EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1- INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 4

1.1 Preamble ....................................................................................................... 4
3.13 Project Background.................................................................................... 4
3.13 About the city ............................................................................................. 5
1.4 Scope of the EIA study .................................................................................. 5
1.5 Legal, Regulatory and Institutional Framework ............................................. 8
1.5.1 The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 ......................................................... 8
1.5.2 Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 ........................................................ 8
1.5.3 Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011............................................ 9
1.5.4 Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 ........................... 9
1.5.5 Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 ................................ 9
1.5.6 Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) .......................................... 9
1.5.7 Operational Policies / Directives of the World Bank .............................. 10
1.5.8 Permissions Required from Competent Authority ................................. 11
1.5.8 Consent Conditions & its Compliances ................................................. 12

CHAPTER 2 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 21

2.1 Introduction ................................................................................................. 21
2.2 Features of the Proposed Project Site ........................................................ 21
2.2.1 Land use ............................................................................................... 22
2.3 Environmental Setting ................................................................................. 23
2.4 Need for the Proposed Project .................................................................... 23
2.5 Site Selection for the Proposed Project ....................................................... 24
2.5.1 Site Layout ............................................................................................ 25
2.5.2 Land Area ............................................................................................. 25
2.6 Sewage Treatment Method ......................................................................... 25
2.7 Proposed Sewage Treatment Process ........................................................ 26
2.8 Treated Sewage Disposal ........................................................................... 31
2.9 Safety Measures ......................................................................................... 31

Fig 2.8 Showing discharge of treated sewage into Manimutharu river ................................................... 35

CHAPTER 3 – ENVIRONMENT SETTING ...................................................................................................... 36

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

3.1 Baseline Study ............................................................................................ 36

3.2 Meteorology ................................................................................................ 36
3.3 Topography ................................................................................................. 36
3.4 Geology ....................................................................................................... 36
3.5 Seismic Zone .............................................................................................. 37
3.6 Air Environment........................................................................................... 37
3.7 Noise Levels................................................................................................ 39
3.8 Water Environment ..................................................................................... 41
3.9 Soil Environment ......................................................................................... 43
3.10 Biological Environment ............................................................................ 45
3.11 Socio Economic Study ............................................................................. 48
3.11.1 Reconnaissance Survey .................................................................... 48
3.11.2 Baseline Socio-Economic Environment Data .................................... 48
3.11.3 Occupational Structure ...................................................................... 48
3.12 Baseline environmental status within 500 m of project site ...................... 50
3.12.1 Ambient Air Quality............................................................................ 51
3.13 Development of green belt ....................................................................... 56

CHAPTER 4 - ASSESSMENT OF ANTICIPATED IMPACTS ........................................................................ 57

4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................. 57
4.2 Impact on Physical Resources .................................................................... 57
4.2.1 Impact on Topography .......................................................................... 57
4.2.2 Impact on Climate ................................................................................. 57
4.2.3 Impact on Geology, Soils and Mineral Resources ................................ 57
4.3 Impact on Air Quality ................................................................................... 57
4.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts ................................................................. 58
4.4 Impact on Noise Levels ............................................................................... 58
4.4.1 Construction Phase .............................................................................. 58
4.4.2 Operational Phase ................................................................................ 58
4.5 Impact on Water Resources ........................................................................ 58
4.5.1 Construction Phase .............................................................................. 58
4.5.2 Operations phase ................................................................................. 59
4.6 Impact on Water Quality .............................................................................. 59
4.7 Impact on Land Environment ...................................................................... 59

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

4.8 Impact on Ecological Resources ................................................................. 59

4.9 Impact on Socio-Economic Environment .................................................... 60

CHAPTER 5 - IMPACT MITIGATION MEASURES ........................................................................................ 60

5.1 Introduction ................................................................................................. 60
5.2 Construction Phase ..................................................................................... 60
5.2.1 Impact on Air Quality ............................................................................ 60
5.2.2 Impact on Noise Levels ........................................................................ 61
5.2.3 Impact on Micro Climate ....................................................................... 61
5.2.4 Impact on Water Resources ................................................................. 61
5.2.5 Storm Water Drainage .......................................................................... 62
5.2.6 Health, Safety and Sanitation at Workers Camp .................................. 62
5.2.7 Safety and Health related Measures ........................................................ 62

CHAPTER 6 - ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN .............................................................................. 64

6.2 Environmental Monitoring during O & M Stage ........................................... 66

CHAPTER 7 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................................... 67

CHAPTER 8 - PROJECT BENEFITS ............................................................................................................. 87

8.1 Effective technology .................................................................................... 87
8.2 Improvement of Environmental Status ........................................................ 87
8.3 Health Benefits ............................................................................................ 87
8.4 Generation of Employment.......................................................................... 87
8.5 Socio-economic Benefits ............................................................................. 87
8.6 Reuse of Treated Effluent ........................................................................... 88

CHAPTER 9 - PUBLIC CONSULTATION ..................................................................................................... 89

9.1 Public hearing conducted ............................................................................ 89

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

CHAPTER 1- INTRODUCTION

1.1 Preamble
Generation of enormous volumes of sewage in Indian cities may be attributed to urban areas
migration of people, exponential population growth in urbanization, and improved running
water-supply. As per Central Pollution Control Board, which carries out regular inventory of
water supply, wastewater generation and its disposal about 33,000 million litre of
wastewater generated every day from Class-I cities and class –II towns.

It was also observed that most of the cities do not have adequate organized water supply, as
well as wastewater collection and treatment facilities. The wastewater generated in these
areas normally percolates in the soil or evaporates. The uncollected wastes accumulate in
the urban areas cause unhygienic conditions and release significant amount of nutrients on
their decomposition, which leaches to surface and groundwater and pollute them. There are
evidence of gradual increase in nitrate concentration in groundwater in the urban areas. The
problem is more severe in large urban areas.

The primary objective of sewage treatment is to ariegate decomposable organic matter

present in sewage so as to produce an effluent and sludge which can be disposed of in the
environment without causing health hazards or nuisance. Salem City Municipal Corporation
has proposed to set up a sewage treatment plant (STP) of 44 MLD with the aid of World
Bank and TNUDF.

3.13 Project Background

The proposed STP project would cater to zone – II of Salem City Municipal Corporation
which totally comprises of area of geographical extent of 91 [Link] and with a 2011 census
population of 34,80,008. Accordingly, proposals were made for designing, providing,
constructing, erection and commissioning, startup and performance trial run for 6 months
followed by 5 years of O&M of 44 MLD capacity sewage treatment plant (STP) at Vandipettai
with selected modern technologies in Salem City Municipal Corporation on DBOT Basis. The
cost of the project is Rs.30.8 crores.

Time for completion has been decided as 90 months with 24 months duration for
construction and commissioning; 6 months duration for performance trial run; and 60 months
duration for subsequent Operation and Maintenance.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

3.13 About the city

Salem city also called as ‘Steel city’ by virtue of the industries is located in the north central
part of the state, about 340 kilometres southwest of the Tamil Nadu state capital, Chennai.
Salem is the fifth biggest city in Tamil Nadu in terms of size. The city has a picturesque
setting and is surrounded by hills on all sides namely Nagaramalai to the north, Jarugumalai
to the south, Kanjamalai to the west, and Godumalai to the east. It is divided by the river
Thirumanimuthar in the main division. Salem is noted for various remarkable sites among
which is the Stanley Reservoir built across the Cauveri river is praised as an architectural
marvel and engineering master-piece. Another significant landmark of Salem city is the
Salem Steel Plant a public sector company engaged which provides employment to
thousands and is engaged in rolling out cast steel blacks into sheets of required dimensions.
Of the agricultural produces Mango fruits from Salem are enjoyed and much sought after
even in international markets. Tapioca is also extensively cultivated by the farmers of
Salem and the tubers are used primarily to produce starch.

The sewage treatment plant is proposed to be located near the state highway – SH 159
which is the Salem to Sankari road. The proposed site is a barren land and there is neither
vegetation nor habitation. The map and satellite pictures showing the location of the site and
the surrounding features are shown in the figures below as Fig 1.1 and 1.2.

1.4 Scope of the EIA study

The scope of the study is to document the proposed project of STP in relation to its setting,
baseline data, foreseeable impacts on the environment especially in addressing the disposal
/ reuse of the treated sewage and arising there from identifying the remediations that may be
needed and formulating an environmental management plan (EMP).

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report for the proposed STP in Vandipettai
Village of Salem Taluk has been prepared as per EIA Notification, 2006 by Ministry of
Environment and Forests (MoEF), Government of India (GoI) and guidelines as specified by
OP 4.01 of World Bank.

Environmental Impact Assessment of the project will include:

• Collection of baseline information on various components of the environment
• Identification of areas and aspects those are environmentally or socially significant

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

• Conducting community consultations on various environmental and social aspects of the

project and documenting the same
• Determining the magnitude of environmental impacts and formulation of mitigation
measures for consideration and incorporation during planning/design, construction and
operational phases of the project implementation
• Preparation of environmental enhancement plans for improving the environmental quality
of the project corridor; and
• Preparation of environmental management plans including a program for monitoring
environmental impacts, implementation schedule and responsibilities. It also specifies
requirements of Institutional strengthening, if any, supervision program and contracting
procedures for execution of environmental mitigation works.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Salem District in Tamil Nadu Salem in Salem District

Proposed STP Site

Fig 1.1 Map showing the location the proposed STP site

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

STP Site

Fig 1.2 Satellite Picture Showing the Location of STP Site and Surrounding

1.5 Legal, Regulatory and Institutional Framework

The legal environmental framework in India consists of several acts, notifications, rules and
guidelines to protect environment and wildlife. Relevant legislations, regulations and policy
guidelines applicable to this project are discussed.

