0000 45.5150 0.0000 45.5150

9 Plantation over backfilled areas

0.0000 28.0000 0.0000 28.0000

Source: IREL

3.7.2 Study Area

The land use pattern of the 10 km radius study area for the project was studies by using

Satellite imagery. The satellite imagery for the 141.2269 hects is shown in Figure 3.6 and

the land use/ land cover map based on the satellite imagery is shown in Figure 3.7. The

land use pattern of the study area based on the satellite imagery is given in Table 3.14.



Table 3.14: Land use of the study area as per satellite imagery – IRS P6 LISS III

Feature Study Area

Area (Ha) Area (%)

Plantation 11118.78 24.58

Crop Land 7605.27 16.81

Land with/without scrub 600.48 01.33

Sand 251.82 0.56

Built up land 2760.48 06.10

Water body 22903.2 50.63

Total 45240.03 100.00

From the above data it is observed that the most of the part of the study area is covered

by water body Arabian Sea (50.63%) followed by the plantation (24.58%), crop land

(16.81%), built up land (6.10%), land with/without scrub (1.33%) and sand (0.56%).

3.8 Biological Environment

Study of the biological environment includes study of the terrestrial and aquatic flora and

fauna found in the study area. Primary studies have been carried out to identify the flora

and fauna generally observed in the core zone and study area of the project. Secondary

Information from villagers and from Govt. records, published reports etc. was also

collected to prepare the list of Flora and fauna of the study area.

3.8.1 Flora

There is no forest land in the mine lease area as well as in the 10 km radius study area of

the project. There is no agricultural land in the mine lease area. However, there are

coconut plantations in the private land falling in the mine lease area. The detailed list of

terrestrial and aquatic floral species observed in the mine lease area as well as in the

study area of the project is given in Annexure VI.

3.8.2 Fauna

There is no forest area in the mine lease area and in study area of the project. The study

area is densely habitated and hence the faunal species observed in the mine lease area

and in study area are common species. There are no schedule I fauna specie observed in

the mine lease area as well as in the study area of the project. The detailed list of

terrestrial and aquatic fauna observed in the mine lease area and in study area is given in

Annexure VI.



3.9 Demography and Socio-Economics

The sociological aspects of this study include human settlements, demography, and

social status such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and literacy levels besides

infrastructure facilities available in the study area. The economic aspects include

occupational structure of workers.

The Baseline Demographic and Socio economic characteristics with regards to

demography, literacy and occupational status have been described based on the Primary

Census Abstract, 2001. The relevant details of the Infrastructure Facilities have also been

gathered from the Primary Census Abstract, 2001.

3.9.1 Socio- Economic Aspects of the Villages Falling In study area

The project is located in Village Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram and Colachel in Kalkulam

Taluk which falls in Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu State.

3.9.2 Demography

As per 2001 census, the population of the study area consisted of 265539. The

demographic details are given in Annexure VII. The demographic, economic and

infrastructure status of these villages is summarised in Table 3.15.

Table 3.15: Socio-Economic details of study area

Description Numbers

Demography

Total Villages 20

Total no. of House Hold 59294

Total Population 265539

Total Male Population 131477

Total Female Population 134062

Total SC Population 11092

Total ST Population 184

Literacy Level

Total Literate Population 207081

Employment Pattern

Cultivators 2177

Agricultural Labour 10201

House Hold Workers 7593

Other Workers 65596

Total Main Workers 70843



Total Marginal Workers 14724

Total Non Workers 179972

Amenities Available

Infrastructure Facilities*

Water facilities*

Tap 9 River 2

Well 11 Canal 2

Tank 3 Lake 2

Tube Well 17 Spring 2

Hand Pump 14 Others 2

P & T Facilities

Post Office 20 Post & Telegraph Office 1

Telegraph Office 1 Telephone Connection 3050

Power Supply Available for all purpose in all villages

Medical Facilities*

Maternity & Child Welfare Center 3 Family Welfare Center 0

Public Health Center 2 Public Health Sub Center 21

Education Facilities

Primary School 62 College 0

Middle School 53

Secondary School 23

* Facilities available in no. of village

3.10 Places of Archaeological / Historical / Touristic / Religious Importance

There are no archaeological / historical / tourist importance in the study area of the

project. There are some temples and churches in the nearby villages where local people

perform worships. Govt. of Tamilnadu is gradually improving the Muttom beach area

which is about 3.5 Kms away from ML area (by road) towards South-East towards

tourism.

3.11 Disasters

The area falls in Seismic Zone III and the risk of damages due to earthquakes is low. No

disasters due to landslides, subsidence, fire, flood is anticipated.

Tsunami hit the southern part of India in 24th December 2004, in which this part was also

severely affected. However, the natural calamities like tsunamis are rare and beyond the

control of mankind. Some protection measures like construction of stone walls along the

sea shore near human habitations, sand bunds in the backfilled areas nearby habitations,

etc, have been applied to reduce the impact of such calamities. Disaster Management

Plan has already been chalked out and is given in Chapter 6.



CHAPTER 4

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

AND MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Introduction

The mining activities have both positive and negative effects on the surrounding

environment. The magnitude and significance of the environmental pollution caused by

mining depends on method of mining, scale and concentration of mining activity.

In this chapter, an attempt has been made to assess the possible environmental impacts

on various attributes such as air, water, land, noise, ecology and socio-economic factors

that would arise due to the mining activity. The following aspects have been studied to

identify the possible impacts due to Mining.

4.2 Impact on Air Environment

The beach sand mining and mineral separation plant are already in operation. The

proposal is only for renewal of the mining lease and there is no proposal for increase in

the mine lease area as well as production from mining and mineral separation plant.

The air borne particulate matter generated by mineral handling operations, transportation

and screening of mineral is the main air pollutants from the mine and MSP. The

emissions of Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOX) contributed by diesel

operated excavation/ loading equipment and vehicles plying on transportation roads are

marginal.

Air pollution sources in the operating mine are classified into three categories:

a. Point sources

b. Area sources

c. Line sources

Mineral Separation Plant stack emissions as point source.

Loading of mineral sand from mine, extraction of mineral sand by various modes

in mining area are considered as area sources

Transportation of mineral from mining area by tipper to BWP and transportation of

tailings from BWP to inland mined out areas is considered as line source.



Haulage roads in the mining area are covered with coconut leaves and wetted regularly to

reduce dust generation. The tippers are regularly maintained so that exhaust smoke does

not contribute abnormal values of noxious gases and un-burnt hydrocarbons.

To assess the impacts due to mining and mineral transportation on air environment,

predictions have been carried out using ISC – AERMOD view MODEL.

4.2.1 ISC - AERMOD VIEW

ISC – AERMOD View is a complete and powerful air dispersion modeling package which

seamlessly incorporates the popular USEPA Models, ISCST3, ISC-PRIME and AERMOD

into one interface without any modifications to the models. These models are used

extensively to assess pollution concentration and deposition from a wide variety of

sources.

The AERMOD Model

The AMS/EPA REGULATORY MODEL (AERMOD) was specially designed to support

the Environmental Regulatory Modeling Programs. AERMOD is a regulatory steady –

state modeling system with three separate components;

AERMOD (AERMIC Dispersion Model),

AERMAP (AERMOD Terrain Preprocessor),

AERMET (AERMOD) Meteorological Preprocessor).

The AERMOD Model includes a wide range of options for modeling air quality impacts of

pollution sources, making it popular choice among the modeling community for a variety

of applications. AERMOD contains basically the same options as the ISCST3 model:

AERMOD requires two types of meteorological data files, a file containing surface

scalar parameters and a file containing vertical profiles. These two files are provided

by AERMET Meteorological Preprocessor Program

PRIME building downwash algorithms based on the ISC – PRIME model have been

added to the AERMOD model

Use of allocatable arrays for data storage

Incorporation of EVENT processing for analyzing short-term source culpability

Explicit treatment of multiple – year meteorological data files and the Annual average

Options to specify emissions that vary by season, hour-of-day and day-of-week



Deposition algorithms have been implemented in the AERMOD model – results can

be output for concentration, total deposition flux, dry deposition flux, and / or wet

deposition flux

The model contains algorithms for modeling the effects of settling and removal of

large particulates and for modeling the effects of precipitation scavenging for gases or

particulates

AERMET

In order to conduct a refined air dispersion modeling project using the AERMOD short-

term air quality dispersion model, it is necessary to process the meteorological data

representative of the study area being modeled. The collected meteorological data is not

always in the format supported by the model, therefore the meteorological data needs to

be pre-processed using AERMET Program

The AERMET Program is a meteorological preprocessor which prepares hourly surface

data and upper air data for use in the AERMOD air quality dispersion model. AERMET is

designed to allow future enhancements to process other types of data and to compute

boundary layer parameters with different algorithms. AERMET processes meteorological

data in three stages and from this process two files are generated for use with the

AERMOD Model

A Surface File of hourly boundary layer parameters estimates

A Profile File of multiple-level observations of wind speed, wind direction, temperature

and standard deviation of the fluctuating wind components

A flow sheet depicting the AERMET Processing Stages is given below:

AERMET Processing Stages

Raw Hourly Surface

Observation

Extracted Surface Observations

QA’d Surface Observations

Merged Data 24-hr

Blocks

Surface File with HBL

Parameters

Upper Air Estimator

Raw On-site Data

Extracted Soundings

QA’d Soundings

QA’d On-site Data

Profile File



AERMAP – TERRAIN PROCESSOR

The Terrain Processor allows to import and process terrain elevation data of the project.

ISC-AERMOD View imports terrain elevation from various digital elevation maps to

Extract Terrain Elevation for Receptor and Sources

Generate the Terrain Grid

Generate visualization of the surrounding terrain in 2D and 3D

Application of AERMOD

ISC-AERMOD MODEL with the following options has been employed to predict the

cumulative ground level concentrations due to emissions from the proposed activity.

Area being rural, rural dispersion parameters are considered

Predictions have been carried out to estimate concentration values over radial

distance of 10 km around the project area

Uniform polar receptor network has been considered

Emission rates from the sources were considered as constant during the entire period

The ground level concentrations computed without any consideration of decay

coefficient

Calm winds recorded during the study period were also taken into consideration

24-Hourly mean ground level concentrations were estimated using the entire

meteorological data collected during the study period

Digital Elevation Map of the study area is used to represent the graphical output of the

GLC’s using the Terrain Processor

Emission Details

Excavation, Loading and transportation through tippers are the major sources, which are

of significance. Therefore, the emissions considered for modeling are from loading and

transportation of mineral sand and transportation of tailings to inland mined out areas.

The emissions are mainly due to loading and transportation of 0.07 MTPA of beach

mineral sand in the 7.06 Ha ML area, Excavation, loading and transportation of 1.0 MTPA

of mineral sand from 141.2269 Ha mine lease area and excavation. Loading and

transportation of 0.4 MTPA mineral sand from 44.6212 Ha mine lease areas ( 14.84 hects

and 29.7812 hects). Hence for the predictions of impacts, the emissions due to handling

of the mineral sand have been considered. The emissions are computed based on AP-42

emission factors. Operational hours, activity rate ambient wind speed and moisture

content have been considered for estimation of emissions from area sources. For line



source, apart from operational hours and activity rate, moisture and silt content of the

haulage road have been considered.

Predictions are carried out for the worst-case scenario of simultaneous operation of

excavators, loaders (area sources) and for transportation from mine to Mineral separation

plant / Beach Washing Plant through 10T tippers. Particle size concentration assumed in

the modeling consisted of five separate particles size classes 1.25, 3.75, 7.5, 12.5, and

20 micrometers with a particle concentration of 0.0262, 0.0678, 0.1704, 0.1536 and

0.5820 respectively.

The emissions from 141.2269 Ha ML areas and MSP are given in Table 4.1, Table 4.2

and Table 4.3, emissions from mining and transportation activities from 44.6212 Ha ML

are estimated in Table 4.4 and Table 4.5, and the emissions from 7.06 Ha ML area are

given in Table 4.6 and Table 4.7. (Basis – AP-42: Emission Estimation Technique

Manual for Mining). The beach sand mining is carried out manually by village society

members for 240 days per year (excluding June, July & August months due to high tides

and rough sea) at 4 hours per day. The inland mining and dredging is done for 240 days

with 16 hours/day operation. ROM transportation from mining areas is done for 240 days

with 16 hours/day and tailing transportation is done for 300 days with 16 hours/day

operation. The ROM is directly transported from mining areas to BWP and stockpiled

there for continuous feeding to BWP. The BWP and MSP are in operation for 365 days

with 24 hours/day operation. The predictions have been made taking into account the

above period. Hence the concentrations predicted are considered to be the worst case.

With control measures, the emissions have been taken at 30% of uncontrolled emissions

for handling and 10% of uncontrolled emissions for transportation.

Table 4.1: Area Source Emissions – Mineral Sand Mining (141.2269 Ha ML Area)

Particulars

Emissions from Beach

sand mining

Emissions from

Inland mining

Quantity, tpa 500000 500000

Operational Hours per year 960 (4 x 240) and manual

16x 240 - Loading 3840 (16x 240)

Activity rate, t/h 520.83 130.21

Emission of Dust, g/t 0.056 0.056

Emission of Dust gm/hr 29.01 7.25

Area of Influence, m2 25 25

Uncontrolled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.000322 0.000081

Controlled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.0000967 0.0000242



Table 4.2: Haulage Emissions – Mineral sand transport & Backfilling

(141.2269 Ha ML area)

Particulars Emissions

Quantity, tpa 1000000

Operational Hours per year 3840 (16 x 240)

Capacity of each Tipper (T) 10

Total No of Tippers/year 100000

Lead length /trip, Km 5

Total VKT/Year 500000

Emission kg/VKT 0.2245

Total emission kg/year 112257

Uncontrolled emission rate g/s/m 0.0001624

Controlled emission rate, g/s/m 0.000162

Table 4.3 : Stacks & Emission details of Mineral Separation Plant (MSP)

Stack

attached

Stack

Height

M

Stack

Dia.

m

Stack

velocity

m/s

Stack

temp

C

Flow

rate

Nm3/hr

Emissions

PM

mg/Nm3

PM

g/s

SO2 g/s NOx

g/s

22tph FBD 30.1 2.5 6.29 65 97999.13 50 1.36 5.72 5.14

2tph FBD 20.0 1.5 5.89 155 26089.29 50 0.36 0.95 0.86

Shaft Dryer

202

19.3 1.0 3.39 225 5735.60 50 0.08 0.24 0.22

Rutile Shaft

Dryer 401

17.8 1.0 3.2 55 8220.24 50 0.11 0.03 0.03

Zircon Shaft

Dryer 851

17.0 1.0 2.6 215 4489.13 50 0.06 0.02 0.01

Garnet Shaft

Dryer 701

19.3 1.0 2.46 105 5483.42 50 0.08 0.02 0.02

DG set 1000

KVA

14.5 1.0 21.3 395 26866.52 50 0.37 0.01 0.01

DG set 500

KVA

6.0 1.0 11.72 135 24203.36 50 0.34 0.0047 0.0042

Table 4.4: Area Source Emissions – Mining of Mineral sand (44.6212 Ha ML area)

Particulars

Emissions from

proposed 14.84 Ha ML

area

Emissions from

existing 29.7812 Ha

ML area


Operational Hours per year 3840 3840

Activity rate, t/h 52.08 52.08

Emission of Dust, g/t 0.056 0.056

Emission of Dust gm/hr 2.90 2.90

Area of Influence, m2 25 25

Uncontrolled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.000032 0.000032

Controlled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.0000097 0.0000097



Table 4.5: Haulage Emissions – Mineral Sand transport and backfilling from Both

ML areas to BWP

Particulars

Emissions from

proposed 14.84 Ha ML

area

Emissions from

existing 29.7812 Ha ML

area


Operational Hours per year 4800 4800

Capacity of each Tipper (T) 10 10

Total No of Tippers/year 20000 20000

Lead length /trip, Km 3 14

Total VKT/Year 60000 280000

Emission kg/VKT 0.2245 0.2245

Total emission kg/year 13471 62864

Uncontrolled emission rate g/s/m 0.000260 0.00026

Controlled emission rate, g/s/m 0.000026 0.000026

Table 4.6:Area Source Emissions – Mining of mineral sand (7.06 ha ML area)


Quantity, tpa 70000

Operational Hours per year 960

Activity rate, t/h 72.92

Emission of Dust, g/t 0.056

Emission of Dust gm/hr 4.06

Area of Influence, m2 25

Uncontrolled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.000045

Controlled Emission rate, g/s/m2 0.0000135

Table 4.7 : Haulage Emissions – Mineral sand Transport from 7.06 ha ML to BWP


Quantity, tpa 70000

Operational Hours per year 960

Capacity of each Tipper (T) 10

Total No of Tippers/year 7000

Lead length /trip, Km 4

Total VKT/Year 28000

Emission kg/VKT 0.2245

Total emission kg/year 6286

Uncontrolled emission rate g/s/m 0.000455

Controlled emission rate, g/s/m 0.000045



4.2.2 Data Analysis of Predicted Concentrations

Predictions have been carried out using ISC-AERMOD Model for study period. The

predicted ground level concentrations of particulate matter, Sulphur Di-oxide and Oxides

of Nitrogen are given in Table 4.8. The isopleths for predicted concentrations of PM10

are shown in Figure 4.1 and those for SO2 and NOx are shown in Figure 4.2 and Figure

4.3 respectively.

Table 4.8: Predicted Ground Level Concentrations

Season Year

Maximum Incremental Concentrations

(g/m3)

PM SO2 NOx

Summer (March, April & May) 2011 12.22807 12.00 9.56

These values are observed in the core zone and the values decreased to minimal as the

distance from the core zone increases.

However, it is of prime importance to note that the 141.2269 Ha, 7.06 Ha mines and the

mineral separation plant (BWP & MSP) are already in operation and the ambient air

quality data monitored during summer 2011 includes the emissions from the mining and

mineral separation activities. 29.7812 Ha mining operations were in temporarily

discontinued condition during monitoring period and the only additional emissions will be

due to the mining and mineral transportation operations from 14.84 Ha & 29.8712 Ha ML

areas. So, the ground level concentrations predicted above are for reference and can not

be added to the baseline air quality values. The existing ambient air quality is within limits

of the prescribed National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Minimal impact is anticipated

due to the mining operations on the ambient air quality.

4.2.2 Radioactivity Impacts and safeguard measures

The background radiation over 141.2269 Ha ML area is about 1 to 4 Sv/hr. Since the

minerals in the mine lease area are found in their natural state, no radioactivity impact is

anticipated on village society members involved in the collection of the beach mineral

sand. Also, the village society members collect the sand only two hours a day and are not

exposed to high concentrations of the mineral. However, in order to ascertain the dosage

of radiation received by the employees working in Beach Washing Plant and Mineral

Separation Plant, they are provided with TLD badges.



These badges are periodically monitored by Health Physics Unit of BARC for finding out

the dosages of radiation received by each employee. Based on the monitoring done it is

ensured that the radiation doses received by each employee are within the permissible

limit set by the statutory authorities. The monitoring of radiation prone areas is carried out

as per the guidelines issued by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board so that no person

receives excess doses of radiation. Periodical medical examinations are carried out for

the persons employed in the mines in order to evaluate the radiation exposure and

necessary remedial measures are implemented to avoid any abnormalities. The

monazite fraction generated out of the ROM from 141.2269 hects is stock piled in the

underground pits located near MSP (on Re-survey nos ; 388, 402 of 141.2269 hects ML

area) as per the guide lines of AERB.

Health Physics Unit (HPU) conducts radiation survey in mining lease areas in regular

intervals. A copy of radiation survey report carried out in the mining lease areas is

enclosed. Awareness programs on radiation will be conducted in the local villages once

the mining activity commences in both mining lease areas.

Air Pollution Control Measures

Since the mine and mineral separation plant is already in operation, the following air

pollution control measures are practiced and will be further strengthened, if necessary:

Transportation of ROM from mine to plant, transportation of tailings for backfilling

in mined out areas and of finished product from plant to buyers end is carried out

in tippers/ trucks covered with tarpaulin

Haul roads are regularly wetted to suppress dust liberation

Coconut leaves are spread over haul roads to reduce dust generation.

Green belt development along the mine lease boundary

Plantation is carried out on backfilled area

Transport roads are regularly maintained

Regular maintenance of transportation vehicles to control exhaust emissions

Regular monitoring of dust levels are conduced and recorded

Gravity separation in BWP is carried out by wet process

Dust Filters, cyclones etc. are used in the stacks of Mineral Separation Plant.

4.3 Noise Environment and Traffic Density

4.3.1 Noise Levels

Noise is generated due to the deployment of machinery, material handling and due to

plying of vehicles during transportation of sand to the plant.



Assessment of Noise Levels

The main objective of noise level assessment is to identify all the sources are acceptable

and unacceptable in study region. The acoustic environment varies dynamically in

magnitude and character throughout most communities. The noise level variation can be

temporal, spectral and spatial. The maximum impact of noise is felt on urban areas, which

is mostly due to the commercial activities and vehicular movement during peak hours of

the day.

The assessment of noise pollution in the study area has been carried out keeping the

above said considerations. The existing status of noise levels within the study area has

been undertaken through reconnaissance, identification of existing noise sources, land

use pattern for monitoring of baseline noise levels. Since the mine and plant are already

in operation, the ambient noise levels monitored during the baseline studies includes the

noise generated from the mining and mineral separation activities. The ambient noise

levels are within permissible limits and no increase in noise levels are anticipated as the

proposal is only for renewal of the mining lease area.

Noise Control Measures

The noise levels are within the permissible limits in all the operations.

Ear plugs/ear muffs are supplied to the workers working in high noise generating

areas to protect them from high noise level.

Regular monitoring of noise levels are conducted and recorded.

Green belt and plantation carried out along the mine lease area acts as a barrier

and reduces the noise outside the mining lease area.

All the transportation vehicles are regularly maintained to reduce noise

generation.

The speed limits are practiced for the transportation vehicles.

4.3.2 Traffic Density

The beach washings and mineral sand from inland areas are transported to the Mineral

separation plant by tippers of 10/15 tonne capacity partially through village roads and

partially by State Highway- 179 passing along the northern mine lease boundary. About

417 trips per day (1000000 Te /240 days) are made for transportation of mineral sand

from mine to beach washing plant and about 31 trips per day are made for transportation

of finished product from mineral separation plant to buyers destination.

Apart from the above, 29 trips per day (70000 Te /240 days) are made for transportation

of mineral from adjoining 7.06 Ha mine to the BWP and 83 trips per day (200000 Te /240



days) are made for transportation of mineral sand from company’s 29.7812 Ha mine

(presently mining operations discontinued temporarily)located about 14 km from the MSP.

Thus with full rate of mining from the ML areas, a total of 529 trips of trucks per day

made for transportation of mineral sand from all three mining lease areas. The mineral

sand received from other mining lease areas to BWP supplements the additional feed

requirement for the production of individual minerals. All the transportation of mineral

sand already in practice and there is no proposal for increase in traffic load in these

areas. However, an additional 83 trips (200000t / 240 days) are proposed from the

adjacent 14.84 Ha new mine lease of the company located about 3 km from MSP.