1.5.1 The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

This act is promulgated to provide for the protection of wild animals, birds and plants and for
matters connected therewith. The Wildlife Protection Act has allowed the Government to
establish a number of National Parks and Sanctuaries over the past 25 years, to protect and
conserve the flora and fauna of the State. There are no Wild Life Sanctuaries and
endangered flora and fauna in and around the project site. This act is therefore not
applicable to the project.

1.5.2 Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

This act is promulgated to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to conserve and
protect the environment before commencement of operations. This act enhances the
existing laws on pollution control and also lays down standards for air quality and noise. The
Central Government in pursuance of its rule-making powers under the Act has passed
notifications regulating location of industry and operations.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

1.5.3 Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011

All developmental activities proposed to be located in this zone are regulated under the
Notification. It classifies the coastal stretch of the country into CRZ-I (ecologically sensitive
areas), CRZ-II (built up municipal areas), CRZ-III (rural areas) and CRZ-IV (Islands of
Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar)

CRZ notification is not applicable to this project since the project site is not located near sea
or any tidal influenced river.

1.5.4 Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

The act as amended in 1978 &1988 vests regulatory authority on the State Pollution Control
Boards and empowers them to establish and enforce effluent standards for industries and
local authorities discharging effluents. Section 24 of the act prohibits use of stream or well or
on land disposal for polluting substances that violate disposal standards laid down by the
board.

The project activity of setting up of sewage treatment plant may attract various sections of
the act.

1.5.5 Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

The act vests regulatory authority on the State Pollution Control Boards and empowers them
to establish and enforce air quality standards to prevent air pollution in the country.

Consent for Establishment and consent to operate need to be obtained from TNPCB for
various construction activities by the Contractor as per Water and Air Acts. The proposed
construction activities would involve setting up of camp site, crushers, WMM and batching
plants and hot mix plant by the contractor during the construction stage of the project.

1.5.6 Environmental and Social Framework (ESF)

The Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services Limited (TNUIFSL) has been set up
to manage a Trust fund ---- Tamil Nadu Urban Development Fund (TNUDF). The trust has
been established to manage urban infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu. Typical urban
infrastructure projects eligible for funding would include water supply, sanitation, solid waste
management, roads, transportation, sites and services, area development and other
remunerative/non-remunerative urban infrastructure projects. Recognising the environmental
and social issues that can arise in urban infrastructure projects, TNUIFSL has evolved an
Environmental and Social Framework (ESF). The ESF provides an overall framework to
TNUIFSL in identification, assessment and management of environmental and social
concerns at the sub project level. The ESF outlines the policies, assessments and

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

procedures that will enable TNUIFSL to ensure that a subproject that it funds is developed in
accordance with ESF and is adequately protected from associated risks. The ESF also aims
to sensitise borrowers to assessment and management of environmental and social issues
arising in urban infrastructure projects.

TNUDF has categorized the urban infrastructure projects depending on location and the
nature of project activities in to different categories – E1, E2 and E3 linked to severity of
impacts and regulatory requirements.

The proposed STP project comes under E1 category as per Table 1.3: Guidelines for
Environmental Categorisation of Projects of Environmental and Social Framework developed
by TNUIFSL. E-1 projects are those wherein TNUIFSL foresees major environmental
impacts thus necessitating Environmental Assessment Reports (EAR).

1.5.7 Operational Policies / Directives of the World Bank

The following World Bank Operational Policies (OP) were found relevant with respect to the
proposed project and are reviewed below:

• OP 4.01 – Environmental Assessment

• OP 4.04 – Natural Habitats
• Cultural Property – OPN 11.03 Requirements
• OP 4.36 – Forests

Operational Policy 4.01 (OP 4.01) is one of the ten safeguard policies of the World Bank,
which provides the Environmental Assessment (EA) guidance for the lending operations.
The OP 4.01 requires the borrower to screen projects upstream in the project cycle for
potential impacts. Thereafter, an appropriate EA approach to assess, minimize / enhance
and mitigate potentially adverse impacts is selected depending on nature and scale of
project. The EA needs to be integrated in the project development process such that timely
measures can be applied to address identified impacts. The policy requires consultation with
affected groups and NGOs to ariegate community concerns and the need to address the
same as part of EA.

TNUIFSL has adopted the principles of the above policy and has evolved a management
framework to address the environmental issues in its lending operations.

Natural Habitats – OP/BP 4.04 – Operational Policy 4.04 sets out the World Bank’s policy
on supporting and ariegate the precautionary approach to natural resource

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

management and ensuring opportunities for environmentally sustainable development. As

per this policy, projects that involve significant conversion or degradation of critical natural
habitats are not supported by the Bank.

Cultural Property – OPN 11.03 Requirements

The World Bank’s Operational Policy Note 11.03 aims at preserving and avoiding the
elimination of structures having archaeological (prehistoric), paleontological, historical,
religious and unique natural values. Projects that could significantly damage non-replicable
cultural properties are declined for funding and the Bank will in turn assist protection and
enhancement of cultural properties encountered in the project rather than leaving that
protection to chance.

Forests – OP/BP 4.36

OP/BP 4.36 sets out specific policy on protection of forests through consideration of forest
related impacts of all investment operations, ensuring restrictions for operations affecting
critical forest conservation areas, and improving commercial forest practice through use of
modern certification systems. The policy requires consultation with local people, the private
sector and other stakeholders in forest area. In the context of TNUP operations, these issues
are relevant for the projects that pass through or require diversion of forest land.

The EIA report has been prepared and presented as per requirements of the EIA
Notification, 2006 of MoEF under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and Operational
Policy 4.01 of the World Bank

1.5.8 Permissions Required from Competent Authority

The permission pertaining to the project activities of the sewage treatment plant along with
the status are discussed in this section.

[Link] Project Permission Status

Activity Required
1. Establishment Consent for Consent for Establishment has been
of Sewage Establishment under obtained from TNPCB vide Consent Order
Treatment Water (Prevention No: DEE/ SLM/ Estt. 0094/ W/ 2011 dated
Plant and Control of 26.08.2011 for the proposed STP. The
Pollution) Act, 1974. photocopy of the Consent for
Establishment is enclosed as Annexure –
1.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

[Link] Project Permission Status

Activity Required
Consent for Consent for Establishment has been
Establishment under obtained from TNPCB vide Consent Order
Air (Prevention and No: DEE/ SLM/ Estt. 0094/ A/ 2011 dated
Control of Pollution) 26.08.2011 for the proposed STP. The
Act 1981 photocopy of the Consent for
Establishment is enclosed as Annexure –
1.
2. Operation of Consent to Operate Consent to Operate will be obtained from
Sewage under Water TNPCB before operation of the plant
Treatment (Prevention and
Plant Control of Pollution)
Act, 1974.
Consent to Operate Consent to Operate will be obtained from
under Air (Prevention TNPCB before operation of the plant
and Control of
Pollution) Act 1981

The responsibility of obtaining Consent for establishment and consent to operate for the
proposed STP project vests with the project promoter. The project proponent, Salem City
Municipal Corporation has obtained consent for establishment from TNPCB for the proposed
STP project.

1.5.8 Consent Conditions & its Compliances

[Link] No Objection Certificate from TNPCB
As a prelude for getting consent for establishment, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board
(TNPCB) has issued no objection certificate (NOC) for setting up STP at Vandipettai. The
conditions stipulate and its compliance are discussed below.
[Link] Conditions as per NOC issued by TNPCB Compliance Status
1. The Corporation shall submit appropriate land The land use certificate will be
use certificate from DTCP submitted.
2. The Corporation shall declare the land for a It will be complied with.
radius of 100 meters as no development
activities in consultation with DTCP
3. The Corporation shall develop green belt of 25 Green belt will be developed all
meters width all around the proposed STP around the proposed STP site
4. The Corporation shall furnish full fledged It will be complied with
sewage treatment plant proposal with design
and drawing while applying for consent for
establishment under the Water (P&CP) Act,
1974 as amended.
5. The Corporation shall provide STP STP components of collection tank,

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

[Link] Conditions as per NOC issued by TNPCB Compliance Status

components of collection tank, aeration tank, aeration tank, clarifier & sludge
clarifier & sludge drying beds along with any drying beds along with any other
other components proposed by TWAD Board. components proposed by TWAD
Board will be provided.
6. The Corporation shall obtain consent for It will be complied with.
establishment for the discharge of sewage
effluent under section 25 of the Water (P&CP)
Act, 1974 and for the installation of
underground sewerage system along with the
STP before establishment.
7. No flooding of treated/ untreated effluent is It will be complied with.
permitted
8. The Corporation shall commence the It will be complied with.
construction activity at the site only after
obtaining consent for establishment from the
Board under section 25 of the Water (P&CP)
Act, 1974 as amended.
9. The Corporation shall operate and maintain The sewage will be treated to
the sewage treatment plant to satisfy the satisfy the standards prescribed by
standards prescribed by the Board before the Board before discharging to
discharging to river Thirumanimutharu. river Thirumanimutharu.
10. The Corporation shall construct compound Compound wall will be constructed
wall around the periphery of the site at a around the periphery of the site.
height of 6 feet.

[Link] Consent for Establishment from TNPCB

Consent for Establishment for the proposed unit of 44 MLD STP at Salem Municipal
Corporation has been obtained from TNPCB. The conditions stipulated by TNPCB and
status of compliance are ariegate below.

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Consent for Establishment – Water Act

[Link] SPECIAL CONDITIONS COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
1. The consent to establish is valid for the The STP will be designed for 44 MLD.
manufacture of products/ byproducts and
the rate of production mentioned above.
Any change in quality or quantity of the
products has to be brought to the notice
of the Board.
[Link] Description Quantity/
Month
1. Treatment of 44 MLD
sewage

2. This consent to establish is valid for The STP will be designed for 44 MLD
establishing the facility with the below and the treated effluent will be disposed
mentioned outlets for the discharge of to Thirumanimutharu river through pipes
sewage/trade effluent. Any change in the as per consent order.
outlet has to be brought to the notice of
the board and fresh consent has to be
obtained if necessary.
Outlet Description Max. daily Point of
no of outlet discharge disposal
in KLD
1. Sewage 44000 River
Manimutharu

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

3. The unit shall provide STP as indicated The unit dimensions of STP submitted
below. Nature of Effluent: sewage. are from the approved final designs and
S. Unit Quantity Size (m) implementation as per approval will be
No ensured.
1. Septic tank 1 3x2x2
2. Receiving 1 5.2 X 1.5 X 1.20
Chamber
3. Screen channel 2+2 6 X1.5 X 1.1
4. Inlet Chamber 1 2.9 X 3.2 X 3.3
5. Grit Chamber 2 10.2 dia X 0.7
6. Fab Reactor 4 15 X 15 X 4.65
7. Lamella clarifier 8 7.4 X 7.4 X 2.55
SWD
8. Chlorine contact 1 26.2 X 10 X3.5
tank
9. Sludge sump 1 4.4 dia X3
10. R.S Collection 1 14.80 dia X 2
sump
Trade effluent – Type of ETP – Not applicable

4. Additional Conditions
1. The Corporation shall provide septic tank This will be carried out by the
for the sewage and shall connect the Corporation as indicated.
overflow to the receiving chamber of
STP.
2. The Corporation shall install full fledged This will be complied with.
STP to satisfy the discharge standards
prescribed by the Board before
commissioning.
3. The Corporation shall have standby Standby arrangement for all critical
arrangement for all critical components components shall be provided.
like pumps, blowers, FAB reactor
components etc to ensure continuous
and smooth functioning of STP.
4. The Corporation shall provide necessary Adequate safety measures like safety kit,
safety measures like safety kit, chlorine chlorine gas leak detecting system with
gas leak detecting system with alarm, alarm, eye wash etc for handling chlorine
eye wash etc for handling chlorine gas gas cylinders will be provided.
cylinders.
5. 25% of the land area acquired by the unit Green belt area will be allocated as per
shall be utilized for green belt with trees norms prescribed. Green belt will be
planted at the rate of 400 trees /hect. developed area around the STP units
and along the boundary of the site. The
inter-spaces will be laid with shrubs

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

6. The Corporation shall provide Rain Rain water harvesting system will be
Water Harvesting Facilities wherever implemented as per approved plan.
possible to increase the recharge of
ground water.
7. The STP operation shall not lead to any This condition will be complied with.
public complaint
8. The unit shall install electro- magnetic This condition will be complied with.
flow meter with computerized recording
system at inlet/outlet of STP.
9. The operation of the STP shall not give The operation shall be carried out as per
rise to any objectionable odour. standard procedure and odour shall be
avoided.
10. Manual cleaning of effluent tanks must Mechanical means must be adopted.
be avoided and mechanical means must Accumulation of sludge in effluent tanks
be adopted. Accumulation of sludge in must be avoided.
effluent tanks must be avoided.

11. The Corporation shall declare the radius This condition will be complied with by
of 100 m as no development activities in the Corporation.
consultation with DTCP.
12. The Corporation shall develop green belt Green belt will be provided as per norms
of 25m width all around the proposed prescribed.
STP.
13. No flooding of treated /untreated effluent It will be ensured that no flooding will
is permitted in the STP. take place as the O&M will be carried out
effectively.
14. The quality of treated sewage shall be Periodical monitoring of treated sewage
got analysed regularly once in a month as prescribed parameters will be carried
and report shall be furnished to TNPCB. out.
15. The Corporation shall provide necessary This condition will be complied with by
storm water drain in and around the STP the Corporation.
site and ensure that there will not be any
water logging.
16. The Corporation shall provide This condition will be complied with by
uninterrupted power supply to the STP to the Corporation.
operate continuously. The Corporation
shall have standby power supply for
operation of the STP.
17. The sludge from the centrifuge is in The sludge will be utilized as manure for
undigested form. It should be properly green area.
handled and disposed off after
stabilization. The STP sludge shall be
used for green belt development.

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18. The screening waste collected from fine It will be ensured that the collected waste
screen and grit removal unit shall be will be disposed properly.
properly collected and disposed.
19. The Corporation shall have baseline on Environmental monitoring will be carried
ground water quality atleast in 6 locations out as per monitoring plan and at six
around the STP site in consultation with locations for studying ground water
the DEE, TNPCB, Salem and periodically quality.
monitor the ground water quality in the
same locations once in six months. The
complied data shall be furnished to the
DEE once in a year.
20. The Corporation shall provide compound This condition will be complied with by
wall on all sides of STP area. the Corporation.

21. The Corporation shall comply with all This condition will be complied with by
conditions specified in the NOC. the Corporation.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. The above consent to establish cannot Operation will be commenced only after
be construed as consent to operate and obtaining the consent to operate.
the unit shall not commence the
operation without obtaining the consent
to operate.
2. The industry shall make a request for This will be complied with.
grant of consent to operate atleast thirty
days before the commissioning of trial
production.
3. The unit shall construct compound wall Compound wall will be constructed as
around the boundary of the unit. per plan.
4. Samples of water from the wells or any This will be complied with.
other nearby water sources have to be
taken by the unit and get them analyzed
by the Board Laboratory to develop
baseline data to assess the existing
water quality.
5. The unit shall provide an alternate power Continuous operation of STP will be
source along with separate energy meter ensured by provision of standby power
to ensure continuous operation of the supply.
STP
6. The consent does not authorize or This will be complied with.
approve the construction of any physical
structures or facilities or the undertaking
of any work in any natural watercourse.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

7. Any change in the details furnished in the Any changes in the conditions
conditions has to be brought to the notice
of the Board, before obtaining consent to
operate under the said Act.
8. The unit has to comply with provisions of This will be complied with.
Public Liability Insurance Act 1991 to
provide immediate relief in the event of
any hazard to human beings, other living
creatures/plants
9. Consent to operate will not be issued The conditions given in the consent to
unless the unit complies with all the establish will be complied with.
conditions of consent to establish
10. In case there is any change in the This will be complied with.
management, the unit shall inform the
change with relevant documents
immediately.

Consent to Establishment – Air Act

[Link] GENERAL CONDITIONS COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
1. The consent to establish is valid for the The STP will be designed for 44 MLD.
manufacture of products/ byproducts
and the rate of production mentioned
above. Any change in quality or quantity
of the products has to be brought to the
notice of the Board.
[Link] Description Quantity/
Month
1. Treatment of sewage 44 MLD

2. This consent to establish is valid for The details of chimney/ stack as

establishing the facility with the below mentioned in the consent and their height
mentioned emission/ noise sources will remain unchanged
along with the control measures and/or
stack. Any change in the emission
source/ control measures/ change in
stack height has to be brought to the
notice of the board and fresh consent
has to be obtained if necessary.
[Link]. Source of APC Measures to Point of
Emission be provided Discharge – Stack
Height (Meters)
1. Gen Set Stack with 5
1000 acoustic
KVA measures

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

3. The Corporation shall provide APC APC measures such as 5m stack with
measures as proposed to DG set so as acoustic measures for DG set will be
to achieve AAQ/ Emission standards provided.
prescribed by the Board.
4. The Corporation shall provide Adequate safety measures like safety kit,
necessary safety measures like safety chlorine gas leak detecting system with
kit, chlorine gas leak detecting system alarm, eye wash etc for handling chlorine
with alarm, eye wash etc for handling gas cylinders will be provided.
chlorine gas cylinders.

5. 25% of the land area acquired by the Green belt area will be allocated as per
unit shall be utilized for green belt with norms prescribed.
trees planted at the rate of 400 trees/
hect.
6. The Corporation shall provide rain water Rain water harvesting system will be
harvesting facilities wherever possible implemented as per approved plan.
to increase the recharge of ground
water.
7. The STP operation shall not lead to any This condition will be complied with.
public complaint.
8. The operation of Sewage Treatment The operation shall be carried out as per
Plant shall not give rise to any standard procedure and odour will be
objectionable odour. avoided.
Green belt will be developed around STP
to control odour. Odour removal scrubber
will be retro-fitted to the system.