Besides the above, total tailings generated annually at Beach Washings Plant is about 1)

8.9 to 9 LTPA from ROM of 141.2269 hects ML area, 2) 63,000 tons from ROM of 7.06

Ha ML area and 3)1,60,000 tons from ROM of 29.7812 hects ML area. Total tailings

about 11,23,000 tons/year handled for backfilling purpose. Tailings transportation to

mined out areas is carried continuously in 300 days / Year . Hence about 374 trips per

day tailings required to be transported to mined out areas for backfilling. However ,

additional 1,70,000 tons of tailings per year will be handled once the mining over 14.84

hects ML area commences. The mineral sand i.e. ROM and tailings are transported

through the roads in mine lease area as well as nearby existing public roads. The existing

road facilities are sufficient to cater this traffic load as the production capacity of the mine

and MSP will remain same.

Mitigation Measures for Traffic

The following measures are adopted to minimize the impacts due to traffic for mineral

sand and tailings transportation.

Regular maintenance of the transportation roads

Regular maintenance of the transportation vehicles

Provision of traffic signals at strategic locations.

Strict adherence to the traffic rules

Compliance of speed limits

Declaration of silence zone near schools, hospitals, etc.

Covered transportation of finished products to avoid spillage.

4.4 Water Environment

4.4.1 Water Requirement

Mining operations do not require any external water source. The drinking water is drawn

from the wells located within the company area. For operation of BWP & MSP i.e. for



industrial use, water is drawn from Valliyar River, which is situated at a distance of about

1.5 km from the mineral separation plant. Industrial make up water requirement is about

3564 cum/day for BWP and Mineral Separation Plant. Drinking water requirement for the

Administrative Office and utilities is about 25 cum/day. IREL, Manavalakurichi has been

permitted to draw 4.5 Million Litres per day (4500 KLD) water from Valliyar River for

industrial purpose vide Tamilnadu Public Works Department vide GO 2(D) no: 49, dated:

23.7.2010 ( Valid upto 30.11.2014).

4.4.2 Impact on Water Regime

The mining activity in inland areas is carried out below ground water table. However, the

mineral sand dredged from the inland areas are stocked at the banks of the dredge pond

and the water obtained from dewatering hydrocyclone is re-cycled back into the dredging

pond . Thus there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond and this method of

mining do not affect the ground water table. As water is not removed, there is no net loss

of the ground water in the area.

The water requirement for industrial purpose is met from Valliyar River. There are no

downstream users of the river as the river meets Arabian sea at the south eastern corner

of the mine lease area. So no impact is anticipated on the surface water resources of the

area.

Detailed Hydrogeological studies has been carried out in the mine lease area and in the

study area to assess the impacts of the mining activities on the surface and ground water

resources of the area. No significant impact has been observed on the hydro-geological

status of the area. Also some rainwater harvesting measures adopted in the mine lease

areas are aiding in improving the ground water status of the area. The detailed Hydro-

geological study report is given in Annexure IX.

4.4.3 Wastewater Generation

Mining operations do not generate any wastewater. The process overflow water from

BWP operation is recycled. A good amount of water is recovered for re-use in Beach

Washing Plant (BWP). The dredge utilizes the same dredge pond water for operation

and there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond. The tailings generated in BWP

do not contaminate the ground water since no chemicals are used. These tailings are

utilized for backfilling in the mined out / dredged out areas by transporting through tippers.

The wet dredging operations do not contaminate the ground water as no chemicals are

used in the activity.



Domestic effluent generation is about 20 KLD from the Administrative office and MSP.

The domestic effluent is treated in Sewage Treatment Plant. The Sewage Treatment

Plant is prepared for treatment of 125 KLD domestic effluent and is sufficient to handle

the existing domestic effluent generation from the office and MSP area.

4.4.4 Impact on Surface Water

The mining activities involve mining of beach sand replenished by the sea waves and

inland sand deposits. Thus the mineral composition is mainly silica sand. During

monsoon, rain water flows through the small streamlets formed along the slopes of the

area. There is possibility of transportation of sand silt and sediments from the mine into

surface water bodies. However, since the mining lease area is located along the sea, all

sediment wash-off from the mine generally consisting of sands will go into the sea. The

rivers in the area are reaching at sea and there are no downstream users of the rivers as

they meet the sea. So, no impact is anticipated on the surface water quality due to the

mining activities.

4.4.5 Impact on Ground Water

The beach mineral sand collection is carried out manually near sea shore area which

does not affect the ground water table. The mineral sand mining from inland deposits is

carried out below ground water table by dredging. The dredging method adopted in such

a way that, there is no net drawl of water from the dredge pond. The wet dredging

operations do not contaminate the ground water as no chemicals are used in the activity.

The mineral sand dredged are stocked at the banks of the dredge pond and the water

obtained from dewatering of the mineral sand (hydro cyclone) is recycled back into the

dredging pond. Thus there is no net loss of the ground water. There is no process effluent

generation from the mining activities and there are no chemical used in the mining. So, no

impact is anticipated on the ground water quality of the area. Due control measures are

adopted to avoid sea water ingress in the inland deposits.

The domestic effluent from the mine office and MSP area are treated in STP operating in

the MSP area. The effluent after treatment is used for plantation and dust suppression in

the mine lease area. Hence, no impact is anticipated on ground water quality due to

domestic effluent.

4.4.6 Control Measures for Ground Water

A safe distance is maintained for carrying out dredging operations near the water

bodies.



Inland dredging operations are carried out in such a manner that there is no net

drawl of water from the moving dredge pond.

The fresh water gradient towards the mining areas is maintained by close

monitoring of the water table.

The rain water collected around the mineral separation plant is collected in a

rainwater harvesting pond for recharging the ground water table.

To prevent saline back water entry from the sea into the Valliyar River in the

summer months, construction of check dam in Valliyar River is completed.

Sewage treatment plant is in operation for treatment of domestic effluent from

mine office and MSP area.

4.4.7 Rainwater Harvesting Measures

The study area receives heavy annual rainfall to the tune of about 1465 mm per annum.

The mine management has constructed a rainwater harvesting pond of 9000 cum

capacity (Dimensions: 60m L x 25m W x 6m D) in the mine lease area and surface run-off

from the mineral separation plant are collected in this pond for rainwater harvesting. This

water is allowed to percolate in ground to improve the ground water conditions in the

area. The roof-top rain water is collected in sumps from all the buildings in the mine

lease area and the water is used for plantation.

4.5 Solid Waste Generation and Management

4.5.1 Solid waste generation

There is no waste material generated during mining operations as there is no

overburden/topsoil exists in the deposit. The raw mineral sand collected from the beach

areas and inland areas contain about 85 to 90 % waste material mostly quartz and

slimes. After separation of mineral from the ROM, tailings are generated as waste. Total

tailings generation during the mine life (20 years) is expected to the tune of 139 Lakh

tonnes. The sand (quartz) in the tailings is always in the native form without any physical

or chemical changes is again utilized for backfilling in the minedout areas. Presently with

the available BWP feed stock, about 7.5 to 8.0 lakh tonnes per annum tailings (ordinary

sand mostly consisting of quartz) are generated and utilized for backfilling.

Sub-grade Mineral

About 40,000 tonnes/annum un-recovered mineral fraction is generated from MSP, which

are still containing heavy minerals is stock piled in the demarcated areas within the

mining lease area for future processing and recovery of individual minerals.



4.5.2 Solid Waste Management

There is no solid waste generated due to mining operations. The tailings generated are

dewatered in the tailing yard and transported by trucks/tippers for backfilling in the mined

out/ dredged areas to restore the areas to near original topography. Out of the 139 lakh

tonnes of tailings generated from the BWP in the mine life, about 59 lakh tonnes will be

backfilled in the inland mined out areas and topography will be restored. About 70 lakh

tonnes of tailings will be filled in a scientific manner over the demarcated 44 Ha backfilled

areas in the mining lease area. About 4 lakh tons of tailings will be transported to public

areas towards welfare measures(with due permission from District Administration) and 6

lakh tons of tailings will be spreaded over entire Pillayarcoil block minedout lands. The

areas near to sea are backfilled with more height (8-10m -bund) followed with thick

plantation over it to protect the nearby habitations from high tides / cyclones, tsunami,

high wind etc. By nature, creepers are growing over the backfilled areas and this

preventing the wind erosion.

The canteen waste is used for bio-gas generation and the generated bio-gas is used for

cooking in canteen. Solid waste generated from the bio-gas unit is vermi-composted and

is used for plantation as manure.

4.6 Land use Pattern

4.6.1 Impact on land use pattern

As the sand zones opened at any particular area or any particular point of time in the year

or the 5 year phases is very meagre, the impacts on land and surroundings is

insignificant. The phase wise mining activities may change the existing land use of the

mining lease area for a short period but the same original land use will be restored after

backfilling the minedout areas. The existing land use of the mine lease area involves

mined out area, poromboke area, plantation area, infrastructure facilities. mineral

beneficiation plant, village built up area, private patta lands with coconut plantation &

vegetation etc. At the end mine life (conceptual stage), the mined out and backfilled area

would be about 99 to 100 hects developed with thick plantation. The present and

proposed land use of the mine lease area is given in Table 4.9. No impact is anticipated

on the land use pattern outside the mine lease area.



Table 4.9: Existing and proposed land use of ML Area (Area in Ha)

S. No Classification Present Conceptual stage

1 Beach Poromboke 9.5000 9.5000

2 Village Built-up area 19.8100 19.8100

3 M S Plant area 12.3050 12.3050

4 Guest house and roads 3.4050 3.4050*

5 Mined out area 47.5150 96.2069

6 Undisturbed area (Coconut Thompu and village lands) i.e. unmined area

48.6919 0.00

Total 141.2269 141.2269

Source: IREL

* At conceptual stage, the guest house will be relocated and the area under guest house

will be mined and reclaimed,

4.6.2 Backfilling and Rehabilitation of Mined out areas

The beach sand mining area covers about 9.5 Ha of the mine lease area. This area is

continuously replenished by the tidal activities and the original topography is maintained

naturally. However, the inland mining area, which is non-replenishable, is mined out in

phases. At a time, one pit is excavated, dredged and backfilled with the tailings from BWP

after exhaustion of mineral.

In order to carry out scientific restoration of the mined out area, the mined out areas are

backfilled to original shape and afforested after improving the fertility of the land in an

effective manner so that plant colonization can be faster, compared to time consuming

natural process. Thus, the impacts on beach profile and eco-system may not have

adverse impact. As the plant species present on the near shore areas are highly resilient

and pioneer species, their rehabilitation is safe and fast.

Inland areas near sea side are backfilled with an elevated profile to about 8-10 m height.

Backfilling to an elevated height over the original topography protects the inland

inhabitation from tides and storms, more effectively.

At conceptual stage, the mined out area will cover about 99 to 100 Ha (including guest

house area). All the mined out areas will be completely backfilled and and an area about

95.0 Hects will be afforested. Beach poromboke, MS Plant and the village built-up areas,



public roads will remain undisturbed. There will not be any involuntary

displacement/dislocation of people due to mining operation.

4.7 Socio-economic Environment

The mine lease area covers about 40.4374 Ha undisturbed land. The private land will be

taken from the land owners after obtaining the consents and paying the compensation

through negotiations. Mining operations will not be carriedout without obtaining

consents/surface rights from the private land owners. The details of habitations within the

mining lease area are given in Table 4.10.

Table 4.10 : Habitations in the Mine Lease Area

S. No. Fisherman Hamlet Population

1 Chinnavilai 1216

2 Periavilai 1206

3 Puthoor 700

4 Manavalakurichi(part) 350

Total 3472

The village habitation areas existing within the mine lease area will not be disturbed for

mining activities. Hence there is no relocation, rehabilitation, resettlement etc. are not

anticipated in order to undertake mining operations.

Most of the local people are engaged in fishing and coir preparation for livelihood. Apart

from this, the mining industry has provided direct employment to more than 300 persons

from the nearby villages and secondary employment to about 800 persons for collection

of beach washings and hundreds of other persons from the nearby villages for service

sectors like transport, workshops, shops, hotels, etc.

The mine management is carrying out welfare measures like water supply, lighting

facilities, roads, medical services, funds to schools, houses etc. in the nearby villages.

4.8 Biological Environment

Following factors are considered while assessing impacts of the mining activities on

ecology:

There is no forest land in the mine lease area. The lease area includes beach

poromboke, private land and land already acquired by company.



There are no trees on the beach areas where beach washings are collected. The

beach area is a sandy terrain and replenishable by nature.

The virgin inland areas away from beach are covered with Coconut plants. IREL

obtains the surface rights / consents from the land owners prior to mining /

dredging in the inland areas. Coconut trees are removed for preparation of land

for mining and after mining operations are completed, the mined out areas are

backfilled with BWP tailings (mostly consists of Quartz) and plantation

(Casuarinas, Coconut, Mango etc.) is developed over it - to develop greenery.

The mining / dredging operations in the inland areas do not require any addition of

water from external sources. The dredge pond water is re-cycled and there is no

net drawl of water from the dredge pond. Ground water never gets disturbed with

the dredging operations. The process water received from valliyar river is recycled

to the maximum in BWP and MSP. There is no pumping of waste water to sea.

There is no chemical effluent is generated as neither mining activities nor BWP

utilizes chemicals in the operations.

Due to non availability of overburden, there is no spoil or solid waste is generated

in the mining operations. The tailings generated from BWP mostly consisting of

Quartz are used as backfilling material in the mined out areas. The domestic

sewage (Canteen waste, urinals etc.) is treated in the Sewage Treatment Plant

and Bio-gas plant prior to releasing.

The Monazite rich fraction from MSP is disposed in the underground trenches as

per the guide lines of AERB. Removal of monazite from the deposit and

backfilling with radiation free BWP tailings significantly reduces the background

radiation in the locality.

There is no adverse impact on soil / land / ground water / surface water quality

due to mining operations.

No significant increase in ambient noise level is expected since the proposal is

only for renewal of mine lease area.

Considering the above, it can be concluded that the project has only minor impact on

ecology of the study area and can be mitigated by adopting proper backfilling and

rehabilitation measures.

4.9 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY

Occupational Health

The background radiation dose is in the range of 1-4 Sv/hr over 141.2269 Ha ML area.

The village society members engaged for manual collection of beach mineral sand are

exposed for 2 hours in a day. The radiation exposure levels of these society members

during beach sand collection are meagre and insignificant. However, in Beach Washing

Plant and Mineral Separation Plant where the beach mineral sand is processed and

content is upgraded, the workmen are provided with TLD badges in order to ascertain the

dosage of radiation received by the employees during work.



In BWP and MSP, in order to evaluate the impacts of mining and mineral separation on

the health of workers, periodical medical examinations are conducted as per DGMS &

AERB norms. The health status, their habits, etc., are recorded and a log book is

maintained and updated regularly. Following tests are done for the employees:

The preliminary screening test involves studies on pulmonary impairment &

disability evaluation.

Immediate evaluation symptoms related to Respiratory Tract disease

Smoking age started, pack/day, age stopped

Initial and periodical medical examinations

Past pulmonary illnesses

Concurrent medical conditions

Medications (occupational and environmental exposures)

Periodical Chest physical examination findings

Periodical Chest roentgenogram

Periodical Pulmonary function studies

Noise Impairment

Baseline audiograms

Thus, a baseline condition is established for the workers and the records are maintained

in order to evaluate any occupational diseases due to mining and mineral separation

activity or activity or aggravation of the existing condition due to mining and mineral

separation.

The Health Physics Department regularly monitors the radiation of the mining lease areas

and other workzone areas. A copy of the Radiation survey report is enclosed.


All the village society members engaged in the collection of beach mineral sand

from the mining lease area and the transportation contract employees are given

vocational training prior to commencement of work.

Medical Insurance policy is covered for the members engaged in the mining of

beach sands from the ML area.



Traffic signals, speed breakers, water sprinklers are provided over the haul roads.

Mining activities often temporarily suspended during cloudy and rainy days to

avoid thunder hazards in the beach areas.



Audio Visual Alarm is mandatory for all the vehicles and loaders deployed in the

mining area.

Initial and periodical medical examinations for the persons employed in the mines

In MSP and BWP


function tests, Spirometry etc.

Occupational Health Surveys of employees, Health awareness and Training

Programs are conducted at regular intervals.


consisting of Preventive Health Examinations e.g., Pre-employment, Periodic

health check ups

Initial and periodical medical examinations as per the rules.


chemical hazards on lungs by Spirometry (Lung Function Testing) and impact of

noise on ears by Audiometry (Hearing capacity testing), Bio-medical surveillance

program

Organization policy development for decreasing Tobacco, Alcohol etc

Conducting Training workshops on “Occupational Health & Safety issues” Diseases Screening Programs for Diabetes, Hypertension, Tuberculosis, and

other Occupational Diseases etc

Emergency Medical Response Preparedness including Hazard Communication,

First aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Evacuation plans etc

Health awareness and Training Programs on key health issues e.g., workplace

hygiene, personal protective devices, first aid measures, nutrition,



and other relevant issues

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Program Health Information System

Development including reporting formats, check lists

Health Facilities e.g. Medical Center, Occupational Health Center for plant &

township and Ambulance facility.

The monazite pits are fenced and prohibited from unauthorised entry.

Mining activities are carried out as per DGMS permission under regulation 106 (2)

(b) of MMR 1961.

4.9.1 Occupational Health & Safety Assessment

Company has implemented and certified for ISO: 14001 EMS and OHSAS: 18001 for

occupational health and safety systems. The occupational health and safety assessment

is given in Table 4.11.



Table 4.11: Occupational Health & Safety Assessment

Requirement Explanation

Principal Environmental and

Occupational Risks that are likely

to be created

INSTANT:

Accidents due to operating machines in the MSP and

transportation vehicles.

LONG TERM

Continuous exposure to air pollutants leading to

silicosis, asthma, tuberculosis, etc.

Hearing loss due to continuous exposure to high

noise

Risk Assessment As per design of hazard risk assessment matrices for

ranking occupational health risks in mining & allied

activities, the detail risk assessment is presented in

section Chapter 6.

Rank of Risk to Public Health Meagre ( Occasional)

Communication of Risks to public

& steps for prevention & control

Display at approach roads

Induction training to all the workers on possible risks

and steps for prevention & control

Refresher training once a year

Assessment of Health Impacts Preliminary screening

Regular Health Camps (once in six months)

Periodical medical examination of employees.

Assessor Occupation Health Specialist with established

credentials

Agency for the health impact

assessment study

In-house Doctor and necessary facilities provided.

Hazardous operations in mine None

Members of the Safety

Committee

Mines Manager, Safety Officer, Worker’s Representative… as per the Mines Act 1952

Functions of Safety Committee Implementation of OH&S procedures as per

OHSAS:18001 and maintaining AERB and DGMS

recommendations.

Assessment of work place

Exposure

Medical Officer of Mine

Communication of Non-

conformance

By Circular, Display at relevant areas

Expenditure for tests &

treatments of Occupational &

non-occupational illness

Responsibility of IREL

Compensation to workers for

health impairments due to injury

or illness & amount of

compensation

As per ESI / Medical Reimbursement / workmen

compensation Act.



CHAPTER 5

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

5.1 Environmental Monitoring

The environmental monitoring is important in terms of evaluating the performance of

pollution control equipments installed in the project. The sampling and analysis of the

environmental attributes will be as per the guidelines of Ministry of Environment & Forests

(MoEF), Central Pollution Control Board/ Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board

(TNPCB). The frequency of sampling and location of sampling will be as per the

directives of MoEF/CPCB/TNPCB.

The objective of environmental monitoring is:

To verify the result of the impact assessment study in particular with regard to new

developments

To follow the trend of parameters, which have been identified as critical

To check or assess the efficacy of the controlling measures

To establish a database for future Impact Assessment Studies for further projects

The attributes, which require regular monitoring, are specified underneath:

Ambient Air quality

Water and wastewater quality

Ambient Noise levels

Soil quality

Ecological preservation & afforestation and

Socio Economic aspects and community development


Environmental parameters viz. air, water, noise, soil shall be monitored regularly to detect

any change in the baseline status. Monitoring program will be followed every year as per

the schedule given below and time frame as given in Table 5.1.



5.2.1 Air Quality Monitoring

Four locations in core zone and four locations in the buffer zone will be monitored for

twelve weeks in every season except monsoon. The AAQ monitoring locations will be

selected nearby the habitations around the mine lease area to know the impact of the

mining activities.

5.2.2 Noise Levels Monitoring

Noise levels in the working area will be monitored once in every season during the

operation of mine & plant. Noise levels will also be monitored once in a season in the

buffer zone as per the guidelines.

5.2.3 Water Quality Monitoring

Water quality will be monitored in every season. Surface water quality will be checked for

Valliyar river and other seasonal streams near the mine lease area. Ground water quality

will also be monitored in order to know the impacts of mining operations. This data will be

compared with baseline data to evaluate the effectiveness of the adopted mitigation

measures and for any necessary corrective measures. Water levels will be monitored on

seasonal basis in wells nearby the mining lease area, to assess the impact on ground

water regime.

5.2.4 Soil Quality Assessment

Soil samples will be collected from the core and buffer zone. Quality will be checked twice

every year except monsoon to observe any deviations in the fertility of the soil.

Table 5.1: Environmental Monitoring Program

S.No Subject of study Specific Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

1 Meteorology

Wind Speed and direction,

temperature, relative

humidity and rainfall


2 Ambient Air


24 hourly samples twice a week

for 12 weeks in a season except

monsoon

3 Water Quality Physical, Chemical and

Bacteriological Parameters

Once in a season for all four

seasons (surface as well as

ground water quality)



5 Soil

Characteristics


agricultural and

afforestation potential

Twice during a year



S.No Subject of study Specific Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

6 Ecology Growth and survival rate Once in a year.

7 Socio-economic

aspects

Socio economic

development measures

Once in two years and

depending on the need the

frequency may increase or

decrease

5.3 Environmental Management Cell

For implementation of Environment Management Plan, Environment Management Cell

will be formed under the control of the Project Manager. IREL, Manavalakurichi has

already formed an Environment Management Cell which is functioning effectively for

environmental issues. The responsibilities of this cell will be:

Implementation of pollution control measures.

Monitoring programme implementation.

Post-plantation care.

To check the efficiency of pollution control measures taken.

Any other activity as may be relevant to environment

Seeking expert’s advice as and when needed.

Complying with the conditions given by MoEF, SPCB and filing periodic

compliance reports to the corresponding Depts.



CHAPTER 6

ADDITIONAL STUDIES

6.1 Introduction


involved with various jobs. There exist standard operational procedures to meet the

hazards. Some of the measures are as given below:

The company has provided a well-equipped medical facility in 141.2269 Ha mine

lease area at village Manavalakurichi, which works round the clock.

All installations are provided with suitable class of fire extinguishers.

The loading / transport equipment operators are provided with wireless for

communication.

The mine is seismic zone - III.

Since the mine lease area was hit by Tsunami in December 2004, due

precautionary measures viz; emergency preparedness plan and disaster

management plan have been chalked out for preparedness during the recurrence

of any such natural disasters.

Mock drills are periodically conducted in the mine and plant areas.

Risks assessed in mining and MSP are reviewed as per the standards maintained

under OHSAS 18001 regularly.

6.2 Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan

Definition of Disaster / Emergency

The word ‘Disaster’ is synonymous with ‘Emergency’ as defined by the Ministry of

Environment and Forests (MoEF). An emergency occurring in the proposed mine is one

that may affect several sections within it and/or may cause serious injuries, loss of lives,

extensive damage to environment or property or serious disruption outside the mine. It

will also require the best use of internal resources and the use of outside resources to

handle it effectively. It may happen usually as the result of a malfunction of the normal

operating procedures. It may also be precipitated by the intervention of an outside force

such as a cyclone, flood or deliberate acts of arson or sabotage. The proposed project is

an opencast mining project. The anticipated risks are mentioned below:



6.2.1 Risks / Hazards Involved in Existing mine and Mineral Separation Plant

Inundation

There is no perennial surface water body within the mine lease area. Valliyar river flows

along the eastern boundary of the mine lease area and confluence to Arabian sea near

the south eastern corner of the mine lease area. Arabian sea forms the south western

boundary of the mine lease area.