Spraying of water will be done on the

odour creating units

Monitoring will be done on ambient air

quality around STP.
9. The Corporation shall ensure that 100 This will be complied with.
meters around the Sewage Treatment
Plant shall be declared as no-
development zone and green belt shall
be developed in this zone. A minimum
of 25 m width of green belt must be
developed with tall trees all around
Sewage Treatment Plant site to
attenuate odour nuisance. A thick green
belt shall also be developed all side so
as to arrest noise and odour nuisance to
the residents.
10. The above consent to establish cannot Operation will be commenced only after
be construed as consent to operate and obtaining the consent to operate.

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the unit shall not commence the

operation without obtaining the Consent
to operate.
11. The applicant shall make a request for This will be complied with.
grant of consent to operate at least
thirty days before the commissioning of
trial production.
12. Any change in the details furnished in This will be complied with.
the conditions has to be brought to the
notice of the Board and got approved by
the Board, before obtaining consent to
operate under the said Act.
13. The unit has to comply with the This will be complied with.
provisions of Public Liability Insurance
Act, 1991 to provide immediate relief in
the event of any hazard to human
beings, other living creatures / plants
and properties while handling and
storage of hazardous substances
(wherever applicable)
14. Consent to operate will not be issued The conditions given in the consent to
unless the unit complies with the establish will be complied with.
conditions of consent to establish.

15. The unit shall provide adequate for the Dust will be controlled with water
control of dust emission during the sprinklers
loading and unloading of construction
materials so as to minimize dust
emission.
16. The unit shall provide water sprinklers Dust will be controlled with water
along the temporary roads inside the sprinklers
premises to avoid fugitive dust emission
during the vehicles movements.
17. The unit shall develop green belt of Green belt will be provides as per norms
adequate width around the premises. prescribed.
18. In case there is any change in the This will be complied with.
management, the unit shall inform the
change with relevant documents
immediately.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

CHAPTER 2 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Introduction
The proposed STP project of Salem City Municipal Corporation is to set up 44 MLD capacity
sewage treatment plant (STP) at Vandipettai to treat the sewage generated in the zone –II of
city which comprises of area of geographical extent of 383 [Link]. The cost of the project is
Rs.30.8 crores.

Accordingly, tenders were floated and based on the lowest quote of tender bids, M/s. Geo
Miller and Co. Private Limited has been awarded the contract.

The contract involves designing, providing, constructing, erection and commissioning,

startup and performance trial run for 6 months followed by 5 years of O&M of 44 MLD
capacity sewage treatment plant (STP) at Vandipettai based on FAB technology in Salem
City Municipal Corporation on DBOT Basis. Time for completion has been decided as 90
months with 24 months duration for construction and commissioning; 6 months duration for
performance trial run; and 60 months duration for subsequent Operation and Maintenance.

2.2 Features of the Proposed Project Site

The site for the proposed 44 MLD STP is located at S.F. No 45, Shevvapet village, Salem
Taluk, Salem District. The proposed site belongs to Salem Municipal Corporation and the
land use of the area is commercial. The nearby establishments around the STP site are
Lorry Market, Corporation Shopping Complex, Middle School, Oil Mills, Indoor Stadium. The
proposed site is a barren land and there is neither vegetation nor habitation. The salient
features of the proposed project is shown in Table 2.1. The figure showing the features
surrounding the site upto 500 m is shown in Fig 2.1.

Commercial areas of
N
Salem city

Govt. aided schools

STP

Thirumanimutharu
River
State Highway 159
Residential areas of
Salem city

Fig 2.1a Location of STP Site and Features within 500m from the STP site

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Fig 2.1b Sketch showing location of STP Site and Features

2.2.1 Land use

The site of the proposed STP falls under the land use category of commercial purpose in the
existing and proposed condition. This is with reference to the Salem Corporation Master
Plan, proposed land use 2011 issued by the Salem Local Planning authority under the
Directorate of Town and Country Planning of Government of Tamil Nadu.

Table 2.1 Salient Features of the Project

[Link] Feature Details
1 Name of the Project Proposed 44 MLD based STP
2 Project location Vandipettai Village, Salem Taluk in Salem District
3 Type of plant Fluidized Aerobic Bioreactor based STP
4 Cost of the project Rs.30.8 crores
5 Total Land area 7468 sq.m
Treated sewage The treated sewage will be discharged into Thirumanimuthar
6
disposal River.
Geographical 11°64’74”N
7
co-ordinates 78°13’43”E
8 Nearest water body Thirumanimuthar river runs at about 190 m west of site

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

2.3 Environmental Setting

The ecologically significant systems within the study area of the project site are listed and
briefly discussed below:
3. Archaeological monuments
The location does not have significant archaeological monuments in nearby 10 km radius.
b) Biological resources
It was found that the location is devoid of any endangered flora and fauna within 10 km
radius.
c) National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuary
There are no national parks or wildlife sanctuary in the study area.
d) Core Zone of Biosphere Reserve/ Habitat for Migratory Birds
There is no biosphere reserve/habitat for migratory birds in the study area.
e) Lakes / Reservoirs / Dams
In the study area there are no major lakes, reservoirs and dams.
f) Rivers / Streams
Thirumanimuthar River lies at a distance of 190 m from the site.
g) Sea / Estuary/ Mangroves
There is no sea/ estuary/ mangroves in the study area.
h) Cultural Monuments
This proposed unit does not have significant cultural monuments in nearby 10km radius.
3. Defence
There is no defence installation nearby the unit.

2.4 Need for the Proposed Project

As per Municipal Administration & Water Supply Department and Tamil Nadu Urban
Development Project –III, the salient features of Salem Municipal Corporation relevant to the
proposed project are discussed. The total area of Salem Corporation is 91.345 [Link] and
the number of wards is 60. There are three number of sewerage zones in Salem Municipal
Corporation. The proposed STPs are designed to meet the projected demands as given
below.

[Link] Basis Year Total population

1 Census 2001 693236
2 Base year 2010 820000
3 Intermediate 2025 1052000
4 Ultimate 2040 1324000

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

As per proposal, the Length of sewers will be for 175 km in Zone –I; 68 km in Zone – II and
179 km in Zone – III. There would be three numbers Main pumping stations.
The proposed capacity and locations of STP will be 44 MLD at Vandipet; 35MLD at
Manguttai; 13 MLD Vellakuttai Lake; and 6MLD at Anaimedu The sewerage collection
and coverage areas proposed to be covered under the scheme under consideration are
given below in Figure 2.2.

Fig 2.2Showing Salem City Corporation Area

2.5 Site Selection for the Proposed Project

An assessment of the site of the proposed STP was conducted and the environmental
features in the site and surrounding areas were noted. The site is a barren land and totally

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

devoid of plantation. Activities of site clearing such as tree cutting and removal of vegetation
is not required. Since it lies alongside the state highway it presents an easily accessible
approach.
There are two PAPs in the site as mentioned in Section 8.1, which may require resettlement
or rehabilitation. As per the Chairman of the Grievance Redressal Committee of Salem
Corporation, two PAPs were identified and identity cards and monetary compensation has
been provided.

2.5.1 Site Layout

The layout for the proposed STP is shown in Fig 2.6. The layout has been in such a way that
apart from the proposed 44 MLD STP units, there is sufficient space reserved considering
future expansion activities.

2.5.2 Land Area

The breakup of the extent of land for the proposed project site is shown below.

Table 2.2 Details of land area

Area (m2)
1 Total area 8610
2 Built-up area 3300
3 Roads 1235
4 Utilities 6710
5 Green belt area 690
6 Vacant area (including future expansion) 1900

2.6 Sewage Treatment Method

Treatment technology based on FAB (Fluidized Aerobic Bioreactor) also known as MBBR
(Moving Bed Bio Reactor) will be used for treatment of 44 MLD of sewage. Such sewage
treatment plants of a medium or small scale require a simple equipment composition and
easy maintenance. The FAB has largely simplified the washing mechanism by washing
filtering media parallelly to the reactor processing. The wastewater is fed at the reactor top
and flows downwards through the packed bed of filter media with a several-millimeter
diameter. While passing through the packed bed, the sewage undergoes biological
treatment by contacting the aeration air and Suspended Solids are removed.

Then the treated water is taken out from the side wall of the reactor.
At the same time air is supplied to the bottom of the air lift pipe. By the air lifting through the

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

pipe, the filtering media together with the sludge is into the pipe and transported to the top
area.

The filtering media with sludge is discharged by separating screen on the top are returned
onto the packed bed, and the sludge is discharged as washing wastewater.

Fig 2.3 FAB process activity

The advantages are that the facilities has simplified device requires only the air-compressor
for the air-lift, and not the back-washing pump, blower, or tank that was needed for the fixed
bed type reactor. Construction work is also simplified as the steel reactor is manufactured at
the factory to facilitate the field work, and the construction term can be shortened.

2.7 Proposed Sewage Treatment Process

The treatment process is based FAB (Fluidized Aerobic Bioreactor) also known as MBBR
(Moving Bed Bio Reactor).It has the following components. The flow chart indicating sewage
treatment process is shown in Fig 2.5.

2.7.1 Sewage Pumping Station

The sewage is first received in the sewage pumping station through a 1400 dia RCC pipe at
a level of 265.47. The sewage level in the pipe is considered to be 75% full at peak designed
flow. The Sewage Pumping Station is provided with 2 nos of Coarse Screen, one
mechanical working & one manual standby & each designed for 44 MLD avg flow. The
detention time in the wet well is kept as 10 min for avg flow. The sewage is screened &
received at the sump from where it is pumped through 2W + 1S Submersible pump to the

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Inlet Chamber of the STP. The layout for the proposed construction of layout STP is given in
Fig 2.6 and the hydraulic flow chart is given in Fig 2.7.

2.7.2 Inlet Chamber – STP

The Sewage is received at the Inlet chamber with detention time of 60 sec as per NIT. The
detention time is enough to dampen the surge pumped flow & to attain an average approach
velocity of 0.3 m/s before screen.

2.7.3 Screen Chamber

The sewage enters the screen chamber with 2 nos of Fine Screen, one mechanical working
& one manual standby & each designed for 44 MLD avg flow. The design basis for screens
is as follows
• Approach Velocity at avg flow - 0.3 m/s
• Velocity through screen at avg flow - 0.6 m/s
• Velocity through screen at peak flow - 1.2 m/s

2.7.4 Grit Chamber

The sewage after screening & being removed from all the coarse & fine suspended debris
enters the grit chamber. The chamber removes the grit from the sewage based on Stokes
law principal separating grit of Specific gravity > 2.65. The design overflow rate achieved is
960 m3/m2/d with a detention time provided more than 60 seconds.
2.7.5 Biological Treatment
The sewage enters the biological unit named FAB or Fluidized Aerobic Bioreactor. Fluidized
Bioreactor is defined as, a rector having bed of small media freely suspended in upward flow
of liquid combined with air flow. These are contributed by more complete removal of
compounds, tolerance of harsh condition, resistance to upsets, reduce sludge production
(lower sludge handling cost), reduced reactor size (lower capital cost).

Fig 2.4 Schematic diagram of FAB process

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

The FAB woks on the principles that media supports the biomass and media is in
suspension of specific gravity lesser than water. The media fluidization is by virtue of
hydraulic currents set by aeration and the media has high specific surface area, typically
300/400/500 m2/m3.

The unit achieves an overall BOD removal of more than 90% & brings down the discharge
BOD level to <20 mg/l. The sewage generated from the city will be having the following
characteristics

Table 2.2 Characteristics of Raw Sewage

[Link] Parameters Unit Design Value
1 pH # 6.2
2 TSS mg/l 220
3 BOD5 at 20º C mg/l 236
4 COD mg/l 452
5 Oil & Grease mg/l <1
6 Total Kjeldhal Nitrogen (TKN) mg/l 61
7 Ammonia Nitrogen (as N) mg/l 50
8 Total Phosphorus (as PO4) mg/l 5
9 Sulphate mg/l 54
10 Chlorides mg/l 200
The treated sewage with the following characteristics is proposed to be let into the existing
drain.
Table 2.3 Characteristics of Treated Sewage
[Link] Parameters Unit Design Value
1 pH # 5.5 -9
2 TSS mg/l <30
3 BOD5 at 20º C mg/l <20
4 COD mg/l <250
5 Oil & Grease mg/l <=5
6 Ammonia Nitrogen (as N) mg/l <=50
7 Nitrate Nitrogen (as NO3) mg/l <=10
8 Total Phosphorus (as PO4) mg/l <=5

It may be seen that the projected treated sewage quality is easily attainable.

2.7.6 Lamella Clarifier

The flow from the FAB enters the settling tank with huge MLSS. The suspended solids
require to be separated out from the system in order to achieve a clear supernatant. The

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

system proposed for the settling is a Lamella Clarifier, which requires a low foot print thus
saving on the land & construction cost.

2.7.7 Chlorine Contact Tank

The clarified water coming out of the Lamella Clarifier is disinfected in this tank reducing the
coliforms to acceptable standards prior to discharge into the channel. The chlorine is dosed
through vacuum chlorination system and given 30 min detention time at average flow with
baffling chambers for effective kill time of coliforms.

The chlorination will be carried out with chlorine gas to reduce coliforms. It will be dosed into
chlorine contact tank with the help of a booster pump. Booster pump will take the suction of
treated water from CCT & chlorine from discharge of chlorine tonner & inject the same.

2.7.8 Sludge Handling System

The sludge generated from the Lamella Clarifier is taken out to the sludge pump from where
it is pumped to centrifuge through 2 nos. of screw pumps. The sludge generated from the
system has the following characteristics:-

Table 2.4 Details of Sludge Generated

[Link] Particulars Quantity
1 Solids generated in the system 3115.2 kg/d
2 Consistency 3.0%
3 Sludge quantity 103.84 m3/d

2.7.9 Grit and screen disposal

The disposal of grit from the grit chamber and bar screen removed by screw conveyor. Grits
are collected and taken out in a trolley.

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Receiving Chamber

Coarse Screen channel

R.S Collection Sump

Inlet Chamber

Screen Channel

`Grit Grit
Chamber Chamber

FAB FAB
Reactor Reactor

Lamella Lamella
Clarifier Clarifier

Sludge
Sump Chlorine Contact Tank

Existing Drain
Dewatering Unit

Fig 2.5 Flow Chart Indicating the STP Process

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

The size of the units in the proposed STP is shown in Table 2.5.
Table 2.5 Size of STP Units
[Link] Unit Size (m) Quantity
11. R.S Receiving Chamber 5.2m X 1.5m X 1.20m 1
12. Screen channel 6m X1.5m X 1.1m 2
13. R.S Collection sump 14.80m dia X 2m 1
14. MCC Room - 1
15. Inlet Chamber 2.9m X 3.2m X 3.3m 1
16. Screen channel 6m X 1.5m X 1.1m 2
17. Grit Chamber 10.2m dia X 0.7m 2
18. Fab Reactor 15m X 15m X 4.65m 4
19. Lamella clarifier 7.4m X 7.4m X 2.55 SWD 8
20. Chlorine contact tank 26.2m X 10m X3.5m 1
21. Sludge sump 4.4m dia X3m 1
22. Blower room 20m X 7m X 4.5m 1
23. Dewatering building (GF/FF) 10m X 7m (overall) 1
24. Chlorinator room 6.75m X 8m X 4m total HT 1
25. Chlorine tonner room 12.5m X 8m 1
26. Space for transformer 5m X 4m 1
27. Space for DG set 5m X 6m 1
28. HT Panel/metering room 5m X 5m 1
29. Main control panel room 12m X 5m 1
2
30. Administrative building (GF/FF) Carpet area=60m 1

2.8 Treated Sewage Disposal

The quality of the treated sewage will be within the limits as prescribed by CPCB. The
treated sewage will be discharged into the Thirumanimutharu River as shown in Fig 2.8. The
disposal of Clarified Water is taken through RCC pipe & the outfall point is kept above HFL.
The sludge generated from the STP will be collected and will be utilized as manure. Consent
for Establishment has been obtained from TNPCB vide Consent Order No: DEE/ SLM/ Estt.
0094/ W/ 2011 dated 26.08.2011 for the proposed STP. The compliance reporting for the
conditions stipulated by TNPCB has been included. Since the effluent has to be discharged
into Thirumanimuthar river after treatment, necessary permission is being sought for from
the Public Works Department.

2.9 Safety Measures

Safety and emergency measures with regular maintenance activity for various units of STP
will be carried out in accordance with the Safety Manual.

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The Contractor shall take all required precautions to prevent danger from electrical
equipment and ensure that

i)No material shall be stacked or placed as to cause danger or inconvenience to any person
or the public.

ii) All necessary fencing and lights will be provided to protect the public in construction
zones.

All machines to be used in the construction will conform to the relevant Indian Standards (IS)
codes, will be free from patent defect, will be kept in good working order, will be regularly
inspected and properly maintained as per IS provision and to the satisfaction of the
Engineer.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Fig 2.6 Proposed Layout for Construction of STP

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Fig 2.7 Hydraulic flow chart

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Fig 2.8 Showing discharge of treated sewage into Manimutharu river

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

CHAPTER 3 – ENVIRONMENT SETTING

3.1 Baseline Study

This chapter deals with the existing environmental settings in and around the project site. The
baseline details recorded would form the basis for the potential impacts due to the proposed
STP project. A description of the existing environmental condition of the proposed project with
reference to prominent environmental attributes is discussed in this chapter.

The proposed STP project is studied with reference to the environmental sensitive components
as defined in the Environmental and Social Framework of TNUDF.

3.2 Meteorology
Salem experiences a tropical wet and dry climate. The weather is hot and humid for most of the
year. The hottest part of the year is May to June, with maximum temperatures around 36 –38°C.
The coolest part of the year is January, with minimum temperatures around 18 – 20°C. The
average annual rainfall is about 35 cm. The district receives the rain under the influence of both
southwest and northeast monsoons. The northeast monsoon chiefly contributes to the rainfall in
the district. The Rainfall data for Salem district for previous five years has been given below.

Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2006 4.3 0 37 30.3 86.2 46.5 30 102.1 192.7 191.5 142.3 13.6
2007 0.1 0.5 0 59.8 28.8 30.3 111.2 205.3 138.3 171.9 46.6 157.1
2008 4.6 10.4 99.4 35.5 132.2 53.1 95.8 262.6 72.5 163.2 197 13.2
2009 2.3 0 16.9 42.4 130.4 64.7 63.2 165.5 167.9 56.1 142.8 44.7
2010 0.6 0 2.8 21.9 129.2 124.5 111.9 202.8 106.6 165 328.7 7.5

3.3 Topography
Salem district forms part of the upland plateau region of Tamil Nadu with many hill ranges,
hillocks and undulating terrain with a gentle slope towards east.