The mining activities involve manual collection of beach mineral sand on the coastal

areas in which, no pits are formed and the risk is only due to high tides/tsunami.

The inland deposits are mined by excavators above the ground water table and by

dredging below the ground water table. The dredged out pits are simultaneously

backfilled. Also the inland deposits are located away from the HTL. So, no danger of

inundation is envisaged due to high tides.

The collection of beach mineral sand is carried out for 9 months and the same work is

suspended during rough sea, high tides, heavy rain days etc. The local villagers

engaged in the collection of beach mineral sand are well versed with the behavior of sea

and take necessary precautions during collection of the sand.

Drowning

The persons employed in the dredging operations will be provided with life jackets and

sufficient no of lifebuoys will be provided in the floating pontoons. Prior to employment in

the dredging area, Vocational Training to the persons will be imparted.

Radioactivity Hazards

IREL produces minerals like Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sllimanite. In

this, monazite is a phosphate of thorium (8 to 10%) and other rare earths. Uranium is also

present in monazite in small percentage. Since this phosphate of thorium is a radioactive

material, the following protection measures will be carried out:

Within the Mineral Separation Plant premises there is fully equipped Health Physics Unit

(HPU) lab under the control of full time Health Physicist, who is directly appointed by

BARC, DAE. The HPU lab is equipped with monitoring equipments.



Also radiation monitoring will be carried out in two types:

Area monitoring is monitoring radiation level at different places in and around the

work places

Personnel monitoring is evaluating the radiation dose received by a person at the

work place

Thermo-Luminescent Dosimeter (TLD)

The radiation dose received by radiation worker can also be determined by the use of

TLD (Personnel monitoring). The dosimeter consists of three pellets made of CaSO4. The

pellets are placed in a metallic frame work and enclosed by a plastic cassette containing

three different pellets. These pellets are known as thermo luminescent phosphor discs.

When heated after exposures to radiation, they emit light. The intensity of the emitted

light can be measures. It is directly proportional to the amount of radiation absorbed by

the pellets. It is a property that is made use of in measuring the accumulated dose.

Mainly all persons working in monazite section are monitored closely and if their annual

dose limit is exceeded, they will be transferred to other section on job rotation basis. But

till now no persons have exceeded the annual permissible limit of 20 mSv.

Apart from the above, the following protective measures such as keeping distance from

radioactive source, spending minimum time by providing shield for the source and use of

protective equipments etc.

Safe Transport of radioactive material:

Transport of radioactive material (monazite) is carried out by packing in silos.

Thus this transport of monazite is carried out by following the safety code AERB/SC/TR-

1, issued by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), Mumbai. The scope of the

regulations includes method of packing, labeling and marking on the packages. This

would help in the identification of the packages containing radioactive material. But

presently, IREL, MK is not producing monazite for the last 6 years due to lack of demand.

However, monazite rich mineral fraction are stockpiled separately in earthern pits as per

AERB guidelines for future use and recovery.

Since the mining operations include mainly scrapping of top layer (0.2 to 0.3m) of beach

washings deposited along the beaches as a result of wave and tidal currents, the high

risk accidents like subsidence, landslides, fire, earthquake, tailing dam failures etc will not



arise. However, considering high tide hazard, beach washing collection works are

stopped during high tide period i.e. june, july and august months of every year. Also, any

warning from Meterological Dept are systematically communicated to the workers. The

voids (0.2 to 0.3m) formed due to scrapping mining activity are simultaneously filled with

fresh beach washings by sea tide, hence any unplanned discontinuance of mining will not

result in any problem.

Health Physics Unit of BARC is continuously monitors the radiation levels of persons

employed in the mines and other workzone areas. A report of generated by HPU

regarding the radiation levels in mining lease areas is enclosed. The periodic dose

exposure evaluation for the persons employed in different mining activities is carried out

by HPU. A report on the same is also enclosed. HPU takes necessary corrective actions

to maintain the dose limits within the prescribed norms.

Landslide

The method of mining adopted in inland areas is such that no landslide occurs. The

dredged out areas are simultaneously backfilled. There is no pit formation in the beach

areas.

Tailings generated in the BWP are stocked temporarily at natural angle of repose and

then transported regularly to mined out areas for backfilling. No landslide is envisaged for

the tailing heap in the tailings yard.

In the backfilled areas, near original topography is maintained. However, the inland areas

near to the coastal zone are backfilled with an elevated height with thick plantation as a

welfare measure to protect the local inhabitation from high tides and cyclones.

Surface fire

The mineral sand itself is non-flammable but there may be fire hazards in the MSP,

machinery or electrical substations and workshop etc. Sufficient stationary and portable

fire extinguishers have been installed at selected locations.

Dust from the loading and transportation

The hazard is the inhalation of dust which is created during the loading and transportation

which may result in the various respiratory diseases to the workers. There is no dust

generation at beach washing collection area where as in the inland excavations there is

generation of dust. While it is not presently possible to totally remove the hazard,



properly applied control measures viz. dust masks, nose filters etc. can substantially

reduce the risk.

Control measures like water spraying on haulage roads at regular interval prevents the

dust generation. Plantation carried out in the backfilled areas in the ML area further

reduces the spread of airborne dust to the surrounding atmosphere. The workers

engaged in dusty operations are provided with dusk masks.

Noise

Operation of HEMM gives rise to harmful levels of noise. But this noise is limited upto

certain distance and it dampens with distance. The workers working near high noise

generating machineries are provided with ear muffs. Sound proof cabins have been

provided for operators of high noise generating equipments.

Other control measures include provision of protective equipments, although this should

only be seen as an interim precaution until a permanent solution can be found. The risk is

very high when no control measures are provided. Ambient and work zone noise level

monitoring are carried out by HPU and the precautionary measures suggested are

immediately adopted.

Loading

Risks involved in loading are break failures, reverse alarm failures, parking brakes

failures. etc. prevailing in both tippers and loaders. However, the roadworthiness of the

tippers and condition of the loaders utilized in the mines are monitored prior to

deployment to avoid risks. In addition to this, regular monitoring of the vehicles deployed

in the mines is carried out.

Heavy vehicles

The main hazards arise from the use of large earth moving vehicles are due to

incompetent drivers, brake failure, lack of all visibility from the drivers position, access to

the cabins, vehicle movements particularly reversing, roll over, vibration, noise, dust and

maintenance. Those most at risk are the driver and pedestrians likely to be struck by the

vehicle, and drivers of smaller vehicles, which cannot be seen from the cabins of large

vehicles.



Mitigation measure:

Traffic rules are strictly complied in the mining areas

Vocational Training to the Drivers, HEMM operators is provided prior to

employment

Over-speeding and over-loading are strictly avoided.

Footpaths have been provided for pedestrians

Regular maintenance of the loading and transport vehicles to minimize

exhausts, noise and vibration.

Compliance to DGMS norms viz., AVA, fire extinguishers in the operators cabin,

periodical checking of the vehicle, etc.

Regular checking is done for drivers and operators to check consumption of

alcohols.

House keeping

The provision and maintenance of a safe, clean and hygienic workplace is the most basic

principle of health and safety. Dirty and untidy workplaces or walkways contribute to a

very large proportion of accidents.

In the context of mining and mineral separation plant, the provision of well defined

roadways and walkways clear of obstruction, and regular cleaning up of spillage greatly

reduces the potential for this type of accident. Lack of maintenance may lead to roadways

and walkways being unsuitable for use. Good housekeeping is being practiced in the

mine and mineral separation plant for efficient and safe operation

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The PPE provided to employees are ISI marked, suitable for the hazard e.g. a dust

respirator fitted with the correct filter to capture the particular dust, and maintained to

recommended standards. As personal protective equipment only affords limited

protection it is only used as a last resort as an interim arrangement, until other steps are

taken to restore the normalcy to eliminate the risk of personal injury to an acceptable

level.

6.2.2 Disaster Management Plan

The disaster management / Emergency Plan is formulated based on the assessment of

the risks,the existing mine and MSP are subjected to and the actions to be taken in case

of any emergency / disaster, by the mine management and the employees of the mine.



The responsible persons are identified and their corresponding duties and responsibilities

are fixed.

Organization Plan

Organization plan includes clearly stating the line of command and the responsibilities of

each person involved in case of emergency situation.

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency preparedness Plan includes the standing orders in case of emergency.

Cyclone & flood protection relief manual, Fire protection & emergency preparedness,

Radiation Protection procedures, Risk assessment and Management in Mining are

prepared and followed to combat with the emergency situations ( copies of the same

annexed).

Functions of the emergency preparedness team

The team shall meet once in six months to discuss the possible or probable

causes/instances leading to any disaster that may occur in the mines.

The team shall assess the required resources to deal with the situation that may

be identified as above.

The team leader shall lay down a detailed procedure or oral information to each

member to follow in case of any impending or possible or actual disaster.

The team shall conduct mock drill once in a year to understand the practical

problems that may arise while implementing the Emergency Preparedness Action

Plan including the response time and take necessary steps to make the system

effective.

The team shall make necessary recommendations/suggestions to the

Management for identifying/monitoring/dealing with any probable disaster.

The minutes of the meeting of the Team shall be prepared including the

probable cause of incident, response time and corrective & preventive actions

required to be taken to avoid the reoccurrences of the same and kept as record.

The team may draw an Action Plan and modify the same from time to time.

The Emergency Preparedness Team shall come into force in case of any

disaster by establishing the control room at an appropriate place nearer to the

affected area.



The team shall record the actual performance/procedure followed/short comings

while dealing with any actual disaster which will be discussed at various levels to

strengthen the plan and approach.

The Agent, In-charge (Safety) along with Mines Manager shall inspect all the

places where disaster occurred, along with Emergency Preparedness Team.

The Agent, In-charge (Safety) along with Mines Manager shall ensure that all

affected places are safe to resume the normal works, and then only they shall give

permission to start the mining/plant operations.

Care and Maintenance During Temporary Discontinuance

If the mine will be discontinued temporarily for more than 120 days, notice will be given

30 days before the date of such discontinuance to the authorities as per the Mines Act,

1952 and MMDR Act, 1957. During discontinuance period safety and security

arrangement will be provided to avoid the entry of unauthorized persons. The accessibility

to the mine from the surface will be prevented by providing sufficient number of guards.

EMERGENCY PLAN

IREL, Manavalakurichi has formulated emergency preparedness plan to face the

situations during emergency. On receiving information of emergency, intimation will be

sent to the consultative committee, which is already formed. Shift in-charge will ensure

that all the materials and transport system to deal with emergency situation. First aid

facilities will be ready to receive the cases.

On realizing an emergency anywhere in the mine, immediately inform the nearest

mining official.

On receiving information of emergency, intimation will be sent to the consultative

committee, which is already formed. Shift in-charge will ensure that all the materials

and transport system to deal with emergency situation.

Emergency Plan- showing the phone numbers of all relevant areas, competent

authorities, Head of the Departments, Hospitals etc. are distributed and circulated in

the notice boards for general awareness among the employees.

First aid facilities will be ready to receive the cases.

IREL engaged Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai and prepared the

CRZ maps as per CRZ notification-2011. (copies of CRZ Reports and Maps of 7.06 ha

are enclosed).



IREL engaged National Institute of Oceanography (NIO, Kochi) and conducted scientific

study on near shore sediment transport control mechanism in Manavalakurichi and

Midalam beach areas during the year 2011-12. The reports of NIO reveals that there is no

significant shoreline change from Muttam to Midalam area for the last 37 years.

(b) Public Consultation

Public Hearing Meeting (as per Appendix-IV of EIA-2006 notification) held on 22-03-2013

at 10:00 A.M at Revenue Divisional Office, Padmanabhapuram, Kanyakumari District of

Tamil Nadu .



CHAPTER 7

PROJECT BENEFITS

7.1 Improvement in Physical Infrastructure

The existing project has yielded a positive impact on the socio-economic environment. It

helped in sustainable development of this area including further development of physical

infrastructural facilities. The following physical infrastructure facilities are improved due to

mining and mineral separation project.

Road Transport facilities

Educational facilities

Health facilities

Water supply and sanitation

7.2 Improvement in Economic Status

No mining is proposed to be carried out in the inhabitated villages existing within the

mining lease area of 141.2269 Ha. The workmen, contractor labour and staff come from

the nearby villages and there is no displacement/relocation is involved. Hence, the impact

of mining activities on the nearby villages is insignificant.

On the other hand, the mining activity has improved the economic status of the people

around the mine area. Continued mining activities benefit the local people due to

employment during operation; infrastructural facilities provided by the mining industry

boost up the local market and attract people from different places to install their ancillary

units. There is a positive impact on the socio-economics of people living in the near by

villages.

7.3 Socio-Economic Development Measures

The Manavalakurichi Mineral Separation Plant was taken over by IREL in 1965 and

thereafter is engaged in the mining and production of strategic minerals. Raw material

i.e. raw mineral sand for the mineral separation plant comes from the mineral sand

deposits of the coastal villages, where IREL, Manavalkurichi has been granted mining

leases by Govt. of Tamilnadu.



The company provides help and assistance to the people belonging to the surrounding

areas as welfare measures by investing a part of the wealth generated by it. In social and

community initiatives the company is concentrating on the following sectors:

I. Health care

II. Education

III. Infrastructure Development

IV. Community Development

V. Job Creation

Health Care

IREL, Manavalakurichi contributes Rs. 3.0 lakhs each year for providing medical

assistance for the health care of the seven local fishermen villages for treatment of

specialized diseases for which treatment facilities are not available in the Government

hospitals. Besides IREL, Manavalakurichi organizes a number of periodical health camps

and provides free medicines and medical treatments during the camp in and around

Manavalakurichi and Mondaikadu villages. Free eye camps are also conducted regularly

in association with M/s Arvind Eye hospital, Tirunelveli.

IREL, Manavalakurichi is funding one primary health center at Naduvoorkarai, which is

located near MSP. Every year hospital equipment, furniture, dispensary lab items,

medicines etc. are donated to the above Primary Health Center, and twice in a year IREL

provides one vehicle free of cost for the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization program to

the Naduvoorkarai primary health center.

During Tsunami, one team with Chief Medical Officer, paramedical staff, first-aiders and

volunteers went around the relief camps in and around Manavalakurichi to render medical

help and provided required essential medicines. Apart from above a continuous free

medical relief camp (three months) was conducted at Kottilpadu village, by medical

Officers in association with M/s James Hospital, Colachel. It is noteworthy to state that

IREL was the first to join the State Government in the relief and rehabilitation works. The

earth moving equipment and ambulance were pressed into service immediately on

26.12.2004 itself to expedite the relief operation.

The management also rendered assistance for the relief camps and temporary shelters

extending medical facilities, drinking water and food items. In addition to the relief works,

the management has given Rs. 10 lakhs towards ‘Chief Ministers Tsunami Relief Fund’



Education

In education the management provides assistance to the near by schools. For the needy

school children financial support is extended to buy school uniforms and note books.

IREL has contributed Rs. 3.00 lakhs towards the construction of office cum classroom to

the Govt. primary school, Kadiapattinam and encouraged e-learning by donating

computers to the Vincent De Paul primary school, Perivilai. Furniture is also donated to

the schools. Rs. 10 lakhs has been donated for construction of Kendriya Vidyalaya

building at Nagercoil.

Infrastructure Development

IREL Manavalakurichi is committed for development works in the nearby villages, to

ensure a better quality of life for the people living in and around Manavalakurichi area.

Sea wall: For the protection of the plant as well as the protection of nearby two villages

(Perivilai and Chinnavilai) a sea-wall of 410m length has been constructed. This was

designed by IIT Chennai and constructed through P.W.D Tamilnadu. High tides caused

during monsoon period first strikes against the sea-wall and thus the land and buildings

are protected from sea erosion. The amount spent for consultation to IIT Madras is Rs.

1.9 lakhs and for construction of sea-wall is Rs. 89 lakhs.

Bund: IREL, Manavalakurichi has constructed a long bund with BWP tailings in the

Parapattu village. During Tsunami, waves first hit the bund and the waves were

obstructed from entering into the village, thus the life and property of the people was

saved. Based on the above experience, the process of making bunds is continued in

other areas also.

Roads: IREL, Manavalakurichi has constructed village roads for connecting the mining

areas to the main roads. This helped the villagers residing in the mining areas to reach

the main road easily. Repairing and black topping of the above roads are also carried out

by the management regularly.

Check dam: IREL has constructed a check dam through PWD, Tamilnadu across the

Valliyar River at Kadiyapattinam village at a cost of Rs. 62 lakhs. It prevents salinity of

River water due to ingress of sea water. This check dam has been useful for irrigation

and drinking water purpose for the nearby villagers. This has recharged the ground water

system thereby improving quality of water in and around Manavalakurichi village. Also the

fishermen in the Kadiyapattinam village are using this check dam for bathing.



Bus stand: IREL has donated 76.91 cents of land to Manavalakurichi Panchayat for

construction of Bus stand. This bus stand is used by nearby villagers. As there was no

bus stand at Manavalakurichi, the State Govt. buses and mini buses were parked on the

highway causing traffic congestion on the Manavalakurichi junction. After the construction

of the bus stand there is no traffic congestion in the Manavalakurichi area.

Afforestation: Major part of the dredged out area is backfilled with tailings and used for

plantation (casuarinas, coconut, mango, teak, jackfruit etc) mixed with general

afforestation. To facilitate plant growth and improve survival rate of saplings, small pits

had been dug on the sand and filled with soil and kitchen waste from the canteen.

IREL, Manavalakurichi has contributed Rs. 37,500/- towards planting and maintaining

trees in the adjacent Colachel municipality under massive tree plantation program

conducted by Tamilnadu Pollution Control Board, Chennai. The management has a

contract for planting and maintaining of ten thousand saplings and maintaining a nursery.

The Management consults District Forest Officer, Kanyakumari regularly for proper

guidance.

Contribution to nearby fishermen villages: In the interest of maintaining harmonious

relationship with local fishermen around the mining operations of fishermen welfare

committee was formed under the president ship of Revenue Divisional Officer,

Padmanabhapuram. IREL contributes Rs. 14 lakh/year to the seven nearby fishermen

villages through R.D.O Padmanabhapuram. The amount is being used for the

development works for the welfare of the seven fishermen villages.

Medical Insurance: IREL, MK contributes Rs. 4 to 5 Lakhs / year towards medical

insurance for the fisherman society members engaged in the mining activity at sea beach

areas.

Tourism Development: For tourism development, IREL has transported a huge amount

of sand to low level areas of Kanyakumari at a huge cost as per the request of District

Administrative authorities.



7.4 Community Development

As a part of community development program, IREL undertakes the following:

Each year IREL donates to the Kanyakumari District Kabaddi Association and

Kanyakumari District Basketball Association for conducting all India level

tournaments.

Donates to the Holy Trinity Church, Mel Midalam for conducting all India level

tournaments

For Inter District shuttle tournament and badminton tournament

To Officer’s club at Nagercoil, IREL has donated towards construction of Indoor

Stadium at Kanyakumari district officer’s club

These social development works carried out as mentioned above by IREL has earned

good will from the district administration and has reflected in many occasions during law

and order crisis.

7.5 Job creation

IREL provides direct and indirect employment to the people living in and around the

district by the following measures:

a) In the seven fishermen villages, societies were formed for raw sand collection

work from the beach areas, engaging about 2,200 people(presently three village

societies are working engaging about 1100 society members) for which IREL,

Manavalakurichi spends to the tune of Rs. 12 to 14 crores per year. This has

improved considerably the living condition of the local villagers.

b) Preference is given to the people living in the mining area as well as to the local

people for filling the vacancies whenever arises in the company.

c) Indirect employment opportunities are also generated for the local people for

providing services like shops, hotels, workshops, etc.

The nearby fishermen villagers and the people living in the surrounding areas have

improved their quality of life and thus IREL have earned goodwill from the locals as well

as from the District Administration authorities. The investment made by IREL towards the

social cause has paid off well in terms of healthy mind, goodwill and peace and harmony

in an otherwise troublesome mining area. The operating philosophy that “the industry

lives in the society where the society comes first” has taken this company towards the

path of progress during the last 40 years and poised for further growth in the near future.



7.6 Corporate Social Responsibility and other Welfare Activities

One acre land handed over to Tamil Nadu Govt. for building houses for the

fishermen of Chinnavilai village (Tsunami housing)


Aids to local schools for building classrooms, compound walls, furniture,

books, uniforms etc.


Providing drinking water facilities including provision of pipelines, constructing

OH water tanks etc.

Laying black top roads in the villages connecting to WCR to improve the

communication facilities

Promoting and conducting livelihood training programmes among the local

villagers to improve their living standards


provided.


Allocation of village development funds for 7 villages @ Rs.14 lakhs/year





Promotes job opportunities to the local villagers in addition to their traditional

fishing activities enhancing their living standards

The year-wise provision of funds for carrying out the CSR activities undertaken for the

benefit of local inhabitants in and around the mining areas (7 villages) are given in Table

7.1.Table

7.1: Year-wise funds provision for CSR Activities (Figures in Rs.)


School development (furniture,

table, books etc.) in the

villages within and surrounding

mining lease areas

1,36,500 1,48,250 12,04,000 5,14,050 2,04,561 3,15,051

Village development (roads,

primary health centre, annual

day etc.)

29,225 25,000 25,000 5,70,900 74,736 34,900


Drinking water 18,840 - 7,47,367 - 25,000




Total 16,04,565 15,23,250 38,14,167 30,04,950 21,29,289 21,03,351



CHAPTER 8

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

8.1 Introduction

The Environment Management Plan (EMP) is required to ensure sustainable

development in the study area. This chapter covers the existing and proposed measures

required for meeting the prevailing statutory requirements of air emissions, waste water

discharge characteristics, noise levels etc. for environmental management purpose in

connection with the mining and mining related activities in the study area.

For attaining the desired objective of good environmental quality in the study area,

several management strategies in different phases are proposed and evaluated.

Planned improvements including additional control measures

Fugitive dust reduction during mining and transportation

Measures to alleviate social problems affecting mining villages

Planning for the closure of mines

This section discusses the management plan for impacts and enhancement of beneficial

impacts due to mining. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been designed

within the framework of various Indian legislative and regulatory requirements on

environmental and socio-economic aspects. Environmental management plan giving the

environmental protection measures at mine to meet the stipulated norms of IBM/MoEF

are detailed below.

8.2 Air Quality Management

Generation of dust is controlled by

Covering haul roads in beach areas with coconut leaves to reduce dust emission

Haul roads are periodically wetted to suppress dust liberation

Plantation development over the backfilled areas


Machinery deployed for mining are strictly monitored for emission levels

Casuarina, Coconut etc. saplings are planted after backfilling the mined out area.



All Fluidized Bed Driers (FBD) are provided with cyclone separators and bag

filters in order to collect the fine dust particles escaping along with the flue gases.

This would limit the SPM in the flue gases to below 50 mg/Nm3

De-dusting arrangement with ducts, bag filters and exhaust fans are provided in

transfer and dust generating points in Mineral Separation Plant.

All the Chimneys of the Shaft Driers are provided with dust collectors to

remove/settle the dust and fine sand particles escaping through the chimneys.