3.4 Geology
Major part of Salem district is covered by Red insitu and Red Colluvial soils. Block soils are
mostly seen in Salem, Attur, Omallur and Sankari Taluks. Brown Soil occupies major portion of

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Yercaud and parts of Salem and Omallur Taluks and the Alluvial Soil is seen along the river
courses in Omallur and Sankari Taluks. Mixed soil is occurring only in Attur Taluk.

3.5 Seismic Zone

The Salem City Municipal Corporation lies in seismic zone III which covers the proposed project
site too.

3.6 Air Environment

Ambient air quality of the project area was measured by setting up Ambient Air Quality
Monitoring (AAQM) stations at seven locations. Pre calibrated Respirable Dust Samplers (RDS)
were used for monitoring of Particulate Matter (PM 2.5 & PM 10) and gaseous pollutants like
SO2 and Nox. Seven locations for ambient air quality were identified so as to represent the
ambient air quality in an area of 10 km radius as the impact due to air emission is not envisaged
due to the proposed STP project. Moreover three locations for AAQ were identified within a
radius of within 3 km. The locations for ambient air quality monitoring is shown in Fig 3.1.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

Fig 3.1 Showing Air and Noise Monitoring Locations

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Table 3.1 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (Distance & Bearing Directions)
[Link] Location Name & Code Distance in Km Direction
1 Near Project Site (A1) 0.4 N
2 Gorimedu (A2) 2 NNE
3 Veeranam (A3) 3 ENE
4 Ammapet (A4) 4 E
5 Sooriyur (A5) 4.5 SE
6 Neyikkaranpatti (A6) 8 SW
7 Kollapatti (A7) 6 WNW

Table 3.2 Air Quality at Baseline Stations

Parameter A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 CPCB LIMIT

PM 2.5 (µg/m3) 49.8 51.5 48.5 48.9 50.1 47.6 48.1 60

PM 10 (µg/m3) 90.5 92.3 88.4 89.3 89.0 86.2 87.5 100

SO2 (µg/m3) 18.9 18.2 17.4 17.8 17.1 16.4 17.9 80

Nox (µg/m3) 19.8 19.1 18.5 18.8 18.3 17.6 18.1 80

CO (mg/m3) <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2

A1 – Near Project Site A2 – Gorimedu A3 – Veeranam A4 – Ammapet A5 – Sooriyur A6 – Neyikkaranpatti A7 –
Kollapatti

The results of ambient air quality monitoring are presented in Table 3.2 along with the CPCB
National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) Standards. The results show that all the ambient air quality
parameters are well within the NAAQ Standards at all the locations. The project site lies in the
residential area where such as Shevapet, Annathanapatti, etc are located. In spite of the
location within residential belt, it is noted from the AAQ results, that the present air quality at all
points of observation is well within the prescribed standards.

3.7 Noise Levels

Noise is considered to be one of the aspects of pollution, which also leads to the degradation of
the social environment and also poses health and communication problems. The impact of
noise sources on surrounding community depends on characteristics of noise the time of day at
which noise occurs, the location of the noise source and the loudness and duration of exposure.

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EIA/ EMP for the Proposed 44 MLD STP for Salem City Municipal Corporation

The assessment of noise is carried out by considering various factors like damage to hearing
ability, physiological disturbance, annoyance and general community responses.

It is possible to describe important features of noise for noise levels measured over 24 hours
using statistical methods. These features of noise are the parameters used for describing the
noise levels at a particular location. Standards for permissible noise levels at various zones are
set based on these parameters. The calculated noise levels for seven locations in the study
area are presented in Table 3.3. The values are compared with the standards prescribed by
CPCB for various zones.

Noise levels were monitored at seven locations within and outside the project premises. Noise
readings were taken for day time as well as at night time. Portable sound level meter was used
for recording noise levels.

The day time noise levels are in the range of 54.5 dB (A) to 57.2 dB (A) and night time noise
levels are in the range of 50.5 dB (A) to 52.8 dB (A). The noise levels measured during the
study period were found to be within the limits prescribed by CPCB.

Table 3.3 Noise Quality at Baseline Stations

Parameter N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7

Day time 54.9 56.5 55.8 55.1 54.5 56.2 57.2

Night time 50.5 51.6 51.1 51.4 51.9 52.3 52.8

N1 – Near Project Site N2 – Gorimedu N3 – Veeranam N4 – Ammapet N5 – Sooriyur N6 – Neyikkaranpatti N7 –
Kollapatti

Table 3.3 Ambient Air Quality Standards in respect of Noise

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3.8 Water Environment

The major surface water body in the study area is Thirumanimutharu River which is the tributary
of Cauvery River and originates in the Shevroy hills. Presently, as there is no underground
sewerage scheme in the town and the sewage let out from the households are let out in the
open drains which lead to Thirumanimuthar channel, which flows across the town, and low lying
areas in the extension areas of the town.

The baseline status of ground water quality in the project area has been established through the
sampling and analysis of various water quality parameters as part of the environmental
monitoring. Ground water samples were collected from seven locations in the project area. The
samples were collected and analyzed as per the procedures specified in IS: 3025. The objective
of the baseline ground water quality study was to establish the ground water quality of the study
area. It is also used to evaluate the anticipated impact of the proposed project on the ground
water quality and to suggest appropriate mitigation measures for implementation. This will also
be useful for assessing the conformity to the standards of ground water quality during the
construction and operation phase of the project.

A total of 7 ground water samples (W1 – W7) were collected and analyzed as per standard
methods. The water quality monitoring stations are shown in Table 3.4. The locations for water
quality monitoring is shown in Fig 3.2.

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Fig 3.2 Showing Water Monitoring Locations

Table 3.4 Water Quality Monitoring Stations
[Link]. Location Name Location Code
1 Borewell, Near Project site W1
2 Borewell, Gorimedu W2
3 Borewell, Veernam W3
4 Openwell, Ammapet W4
5 Borewell, Sooriyur W5
6 Borewell, Neyikkaranpatti W6
7 Borewell, Kollapatti W7

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Table 3.5 Ground Water Analysis Results

Parameter W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 W6 W7
pH 7.6 7.7 7.6 7.4 7.6 7.4 7.5
Colour (Hazen) 5 10 10 10 10 5 5
Odour Unobjectionable
Turbidity (NTU) 1 0.5 0.6 0.5 1 0.6 0.5
Total Alkalinity (as 225 235 125 225 211 109 119
CaCO3)
Total Hardness (as 320 315 134 275 285 112 98
CaCO3)
Calcium as Ca 82.3 80.5 45 79.3 74.9 32 24
Magnesium as Mg 25 18 10 18 20 8 6
Total Iron (as Fe) 1.2 0.8 0.7 0.5 0.9 0.8 0.9
Chlorides (as Cl) 329 268 135 280 301 124 96
Sulphates (as SO4) 115 82 69 82 104 60 44
Fluorides (as F) 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2
Nitrate as NO3 20 6 8 9 15 4.2 2.9
Total Dissolved Solids 985 767 510 798 874 428 348
Potassium as K 42 9 13 9 42 11 6
W1 – Near Project Site W2 – Gorimedu W3 – Veeranam W4 – Ammapet W5 – Sooriyur W6 – Neyikkaranpatti W7
– Kollapatti

At all locations, pH values were in the range of 7.4 to 7.7 with agreeable colour, taste and
odour. Chloride and Sulphate values were in the range of 96 to 329 mg/l and 44 to 115 mg/l
respectively. Hardness values were found to be in the range of 98 to 320 mg/l. Fluoride values
were found upto 0.2 mg/l. Iron value was found to be a maximum of 1.2 mg/l. While comparing
with IS: 10500 – 1991 norms, the water quality is found to be within the prescribed standards.

3.9 Soil Environment

In order to assess the baseline status of soil quality of the project site and neighborhood, seven
sampling locations were selected. At each location, samples were collected using augers and
analyzed for nutrient and engineering parameters. The locations for soil quality monitoring is
shown in Fig 3.3. The soil quality status is given in Table No. 3.6.

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Fig 3.3 Showing Soil Monitoring Locations

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Table 3.6 Soil Quality Status

Parameters S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7
Chemical Analysis
pH 7.7 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.6 7.5 7.6
Electrical Conductivity 95.1 64.2 102 88 90.5 75.5 97
(Micromhos/Cm)
Nitrogen (%) 0.029 0.028 0.031 0.036 0.032 0.035 0.030
Potassium (%) 0.0020 0.0025 0.0029 0.005 0.0024 0.0031 0.0033
Phosphorus (%) 0.004 0.0058 0.0043 0.0035 0.005 0.0031 0.0045
Natural moisture 1.6 1.2 0.9 0.5 1.9 1.2 13
content (%)
Grain Size Distribution
Gravel (%) 0.25 0.18 0.16 0.19 0.27 0.2 0.38
Coarse (%) 88.4 89.4 85.5 87 87.8 88.8 84.9
Medium (%) 0.03 0.04 1.6 1.16 0.15 0.08 1.5
Fine (%) 0.15 0.37 0.42 0.36 0.16 0.47 0.52
Silt (%) 0.2 0.28 0.86 0.72 0.32 0.72 0.92
Clay (%) 10.97 9.73 11.46 10.57 11.3 9.73 11.78
Textural class Loamy Sandy Loamy Loamy Loamy Sandy Loamy
Sand Sand Sand Sand Sand
S1 – Near Project Site S2 – Gorimedu S3 – Veeranam S4 – Ammapet S5 – Sooriyur S6 – Neyikkaranpatti S7 –
Kollapatti

At all locations, pH ranges from 7.5 to 7.7. Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus are found to
be in the range of 0.028 to 0.036%, 0.002 to 0.005 % and 0.0031 to 0.0058 % respectively.
Texture Class was found to be loamy sand to sandy.