Spillages in the plant are reduced by incorporating suitable devices in the

conveyor system

Daily removal of the spillages reduces dust by transport vehicles.

All the stacks have height as per PCB norms.

Regular environmental monitoring is being conducted by TNPCB. Regular

monitoring for stack emissions and ambient air quality will also be carried out in

future and reports will be submitted to TNPCB/ MoEF.

8.3 Noise Pollution Control


plying of vehicles during transportation of sand to the plant. The noise levels are within

the permissible limits in all the existing operations. Ear plugs/ear muffs are supplied to the

workers working in high noise generating areas to protect them from high noise level.

Regular monitoring of noise levels are conducted and recorded

8.4 Vibration

Being an unconsolidated loose sand deposit, this does not require any drilling or blasting.

The HEMM’s contemplated would be small hydraulic excavators and dumpers. Movement

of such equipments on unconsolidated sand is not expected to create any significant

ground vibrations. However, vibration monitoring will be taken up in plant premises for

record and subsequent reviews. The noise levels of equipments would be kept at

minimum by timely and better maintenance of machines.

8.5 Water Pollution Control Measures

Ground water out pumping during mining operations is completely avoided in IREL,

MK.

Mining in inland areas carried out deploying dredging without pumping out the water

from the area and the hydrocyclone overflow water is put back to dredge pond after



dewatering activity. There is no net drawal of water from the dredge pond and hence

no affect on ground water table.

The valliyar river water is pumped for BWP and MSP for industrial purpose and most

of the same is recycled.

Dredging operations near the water bodies are carried out by maintaining a safe

distance.

The fresh water gradient towards the mining areas is maintained by close monitoring

of the water table.

The rain water collected around the mineral separation plant is collected in a rain

harvesting pond for recharging the water table.



8.6 Land Degradation control Measures

There is no land degradation due to mining operations. The beach sand mining area

covers about 9.5 Ha of the mine lease area. This area is continuously replenished by the

tidal activities and the original topography is maintained naturally. In order to carry out

restoration of the inland mined out area, the mined areas are backfilled to near original

shape and planted with saplings after improving the fertility of the land in an effective

manner so that plant colonization can be faster, compared to time consuming natural

process. Thus, the impacts on beach profile and eco-system may not have adverse

impact. As the plant species present on the near shore areas are highly resilient and

pioneer species, their rehabilitation is safe and fast. The reclamation plan of the mine

lease area is given in Table 8.1 and the post mine land use plan of the mine lease area is

given in Table 8.2.

Table 8.1: Reclamation Plan of the Mine Lease Area (Area in Ha)

S. No Land use Category Present

Plan Period (

after 5 years)

Conceptual

stage

1 Top soil dump 0 0 0

2 Waste dump (Over Burden/Spoil) 0 0 0

3 Minedout area ( excavations ) 47.5150 67.5150 99.1119

4 Backfilling area 45.5150 65.5150 99.1119

5 Guest House & Roads* 3.4050 3.4050 0.5000

6 Sub-grade Minerals stock yard 6.0000 6.0000 -

7 Built up area (including MSP) 32.1150 32.1150 32.1150

8 Plantation area ( Afforestation) 28.0000 43.0000 95.0000

9 Beach Poromboke Area 9.5000 9.5000 9.5000

10 Active inland mining area 3.0000 3.0000 0.0000

11 Unmined Area 48.6919 28.6919 0.0000

Total 141.2269 141.2269 141.2269

*Guest house area may be mined or left unmined depending on the land availability during conceptual stage



Table 8.2: Post Mining Land Use Plan of the Mine Lease Area (Area in ha) at the conceptual stage

S. No Land use Category Plantation Water body

Public use

Un -disturbed Total

1 Backfilled area 95.0000 0 0.1119 4.0000 99.1119

2 Overburden dumps 0 0 0 0 0

3 Infrastructure 0 0 0 0 0

4 Road 0 0 0.5000 0 0.5000

5 Unmined area 0 0 0 0 0

6 Village built up area 0 0 0 19.8100 19.8100

7 MSP 0 0 0 12.3050 12.3050

8 Beach poromboke 0 0 0 9.5000 9.5

Total 95.0000 0.0 0.6119 45.6150 141.2269

8.7 Plantation Programme

Casuarina and coconut plantation has been carried out after backfilling the inland

dredged / mined out areas. Usually this is done before the onset of monsoon. Every year

about 15,000 saplings are proposed to be planted in the backfilled areas. More than

65,000 trees have been planted till date over the backfilled areas, MSP surrounding area,

guest house area etc. with a survival rate of more than 90%. Plantation will be carried out

in phased manner over all the backfilled areas. A nursery is developed by IREL, MK

outside the mine lease area in company owned land for supplying saplings to the mines

for plantation. IREL,MK also planted about 50,000 trees outside the ML area just at the

periphery to develop greenery in the locality. The proposed phase wise plantation

programme within the mine lease area is given in Table 8.3.

Table 8.3: Progressive Green belt /Plantation development Programme within the

Mine Lease Area over the backfilled areas (Area in Ha)

Sl. No. Year

Plantation area Cummulative

Area ( in Ha) Trees (nos) Area ( in Ha)

Trees (nos)

1 Plantation till date 28.00 65000 28.00 65000

2 1 3.00 15000 31.00 80000

3 2 3.00 15000 34.00 95000

4 3 3.00 15000 37.00 110000

5 4 3.00 15000 40.00 125000

6 5 3.00 15000 43.00 140000

7 Post Mining (5 yrs) 43.00 140000

Total (Conceptual) 95.00 400000 95.00 400000

Following factors will be taken into account while selecting species for future plantation:

Fast growing plant species will be preferred.

The plant will be of deep rooting system



The plant will be perennially green to improve the aesthetic beauty of the area.

The plant species will be adoptable to the local climatic condition.

Native plant species will be planted.

8.8 Solid Waste Management

Due to non availability of overburden and spoil, no solid waste is generated during mining

operations. The raw sand containing heavy minerals are transported to Beach washing

plant located within the ML area where the heavy minerals content is upgraded using

series of spiral gravity separators. The lighter reject silica sands mostly consisting of

quartz are transported back and filled in the mined out area and leveled. The refilling of

the mined out areas is simultaneously carriedout along with the mining activity and hence

there is no need to stack waste sand separately.

Sludge from the Sewage treatment plant is used for plantation. Canteen waste is used for

bio-gas generation and waste from bio-gas plant is used as manure for plantation. The

Monazite rich fraction from MSP is disposed in the underground trenches as per the

guidelines of AERB. Removal of monazite from the deposit and backfilling with radiation

free BWP tailings significantly reduces the background radiation in the locality.

8.9 Hazard Control

Mining is being carried out strictly as per MMR 1961. Used waste oil generated during

plant operations ( used transformer oil, Engine oil, Hydraulic oil etc) is handed over to

authorized vendors of State Pollution Control Board. The mining operations are carried

out as per DGMS permissions on Reg. 160(2)(b) of MMR 1961.

8.10 Radioactivity Control

The background radiation over the deposit is about 1 to 4 Sv/ hr in 141.2269 hects..

Since the minerals in the mine lease area are found in its natural state, no radioactivity

impact is anticipated on villagers involved in the collection of the beach mineral sand.

Also, the villager society members collect the sand only for 2 hours a day and are not

exposed to high concentrations of the mineral. However, in order to ascertain the

dosage of radiation received by the employees during work in Beach Washing Plant &

Mineral Separation Plant, they are provided with TLD badges. Monazite pits are

protected with fencing and access to these areas are prohibited. Radiation symbols are

displayed in MSP to avoid prolonged stay in those areas.




the dosages of radiation received by each employee. Based on the monitoring done it will

be ensured that the radiation doses received by each employee are within the permissible

limit set by the statutory authorities. The monitoring of radiation prone areas are being out


receives excess doses of radiation.

The monitoring of radiation prone areas are being carried out as per the guidelines issued

by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board so that no person receives excess doses of

radiation.

TLD badges are issued to the persons in order to measure dose limits. Health Physics

Unit of BARC strictly monitors the radiation levels in the working areas. A radiological

safety officer employed by BARC conducts the radiation survey at IREL Manavalakuruchi.

(copy of radiation survey reports are enclosed).




vocational training as the Mines VT Rules 1966 prior to commencement of work.

Medical insurance policy is covered for the members engaged in the mining of

beach sands from ML area.



Traffic signals, speed breakers etc. are provided over the haul roads.



Audio Visual Reverse Alarm is mandatory for all the vehicles and loaders

deployed in the mining area.

Life jackets are provided to the persons engaged in dredging operations.

Lifebuoys are provided on the floating pontoons.

In BWP and MSP:


Function tests, Spirometry etc.


Programs are conducted once in six months



health check ups






program

Organization policy development for decreasing Tobacco, Alcohol etc.







and other relevant issues.

Initial medical examinations and periodical medical examination of the persons

employed is carriedout on regular basis. The medical documents are maintained

in the mines and the returns are submitted to regulatory authorities.





Monazite pits are fenced and unauthorized access is prevented

Health monitoring of classified & unclassified workers is carriedout as per the

guidelines of AERB and DGMS

Safety is promoted through pit safety committee involving workmen participation.

8.11 Tailing Dam Management

Beach Washing Plant tailings are simultaneously transported to the inland mined out

areas for back filling. Hence, there is no separate tailing pond for storage of tailings is

required to be maintained.

8.12 Budget Provision for EMP

The mine and mineral separation plant are already in operation. Hence, most of the

environmental protection measures are implemented. The Budget for implementation of

Environmental Management Plan is given in the Table 8.4.

Table 8.4: Budget for Environmental Protection (Rs. in Lakh)

Activity Capital Cost Annual Recurring Cost

Pollution Control

(includes stacks, dust filters, Chinmey, shaft

dryers, Bio-gas etc. at MSP)

500 10

Environmental Monitoring 30 20


Backfilling and Plantation -- 300

Total 580 350



Gross Fixed Assets(GFA) of 141.2269 Hects ML area during 2010-11 :-

Land Value =Rs. 515 Lakhs (approx.)

Beneficiation Plant(MSP & BWP) =Rs. 4507 Lakhs ( approx.)

Total GFA is about : Rs. 5022 Lakhs.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that there would be minimum impact due to proposed mining activity.

However, overall, there will be positive impact through contribution towards employment,

socio-economic development, strengthening of infrastructural facilities like medical,

educational etc. Mining will be carried out keeping “Sustainable Development” of the

region in mind.


M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd., Hyderabad. 87

CHAPTER 9

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

9.1 Introduction

Indian Rare Earths Ltd. (IREL), A Govt. of India Undertaking under the administrative

control of Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is engaged in mining and processing of

beach sand minerals like Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sillimanite and

chemical processing of some of these minerals. IREL is having 3 mining units located in

Orissa, Tamilnadu and Kerala and one Chemical unit at Alwaye, Kerala. IREL intends to

renew the mine lease for the production of 1.0 MTPA of beach mineral sand along with a

mineral separation plant with a throughput capacity of 200 tonnes/hr to Beach Washing

Plant to produce 114600 TPA of total finished products (Ilmenite- 91200 TPA, Rutile-3000

TPA, Zircon-7800 TPA, Monozite-5400 TPA and Garnet-7200 TPA). The extent of area is

141.2269 hectares with survey numbers Manavalakurichi-100 to 105,109,111,377 to

380,384 to 392,396 to404, 410,411,650 to 654; Lakshmipuram- 867/1 to 5, 868/1 &2 and

878/1 to 4, Colachal Ward- D1 -3 to 23 (21 part), 31 part and beach poromboke areas.

The survey number detail and the Survey number -subdivisions along with classification

details of 141.2269 hects ( downloaded from www.tnreginet.com) are enclosed in the

EIA/EMP document.

Salient Features of the Project

Details of The Area



Villages Manavalakurichi

Total Mine Lease Area 141.2269 ha.

Ownership of the land Private Patta/Poromboke/IREL own land

Type of land Uncultivable sandy stretches of beach sand with

coconut and casuarinas plantations.

Latitude N 8°8’14” to 8° 10’ 31” N Longitude E 77° 15’ 50” to 77° 18’ 16” E


Elevation 3-12m

Toposheet No. 58 H/8/NW




Annual Rainfall 796.9 mm

Wind Pattern during study

Period (summer 2011)

Northwest




Accessibility

Road Connectivity

State Highway SH-179 (0.5 km) from Mineral

Separation Pant

National Highway NH-47 (14 km) from Mineral

Separation Plant


Airport Trivandrum/Thiruvanathapuram (65 km)


ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVE AREAS:-

Water Bodies Valliyar River is 1.0 km away from Mineral Separation

Plant (IREL, MK) and passes towards East.

Sea Arabian Sea is adjacent to mining lease area (South-

West direction)

Archaeological/Historical/Ancient

Monuments

None within 10 km radius of Mining Lease Boundary

Forest None within 10 km radius of Mining Lease Boundary

Sanctuaries/National Parks None within the km radius of Mining Lease Boundary

CRZ ML area falls under CRZ


9.2 Project Description

Topography & Drainage pattern

The present Manavalakurichi deposit occupies a relatively plain area, with very few

elevated areas and devoid of forest land. The general flow of the sub-terrain rock is

towards the sea. The average ground elevation of the inland deposit varies from 3-12m

above MSL. The hinter land area is drained by Valliyar River which flows along the

Eastern boundary of the mining. It confluences with Arabian Sea near South Eastern

corner of mining area.

Geology

The deposit is covered by sedimentary formation comprising coastal alluvium, beach

sand and sandy clay of recent period. This is underlain by the crystalline rock of the

Archean age. The rock type is Granitiferous Granitic Gneisses. Rock exposures are found

in the sea shore and it’s trend being east west and dipping at 75° North.

Reserves and Anticipated life of the mine

Beach Deposit: Based on past records it can be expected that barring unforeseen

situations about 5.00 lakhs MT of raw sand of 10-12% HM will be available for mining per

year considering beach areas within the lease hold area.

Inland deposit: Total balance mineable reserves in the inland deposits in the mine lease

area are estimated to be 59.72 Lakh tones as on 2005-06.



Proposed production and Life of Mine: The proposed maximum rate of production

would be 1.0 million tonnes / annum. The life of the replenish able deposits can not be

predicted as they re-occur regularly with tidal actions. However, considering the

availability of raw sand in the inland areas of 141.2269 Ha ML area, the anticipated life of

present inland reserves will be around 20 years.

Method of Mining

Replenishable Beach Deposits: The top layer of beach washings deposited along the

beaches as a result of wave and tidal currents is scrapped up to a depth of 0.2 to 0.3m

and collected manually by deploying local village societies and the heaped raw mineral

sand is transported to Beach Washing Plant (BWP) utilizing 1.5m3 front end loaders and

10/15 MT tipper combination.

Non Replinishable Inland Deposits: In these deposits, two types of mining are adopted.


b) Wet Mining – Dredging.

Table: Year wise production for the first five years (Quantity in Tonnes)


1 Inland Deposits. 1,00,000 2,00,000 2,00,000

to

3,00,000

5,00,000

to

7,00,000

5,00,000

to

8,00,000

2 Beach Washings 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000

Source : Approved Mining Plan

Mineral Beneficiation

Beach Washing Plant / Heavies Upgradation Plant : The dry raw sand containing

around 10-12% heavy minerals mined in the beaches is transported in tippers to plant

area and is directly fed to beach washing plant (BWP) along with other raw sand mined

from other mining lease areas. About 26 TPH of 90%HM grade intermediate concentrate

obtained from BWP is fed to Heavies upgradation plant (HUP). In HUP, 90% HM grade is

upgraded to 97% HM using series of spiral gravity separators and floatex density

separator.

Mineral Separation Plant: About 420 MT of 97% HM -HUP output is fed to the mineral

separation plant per day and about 285 MT of minerals are produced as final products.

The 135 MT of unrecovered material consists of Monazite-Garnet rich and Sillimanite

rich fractions which are stock piled for future use and recovery.



Water Requirement

No external water is required mining activities. However for MSP & HUP operations,

industrial water requirement is about 11,829 cum/day, of which, 8265cum/day is recycled

and reused and 3564 cum/day is lost in seepages and the make up water is pumped from

Valliyar river. Drinking water requirement for the Administrative Office and utilities is about

25cum/day.

Employment potential

The direct employment of IREL, Manavalakurichi is 373 (73 management & supervisory

staff and 300 workmen). Apart from this, 800 local fisherman village society members of

Periavilai and Puthoor villages are working in the mines for the collection of beach

washings and about 77 ransport contract persons for transportation activities in the

mines.

9.3 Description of the Environment

Study of the existing environment was carried out in an area of 10 km radius from the

mine lease boundary during Pre-Monsoon 2011 (March – May 2011). Predominant wind

direction during study period was from northwest.

Wind Rose Diagram

Air Environment

Baseline Ambient Air Quality was monitored at 10 locations, 2 in core zone and 8 in buffer

zone. The summary of air quality is as follows:

Summary of Ambient Air Quality (maximum values) units: µg/m3


1 Mine lease area 53.8 13.1 17.2 0.80


3 Kovitamvilai 46.2 12.0 13.8 0.72




4 Kuttumangalam 46.2 13.3 15.0 0.73

5 Naduvukura 49.1 12.1 13.9 0.74

6 Colachel 48.4 12.3 13.2 0.76

7 Muttemtura 47.1 13.3 15.2 0.66

8 Mandakad 44.8 11.3 13.1 0.72


10 Kadiapattinam 43.2 12.3 14.0 0.78

The ambient air quality at all the monitoring locations was observed to be within the

permissible limits as per National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Noise Environment

Noise Levels During Study Period [units: dB(A)]

N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10

Min 42.8 43.9 40.1 40.6 41.1 40.3 40.5 41.3 40.7 41.8

Max 57.2 57.8 53.9 54.0 54.9 55.3 55.2 56.6 55.1 56.1

Ld 53.5 54.4 50.4 50.9 51.6 51.2 51.6 52.1 51.3 52.4

Ln 43.2 45.6 40.5 41.2 41.5 42.6 41.5 43.6 41.2 43.4

It is observed that the ambient noise levels recorded were well within the prescribed

Ambient Noise Level Standards.

Water Environment

Eleven ground water samples and six surface water samples were collected and

analyzed the water quality in study area. Physico chemical analysis of water shows that

the water quality is within the prescribed drinking water IS 10500 standards except for the

sea water samples.

Soil Quality

Soil samples were collected from 10 locations from the core and buffer zone to evaluate

the soil quality in the study area. All the samples are showing sandy and moderately

fertile nature.

Biological Environment

The mitigation measures for air, water and solid waste management will be strictly

followed as a result of that, there would not be any significant impact on biodiversity in the

10 km study area.

Socio-Economic Environment

The study area has 20 revenue villages with a population of 265539. SC & ST population

comprise of 11092 and 184 of the total population respectively. The literates are 207081

in the project study area. The area is marked with reasonable good literacy rate with

basic facilities for education, health, roads, transportation and communication etc.



9.4 Anticipated Environmental Impacts & Mitigation Measures

Air Environment

Since the mine lease area is adjacent to another mine lease area (7.06 Ha) and the other

two mine lease areas (Total 44.6212 Ha), cumulative impact assessment has been

carried out for the air quality due to emissions from the three mines and the mineral

separation plant.

Predicted Ground Level Concentrations

Season Year Maximum Incremental Concentrations (g/m3)

PM SO2 NOx

Pre-monsoon season

(March, April & May) 2011 12.22807 12.00 9.56

Since most of the mines and MSP/BWP are already in operation, the existing emissions

are already covered in existing ambient air quality monitoring results. Hence, the impact

on the ambient air quality will be negligible.

Mitigation Measures & Management Plan

Haul roads are periodically wetted to suppress dust

Green belt development


Asphalting of approach roads

No drilling and blasting is required

Machinery deployed for mining is strictly monitored for emission levels

Casuarina saplings are planted immediately after refilling the dredged out area.

Noise Pollution Control


plying of vehicles during transportation of sand to the plant. The noise levels are within

the permissible limits; in all the existing operations ear plugs/ear muffs are supplied to the

employees to protect them from high noise level. Regular monitoring of noise levels are

conducted and recorded.

Water Environment

Impact on Water Regime

The mining activity is likely to encounter the ground water table at some places in the

mine lease area.

Impact on Surface Water

During the monsoon rain water flows through the small streamlets formed along the

slopes of the area. There is possibility of transportation of sand silt and sediments from

the mine face into surface water bodies.



Impact on Ground Water

Mining operations do not require any external source of water supply. During dredging

operations , there is no net drawl of water from the pond and hence there is no impact on

ground water.. The pumping of Valliyar River water during summer months is carried out

with much care so that there is no adverse impact.

Water Pollution Control Measures & Management Plan

Mining operations are carried out near the water bodies by maintaining a safe

distance.

The dredging methods do not require any external source of water .There is no net

drawl of water from the dredge pond during mining activity. No chemicals are used

during mining activity. Hence no impact on ground water table.

The fresh water gradient towards the mining areas is maintained by close monitoring

of the water table.

The rain water collected around the mineral separation plant is drained inside the

harvesting pond and utilized for ground water surging.



Waste Management

Mining operations do not generate any solid waste as the deposit is devoid of top soil as

well as overburden. The mineralization occurs right from the surface of the deposit. The

raw sand containing heavy minerals are transported to Beach Washing Plant located

within the ML area where the heavy minerals are upgraded using spiral gravity

separators. The lighter reject silica sand from BWP is transported back and refilled in the

already mined out inland area and leveled. The refilling of the mined out areas were taken

up simultaneously along with the mining activity. Plantation is carried out over the

backfilled areas to develop greenery in the locality.

Solid Waste Management

The mineral deposit is devoid of overburden and topsoil. Hence there is no spoil or solid

waste is generated due to mining activity. The tailings generated from Beach Washing

Plant mainly consisting of quartz are used as backfilling material in the mined out area. A

quantity of 8.9 to 9 lakh tons of tailings per annum handled out of 10 lakh tons of

minedout mineral sand and utilized for backfilling activities. Under no circumstances,

tailings are dumped in active agriculture areas, flowing nalahs, paddy fields etc. during

backfilling operations.

Hazard Control

Mining is carried-out as per Metaliferous Mines Regulations- 1961. Spent oil generated

during MSP operations (transformer oil, Engine oil waste etc) are recycled through

authorized vendors of Tamilnadu Pollution Control Board. The persons employed in the

mining and transportation operations is imparted with the Mines Vocational Training as

well as personal protective devices for safety.



The persons employed in dredging operations are provided with life-jackets. The floating

pontoon is provided with 6 - 7 lifebuoys towards safety during operations. Vocational

training is imparted to the persons employed in dredging activity. Inland mining activities

are undertaken as per the permissions granted by DGMS under regulation 106 (2) (b) of

MMR.

Radioactivity Control

The background radiation over the deposit is about 1 to 4 Sv/ hr in 141.2269 hects..

Since the minerals in the mine lease area are found in its natural state, no radioactivity

impact is anticipated on villagers involved in the collection of the beach mineral sand.

Also, the villager society members collect the sand only for 2 hours a day and are not

exposed to high concentrations of the mineral. However, in order to ascertain the

dosage of radiation received by the employees during work in Beach Washing Plant &

Mineral Separation Plant, they are provided with TLD badges. Monazite pits are

protected with fencing and access to these areas are prohibited. Radiation symbols are

displayed in MSP to avoid prolonged stay in those areas.


the dosages of radiation received by each employee. Based on the monitoring done it will

be ensured that the radiation doses received by each employee are within the permissible

limit set by the statutory authorities. The monitoring of radiation prone areas are being out


receives excess doses of radiation.

The monitoring of radiation prone areas are being carried out as per the guidelines issued

by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board so that no person receives excess doses of

radiation.

Health Physics Department of BARC conducts the radiation survey in and around mining

areas and generates the reports. TLD badges are issued to the persons in order to

measure dose limits. Health Physics Unit of BARC strictly monitors the radiation levels in

the working areas. A radiological safety officer employed by BARC conducts the radiation

survey at IREL Manavalakuruchi. (copy of radiation survey reports are enclosed).

Plantation Programme

Casuarina as well as coconut saplings are planted after refilling the mined / dredged out

areas. Usually this is done before the onset of monsoon. Casuarina (Casuarinas

equisatifolia) seedlings are raised in two stages. The seedlings are raised in the primary

nursery and then transplanted and maintained in the secondary nursery.






vocational training as the Mines VT Rules 1966 prior to commencement of work.

Medical insurance policy is covered for the members engaged in the mining of

beach sands from ML area.



Traffic signals, speed breakers etc. are provided over the haul roads.



Audio Visual Reverse Alarm is mandatory for all the vehicles and loaders

deployed in the mining area.

Life jackets are provided to the persons engaged in dredging operations.

Lifebuoys are provided on the floating pontoons.

In BWP and MSP:


Function tests, Spirometry etc.


Programs are conducted once in six months



health check ups




program

Organization policy development for decreasing Tobacco, Alcohol etc.







and other relevant issues.

Initial medical examinations and periodical medical examination of the persons

employed is carriedout on regular basis. The medical documents are maintained

in the mines and the returns are submitted to regulatory authorities.





Monazite pits are fenced and unauthorized access is prevented



Health monitoring of classified & unclassified workers is carriedout as per the

guidelines of AERB and DGMS

Safety is promoted through pit safety committee involving workmen participation.


Table: Summary of Monitoring Programme

S.No Subject of

study Specific Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

1 Ambient Air


24 hourly samples twice a week

for 12 weeks in a season except

monsoon

2 Meteorology

Surface: Wind Speed and

direction, temperature,

relative humidity and

rainfall


3 Water Quality Physical, Chemical and

Bacteriological Parameters

Once in a season for all four

seasons (surface as well as

ground water quality)

4 Ecology Existing Flora and Fauna Once in a year.



6 Soil

Characteristics


agricultural and

afforestation potential

Twice during a year

7 Land Use Trend of land use change

for different categories

Data from various government

agencies

8

Socio-

economic

aspects

Socio economic

development measures

Once in two years and depending

on the need the frequency may

increase or decrease

9.6 Additional Studies


involved with various jobs. The risk assessment for the mine and mineral separation plant

has been carried out and accordingly a Disaster Management Plan has been chalked out.

The risks due to inundation, radioactivity, land slide, surface fire, dust from loading and

transportation, noise, loading, operation of heavy vehicles, etc were identified and

corrective measures are suggested.

IREL engaged Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai and prepared the

CRZ maps as per CRZ notification-2011. (copies of CRZ Reports and Maps of 141.2269

ha are enclosed).

IREL engaged National Institute of Oceanography (NIO, Kochi) and conducted scientific

study on near shore sediment transport control mechanism in Manavalakurichi and



Midalam beach areas during the year 2011-12. The reports of NIO reveals that there is no

significant shoreline change from Muttam to Midalam area for the last 37 years.

9.7 Project Benefits

Corporate Social Responsibility and other Welfare Activities

One acre land handed over to Tamil Nadu Govt. for building houses for the

fishermen of Chinnavilai village (Tsunami housing)


Aids to local schools for building classrooms, compound walls, furniture, books,

uniforms etc.


Providing drinking water facilities including provision of pipelines, constructing OH

water tanks etc.

Laying black top roads in the villages connecting to WCR to improve the

communication facilities

Promoting and conducting livelihood training programmes among the local

villagers to improve their living standards


provided.


Allocation of village development funds for 7 villages @ Rs.14,00,000/- per annum





Promotes job opportunities to the local villagers in addition to their traditional

fishing activities enhancing their living standards

The following are the CSR activities undertaken for the benefit of local inhabitants in and around the mining areas (7 villages)

Table: CSR Activities undertaken (Amount in Rs.)


School development

(furniture, table, books

etc.) in the villages within

and surrounding mining

lease areas

1,36,500 1,48,250 12,04,000 5,14,050 2,04,561 3,15,051

Village development

(roads, primary health

centre, annual day etc.)

29,225 25,000 25,000 5,70,900 74,736 34,900


Drinking water 18,840 - 7,47,367 - 25,000







Total 16,04,565 15,23,250 38,14,167 30,04,950 21,29,289 21,03,351

9.8 Environmental Management Plan

The Environment Management Plan (EMP) is prepared for the mine and the mineral

separation plan to ensure sustainable development in the study area. It includes covers

the existing and proposed measures required for meeting the prevailing statutory

requirements of air emissions, waste water discharge characteristics, noise levels etc. for

environmental management purpose in connection with the mining and mining related

activities in the study area.

Table: Budget for Environmental Protection (Rs: Lakhs)

Capital Cost Annual Recurring Cost

Pollution Control(includes

stacks, dust filters, STP, etc. at

MSP)

500 10

Pollution Monitoring 30 20


Backfilling/Plantation -- 300

Total 580 350

Gross Fixed assets of 141.2269 Hects ML area;

Land Value =515.17 lakhs

Beneficiation Plant(MSP & BWP) =4507 Lakhs

9.9 Conclusion

It can be concluded that there would be a marginal impact due to proposed mining

activity. However, overall, there will be positive impact through contribution towards

employment, socio-economic development, strengthening of infrastructural facilities like

medical, educational etc. Mining will be carried out keeping “Sustainable Development” of the region in mind.



Chapter – 10

Disclosure of Consultants Engaged

Name of the Consultants:

M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Limited

8-2-248/5/A/42, Venkateswara Hills Colony

Road No. 3, Banjara Hills

Hyderabad – 500 034.

Telephone – 040 - 23356908, 23348689

Fax – 040 – 23356909

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.bhagavathianalabs.com

Bhagavathi Ana Labs Limited is a professional services company providing

Environmental Consultancy, Environmental Engineering, Analytical and Quality testing,

Water Resource studies, Technical Training and Enviro legal services. Since inception in

1984, the company has completed number of projects spread all over India. The

company has qualified and experienced staff of more than 100 people operating across

seven offices in India. The Professionals and Technicians include Environmental

Engineers, Environmental Scientists, Environmental Planners, Chemists, Mining

Engineers, Geologists, Hydro-geologists, Economic and Social Science specialists etc.

Bhagavathi Ana Labs Limited is an ISO 9001-2000 Company and is accredited by:

Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Govt. of India, New Delhi

National Accreditation Board for Education & Training (NABET)

Registered EIA Consultants Organisation, Quality Council of India, Reg No:

NABET/EIA/1013/001.

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) as

per ISO/IEC 17025:2005

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), New Delhi

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.bhagavathianalabs.com/



Annexure – I Yearwise production details for Beach Sand Mine (141.2269 Ha), Manavalakurichi

Year Production (ROM)

1984 – 85 125681

1985 – 86 202787

1986 – 87 206087

1987 – 88 417233

1988 – 89 322124

1989 – 90 286828

1990 – 91 277823

1991 – 92 523436

1992 – 93 417697

1993 – 94 336267

After EIA Notification 1994

1994 – 95 399919

1995 – 96 503003

1996 – 97 530189

1997 – 98 663419

1998 – 99 652638

1999 – 2000 835574

2000 – 2001 746488

2001 – 2002 516746

2002 – 2003 325099

2003 – 2004 256161

2004 – 2005 123192

2005 – 2006 260358

2006 – 2007 469547

2007 – 2008 538472

2008 – 2009 665425

2009 – 2010 827671

2010 – 2011 656198

2011 – 2012 712111

2012 – 2013 675422

Note: Maximum production in a year is marked in bold figures

Annexure – IA Year-wise production details from 1970-71 to 1993-94 for Mineral Separation Plant

Year Ilmenite Rutile Zircon Monazite Garnet Total

1970 – 71 63568 1564 5619 3470 -- 74221

1971 – 72 62769 1679 5358 4045 351 74202

1972 – 73 51112 1178 3913 2799 2205 61207

1973 – 74 53845 1628 5232 3624 2059 66388

1974 – 75 66472 1938 5705 4088 3034 81237

1975 – 76 64212 1704 4637 3693 1375 75621

1976 – 77 61112 1924 4454 2682 -- 70172

1977 – 78 59510 1962 4321 2709 1761 70263

1978 – 79 51839 1294 3627 2945 1826 61531

1979 – 80 53298 1588 4193 2948 5098 67125

1980 – 81 63950 1558 5719 4076 2089 77392

1981 – 82 73578 1501 4779 3955 4115 87928

1982 – 83 63691 1285 4098 3185 3599 75858

1983 – 84 55837 1149 3867 2986 2960 66799

1984 – 85 63435 1517 4705 3785 4590 78032

1985 – 86 66405 1541 4756 4021 5296 82019

1986 – 87 67062 1416 4110 3288 6195 82071

1987 – 88 62627 1398 4451 3533 4617 76626

1988 – 89 73628 1965 6283 5133 4156 91165

1989 – 90 73961 1823 6628 4783 5223 92418

1990 – 91 73456 1808 5688 4882 2072 87906

1991 – 92 82002 2249 6204 4813 1079 96347

1992 – 93 76665 1749 5114 4790 2109 90427

1993 – 94 67283 1406 4435 5320 2490 80934

Yearwise production details from 1994-95 to 2012-13 for Mineral Separation Plant

Year Ilmenite Rutile Zircon Monazite Garnet Total

1994 – 95 68284 1443 5061 5769 1448 82005

1995 – 96 70501 1962 5286 3761 2662 84172

1996 – 97 66318 1572 4207 2525 4088 78710

1997 – 98 71291 1596 4274 2295 3238 82694

1998 – 99 74035 1943 4200 2010 3679 85867

1999 – 2000 76354 2616 4765 1654 9139 94528

2000 – 2001 91035 3477 7513 2717 8943 113685

2001 – 2002 97974 3595 7903 3156 9045 121673

2002 – 2003 101176 3153 7993 3358 8952 124632

2003 – 2004 100131 3657 7609 1459 9962 122818

2004 – 2005 93578 3500 9270 0 13219 119567

2005 – 2006 103027 4129 10311 0 14109 131576

2006 – 2007 96551 3694 9180 0 14949 124374

2007 – 2008 89355 3577 8404 0 14724 116060

2008 – 2009 69681 2368 5183 0 14527 91759

2009 – 2010 55542 1833 4527 0 13358 75260

2010 – 2011 43222 1628 3542 0 14909 63301

2011 – 2012 35009 1539 31820 0 11797 51527

2012 – 2013 33260 1381 2688 0 10240 47569

Note: Maximum production in a year is given in Bold figures.

ANNEXURE - II

ANNEXURE - III(A)

Beach Sand Mineral Mine (141 Ha) Annexure IV

S.No. Month Week Day PM10 CO

μg/m3 06 - 14 hrs 14 - 22 hrs 22 - 06 hrs 24 hrs Average 06 - 14 hrs 14 - 22 hrs 22 - 06 hrs 24 hrs Average mg/m3

1 03-01-2011 20.0 7.8 8.3 7.4 7.8 10.3 10.2 8.8 9.8 0.66

2 03-02-2011 24.8 9.9 10.3 9.8 10.0 13.1 13.3 11.9 12.8 0.74

3 03-08-2011 23.6 9.4 10.2 9.0 9.5 12.6 12.7 11.9 12.4 0.7

4 03-09-2011 41.6 11.8 12.2 11.3 11.8 13.3 14.1 13.1 13.5 0.75

5 15/3/2011 39.2 11.1 11.0 10.3 10.8 12.5 12.9 12.1 12.5 0.78

6 16/3/2011 33.2 9.6 9.6 8.9 9.3 12.8 13.0 11.7 12.5 0.77

7 22/3/2011 35.2 10.1 10.5 9.6 10.1 13.4 13.7 12.3 13.1 0.72

8 23/3/2011 43.9 9.7 9.9 8.9 9.5 12.9 12.9 12.1 12.6 0.68

1 04-05-2011 21.6 6.2 6.5 5.6 6.1 8.3 8.6 7.0 8.0 0.74

2 04-06-2011 26.7 7.6 7.9 6.9 7.4 10.1 10.0 8.9 9.6 0.71

3 04-12-2011 28.0 7.8 8.4 7.4 7.9 10.3 10.2 9.1 9.9 0.78

4 13/4/2011 48.9 10.7 10.6 9.9 10.4 14.2 14.4 13.4 14.0 0.66

5 19/4/2011 40.2 11.5 12.1 10.8 11.5 15.3 15.4 13.8 14.8 0.69

6 20/4/2011 38.0 10.8 11.2 10.4 10.8 14.4 15.0 14.0 14.5 0.65

7 26/4/2011 44.9 12.6 12.5 12.4 12.5 16.8 17.5 16.5 16.9 0.77

8 27/4/2011 46.4 13.3 13.3 12.5 13.1 17.7 17.7 16.2 17.2 0.75

1 05-03-2011 29.0 6.4 7.2 6.2 6.6 8.5 8.5 6.9 7.9 0.76

2 05-04-2011 36.1 7.9 8.1 7.9 8.0 10.6 11.2 9.6 10.4 0.73

3 05-10-2011 32.2 7.2 7.4 6.9 7.2 9.6 10.3 8.9 9.6 0.8

4 05-11-2011 46.6 10.3 10.3 10.2 10.2 13.7 14.3 12.9 13.6 0.65

5 17/5/2011 53.8 11.9 12.2 11.8 11.9 15.8 16.5 15.1 15.8 0.62

6 18/5/2011 43.3 9.7 9.8 8.9 9.5 12.9 13.5 12.3 12.9 0.63

7 24/5/2011 45.4 10.0 10.7 9.4 10.0 13.3 13.8 12.2 13.1 0.79

8 25/5/2011 47.5 10.5 10.9 10.4 10.6 14.0 14.0 12.3 13.4 0.62

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 20.0 6.1 7.9 0.62

Max 53.8 13.1 17.2 0.80

Average 37.1 9.7 12.5 0.71

98th percentile 51.5 12.8 17.1 0.80

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

AAQ1- Mine lease area

SO2 (μg/m3) NOx (μg/m3

)

1 of 10




1 03-01-2011 18.9 9.6 9.4 9.1 9.4 12.8 13.3 12.0 12.7 0.62

2 03-02-2011 24.7 10.1 10.9 10.0 10.3 13.5 13.9 12.4 13.3 0.77

3 03-08-2011 20.5 7.9 8.5 7.6 8.0 8.9 8.9 7.8 8.5 0.61

4 03-09-2011 34.5 9.7 10.0 9.0 9.6 11.0 11.7 10.2 11.0 0.78

5 15/3/2011 38.6 11.1 11.6 10.7 11.1 12.5 12.9 11.6 12.4 0.63

6 16/3/2011 30.4 8.5 9.1 8.3 8.6 11.3 12.1 11.2 11.5 0.65

7 22/3/2011 32.2 9.5 9.5 9.3 9.4 12.6 13.0 11.9 12.5 0.50

8 23/3/2011 39.0 11.1 11.1 10.5 10.9 14.8 14.7 13.1 14.2 0.79

1 04-05-2011 25.1 10.1 10.8 9.9 10.3 11.4 11.8 10.9 11.4 0.66

2 04-06-2011 28.9 11.6 11.7 11.1 11.5 13.1 13.5 11.9 12.8 0.43

3 04-12-2011 14.0 9.0 9.3 9.1 9.2 10.2 11.0 10.1 10.4 0.46

4 13/4/2011 37.3 10.6 11.0 10.0 10.6 12.0 11.9 11.0 11.7 0.72

5 19/4/2011 44.1 12.5 12.4 12.2 12.4 14.1 14.3 12.6 13.7 0.80

6 20/4/2011 34.0 9.8 10.1 9.0 9.6 13.1 13.1 11.5 12.6 0.83

7 26/4/2011 38.9 11.1 11.8 10.5 11.1 12.5 12.5 11.3 12.1 0.69

8 27/4/2011 32.1 9.3 9.3 8.4 9.0 10.5 11.2 10.3 10.7 0.58

1 05-03-2011 24.8 9.9 10.0 9.5 9.8 13.1 13.8 12.3 13.1 0.64

2 05-04-2011 24.9 10.3 11.0 10.0 10.4 11.6 12.0 11.0 11.5 0.66

3 05-10-2011 19.3 13.0 13.7 12.3 13.0 14.7 15.0 14.3 14.7 0.53

4 05-11-2011 38.8 11.1 11.8 10.7 11.2 12.5 12.9 11.6 12.4 0.63

5 17/5/2011 51.2 11.3 11.7 10.4 11.1 12.7 13.5 12.7 13.0 0.65

6 18/5/2011 40.8 11.7 12.0 11.0 11.6 13.2 13.6 12.5 13.1 0.62

7 24/5/2011 42.7 9.5 9.5 8.7 9.2 12.6 12.6 11.2 12.2 0.69

8 25/5/2011 33.6 13.6 13.8 13.2 13.6 18.1 18.0 16.9 17.7 0.66

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 14.0 8.0 8.5 0.43

Max 51.2 13.6 17.7 0.83

Average 32.1 10.5 12.5 0.65

98th percentile 47.9 13.3 16.3 0.81

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AAQ 2 -Mineral Separation Plant (MSP)


)

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

2 of 10




1 03-01-2011 14.4 7.2 7.9 6.8 7.3 9.5 10.2 9.4 9.7 0.59

2 03-02-2011 19.3 7.6 8.1 7.3 7.7 10.1 10.8 9.5 10.1 0.49

3 03-08-2011 15.3 10.0 10.7 9.1 9.9 11.3 11.5 10.6 11.1 0.69

4 03-09-2011 29.0 8.6 9.0 7.8 8.5 9.7 10.1 8.4 9.4 0.70

5 15/3/2011 33.7 9.7 9.9 9.7 9.8 11.0 11.6 10.7 11.1 0.53

6 16/3/2011 10.7 6.9 7.2 6.3 6.8 9.2 10.0 8.6 9.3 0.54

7 22/3/2011 27.6 8.0 7.8 8.0 7.9 10.6 11.2 9.9 10.6 0.47

8 23/3/2011 34.5 9.9 10.3 9.4 9.8 13.1 13.2 12.5 12.9 0.41

1 04-05-2011 19.5 7.8 7.8 7.6 7.7 8.8 8.7 7.2 8.2 0.50

2 04-06-2011 24.5 10.0 10.0 9.1 9.7 11.3 11.9 11.0 11.4 0.54

3 04-12-2011 19.2 7.7 8.3 7.6 7.9 8.7 8.9 7.8 8.5 0.40

4 13/4/2011 33.0 9.6 9.5 8.8 9.3 10.9 10.8 9.6 10.4 0.59

5 19/4/2011 39.0 11.3 11.8 11.0 11.3 12.7 12.8 11.7 12.4 0.48

6 20/4/2011 13.6 9.6 10.3 9.0 9.6 12.7 13.2 12.3 12.8 0.59

7 26/4/2011 34.5 9.9 10.4 9.3 9.9 11.1 11.7 10.4 11.1 0.66

8 27/4/2011 28.3 8.0 7.9 7.4 7.8 9.0 9.4 8.2 8.9 0.64

1 05-03-2011 19.9 8.2 8.1 7.6 8.0 10.9 10.8 9.5 10.4 0.41

2 05-04-2011 20.2 8.0 8.2 7.8 8.0 9.0 9.7 8.9 9.2 0.72

3 05-10-2011 25.4 7.2 7.1 7.1 7.1 8.1 8.3 6.9 7.8 0.58

4 05-11-2011 34.8 10.0 10.7 9.5 10.1 11.4 11.2 9.8 10.8 0.36

5 17/5/2011 46.2 10.3 11.1 9.8 10.4 11.6 11.6 10.8 11.4 0.47

6 18/5/2011 20.1 5.7 5.7 5.5 5.6 7.6 7.6 6.9 7.3 0.56

7 24/5/2011 38.5 8.5 8.4 8.4 8.4 11.3 12.0 11.3 11.6 0.62

8 25/5/2011 30.1 12.2 12.2 11.8 12.0 13.7 14.5 13.3 13.8 0.65

SPM SO2 NOX CO

Min 10.7 5.6 7.3 0.36

Max 46.2 12.0 13.8 0.72

Average 26.3 8.8 10.4 0.55

98th percentile 42.9 11.7 13.4 0.71

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

AAQ 3 -Kovitamalai


)

3 of 10




1 03-01-2011 21.9 10.9 10.9 10.8 10.9 14.5 14.8 13.5 14.3 0.70

2 03-02-2011 26.6 10.7 11.3 10.7 10.9 14.2 14.4 12.9 13.8 0.44

3 03-08-2011 22.3 8.8 9.4 8.6 8.9 9.9 9.7 8.1 9.3 0.59

4 03-09-2011 36.4 10.4 10.3 9.6 10.1 11.7 11.9 10.2 11.3 0.58

5 15/3/2011 41.2 11.7 12.1 11.4 11.7 13.2 13.2 11.9 12.8 0.69

6 16/3/2011 33.5 9.6 10.1 9.1 9.6 12.7 12.6 11.0 12.1 0.64

7 22/3/2011 34.5 9.8 9.7 9.0 9.5 13.1 13.0 11.9 12.7 0.38

8 23/3/2011 41.7 11.9 12.1 11.1 11.7 13.4 13.6 12.0 13.0 0.49

1 04-05-2011 27.5 10.9 11.7 11.0 11.2 12.3 12.3 10.6 11.7 0.72

2 04-06-2011 17.5 11.3 11.9 10.6 11.3 12.8 12.7 11.5 12.3 0.68

3 04-12-2011 26.8 10.4 10.5 10.1 10.3 11.8 12.5 10.9 11.7 0.59

4 13/4/2011 40.6 11.6 11.9 11.2 11.6 13.1 13.7 13.0 13.2 0.52

5 19/4/2011 46.2 13.2 13.4 13.2 13.3 14.9 15.5 14.4 15.0 0.52

6 20/4/2011 36.5 10.3 10.6 9.6 10.2 12.6 12.9 12.1 12.6 0.47

7 26/4/2011 41.4 11.7 12.5 11.2 11.8 13.2 13.8 13.0 13.3 0.51

8 27/4/2011 33.3 9.8 10.2 9.4 9.8 11.0 11.8 11.1 11.3 0.73

1 05-03-2011 26.7 10.8 11.5 10.2 10.8 14.4 14.8 14.0 14.4 0.63

2 05-04-2011 20.7 8.2 8.7 7.6 8.1 9.3 9.5 8.8 9.2 0.43

3 05-10-2011 32.5 9.1 8.9 8.9 9.0 10.2 10.6 9.5 10.1 0.60

4 05-11-2011 40.1 11.3 11.8 11.2 11.4 12.8 12.8 11.6 12.4 0.65

5 17/5/2011 45.1 9.9 10.7 9.8 10.1 11.2 11.4 10.7 11.1 0.41

6 18/5/2011 44.3 12.6 12.8 12.5 12.6 14.2 14.5 13.7 14.1 0.54

7 24/5/2011 44.2 9.8 10.3 9.3 9.8 13.1 12.9 11.6 12.5 0.52

8 25/5/2011 36.8 10.6 10.8 10.3 10.6 12.0 12.3 10.9 11.7 0.58

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 17.5 8.1 9.2 0.38

Max 46.2 13.3 15.0 0.73

Average 34.1 10.6 12.3 0.57

98th percentile 45.7 13.0 14.7 0.72

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AAQ 4 - Kuttumangalam


)