3.10 Biological Environment

The flora and fauna identified in the study area are commonly found and not specific to the
region due to the absence of forest in the study area. Moreover, there are no National Parks,
Wild life sanctuaries, Bird sanctuaries within 10 Km. radius of the project site. There is no rare
and endangered species in the area. The prominent tree species include coconut, mango,
neem, tamarind, eucalyptus etc. The prominent species among the fauna include cats, cows,
buffaloes etc.

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Flora

Acacia auriculformis – Golden shower Cocos nucifera L. (Tennaimaram)

(Pencil)
Acanthus ilicifolius L. (Kaludai Mulli. Cordial sebestena
Achras sapoa Delonix regia. (Gulmohar)
Albizia lebbek (Vakai) Emblica officinalis (Indian gooseberry)
Anacardium occidentala Eucalyptus lanceolatus
Annona squamosa (Seethapal) F. Religiosu (Arasa Maram)
Areca catechu L (Pakkumaram) Ficus benghalensis (Ala maram)
Artocarpus integrifolia (Jack) Ficus ariega (Rubber tree)
Azadirachta indica (Veppa maram) Hibiscus spp.,
B. ariegate (Manchori) Mangifera indica (Mango)
Banhinia purpurea (Mandari) Jatropha (Kattamanakku)
Bougainvillaea glabra Choisy. Peltosphorum sp
Butea monosperona (Flame of the forest) Phoenix sp (Palmyra)
Callistemon lanceolatus (Bottle brush) Pithecellobium dulce (Kodukka puli)
Calotropis gigantea [Link]. (Erukku) Plumeria sp
Carica papaya Polyathia longifolia (Ashoka)
Carica papaya L. (Pappalimaram) Pongamia glabra (Poonga)
Cascabela thevitia (Arali) Psidium guajava
Cassia fistula L. (konrai) Punicia granatum (Pomegranate)
Casuarina equisetifolia Forst. Spathodea campanulata (Tulip tree)
(Cavukkumaram)
Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. ( Ilavam) Tamarindus indica (Puliya maram)
Citrus limonia Thespenia populnea (Puvarasam)

Fauna

Mammals

Civet cat
Fruit bat
Indian palm squirrel

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Mus cervicolour (fawn-coloured mouse)

Mus musculus (house mouse)
Mus platithrix (Indian brown spiny mouse)
Herpestes spp (mangoose)
Cows
Buffaloes

Reptiles

Hemidactylus brooki (house lizard)

Chameleon zeylanicus
Varanus bengalensis (monitor lizard)
Calotes versicolour
Bogia trigonata (cat snake)
Cerberus rhynchops (dog-faced snake)
Ptyas mucosus (rat snake)
Naja naja (cobra)
Hydrophis spiralis (yellow sea snake)
Bungarus caerulus (krait)

Avifauna

Perdicula asiatica (bush quail)

Coturnix coromandelica (rain quail)
Cotornix cotornix (grey quail)
Psittacula eupatria (Indian parakeet)
Phoenicopterus roseus (flamingo)
Corvus splendens (House crow)
Corvus macrorhynchos (Jungle crow)

Common Prey Birds

Neophron percnopterus (white scavenger vulture)

Gyps bengalensis (white backed vultures)
Milvus migrans (pariah kite)

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3.11 Socio Economic Study

3.11.1 Reconnaissance Survey
To assess the probable wide ranging effects on various aspects of environment it is vital to take in
to consideration the existing socio-economic pattern and potential change. It is imperative to
integrate the components of socio-economic environment in Impact Assessment Study related to
environmental conservation, protection and management.

The social environment refers to demographic structure of the area incorporating population
dynamics, infrastructure resource base and health status of the community, while economic
environment refers to land utilization pattern, land values, employment generation, industrial
development and sustainability of the project in financial term. The aesthetic environment refers to
scenic value of the area, tourist attraction, forest, and wildlife, historic and cultural monuments.

3.11.2 Baseline Socio-Economic Environment Data

The site is located at Vandipettai, Salem Taluk, and Salem District Tamil Nadu. The study area
falls in Salem Taluk and full of Salem Municipal Corporation. Description of demographic features
is given in Table 3.7 and the literacy level is given in Table [Link] village wise data is given in
Table 3.9.

3.11.3 Occupational Structure

The occupational structure of the study area is studied with reference to main workers, marginal
workers and non-workers. The main workers include 10 categories of workers defined by the
Census Department consisting of cultivators, agricultural laborers, those engaged in live-stock,
forestry, fishing etc. mining and quarrying; manufacturing, processing and repairs in household
industry; and other than household industry, construction, trade & commerce, transport &
communication and other services. The marginal workers are those engaged in some work for a
period of less than six months during the reference year prior to the census survey. The non-
workers include those engaged in unpaid household duties, students, retired persons,
dependents, etc.; institutional inmates or all other non-workers who do not fall under the above
categories.

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Table 3.7 Details of population

Particulars Total
Total Population 873167
Total House Holds 205457
Male Population 445567
Female Population 427600
Average Household size 4.25
Sex Ratio 960

Table 3.8 Literacy rate

Total Population 873167
Total Literates 590654
Male Literates 328313
Female Literates 262341
Total Ilterates 282513
% of Literates 67.65
% of Ilterates 32.35

Table 3.9 Category of Workers

Total Population 873167
Total Workers 341556
Main Workers 325608
Main Cultivators 6034
Main Agricultural Labors 13721
Main House Hold Workers 48683
Main Other Workers 257170
Marginal Workers 15948
Non-Workers 531611
Source: Census of India 2001

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Fig 3.4 Pie Chart Depicting Worker Categories

The baseline study area of the proposed project study reveals that the area does not contain any
ecological sensitive areas, the area is devoid of endangered/ threatened species of flora and
fauna. The flora and fauna found in the region are not specific to the region

As per the baseline study most of the inhabitants of the region are employed in the nearby
industries. As most of the study area is urban in nature the amenities available are generally good
except infrastructure such as sewage treatment system. Educational facilities, Healthcare
facilities, Water supply, Communication facilities, Banking facilities, Road and Transportation
facilities, availability of news papers & magazines etc., are covered in these amenities.

As the proposed project site is owned by Salem municipality and the site and its surroundings is
free from any habitations. Thus eliminating the need for any relocation of the population.

3.12 Baseline environmental status within 500 m of project site

The existing environmental settings in the near vicinity of the proposed STP project site was
analysed with respect to air, noise and water to understand the impacts of the proposed project
on these environmental parameters within 500 m of the site.

Environmental monitoring of ambient air quality, ambient noise level, ground water and soil
quality were conducted and discussed below. The locations of environmental monitoring is
shown in the Figure and table below.

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L2

L3
L1

L4 L5

Fig 3.5 Environmental Monitoring Locations

3.12.1 Ambient Air Quality

The results of ambient air quality monitoring are presented in the Table below along with the
CPCB National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) Standards.

Based on the project activities the parameters chosen for assessment of ambient air quality
were Particulate Matter, Sulphur di-oxide (SO2) and Oxides of Nitrogen (Nox) and carbon
monoxide (CO).

Table 3.10 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (Distance & Bearing Directions)
[Link] Location Name & Code Distance in m Direction
1 Jeyarahini Middle school (L1) 150 E
2 Residence of Thiru. Muthukumar, Near 350 N
Narasimman Road (L2)
3 Residence of Thiru. Balasubramanian, Near 300 NW
Kaliamman Koil (L3)
4 Kuppuraj Mill, Burial ground road, Chevvapet 250 SW
(L4)
5 Mariamman Temple (L5) 150 S

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Table 3.11 Ambient Air Quality Status

Parameter L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 CPCB LIMIT

PM 2.5 (µg/m3) 44 53 51 52 49 60

PM 10 (µg/m3) 85 90 84 88 86 100

SO2 (µg/m3) 11.9 16.6 15.5 14.8 13.9 80

Nox (µg/m3) 18.2 20.6 19.4 18.2 19.1 80

CO (mg/m3) <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2

The above table shows that the ambient air quality status of the area is well within the standards
as prescribed by CPCB.

Table 3.12 Ambient Noise Quality Status

Parameter L1 L2 L3 L4 L5

Day time 53.5 65.2 64.8 65.1 63.8

Night time 48.1 58.2 57.5 58.9 57.2

The day time noise level and the night time noise level exceeds the ambient noise quality
standards as prescribed by CPCB as the project site and the study area falls in the urban
residential area and near to market areas.