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

4 of 10




1 03-01-2011 18.2 9.3 9.2 9.6 9.4 12.4 12.5 11.2 12.0 0.62

2 03-02-2011 23.4 9.4 9.6 8.6 9.2 12.5 13.3 12.5 12.8 0.67

3 03-08-2011 20.1 8.1 8.0 7.2 7.8 9.1 9.4 7.7 8.8 0.59

4 03-09-2011 33.6 9.5 10.1 9.1 9.6 10.7 10.9 10.2 10.6 0.60

5 15/3/2011 36.9 10.5 10.7 10.1 10.4 11.9 11.7 10.1 11.2 0.51

6 16/3/2011 30.0 8.7 9.3 8.3 8.8 11.5 11.4 10.3 11.1 0.50

7 22/3/2011 30.7 8.9 9.4 8.6 9.0 11.9 11.9 10.4 11.4 0.42

8 23/3/2011 38.4 11.1 11.8 10.6 11.2 12.6 12.5 11.2 12.1 0.72

1 04-05-2011 10.7 7.6 7.6 7.2 7.5 8.6 9.3 8.1 8.7 0.69

2 04-06-2011 28.3 11.2 11.7 11.2 11.4 12.6 12.9 12.0 12.5 0.55

3 04-12-2011 22.8 8.9 8.8 8.6 8.8 10.1 10.6 9.6 10.1 0.47

4 13/4/2011 37.3 10.6 10.6 10.5 10.6 12.0 12.1 11.3 11.8 0.47

5 19/4/2011 43.1 12.3 12.1 11.9 12.1 13.9 14.4 13.5 13.9 0.62

6 20/4/2011 33.2 9.4 9.6 9.4 9.5 11.6 11.5 10.6 11.2 0.71

7 26/4/2011 38.6 10.9 11.7 10.9 11.1 12.3 12.7 11.1 12.0 0.50

8 27/4/2011 30.7 8.9 9.5 8.9 9.1 10.1 10.0 9.1 9.7 0.70

1 05-03-2011 20.5 7.9 8.3 7.7 7.9 10.5 10.3 9.2 10.0 0.69

2 05-04-2011 24.3 9.8 9.7 9.1 9.5 11.1 11.8 10.7 11.2 0.74

3 05-10-2011 29.2 8.3 8.6 7.9 8.2 9.3 9.6 8.6 9.2 0.74

4 05-11-2011 36.5 10.4 10.7 10.0 10.4 11.8 11.9 10.8 11.5 0.60

5 17/5/2011 49.1 10.9 11.2 10.3 10.8 12.3 12.6 11.5 12.1 0.50

6 18/5/2011 40.2 11.7 11.9 11.5 11.7 13.2 13.8 12.2 13.1 0.59

7 24/5/2011 41.2 9.1 9.7 8.3 9.1 12.2 12.3 10.9 11.8 0.52

8 25/5/2011 34.1 9.5 9.6 8.8 9.3 10.8 11.4 10.4 10.8 0.65

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 10.7 7.5 8.7 0.42

Max 49.1 12.1 13.9 0.74

Average 31.3 9.7 11.2 0.60

98th percentile 46.4 11.9 13.5 0.74

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

AAQ 5 - Naduvukura


)

5 of 10




1 03-01-2011 18.5 9.3 9.8 8.8 9.3 12.3 12.3 11.5 12.0 0.60

2 03-02-2011 23.3 9.5 9.7 9.1 9.4 12.6 12.7 11.5 12.3 0.64

3 03-08-2011 10.6 7.2 7.5 7.2 7.3 8.1 8.6 7.8 8.2 0.57

4 03-09-2011 33.2 9.5 9.7 9.2 9.4 10.7 11.0 9.4 10.3 0.60

5 15/3/2011 36.3 10.3 10.3 10.0 10.2 11.7 11.9 10.2 11.3 0.41

6 16/3/2011 28.9 8.2 8.5 8.0 8.2 10.9 11.3 10.0 10.7 0.50

7 22/3/2011 22.6 6.6 7.3 6.2 6.7 8.8 9.1 8.1 8.7 0.51

8 23/3/2011 39.6 11.2 11.2 10.5 11.0 12.6 12.5 11.7 12.3 0.47

1 04-05-2011 24.7 9.6 9.7 8.8 9.4 10.9 11.1 10.2 10.7 0.63

2 04-06-2011 28.6 11.5 11.8 11.4 11.5 12.9 12.9 11.7 12.5 0.72

3 04-12-2011 14.0 9.8 10.4 9.4 9.9 11.1 11.9 10.3 11.1 0.58

4 13/4/2011 36.4 10.5 10.9 9.7 10.4 11.9 12.1 10.9 11.6 0.42

5 19/4/2011 42.3 12.0 12.7 12.1 12.3 13.6 13.4 12.5 13.2 0.51

6 20/4/2011 33.8 9.5 10.3 9.0 9.6 11.7 11.8 10.6 11.4 0.42

7 26/4/2011 28.7 8.2 8.4 7.6 8.1 9.2 9.9 8.4 9.2 0.70

8 27/4/2011 30.8 8.8 9.4 8.0 8.7 9.9 10.4 8.8 9.7 0.60

1 05-03-2011 23.6 9.6 9.8 9.6 9.7 12.8 13.2 12.4 12.8 0.66

2 05-04-2011 24.3 9.4 9.4 9.4 9.4 10.6 10.5 9.7 10.3 0.46

3 05-10-2011 20.6 8.0 8.3 7.7 8.0 9.0 9.5 8.1 8.9 0.71

4 05-11-2011 36.5 10.6 11.2 10.7 10.8 12.0 12.5 11.2 11.9 0.50

5 17/5/2011 48.4 10.8 10.6 10.2 10.5 12.2 12.1 11.3 11.9 0.62

6 18/5/2011 40.4 11.5 11.5 11.3 11.4 13.0 13.0 12.0 12.7 0.40

7 24/5/2011 30.8 7.0 7.3 6.1 6.8 9.3 10.1 9.2 9.5 0.70

8 25/5/2011 33.4 9.5 10.2 9.1 9.6 10.7 10.8 9.2 10.2 0.76

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 10.6 6.7 8.2 0.40

Max 48.4 12.3 13.2 0.76

Average 29.6 9.5 11.0 0.57

98th percentile 45.6 11.9 13.0 0.74

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AAQ 6 - Colachel


)

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

6 of 10




1 03-01-2011 16.2 8.6 8.9 8.4 8.6 11.4 11.4 10.5 11.1 0.48

2 03-02-2011 23.0 9.1 9.3 8.6 9.0 12.1 12.2 11.1 11.8 0.63

3 03-08-2011 17.2 11.3 11.7 10.5 11.2 12.8 12.8 11.4 12.3 0.61

4 03-09-2011 30.7 8.9 9.2 8.4 8.8 10.0 10.8 9.2 10.0 0.44

5 15/3/2011 35.1 9.9 10.6 9.9 10.1 11.2 11.9 10.9 11.4 0.61

6 16/3/2011 26.8 7.6 7.6 6.8 7.3 10.1 10.0 8.6 9.6 0.39

7 22/3/2011 29.5 8.5 9.1 8.5 8.7 11.2 11.7 10.8 11.2 0.49

8 23/3/2011 36.9 10.4 10.5 10.3 10.4 11.7 12.1 11.1 11.6 0.47

1 04-05-2011 21.2 8.5 8.5 8.2 8.4 9.6 10.1 9.0 9.6 0.55

2 04-06-2011 25.7 10.6 10.8 10.3 10.6 12.0 12.0 10.7 11.5 0.48

3 04-12-2011 20.9 13.5 13.5 12.8 13.3 15.2 15.9 14.5 15.2 0.50

4 13/4/2011 13.7 8.9 9.1 8.0 8.6 10.0 9.8 8.8 9.5 0.33

5 19/4/2011 41.0 11.6 11.9 11.0 11.5 13.1 13.0 11.9 12.6 0.55

6 20/4/2011 31.8 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 11.1 11.0 9.9 10.7 0.41

7 26/4/2011 35.8 10.2 11.0 10.0 10.4 11.6 12.1 10.6 11.4 0.66

8 27/4/2011 29.9 8.6 9.1 8.4 8.7 9.7 9.7 8.2 9.2 0.57

1 05-03-2011 21.2 8.4 9.2 8.3 8.6 11.2 11.7 10.6 11.2 0.54

2 05-04-2011 21.8 8.7 8.9 7.9 8.5 9.8 9.8 9.0 9.5 0.37

3 05-10-2011 27.4 10.7 10.6 10.0 10.4 12.1 12.8 11.1 12.0 0.43

4 05-11-2011 15.5 10.3 10.3 9.7 10.1 11.7 11.7 10.2 11.2 0.62

5 17/5/2011 47.1 10.3 10.3 9.7 10.1 11.6 11.7 10.1 11.2 0.51

6 18/5/2011 39.0 11.0 11.7 10.8 11.2 12.5 12.5 11.3 12.1 0.66

7 24/5/2011 39.8 8.7 9.5 8.4 8.9 11.6 11.9 11.1 11.5 0.56

8 25/5/2011 32.7 9.4 9.3 9.2 9.3 10.7 10.8 9.7 10.4 0.65

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 13.7 7.3 9.2 0.33

Max 47.1 13.3 15.2 0.66

Average 28.3 9.7 11.2 0.52

98th percentile 44.3 12.4 14.0 0.66

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

AAQ 7 - Muttemtura


)

7 of 10




1 03-01-2011 12.0 5.9 6.5 5.8 6.1 7.9 8.6 7.0 7.8 0.52

2 03-02-2011 17.9 7.2 7.7 7.2 7.3 9.5 9.4 8.3 9.1 0.63

3 03-08-2011 14.4 9.2 9.6 9.2 9.3 10.4 10.6 8.9 10.0 0.44

4 03-09-2011 26.7 7.8 8.3 7.0 7.7 8.8 9.5 7.9 8.7 0.44

5 15/3/2011 30.4 9.0 9.5 8.4 9.0 10.1 10.5 9.0 9.9 0.72

6 16/3/2011 24.2 6.7 6.8 6.5 6.7 9.0 9.0 7.4 8.4 0.48

7 22/3/2011 26.2 7.5 8.0 6.9 7.4 9.9 10.2 8.8 9.6 0.63

8 23/3/2011 34.2 9.6 10.1 9.5 9.7 12.8 12.7 11.5 12.3 0.66

1 04-05-2011 18.5 7.4 7.7 6.9 7.4 8.4 9.2 8.4 8.6 0.51

2 04-06-2011 23.2 9.5 10.0 9.0 9.5 10.8 10.8 9.5 10.4 0.42

3 04-12-2011 10.5 7.0 7.7 6.2 7.0 7.9 8.6 7.1 7.9 0.66

4 13/4/2011 31.8 9.0 9.8 8.6 9.1 10.2 10.2 8.7 9.7 0.62

5 19/4/2011 37.6 10.7 11.4 10.0 10.7 12.1 12.2 11.4 11.9 0.49

6 20/4/2011 27.2 10.7 10.6 10.3 10.5 13.2 13.6 12.6 13.1 0.69

7 26/4/2011 32.5 9.3 10.1 9.2 9.5 10.5 10.5 9.3 10.1 0.47

8 27/4/2011 25.6 7.2 7.1 7.3 7.2 8.2 8.9 8.0 8.3 0.52

1 05-03-2011 17.8 7.0 7.1 6.6 6.9 9.3 9.8 8.2 9.1 0.51

2 05-04-2011 18.2 7.3 7.3 7.1 7.2 8.3 8.7 7.7 8.2 0.65

3 05-10-2011 14.5 9.8 10.5 9.7 10.0 11.1 11.3 10.4 11.0 0.55

4 05-11-2011 33.3 9.4 9.8 9.2 9.5 10.7 11.1 9.8 10.5 0.42

5 17/5/2011 44.8 10.1 10.6 9.8 10.2 11.4 11.6 10.3 11.1 0.58

6 18/5/2011 33.0 9.4 10.0 8.6 9.3 12.5 13.2 11.6 12.4 0.61

7 24/5/2011 35.2 8.0 8.1 7.9 8.0 10.6 10.9 9.3 10.3 0.61

8 25/5/2011 27.7 11.2 11.8 11.0 11.3 12.6 13.3 11.7 12.5 0.62

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 10.5 6.1 7.8 0.42

Max 44.8 11.3 13.1 0.72

Average 25.7 8.6 10.0 0.56

98th percentile 41.5 11.0 12.9 0.71

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AAQ 8 - Mandakad


)

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

8 of 10




1 03-01-2011 23.3 11.7 11.9 11.8 11.8 15.6 16.2 15.3 15.7 0.51

2 03-02-2011 29.1 11.7 11.8 10.9 11.5 15.5 15.5 14.0 15.0 0.47

3 03-08-2011 25.5 10.1 10.9 10.1 10.4 11.4 12.1 11.2 11.6 0.79

4 03-09-2011 38.8 11.1 11.6 10.6 11.1 12.5 12.8 11.6 12.3 0.64

5 15/3/2011 42.8 12.2 12.4 12.0 12.2 13.8 14.2 13.0 13.6 0.73

6 16/3/2011 35.5 10.1 10.2 9.4 9.9 13.4 13.9 12.5 13.3 0.70

7 22/3/2011 36.4 10.4 10.9 10.3 10.5 13.8 14.2 12.7 13.6 0.70

8 23/3/2011 37.4 10.8 11.2 10.3 10.8 14.3 14.5 13.2 14.0 0.51

1 04-05-2011 28.3 11.5 12.3 11.0 11.6 13.1 13.5 12.4 13.0 0.76

2 04-06-2011 32.3 13.2 13.2 12.3 12.9 14.9 15.2 14.4 14.8 0.75

3 04-12-2011 29.0 8.1 8.7 7.7 8.2 9.2 9.8 8.9 9.3 0.61

4 13/4/2011 43.5 12.2 12.3 12.1 12.2 13.8 13.8 12.7 13.4 0.38

5 19/4/2011 38.9 11.2 11.5 10.6 11.1 12.7 12.8 11.8 12.4 0.57

6 20/4/2011 38.2 11.1 11.7 11.1 11.3 14.7 15.2 13.9 14.6 0.54

7 26/4/2011 42.6 12.4 12.6 12.4 12.5 14.0 14.3 13.5 13.9 0.46

8 27/4/2011 30.2 8.8 8.8 8.4 8.7 9.9 10.7 9.1 9.9 0.76

1 05-03-2011 28.5 11.5 12.2 10.6 11.4 15.2 15.5 14.0 14.9 0.55

2 05-04-2011 29.8 11.7 11.7 11.4 11.6 13.2 13.9 12.9 13.3 0.37

3 05-10-2011 33.6 9.7 9.6 9.1 9.4 11.0 11.1 10.2 10.8 0.47

4 05-11-2011 33.4 9.6 9.7 9.4 9.6 10.9 10.7 9.3 10.3 0.47

5 17/5/2011 47.3 10.5 10.6 10.2 10.4 11.8 11.9 11.2 11.6 0.40

6 18/5/2011 22.5 6.5 6.7 5.7 6.3 7.4 7.9 6.9 7.4 0.48

7 24/5/2011 43.9 9.9 10.4 9.7 10.0 13.2 13.6 12.3 13.0 0.61

8 25/5/2011 31.3 12.7 13.3 12.2 12.7 16.9 17.0 16.1 16.7 0.58

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 22.5 6.3 7.4 0.37

Max 47.3 12.9 16.7 0.79

Average 34.2 10.8 12.9 0.57

98th percentile 45.7 12.8 16.2 0.78

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

AAQ 9 - Manavalakurichi


)

9 of 10




1 03-01-2011 16.5 8.5 8.7 8.5 8.6 11.3 11.3 10.1 10.9 0.64

2 03-02-2011 22.7 8.9 9.4 8.7 9.0 11.8 11.7 10.5 11.4 0.39

3 03-08-2011 18.9 12.6 12.6 11.8 12.3 14.2 14.6 13.0 14.0 0.47

4 03-09-2011 32.6 9.4 10.0 9.5 9.6 10.6 10.6 9.0 10.1 0.38

5 15/3/2011 36.7 10.4 10.8 10.1 10.4 11.7 11.8 11.0 11.5 0.39

6 16/3/2011 29.5 8.5 9.1 8.3 8.6 11.3 11.7 10.2 11.1 0.55

7 22/3/2011 29.4 8.5 8.9 8.4 8.6 11.3 11.3 10.5 11.0 0.34

8 23/3/2011 37.7 10.8 11.5 10.1 10.8 14.4 14.4 13.2 14.0 0.65

1 04-05-2011 22.7 9.3 9.3 9.0 9.2 10.5 11.1 10.4 10.7 0.74

2 04-06-2011 26.7 10.6 10.6 10.1 10.4 12.0 11.9 10.5 11.4 0.66

3 04-12-2011 21.5 8.8 8.6 8.1 8.5 9.9 10.7 9.1 9.9 0.62

4 13/4/2011 37.0 10.4 10.8 10.2 10.5 11.8 12.4 11.5 11.9 0.63

5 19/4/2011 41.6 11.8 12.0 10.9 11.6 13.3 13.5 12.6 13.1 0.58

6 20/4/2011 33.2 9.5 9.8 9.3 9.5 11.7 12.4 11.7 12.0 0.76

7 26/4/2011 37.1 10.8 10.6 10.8 10.7 12.2 12.6 11.3 12.0 0.67

8 27/4/2011 29.7 8.6 8.9 8.5 8.7 9.7 9.5 7.9 9.1 0.74

1 05-03-2011 21.3 8.7 9.2 8.2 8.7 11.5 12.1 10.7 11.4 0.54

2 05-04-2011 22.4 9.0 8.8 8.8 8.9 10.1 10.6 9.2 10.0 0.60

3 05-10-2011 27.8 7.9 7.8 7.8 7.8 8.9 9.2 8.4 8.8 0.78

4 05-11-2011 37.1 10.8 11.4 10.1 10.8 12.2 12.9 11.5 12.2 0.47

5 17/5/2011 43.2 9.5 9.8 9.2 9.5 10.8 11.6 9.9 10.8 0.47

6 18/5/2011 39.8 11.4 11.5 11.0 11.3 14.0 14.3 13.1 13.8 0.43

7 24/5/2011 40.5 9.0 9.0 8.6 8.9 12.0 12.6 11.6 12.1 0.62

8 25/5/2011 32.3 9.3 10.1 8.7 9.4 10.6 11.0 9.9 10.5 0.58

PM10 SO2 NOX CO

Min 16.5 7.8 8.8 0.34

Max 43.2 12.3 14.0 0.78

Average 30.7 9.7 11.4 0.57

98th percentile 42.4 12.0 14.0 0.77

April'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

May'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AAQ 10 - Kadiapattinam


)

March'2011

Ist

IInd

IIIrd

IVth

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

10 of 10

BEACH SAND MINE (141.2269 HA) OF IREL ANNEXURE V

NOISE LEVEL DATA FOR THE STUDY PERIOD

TIME N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N1006:00 44.7 47.5 41.9 41.3 43.0 44.9 42.6 45.7 43.0 45.007:00 45.4 48.3 43.0 44.1 43.9 46.0 44.5 46.6 43.8 46.508:00 47.3 49.6 44.4 45.1 45.2 46.8 45.5 47.8 44.7 47.909:00 50.4 51.6 47.7 48.3 48.6 48.5 49.2 49.7 48.3 49.410:00 53.4 54.5 50.1 51.1 50.7 51.0 50.7 52.1 50.9 52.211:00 55.8 56.5 52.4 53.3 54.0 54.2 53.9 54.9 53.5 54.512:00 56.1 56.8 53.2 54.0 54.3 53.6 53.7 54.7 53.5 54.8

13:00 55.8 57.8 53.2 53.7 54.4 53.9 53.9 54.5 53.8 55.814:00 55.4 57.8 52.6 53.7 53.5 55.3 54.1 56.6 53.3 56.115:00 54.3 56.0 51.1 52.4 52.8 53.0 52.7 53.5 52.2 53.216:00 57.0 55.9 53.7 53.3 54.9 53.2 54.6 53.9 55.1 54.517:00 57.2 55.4 53.9 52.9 54.9 50.0 55.2 50.7 54.9 53.818:00 53.2 55.4 49.5 50.6 50.6 50.9 51.3 52.4 50.6 53.219:00 48.3 50.0 45.5 46.7 46.5 46.2 46.6 47.2 46.4 48.020:00 44.2 45.9 41.9 42.1 42.4 42.6 42.8 43.8 42.6 42.921:00 44.5 45.4 41.6 41.8 42.4 42.5 42.9 43.0 42.1 43.322:00 43.9 45.7 41.4 42.1 41.7 42.9 42.3 43.8 41.5 43.2

23:00 43.6 45.5 40.5 41.3 41.8 41.8 41.5 43.2 41.7 43.700:00 43.0 46.4 40.6 41.0 41.8 43.5 42.2 44.5 41.2 44.001:00 43.1 45.2 40.5 41.1 41.4 41.9 40.7 42.5 41.2 42.802:00 43.2 43.9 39.9 40.6 41.1 40.3 40.7 41.3 40.7 41.803:00 42.9 44.8 40.7 41.5 41.5 41.8 40.5 42.6 41.5 43.404:00 43.3 46.2 40.5 41.1 41.5 44.2 41.6 45.1 40.8 44.105:00 42.8 46.4 39.9 41.1 41.3 43.0 42.0 44.6 40.9 43.5

Min 42.8 43.9 40.1 40.6 41.1 40.3 40.5 41.3 40.7 41.8Max 57.2 57.8 53.9 54.0 54.9 55.3 55.2 56.6 55.1 56.1

Ld 53.5 54.4 50.4 50.9 51.6 51.2 51.6 52.1 51.3 52.4Ln 43.2 45.6 40.5 41.2 41.5 42.6 41.5 43.6 41.2 43.4

Leq in dB(A)

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTED NIO/SP-15/2011 (SSP# 2357,2358,2376)

OCEANOGRAPHIC STUDIES OFF MANAVALAKURICHI TO IDENTIFY THE PROCESSES OF NEARSHORE SEDIMENT TRANSPORT CONTROLS

SPONSORED BY

��

September, 2011

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY

(Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) REGIONAL CENTRE, KOCHI – 682 018. KERALA .

_______________________________________________

HQ: Dona Paula, Goa – 403 004

( PART OF THE REPORT )

NIO CSIR

Indian Rare Earths Ltd.Manavalakurichi OCEANOGRAPHIC STUDIES OFF MANAVALAKURICHI TO IDENTIFY THE PROCESSES OF NEARSHORE SEDIMENT TRANSPORT CONTROLS Final Report, NIO/15-2011

1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background M/s. Indian Rare Earths Limited, (Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India) Manavalakurichi

(IREL) has been engaged in mining and mineral beneficiation operation of the Manavalakurichi Beach

Placers (MBP) in the coastal zone between Kolachel and Muttam since 1965. The operations have

been carried out by the IREL plant located at Manavalakurichi in Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu.

Though indirect, IREL has been playing an important role in three stage nuclear programme of the

nation. The plant has a crucial role in meeting the thorium requirement which is used as a fuel in the

nuclear plants. IREL is also one of the leading producers of titanium products in the world, which

have got multiple applications.

Over the decades, it has been observed that the quantity of heavy minerals in the sand mined through

beach washing in the mining belts in and around Manavalakurichi has deteriorated considerably. The

drastic depletion in heavy mineral content in the sand (heavy mineral content was >70% a few

decades ago but <15% at present) calls for an urgent need for a scientific study. IREL vide Letter No.

MK/Resources/149/2009/4927 dated 24/6/2009, requested National Institute of Oceanography,

Regional Centre, Kochi (NIO) to carry out a detailed oceanographic investigation in the region in order

to assess the hydrodynamics of the coastal marine environment and to explore remedial measures, if

any, for restoring content of heavy minerals in the sand.

The study was necessitated to identify the various processes of near shore sediment transport

controls on beach placers, as these involve a detailed consideration of the scale of numerous

associated components. NIO successfully implemented the entrusted project. Analyses of physical

oceanographic characteristics of the adjacent coastal environment of Manavalakurichi area was

carried out during April 2010 and October 2010. This document: OCEANOGRAPHIC STUDIES OFF

MANAVALAKURICHI TO IDENTIFY THE PROCESSES OF NEARSHORE SEDIMENT T RANSPORT

CONTROLS presents the results based on these investigations and also the information already

available for the region. It also includes the recommendations on the specific assessment of the

processes of near shore sediment transport controls of the Manavalakurichi placer sand deposits.

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1.7 Project scheme and area description

1.7.1 Manavalakurichi Beach Placer (MBP) deposits

Manavalakurichi (Fig 1.7.1.1) which is located in the southwest coast of Indian peninsula, where the

coast forms a promontory at the adjacent region in Muttam cliff with creeks, dunes and pocket open

sandy beaches. The sandy beaches and dunes are enriched with heavy minerals.

The placer deposit area falls between north Lat 8 Deg 08’5” and 8 Deg 10’ 05” and east Long 77 Deg

15’ 50” and 77 Deg 18’ 15” ((Fig 1.7.1.2). The placer body lies adjacent to the town of

Manavalakurichi that lends its name to the deposit. The deposit lies north of the prominent headland

of Muttom, stretching to a length of about 6 km to Kolachel with an average width of 44 m. This is one

of the oldest deposits mined in the country, first mined for monazite in the early part of the 20th

century. IREL is the sole agency involved in the mining, processing and marketing of the placer

minerals, especially ilmenite and monazite.

Figure 1.7.1.1 Location map

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Though Foote (1883) published the first report on MBP, it was Tipper (1914) who carried out the initial

characterization of minerals. An in-depth report on the source and provenance of this placer was

made by Gillson (1959). In the 1960s, Aswathanarayana (1964) took up studies to update the existing

knowledge on this deposit. The Atomic Minerals Division, Govt of India has reported mineral-wise

reserve estimation based on systematic exploratory work (Krishnan et al, 1994; AMD, 2000, Ali et al,

2001).

The total heavy mineral content of this deposit is 39% (upto an average depth of 7.5 m). Ilmenite is

the predominant mineral with a grade of 24% (in raw sand), 1.8% rutile, 0.9% leucoxene, 2% zircon,

1% monazite, 3.5% sillimanite and 5.5% garnet. Ilmenite from this zone comprises 55% TiO2 where

as zircon assays 65.6% ZrO2. The chemical and mineralogical features of the bulk ilmenite reveal the

limited alteration generally suffered by the deposit. It is seen that hydroxylization is very prominent in

the latter stages of alteration, notably in the leucoxene phase, forming about 3% by weight of the

mineral.

The northern part of the deposit is apparently a zone of enrichment of placer deposition. The

anomalous contents of elements such as Si, Al, V and Zn in the ilmenite reported of this region point

to the contribution from a northerly source. The contents of analysed trace elements, in general show

an increase as leaching of iron proceeds. It increases slightly in leached ilmenite and drastically in

advanced stages of alteration like pseudorutile and leucoxene.

Figure 1.7.1.2 Satellite map of the study area

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1.8 Physiography and environmental setting

The study area falls in Kanyakumari district, Tamilnadu, southwest coast of India surrounded by

majestic hills and the plains which are boarded by colourful seashores and fringed with coconut trees

(Figure 1.8.1).

Figure 1.8.1 Coastline view of the study region Intermittently elevated patches off red cliffs with undulating valleys and plains between the

mountainous terrain and the sea coast too can be found. The coastal ecosystem of the district

comprises about 70 km studded with 42 coastal fishing hamlets. Coastal geomorphology of the district

is mainly composed of beach ridges, rocky shores, sand dunes, swamps etc. The region is bordered

on the east by the Western Ghats with Arabian Sea on the west. It has gently sloping backshore and

beach cusps are common along the region. The mountain ranges and the broad undulating beaches

are the two physiographic provinces of the region. The mountain range of the Western Ghats with an

average altitude of 1000-1300 m is the prominent landform in the hinterland of the study region. It is a

continuous range of hills with a width of about 25 km being only the marked break. Minor seasonal

streams of variable width are also present. Shoreline west of Kanyakumari upto Kollamkode is mostly

straight barring a few rocky promontories alternating with coves. The beaches are enriched with

heavy minerals and the entire foreshore and backshore contain black sand (Fig 1.8.2).

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Figure 1.8.2 Beach with the placer minerals

The Manavalakurichi area is dominated by a gently rolling topography except for the southern part

that has a more undulating nature associated with the occurrence of Teri dunes. Valliyar is the major

perennial fluvial system adjacent to the MBP deposit (Fig 1.8.3). However, the area is well drained by

a number of mostly seasonal streams. Further northward have a more extensive river system, the

Kuzhithurai.

Figure 1.8.3 Geomorphology and drainage map of the study region

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The area is well connected by paved roads. The National Highway 47 passes just north of the area.

The land use classes is shown in Figure 1.8.4

Figure 1.8.4 Land use classes

On the basis of land use patterns, the area is divided into (i) settlement with tree crops (ii) tree crops

with settlement (iii) beach sand (iv) promontory rock and (iv) islet. The majority of the area falls in the

‘tree crops with settlement category. Settlements are denser towards the shoreline and along the

flood plains. Settlements abut or overlap the ‘beach sand’ in many sectors reflecting the seagoing

occupation of the native population. There is only one rock outcrop significant enough to be classified

under ‘islet’ just off Muttam headland.

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2 BASELINE DATA

The coastal zone in and around Manavalakurichi was studied for baseline information to meet the

project objectives during May 2010 and October 2010. Station location of current meter mooring

deployed is shown in Figure 2.1.

7709 7712 7715 7718 7721

Longitude (Deg.Min.)

806

809

812

815

Latit

ude

(Deg

.Min

.)

Kolachel

Mooring

Melmidalam

Figure 2.1 Current meter mooring location

2.1 Geology, Tectonics and Geomorphology 2.1.1 Geology, tectonics

The study area is located along the southwest coast of India, bordered on the east by the Western

Ghats and the Arabian Sea on the west. Geologically the hinterland falls within the fringe of the South

Indian Shield. It consists of two major terrains, the cratonic part lying north of Palghat-Cauvery shear

zone and the Pandyan mobile belt is formed of gneisses, charnockite and khondalite. The rock type

within the study area can be classified as – Archean, Proterozoicand Cenozoic.

The hinterland consists of khondalite suite belonging to the khondalite Belt of Archean age (Fig 2.1.1,

2.1.2).The major rocks of this group are garnet biotite sillimanite gneiss, garnet biotite gneiss with or

without graphite, cordierite- bearing gneisses, calc-silicates, basic granulites and quartzites. The

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khondalite represents quartzite of arenaceous facies, calc silicates with pockets of crystalline

limestone representing calcareous of argillaceous facies. The range of metamorphism extends from

upper amphibolites to granulite facies. Charnockite intrudes into khondalites in many places. This

group includes constituent rocks like pyroxene granulite, pyroxenite, magnetic quartzite, hypersthenes

gneiss.

Figure 2.1.1. Geological map of Manavalakurichi pla cer zones, surroundings

Figure 2.1.2. Schematic diagram showing the typical geological cross section

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Apart from rocks of khondalite and charnockite groups, a variety of gneisses that are products of

migmatisation are also seen interlayered with them. These rocks are intruded by basic dykes. The

sedimentary formation belonging to Malabar Super Group extends to the study zone. These Mio-

pliocene rocks are represented by calcareous marl, sand and fossiliferous limestone of Quilon

formation overlain by variegated sandstone and clays admixed with lignite of the Warkalli formation.

They extend in a narrow belt with intermittent promontories of crystalline rocks. The Pleistocene and

recent deposits include fluvial, fluvio-marine and marine facies. This includes the Teri sands that are

thought to be of predominantly Aeolian origin.

The geology of the area indicate the presence of the rock types which include garnet, sillimanite,

graphite-gneiss, garnets biotite and gneiss along with quarternary fluromarine sediments, quaternary

marine sediments and alluvium. Near Manavalakurichi Monazite are deposited. The trend of foliation

in gneisses is N 20 W--S30 E with steep dips on the eastern side. The peculiar deposition of

feldspathic granites over a large portion of this area is suggestive of the fact that rocks have been

sharply folded isoclinally causing repetition of bands. The trend of folds is aligned in NW-SE direction.

Subsequently, this might have been subjected to cross folding. The stratigraphic succession of the

geological formations met within Kanyakumari district is as given below:

ERA AGE STAGE LITHOLOGY Quaternary Cenozoic Archaean

Recent Middle Miocene

Cuddalore Sandstone

Sand Warkali Sandstone Peninsular Gneisses Charnockites Granites Pegmatites

Heavy-mineral analyses of quaternary sediments obtained which were supplemented by over

thousand published analyses of sediments from many other sites define accessory classic mineral

assemblages indicative of the principal plate-tectonic settings (excluding transform plate boundaries)

associated with continental margins. Assemblages of all continental margins studied differ significantly

from those of the intraoceanic, island-arc and deep marginal-sea assemblages by possessing

relatively high contents of zircon, tourmaline, garnet, epidote, amphibole (as well as other less

common minerals) derived chiefly from metamorphic and sialic intrusive rocks. This suite is

accompanied by olivine, iddingsite and brown (titanium-rich) clinopyroxene in regions containing

rifting-type volcaniclastic sediments (i.e., near divergent plate boundaries) and with orthopyroxene,

green clinopyroxene, and green-brown hornblende in arc-type volcaniclastic deposits (areas near

convergent plate boundaries).

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The tectonic features of the Indian subcontinent are important in understanding the settings of the

known mineral deposits and in the exploration for new deposits. Not strictly related to plate tectonics

but generally relevant in such a discussion are lineament related to longitudinal or latitudinal or

traverse types. It is to be stressed that the occurrence of a deposit of a particular metal or a group of

metals is not strictly confined to a particular place tectonic setting though some major deposits with

the subduction setting of continental arc type, or of mid oceanic ridge.. Thus an empirical association

of the mineral deposits with particular plate tectonic setting could be found evident, but the factors

controlling the enrichment into a viable deposit or exact localization appear to be far numerous.The

theory of plate tectonics changed the view of the ocean basins from passive sinks for material eroded

from land to active sources of mineralization. Focus switched from terrestrial erosional processes to

tectonic and magmatic processes at plate boundaries (divergent and convergent), largely submerged

beneath the oceans. Seafloor mineralization is a byproduct of a global system of exchange of heat

and chemicals among the mantle, crust and oceans at these plate boundaries.

During periods of lowered sea levels, the rivers flowed for a considerable distance from the shore and

might have deposited placers on the presently submerged shelf. These drowned valleys are therefore

should be the important targets in the exploration of offshore placer deposits. It is reported that heavy

mineral concentration and sediment carrying potential of the Valliyar river is meagre and there is not

much accumulation of HM noticed in check dams constructed upstream.. However, heavy mineral

accumulation is noticed in Valliyar river mouth. A detailed understanding on the distribution, dispersal

pattern of terrigeneous/stream derived near shore sediments as well as sediments of offshore zones

is required to have further insights into the heavy mineral assemblages, depletions and the

distribution during different seasons. The fact that this stretch of the coast is served by streams/rivers

with varying sediment discharges and the beach placers are seasonal, has led to the assumption that

there could be considerable offshore reserves of heavy minerals.

2.1.2 Coastal Geomorphology - Long-term Trends

Long terms trend of coastal geomorphology of the region is extracted using satellite data available for

the study domain. The study covered the following aspects: (i) Understanding shoreline changes and

its effects using the satellite images and (ii) Detecting the changes in the coastline configuration.

Table 2.1.2.1 presents the details of the data used for the remote sensing study to find out the

changes in coastline configuration and shoreline changes along the coast of Manavalakurichi. The

selection of the maps was based on the cloud cover, tide condition, same season, etc. IRS P6 data

was purchased from NRSA. ARCGIS 8.3 ( Geographic information system software) ERDAS Imagine

8.6 ( Digital image processing software) software were used for the analysis.

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Table 2.1.2.1 Details of satellite data used

Multi-dated satellite imageries (LANDSAT TM, IRS LISS III) were georeferenced using ground

control points (GCPs) collected from field using GPS, Google Earth, etc. ARCGIS which is well

known in the GIS industry was used to find the land-water pixel which is considered as a

shoreline at the time of acquisition of the satellite imagery. Shoreline was digitized using digitizer

tools of the software from Kadaipattinam to Thengapattinam. This zone covers the beaches of

Manavalakurichi, Kolachel, Kurumpanai and Melmidalam. Shoreline maps for 1973, 2001, 2004,

2005 and 2010 were prepared using the image interpretation techniques. Figure 2.1.2.6 depicts the

field points. Two base points were used to find out the horizontal oscillations of the coastline over the

years. Profiles were drawn perpendicular to this reference points extending into the coastal waters

and the distance were measured for different years. The maps were generated for the study area with

shorelines of different years.

Available cloud free satellite images of 1973, 2001, 2004, 2005, and 2010 (Fig 2.1.2.1 to 2.1.2.5)

were used for this particular study. Shorelines for the study area were mapped and overlaid on one

another. When we examined the shorelines of 1973, 2001, 2004, 2005 & 2010 (Fig 2.1.2.7 to

2.1.2.10), it is inferred that the shoreline is maintaining the course of 1100 to 1200 from Inayam to

Kurumpanai and again from Kolachel to Kadiapattinam. IRE mining beaches are in the above said

zone. This coastal configuration is maintained in all the years of our study. The area of mining and its

waste storage place has widened as the mining practices were growing during these years. Even

after some changes occurring along the study region, it was found that not much great changes

have occurred in the coastal configuration of the area during the past 37 years. Hence, the alignment

of the coast which is one of the important parameters for the favourable depositional environment is

not responsible for the reduction of the placer mineral deposition at this area.

Two base points were selected (Fig 2.1.2.11) to find out the shoreline shifting over the years from

landward to sea or vice versa. The distance of the base point to the waterline which we consider as

shoreline was measured for all the years. This point is located in the Manavalakurichi coast near IREL

mining area. Results of shoreline distances from the base point at two locations are given in Table

Date Satellite Sensor Resolution(m) 09/02/1973 LANDSAT MSS 30 15/03/2001 IRS 1D LISS III 23.5 02/01/2004 IRS P6 LISS III 23.5 20/01/2005 IRS P6 LISS III 23.5 21/03/2010* LANDSAT TM ETM 30

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2.1.2.2. The base point 1 (B1) was at a distance of about 104 m and 110 m in 1973 and 2001,

respectively (Fig 2.1.2.12). The long 28 year period has not shown any significant changes in the form

of erosion or accretion. This study explored s the difference between the shoreline positions of the

said two years only. The changes, if any happened in between these years were not known because

of lack of data availability. In 2004, the position of shoreline was about 72 m away from the base

point. This was around 32 m advancement of sea towards the landward side. Hence, year 2004 has

shown the eroding trend from the 2001. It was noticed that the shoreline has further advanced around

12 m towards the landward side in the year immediately after the tsunami. This change of shoreline

position poses the question about the change in the near shore bathymetry which has triggered the

shoreline to further advance towards the land. It was observed that the shoreline has been regaining

its position slowly and showed 82 m distance from the base point (Fig 2.1.2.14).

Table 2.1.2.2 Shoreline distances from the base point at two loca tions

Year Distance from the

Base point in m (Location 1)

Distance from the Base point in m

(Location 2) 1973 104 50 2001 110 60 2004 72 18 2005 60 29 2010 82 54

Analysis of shoreline position from the base point 2 (B2) has shown the similar trend like B1. This

point is located in the Melmidalam beach (Fig 2.1.2.13). This point was 50 m, 60 m, 18 m, 29 m and

54 m away from the base point in the years 1973, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2010, respectively (Fig 2.1.2.15.

The trend in oscillation of the shoreline was found to be exhibiting the similar fashion like B1 (Fig

2.1.2.16). But, the width of the beach was less compared to B1. Thus it can be inferred that both the

study points fall under the zones of similar oceanographic processes. This study was carried out to

understand long term changes in the coastline configuration and its stability in terms of

erosion/accretion.

It is inferred that the coastline in the study domain maintained the 1100 to 1200 configuration over the

decades in spite of the continuous extraction of placer minerals. As there are not much change in the

shoreline for the past 37 years, it is imperative to explore other possible parameters which can

influence and alter the pattern of deposition. In the study region, the shoreline configuration

appeared to have been controlled and influenced by the predominant monsoonal wind directions of

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Figure 2.1.2.9 Shoreline map of 2005 & 2010

77°18'0"E

77°18'0"E

77°16'30"E

77°16'30"E

77°15'0"E

77°15'0"E

77°13'30"E

77°13'30"E

77°12'0"E

77°12'0"E

77°10'30"E

77°10'30"E

8°16'30"N 8°16'30"N

8°15'45"N 8°15'45"N

8°15'0"N 8°15'0"N

8°14'15"N 8°14'15"N

8°13'30"N 8°13'30"N

8°12'45"N 8°12'45"N

8°12'0"N 8°12'0"N

8°11'15"N 8°11'15"N

8°10'30"N 8°10'30"N

8°9'45"N 8°9'45"N

8°9'0"N 8°9'0"N

8°8'15"N 8°8'15"N

8°7'30"N 8°7'30"N

8°6'45"N 8°6'45"N

8°6'0"N 8°6'0"N

8°5'15"N 8°5'15"N

Shoreline map of 2005 &2010

Legend

2005

2010

2Kilometers

Kadiyapattinam

Colachel

Melmidalam

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Figure 2.1.2.10 Shoreline map of 1973 & 2010

77°18'0"E

77°18'0"E

77°16'30"E

77°16'30"E

77°15'0"E

77°15'0"E

77°13'30"E

77°13'30"E

77°12'0"E

77°12'0"E

77°10'30"E

77°10'30"E

8°16'30"N 8°16'30"N

8°15'45"N 8°15'45"N

8°15'0"N 8°15'0"N

8°14'15"N 8°14'15"N

8°13'30"N 8°13'30"N

8°12'45"N 8°12'45"N

8°12'0"N 8°12'0"N

8°11'15"N 8°11'15"N

8°10'30"N 8°10'30"N

8°9'45"N 8°9'45"N

8°9'0"N 8°9'0"N

8°8'15"N 8°8'15"N

8°7'30"N 8°7'30"N

8°6'45"N 8°6'45"N

8°6'0"N 8°6'0"N

8°5'15"N 8°5'15"N

Shoreline map of 1973 &2010

2Kilometers

Kadiyapattinam

Colachel

Melmidalam

Legend

1973

2010

Comparison of Radiation Field –Unmined & IREL Mined areas

Location Un Mined area IREL Mined Area Location Un Mined area IREL Mined Area

Pillayarcovil

IREL locality

N08.15086 E77.29852

Dose rate 9.88μSv/h

N08.15116 E77.29945

Dose rate . μSv/h

Valliyar river

mouth

N08.13831 E77.30392

Dose rate . μSv/h

N08.13860 E77.30434


Pillayarcovil

IREL locality

N08.15120 E77.29988


N08.15131 E77.29888

Dose rate . μSv/h

Chinnavilai

Village

N08.14398 E77.30265

Dose rate 8. 45μSv/h

N08.14360 E77.30337


Pillayarcovil

IREL locality

N08.15192 E77.29826

e

Dose rat 1.1 μSv/h

N08.15146 E77.29862

Dose rate . μSv/h

Chinnavilai

Village

N08.14409 E77.30281

Dose rat e 9.48μSv/h

N08.14383 E77.30353

Dose rate . μSv/h

Parapattu

beach

N08.15313 E77.29184

Dose rate . μSv/h

N08.15291 E77.29153


Manavalakurichi

Post Office &

Bus stand

N08.14561 E77.30410

Dose rate . μSv/h

N08.14552 E77.30428

Dose rate . μSv/h

Chinnavilai

Church

N08.14532 E77.30316


N08.14567 E77.30341


Hr. Sec School

N08.14442 E77.30378


N08.14460 E77.30371


Radiation Survey conducted by Health Physics Unit, Environmental Assessment Division BARC. Instruments used RaDEye PRD & Magellan 610

DEMARCATION OF HTL/LT/CRZ FOR THE PROJECT SITES LOCATED IN MANAVALAKURICHI AND MIDALAM VILLAGE KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT

For

M/S. Indian Rare Earths Ltd., Manavalakurichi

Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram, Colachel – 141.2269 HECTS ( GO : 1114) Manavalakurichi – 7.06 HECTS ( GO : 3(D) No: 6) Manavalakurichi – 14.84 HECTS ( GO 3D NO: 74

Midalam village & Keezhmidalam village – 29.7812 HECTS – (GO : 1085)

INSTITUTE OF REMOTE SENSING

ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI-25

April 2012

Page 2 of 24 INSTITUTE OF REMOTE SENSING

ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI 600025

ABSTRACT

Based on the request of M/s Indian Rare Earths Ltd., Manavalakurichi, the work of GPS survey for Demarcation of for HTL/LTL/CRZ zonation for the project sites at Manavalakurichi and Midalam village of Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu was taken up by Institute of Remote Sensing. Tide data collected from the various organizations were analyzed. The mean high tide line was delineated by the conjunctive use of modern mapping equipments like GPS capable of getting the accurate geographical locations, remote sensing images indicating the physical and associated tonal information on the tidal influence along the coast and creek, field equipments like salt meters to assess the pH value as indicator of tidal influence and the closer field inspection. The demarcation of High Tide Line and Low Tide line was carried out using differential GPS. The High Tide Line and Low Tide line has also been marked on the cadastral map of 1:4,000 scale for reference. The land cover map generated from the Satellite image pertaining to 2010 and GPS surveyed information were compiled into a CRZ map for the client.

A thorough ground truth was carried out during the field work. In the cadastral map, the HTL, 100m, 200m and 500m offset lines have been marked and is shown in CRZ map in 1:4000 scale as per CRZ 2011 notification. Also as per CRZ 2011 regulation, the land use/land cover map also prepared in 1:25000 scale for the 7 km radius around the project site using Remote Sensing data. During field survey it has been observed that the inland mined areas have been prudently backfilled. The entire beach stretches of all mining lease areas of IREL, Manavalakurichi are stable.




1.0 INTRODUCTION

Anthropological pressures and natural calamities put pressure on

the existing ecosystem. Growing industrial areas along the coastlines

and discharge of domestic and industrial sewage are polluting these

areas. Conservation efforts are being considered and taken up by

various control mechanism. Coastal Regulation Zone Notification-2011

(CRZ) is one such mechanism where legislation to preserve, protect,

develop, and where possible, to restore or enhance, the resources of

the Nation's coastal zone is being attempted. The coastal eco systems

is to be preserved for sustenance of the flora and fauna specific to that

region and the local population that depend on it. Therefore, it is of

national importance as well. The development of a nation and the

sustenance of the eco system are to be balanced for general prosperity

by appropriate scrutiny of the prevailing eco system and proposed

development plans.

Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL) is a public sector undertaking

under Administrative control of Department of Atomic Energy engaged

in mining and separation of beach sand minerals at Manavalakurichi in

Kanyakumari District , Tamilnadu State.

IREL, Manavalakurichi now intends to obtain the CRZ Clearance under

CRZ Notification 2011 for the existing mining lease areas along with

mineral separation plant. Institute of Remote Sensing, which is an

authorized agency of MoEF is entrusted the work of CRZ study of IREL



mining area covering 4 mining lease areas having total coastal length of

8.5 km(approx) in length with the widths varying from 30 metres to 500

metres. The four mining leases are as follows.

1. Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram, Colachel – 141.2269 HECTS ( GO : 1114)

2. Manavalakurichi – 7.06 HECTS ( GO : 3(D) No: 6) 3. Manavalakurichi – 14.84 HECTS ( GO 3D NO: 74 4. Midalam village & Keezhmidalam village – 29.7812 HECTS – (GO :

1085)

M/s. IREL, MK has carried out Sediment Transport Control studies

near shoreline engaging National Institute of Oceanography (NIO),

Government of India, Kochi, Kerala during 2010-11. M/S. NIO, Kochi

has submitted their report on Sept-2011 to IREL, Manavalakurichi

stating that there is not much change in the shore line inspite of

continuous extraction of placer minerals.

1.1 Coastal regulation zone

The Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) has notified the

regulations, rules along the nation’s coastline and the gist is presented

below.

Coastal regulation zone is the boundary from the high tide line upto

500m in the land -ward side. Area between the low tide line and high

tide line. In the case of rivers, creeks and backwaters, the distance from

the high tide line shall apply to both sides and this distance shall not be

less than 100 meters or the width of the creek, river or backwater

whichever is less. (Ministry of Environment and Forests Notification,

Sept 2006 and the latest CRZ notification dated 06.01.2011). There are

four type of category in coastal regulation zone.



i. Category - I (CRZ I)

Areas that are ecologically sensitive and important such as national

parks , marine parks , sanctuaries , reserve forests , wildlife habitats ,

mangroves, corals/coral reefs , areas close to breeding and spawning

grounds of fish and other marine life, areas of outstanding natural

beauty, historically important and heritage areas, area rich in genetic

diversity, areas likely to be inundated due to rise in sea level

consequent upon global warming, intertidal areas and such other areas

as notified by government from time to time.

ii. Category - II (CRZ II)

Area that have already been developed up to or close to the shoreline.

For this purpose ,developed area is referred to as area within the

municipal limits or other legally designated urban areas which is already

substantially build up ad which has been provided with drainage and

approach roads and other infrastructure facilities such as water supply

and sewerage lines.

iii. Category - III (CRZ III)

Area that are relatively undisturbed ad those which do not belong to

either I or II . These will include coastal zone in the rural areas

developed or undeveloped and also areas within municipal limits or in

other legally designated urban areas which are not substantially built up.



iv. Category - IV (CRZ IV)

The CRZ Iv consists of the water area from the Low Tide Line to twelve

nautical miles on the seaward side and the water area of the tidal

influenced water body from the mouth of the water body at the sea upto

the influence of tide which is measured as five parts per thousand

during the driest season of the year.

V. others

Areas requiring special consideration for the purpose of protecting the

critical coastal environment and difficulties faced by local communities

namely CRZ area falling within municipal limits of Greater Mumbai, the

CRZ areas of Kerala including the backwaters and backwater islands

and CRZ areas of Goa.

1.2 Definitions

The accepted definitions of the terminology used in the context of

coastal zone regulation is necessary to aid the planners.

i. High tide line:

The line of intersection of the land with the water's surface at the

maximum height reached by a rising tide. The high tide line may be

determined, in the absence of actual data, by a line of oil or scum along

shore objects, a more or less continuous deposit of fine shell or debris

on the foreshore or berm, other physical markings or characteristics,

vegetation lines, tidal gages, or other suitable means that delineate the

general height reached by a rising tide. The line encompasses spring

high tides and other tides that occur with periodic frequency but does

not include storm surges in which there is a departure from the normal



or predicted reach of the tide due to the piling up of water against a

coast by strong winds such as those accompanying a hurricane or other

intense storm.

ii. Mean High Water Line/Mark (MHWL)

The line on the shore in tidal areas established by the fluctuations

of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear,

natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character

of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and

debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of

the surrounding area.

iii. Tidal Wetland:

A tidal wetland is a wetland that is inundated by tidal waters.

Tidal waters rise and fall in a predictable and measurable rhythm or

cycle due to the gravitational pulls of the moon and sun. Tidal waters

end where the rise and fall of the water surface can no longer be

practically measured in a predictable rhythm due to masking by other

waters, wind, or other effects. Tidal wetlands are located channelward

of the high tide line (i.e., spring high tide line) and are inundated by tidal

waters two times per lunar month, during spring high tides.

iv. Spring tide

Burst of tide that happens two time during a lunar month due to

the reinforced influences of Sun and moon when the sun , moon and

earth are aligned. This tide happens around new moon and full moon

days. Govt. of India has issued a notification during January 2011

classifying the Coastal Regulation Zone in order to regulate the various

activities in the coastal zone. The Ministry of Environment and Forest,

Govt. of India has resorted to 1:4,000 scale map of HTL/LTL /CRZ map

after appropriate survey.



v. Mangroves

Mangroves are salt-tolerant plants of tropical and subtropical

intertidal regions of the world. The specific regions where these plants

occur are termed as 'mangrove ecosystem'. These are highly productive

but extremely sensitive and fragile. Besides mangroves, the ecosystem

also harbors other plant and animal species. Experiences have proved

that the presence of mangrove ecosystems on coastline save lives and

property during natural hazards such as cyclones, storm surges and

erosion. These ecosystems are also well known for their economic

importance. They are breeding, feeding and nursery grounds for many

estuarine and marine organisms. Hence, these areas are used for

captive and culture fisheries. The ecosystem has a very large

unexplored potential for natural products useful for medicinal purposes

and also for salt production, apiculture, fuel and fodder, etc.

1.3 Geoinformatics in CRZ

It is important to ascertain the geographical location of a land area

to be developed for a specific purpose along the coastline by

appropriate technology. Especially because of the escalated land values

in recent times, a very accurate assessment of the spatial disposition of

the land area in relation to the coastal eco system at a suitably larger

scale is warranted. This involves two tasks namely

a. Demarcation of the high tide lines accurately; and

b. Referencing the land to be developed to the high tide line.



The mean high tide line can be delineated by the conjunctive use of

modern mapping equipments like GPS capable of getting the accurate

geographical locations, remote sensing images indicating the physical

and associated tonal information on the stretches tidal influence along

the coast and creek, field equipments like salt meters to assess the in-

situ pH value as indicator of tidal influence and the closer field

inspection. The strengths of these technologies are judiciously adopted

by the expert survey team for a dependable demarcation of the coastal

features. The strengths of tools used for HTL/LTL demarcation are

explained below.

i. GPS : The Global Positioning System (GPS) system of satellites

in space orbit and the ground based receivers used for finding out

the position of a point anywhere on the unobstructed earth

surface having sight of four or more GPS Satellites on continuous

basis worldwide, day and night. Depending on the type of GPS

receiver, it is possible to position a point with even sub cm

accuracy.

ii. Remote Sensing: This is space borne resource Satellite

technology whereby it is possible to map the earth surface in

various ranges of EMR spectrum thereby facilitating the picture

reading of the earth surfaces in different ways at different

intervals of time. The physical characteristics, natural

impressions/ land cover footprints and tonal/textural indications

can be interpreted with these images for land cover mapping on

factual basis.

iii. GIS: This is spatial map environment where the information

derived about the topography and thematic information about the



tidal influence , land cover, etc. are organized and their spatial

relationship features can be represented and analysed. The

regulation zone such as 100m buffer from creek can be readily

generated and presented to the user in an easily decipherable

map form.

Institute of Remote sensing has vast and strong experience in the

field modern mapping using the advanced data sources like remote

sensing and the modern equipments like GPS. It has a very long

experience in modern mapping in the form of field execution, training

and the academics, as a result of which an expert team has been

developed. IRS has so far executed more than 300 consultancy projects

in coastal zone regulation mapping alone across the country.

The Govt. of India has approved the Institute of Remote Sensing,

Anna University as one of the authorized agencies for demarcating the

HTL/LTL line as per Lr.No.J17011/8/92-1A III, dated 10.05.99 of

Ministry of Environment & Forest, Govt. of India. Guidelines have been

issued by the Govt. of India for demarcating the HTL/LTL line. The

guidelines are taken into consideration by IRS while demarcating the

HTL/LTL.

2.0 DEMARCATION OF HTL LINE ON THE LOCAL LEVEL CZM

MAP

Based on the request of M/s. Indian Rare Earths Ltd.,

Manavalakurichi, the work of GPS survey for Demarcation of for

HTL/LTL/CRZ zonation for the project sites at Manavalakurichi and



Midalam village of Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu was taken up by

Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai-25.

2.1 Methodology

As indicated previously, the mean high tide line was delineated by

the conjunctive use of modern mapping equipments like GPS capable

of getting the accurate geographical locations, remote sensing images

indicating the physical and associated tonal information on the tidal

influence along the coast and creek, Field equipments like salt meters

to assess the ppt (part per thousands) value as indicator of tidal

influence and the closer field inspection. If the ppt exceeds 5, then the

influence of tide is positive.

2.1.1 Field data

In order to prepare the local level map on 1:4,000 scale, the site

has been inspected by IRS personnel on 25th January 2012. The area

in the vicinity of the project site in Manavalakurichi and Midalam village

village villages and sorroundings in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu

was visited and the land uses were studied. The water stretch of

creeks in both the boundary area of the project sites were tested for

influence of sea water.

The field survey was undertaken on 25th January 2012. The

tide level observations for the last 19 years have been studied for

nearest Port i.e. Tuticorin Port which is nearer to the site, from the Tide

Tables.

The land use in the vicinity of the project sites and in the radius

of n7 km around were also studied. The project site is locates mainly in

the beach/ coastal area which appears to be quite stable because if the

backfilling work carried out following the mining operations. The area in



the 7 km radius is essentially covered by plantations with intermittent

agricultural fields. The land use map and the corresponding statistics

are provided in the Annexure D

2.1.2 Remote sensing analysis

The satellite imagery of the study was studied. The major task for

HTL/LTL demarcation is to demarcate the influence of the tidal water

from the non tidal influences and to delineate the ecologically sensitive

mangroves and others land use units around the project area.

2.1.3 GPS survey

Field survey was carried out to trace the tide levels in the study

area at Manavalakurichi and Midalam village using Modern Survey

Instruments GPS. The specification of the GPS instruments used for the

survey are listed in annexure B.

The GPS survey was conducted for following tasks.

For getting the Ground control points for georeferencing the

Remote sensing images

For collecting the position of the High Tide lines around the

project site.

For collecting points along the boundary of Mangroves and

other vegetations

Uniformly distributed features in the vicinity of project site that

can well distinguished on the RS images were identified around the

project site and their position were found out using GPS instruments as

control points. The type of GPS instruments their accuracy are found in

the annexure A. The boundaries of the mangroves as interpreted from



the remote sensing images and the field check were demarcated

accurately by positioning the GPS instruments along the boundary

points. The observed GPS data were downloaded and processed in the

Trimble Geomatics Office software. The processed GPS co-ordinates

for the coastal stretch and the creek stretch coming under the project

site were feed in the ArcGIS software. The entire area has been

georeferenced using the GPS control points and the corresponding

Image also been rectified using the GPS points. The same were plotted

using the same software at the scale of 1:4,000. The processed field

GPS data are listed in Annexure B.

2.1.4 MAP Compilation

The village map of village Manavalakurichi to Midalam village of

Kanyakumari District in Tamil Nadu and the remote sensing image

were georeferenced with control points collected with the GPS. The

RMS of the georeferencing was reported to be 1.72m in planimetry.

The village map of Manavalakurichi to Midalam village in 1:4,000 scale

has been used as the base map. In this map the HTL 100m from HTL

and the width of the creek for CRZ boundary lines and the proposed

project site have been marked (Annexure C). The calculated co-

ordinates of HTL and LTL line in WGS-84 co-ordinate systems are

enclosed in the for ready reference (Annexure B). The Features of

importance such as HTL/LTL, land cover classes in the vicinity of the

project site, the buffer of 100m, 150m 500m and 1000m from creek

were compiled in GIS environment with suitable color scheme and

legends and is presented as maps.



3.0 Results and discussion

Based on the request of M/S. Indian Rare Earths Ltd., Manavalakurichi,

the work of GPS survey for Demarcation of for HTL/LTL/CRZ zonation

for the project site at Manavalakurichi and Midalam village of

Kanyakumari distri, Tamil Nadu was taken up by Institute of Remote

Sensing, Anna University. Tide data collected from the various

organizations were analyzed. The mean high tide line was delineated

by the conjunctive use of modern mapping equipments like GPS

capable of getting the accurate geographical locations, remote sensing

images indicating the physical and associated tonal information on the

tidal influence along the coast and creek, Filed equipments like salt

meters to assess the pH value as indicator of tidal influence and the

closer field inspection. The demarcation of High Tide Line and Low Tide

line was carried out using differential GPS. The High Tide Line and Low

Tide line has also been marked on the cadastral map of 1:4,000 scale

for reference.

3.1 CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

The CRZ map showing HTL/LTL and Land use Map have been

prepared for the existing four mining lease areas along with mineral

separation plant of IREL, Manavalakurichi as per CRZ 2011 regulation.

The four mining lease areas within the CRZ has been marked in the

attached maps.

However, as per CRZ-2011 notification,

(I) Projects of Department of Atomic Energy are not prohibited

activities in CRZ.



(II) Mining of minerals that not available outside the CRZ is not a

prohibited activity

Environmentally sensitive areas like presence of mangroves etc. are

not present as interpreted from remote sensing data and from ground

truth survey in the study area.

As such, the project does not attract any restrictions so far as CRZ

Notification, 2011, since the entire project is under Department of

Atomic Energy and is meant for mining of minerals (Ilmenite, Rutile,

Zircon, Sillimanite, Garnet and Monazite (Radioactive).

During field survey, it has been observed that after mining in the inland

areas, the mined out area has been prudently backfilled to near original

topography and plantation is developed over the same. Hence, mining

activity of IREL, Manavalakurichi is not affecting the beach profile.

The beach stretches of all mining lease areas of IREL, MK (8.5 km

(approx) length) are stable.

Thus, the preparation of CRZ map work, which was bestowed upon Institute

of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai, was carried out following the

concerned laws, notifications and regulations as applicable for the case. The

work was carried out without any prejudice and in an unbiased manner. All

efforts were made to make the study as accurate as possible.



ANNEXURE A

List of GPS Instruments used

GPS MODEL Type Accuracy

Trimble 4000 SSE Dual frequency + 0.5 mm + 5mm + 2 ppm

0Trimble 5700 Dual frequency + 0.5 mm + 5mm + 0.5 ppm

Trimble 4600 Single frequency 1 mm + 1 ppm

Trimble Geo XM Single frequency 1 – 3 m



ANNEXURE B GPS coordinators of GPS Survey carried out for


HTL_ID Longitude Latitude

H494 77° 13' 41.585" E 8° 11' 24.331" N

H495 77° 13' 37.442" E 8° 11' 31.143" N

H496 77° 13' 35.472" E 8° 11' 34.517" N

H497 77° 13' 30.798" E 8° 11' 39.712" N

H498 77° 13' 29.417" E 8° 11' 41.248" N

H499 77° 13' 28.978" E 8° 11' 44.431" N

H500 77° 13' 26.701" E 8° 11' 47.016" N

H501 77° 13' 25.816" E 8° 11' 48.412" N

H502 77° 13' 21.417" E 8° 11' 52.056" N

H503 77° 13' 18.706" E 8° 11' 54.130" N

H504 77° 13' 17.427" E 8° 11' 54.914" N

H505 77° 13' 12.331" E 8° 11' 58.801" N

H506 77° 13' 10.272" E 8° 11' 58.524" N

H507 77° 13' 8.479" E 8° 11' 58.852" N

H508 77° 13' 2.687" E 8° 12' 2.489" N

H509 77° 12' 56.286" E 8° 12' 6.509" N

H510 77° 12' 55.465" E 8° 12' 7.357" N

H511 77° 12' 54.951" E 8° 12' 9.095" N

H512 77° 12' 53.523" E 8° 12' 11.040" N

H513 77° 12' 52.593" E 8° 12' 10.481" N

H514 77° 12' 48.086" E 8° 12' 13.595" N

H515 77° 12' 44.000" E 8° 12' 16.419" N

H516 77° 12' 42.527" E 8° 12' 17.436" N

H517 77° 12' 41.638" E 8° 12' 18.050" N contd…



H518 77° 12' 40.349" E 8° 12' 18.941" N

H519 77° 12' 38.629" E 8° 12' 18.321" N

H520 77° 12' 34.212" E 8° 12' 20.634" N

H521 77° 12' 33.135" E 8° 12' 20.179" N

C229 77° 13' 18.742" E 8° 11' 54.141" N

C230 77° 13' 20.623" E 8° 11' 54.699" N

C231 77° 13' 20.216" E 8° 11' 55.203" N

C232 77° 13' 19.700" E 8° 11' 55.312" N

C233 77° 13' 18.179" E 8° 11' 54.848" N

C234 77° 13' 17.610" E 8° 11' 54.898" N

C235 77° 12' 42.426" E 8° 12' 17.652" N

C236 77° 12' 42.277" E 8° 12' 18.063" N

C237 77° 12' 43.167" E 8° 12' 19.497" N

C238 77° 12' 43.884" E 8° 12' 19.690" N

C239 77° 12' 44.633" E 8° 12' 19.690" N

C240 77° 12' 44.715" E 8° 12' 19.973" N

C241 77° 12' 44.318" E 8° 12' 20.010" N

C242 77° 12' 43.291" E 8° 12' 19.932" N

C243 77° 12' 42.728" E 8° 12' 19.525" N

C244 77° 12' 41.750" E 8° 12' 18.124" N

H370 77° 17' 0.785" E 8° 9' 30.602" N

H371 77° 16' 58.873" E 8° 9' 30.932" N

H372 77° 16' 50.220" E 8° 9' 35.832" N

H373 77° 16' 42.428" E 8° 9' 39.921" N

H374 77° 16' 38.116" E 8° 9' 42.990" N

H375 77° 16' 35.772" E 8° 9' 44.472" N

H376 77° 16' 35.571" E 8° 9' 44.184" N

H377 77° 16' 32.230" E 8° 9' 47.514" N

H378 77° 16' 24.786" E 8° 9' 51.460" N

H379 77° 16' 23.167" E 8° 9' 51.503" N

H380 77° 16' 16.635" E 8° 9' 55.147" N

H381 77° 16' 15.751" E 8° 9' 55.592" N

H382 77° 16' 11.410" E 8° 9' 57.822" N

H383 77° 16' 4.214" E 8° 10' 0.763" N contd…



H384 77° 15' 55.902" E 8° 10' 4.577" N

H385 77° 15' 48.999" E 8° 10' 8.135" N

H386 77° 15' 39.973" E 8° 10' 13.299" N

C178 77° 17' 0.437" E 8° 9' 31.140" N

C179 77° 17' 0.658" E 8° 9' 32.521" N

C180 77° 17' 1.225" E 8° 9' 33.610" N

C181 77° 17' 1.383" E 8° 9' 34.150" N

C182 77° 17' 1.063" E 8° 9' 34.161" N

C183 77° 17' 0.408" E 8° 9' 32.697" N

C184 77° 16' 59.877" E 8° 9' 31.237" N

C185 77° 16' 16.744" E 8° 9' 55.198" N

C186 77° 16' 17.098" E 8° 9' 55.370" N

C187 77° 16' 18.260" E 8° 9' 56.431" N

C188 77° 16' 18.792" E 8° 9' 56.310" N

C189 77° 16' 20.040" E 8° 9' 55.884" N

C190 77° 16' 20.230" E 8° 9' 56.156" N

C191 77° 16' 19.020" E 8° 9' 56.703" N

C192 77° 16' 17.900" E 8° 9' 56.692" N

C193 77° 16' 16.992" E 8° 9' 55.947" N

C194 77° 16' 15.933" E 8° 9' 55.622" N

H349 77° 18' 16.618" E 8° 8' 15.587" N

H350 77° 18' 11.775" E 8° 8' 21.845" N

H351 77° 18' 9.816" E 8° 8' 25.499" N

H352 77° 18' 9.019" E 8° 8' 31.744" N

H353 77° 18' 9.596" E 8° 8' 32.978" N

H354 77° 18' 9.212" E 8° 8' 35.609" N

H355 77° 18' 4.652" E 8° 8' 40.862" N

H356 77° 18' 4.681" E 8° 8' 43.506" N

H357 77° 17' 58.939" E 8° 8' 49.868" N

H358 77° 17' 52.741" E 8° 8' 54.533" N

H359 77° 17' 46.559" E 8° 8' 59.489" N

H360 77° 17' 44.658" E 8° 9' 1.063" N

H361 77° 17' 42.324" E 8° 9' 1.801" N

H362 77° 17' 36.912" E 8° 9' 5.365" N contd….



H363 77° 17' 35.565" E 8° 9' 7.238" N

H364 77° 17' 30.210" E 8° 9' 11.878" N

H365 77° 17' 21.805" E 8° 9' 16.422" N

H366 77° 17' 16.421" E 8° 9' 20.083" N

H367 77° 17' 14.087" E 8° 9' 21.628" N

H368 77° 17' 7.936" E 8° 9' 27.803" N

H369 77° 17' 5.930" E 8° 9' 27.005" N

C170 77° 18' 19.707" E 8° 8' 16.158" N

C171 77° 18' 20.014" E 8° 8' 18.474" N

C172 77° 18' 20.192" E 8° 8' 19.529" N

C173 77° 18' 18.967" E 8° 8' 19.761" N

C174 77° 18' 18.844" E 8° 8' 19.415" N

C175 77° 18' 19.061" E 8° 8' 18.741" N

C176 77° 18' 18.406" E 8° 8' 17.548" N

C177 77° 18' 17.292" E 8° 8' 15.603" N



ANNEXURE C

Key maps of the HTL/ LTL of the project site

Site: Manavalakurichi, Laxmipuram, Colachel ( GO : 1114) Part 1 & 2



ANNEXURE D Land use map and statistics of the study area

Description Area in Ha.

Beach 259.18

Built Up 46090.04

Creek 86.42

Crop Land 1197.04

Fallow Land 494.99

Habitation with vegetation 1353.74

Industry/ Mining 228.79

River/Canal 44.94

Scrub land 11689.43

Sea 22243.62

Tank 325.00

Plantation 27220.41

Water logged 28.58

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environmentclearance.nic.inenvironmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/EIA/27122017X6S7WN1I...Environmental Impact Assessment & Environment Management Plan MINING OF BEACH SAND MINERALS