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Table 3.13 Water Quality Status

[Link] Parameter Units L1 L2 L3 L4 Permissible Limit as per
IS-10500#
1 Colour Hazen 6.5 8.5 9.5 8.8 25
2 Odour - odourless ---
3 Taste - Agreeable ---
4 pH @ 25°C - 6.92 7.24 7.54 7.33 6.5 – 8.5
5 [Link]. @ 25°C µS/cm 1876 1765 1658 1684 ---
6 TSS Nil NIL Nil Nil
7 TDS mg/l 1163 1129 1061 1077.76 2000
8 Turbidity NTU <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 10
9 Total Hardness as CaCO3 mg/l 528 436 454 424 600
10 Calcium as Ca mg/l 160 127 132 123 200
11 Magnesium as Mg mg/l 31 28.6 30 28 100
12 p-Alkalinity as CaCO3 mg/l Nil NIL Nil Nil ---
13 Total Alkalinity as CaCO3 mg/l 224 196 215 192 600
14 Chloride as Cl mg/l 397 342 426 332 1000
15 Sulphate as SO4 mg/l 242 198 94 187 400
16 Nitrate as NO3 mg/l 18 8 7 9 45
17 Total Iron as Fe mg/l < 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.1 1
#
in the absence of alternate source

The water quality is found to be within prescribed permissible limits.

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Table 3.14 Surface Water Quality at Baseline Stations

[Link] PARAMETER UNITS Thirumanimuthar REFERENCE METHOD
1 pH @ 25°C - 7.53 IS 3025 Part 11 – 2006
2 Conductivity @ 25°C µmhos/cm 2900 IS 3025 Part 14 – 2009
3 Copper as Cu mg/l BDL (DL : 0.03) IS 3025 Part 42 – 2009
4 Iron as Fe mg/l 0.62 IS 3025 Part 53 – 2009
5 Chloride as Cl mg/l 710 IS 3025 Part 32 – 2009
6 Sulphate as SO4 mg/l 282 IS 3025 Part 24 – 2009
7 Nitrate as NO3 mg/l 64 IS 3025 Part 34 – 2009
8 Fluoride as F mg/l 0.6 IS 3025 Part 60 : 2008
9 Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 1856 IS 3025 Part 16 2006
10 Arsenic as As mg/l BDL ( DL : 0.005) IS 3025 Part 37 – 1988
11 Lead as Pb mg/l BDL ( DL : 0.005) IS 3025 Part 47-2009
12 Zinc as Zn mg/l BDL ( DL : 0.005) IS 3025 Part 49-2009
13 Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 2.4 IS 3025 Part 38 – 2009
14 BOD 3 days @ 27°C mg/l 78 IS 3025 Part 44 – 2009
15 Free ammonia as NH3 mg/l 24 IS 3025 Part 34 – 2009
16 Boron as B mg/l 0.24 IS 3025 Part 57 : 2005
17 Sodium Absorption Ratio √ meq/L 5.8 By calculation

Note: B DL1 is within first decimal; BDL2 is within second decimal; B DL3 is within third
decimal.

Table 3.6 Soil Quality Status – locations within 500m

Parameters S1 S2 S3 S4 S5
Chemical Analysis

pH 7.1 7.2 7.5 7.1 7.4

Electrical Conductivity 93.2 66.3 104 78 88.1
(Micromhos/Cm)
Nitrogen (%) 0.024 0.031 0.032 0.036 0.032
Potassium (%) 0.0030 0.0041 0.0026 0.015 0.0014
Phosphorus (%) 0.007 0.0042 0.0009 0.0023 0.0051
Natural moisture 1.7 0.9 1.2 1.1 0.8
content (%)

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Grain Size Distribution

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5
Gravel (%) 0.15 0.14 0.21 0.17 0.21

Coarse (%) 87.2 88.7 85.2 87.5 86.8

Medium (%) 0.27 0.16 0.84 0.87 0.14

Fine (%) 0.22 0.51 0.58 0.36 0.16

Silt (%) 0.19 0.76 0.66 0.42 0.79

Clay (%) 11.97 9.73 12.51 10.68 11.9

Textural class Loamy Sand Loamy Sand Loamy Sand Loamy Sand Loamy Sand
S1 – Near Jeyarahini middle school S2 – Near Narasimhan road S3 – Near Kaliamman Koil S4 – Chevvapet S5 –
Near Mariamman temple

At all locations, pH ranges from 7.1 to 7.5. Texture Class was found to be loamy sand.

Inference:

The samples for air, noise, water and soil were collected and analysed and the parameters were
found to be within the prescribed standards.

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L4

L3

L2 STP
site

LI

L5

Fig 3.5 Environmental Monitoring Locations during Operation & Maintenance Phase

3.13 Development of green belt

Green belt will be developed along the periphery of the STP premises. The proposed species
suitable for Salem region as per CPCB recommended are provided below in Table. The tree
species act as dust barrier and also help in the absorption of pollutant gases.

Botanical Name Common name Local name

Pongamia pinnata India Beech Punga maram
Pithecellobium dulce Manila tamarind Kodukkapuli
Polyalthia longifolia Indian mast tree Nettilinkam
Ficus bengalensis Indian fig Aalamaram
Ficus religiosa Sacred fig Arasa maram
Azhadiracta indica Neem tree Vembu
Tabermontana divetar Crape jasmine Nandiavattai
Hibiscus rosasinensis Shoe flower Sembararuthi
Ixora cocoinea Pin jasmine Nandhiavattai

From the above table, based on site condition and availability of land, trees like Neem, Pungam
tree and tulsi plants will be grown in available areas of the plant.

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CHAPTER 4 - ASSESSMENT OF ANTICIPATED IMPACTS

4.1 Introduction
This chapter focuses on the prediction and assessment of impacts on the various environmental
components due to the project activities. Based on the magnitude and duration of the project
activities and the environmental attributes of the receiving environment presented in earlier
chapter on environmental setting, the nature, duration and extent of impact are assessed. Minor
project impacts have also been identified and basis for their insignificance has been provided.
Where relevant, the EMP also addresses the minor impacts and provides environmental
mitigation or environmental enhancement measures.

4.2 Impact on Physical Resources

4.2.1 Impact on Topography
The proposed construction is planned on a flat unoccupied terrain. The project will not alter the
topography of the site if planned and executed aesthetically will improve the visual appeal of the
area.

4.2.2 Impact on Climate

The project area is part of an already developed area although the project site as such is devoid
of any structures. At present the site has no trees or vegetation of any kind. The project
therefore is unlikely to have any micro-climatic impacts.

4.2.3 Impact on Geology, Soils and Mineral Resources

As no new quarries are envisaged for the project the environmental impacts due to procurement
of construction material for the project are insignificant.

4.3 Impact on Air Quality

The project entails movement of significant quantities of the construction material and operation
of construction machinery at the site. The project therefore has potential for construction phase
negative impacts on air quality. During the operation phase, however decrease movement of
vehicular traffic to the site.

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4.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts

During the construction phase, operation of construction machinery at the site and use of
vehicles for transporting the construction material are the primary sources of air pollution.
Combustion of diesel will be the principal cause of air pollution during the construction phase.
To provide estimate of emission of air pollutants at the construction site, fuel consumption rates
and approximate operation schedule for major construction machinery were estimated. During
the period of maximum construction activity the fuel consumption at the project site is expected
to be about 100 litres of diesel per hour.

4.4 Impact on Noise Levels

4.4.1 Construction Phase
During the construction phase, the major sources of noise pollution are movement of vehicles
transporting the construction material to the project site and the noise generating activities at the
site. Primary noise generating activities during the construction are concreting, mixing, casting
and materials handling. The noise likely to be generated during excavation, loading and
transportation of material.

The construction equipments that have high noise emissions levels can affect the personnel
operating the machines. Use of proper personal protective equipment will mitigate any adverse
impact of the noise generated by such equipment. Significant noise impacts due to movement
of construction materials therefore are not expected.

4.4.2 Operational Phase

Noise generated during operation will not be significant. It is, however, required that adequate
green cover to the site is provided.

4.5 Impact on Water Resources

4.5.1 Construction Phase
Water requirement during the construction phase of the project is estimated to be about 120
KLD. It has been proposed to procure water through tankers to meet the requirement during
construction. During the construction phase care need to be taken to also provide adequate
sanitary toilets equipped with septic tanks and soak-pits for the construction workers.

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4.5.2 Operations phase

The water demand during the operation phase will be mainly to provide water to the employees
involved in the administration, operation and maintenance of the STP. Rain water harvesting will
be an important water conservation measure.

4.6 Impact on Water Quality

The project therefore will not have any adverse impact on local ground water and/or surface
water resources. The treated sewage from the STP is proposed to be sent to existing drain.
Alternatively, taking precedent from the existing STPs of Chennai city, the treated sewage may
be sold to private users based on rates fixed by the Authorities. Few of the options where
treated sewage may be put to beneficial uses include:
o Sale to industries requiring huge quantity of water to meet the cooling water need.
Tertiary treatment may be done to meet standards.
o To be made use by various government departments for the development of social farm
forests thus achieving afforestation goals.
o Irrigation of traffic islands using treated sewage
Since the treated sewage is not let out to reach the soil and underground aquifer, there will not
be negative impact on the water resources. On the contrary, due to structured collection of
household sewage and treatment indiscriminate mixing of sewage in many water bodies are
eliminated.

4.7 Impact on Land Environment

The land identified for the project development falls under Vandipettai Village, Salem Taluk in
Salem District. Since, the entire land area for the project is part of government lands, acquisition
of private lands is not entailed for the project.
Surrounding areas are already in commercial area. Hence, no disturbance to the local ecology
is expected. There will not be any change in the topography of the region, as the land coverage
area of STP units will be of small area.

4.8 Impact on Ecological Resources

It is observed that the project site is open barren land. As there are no endangered/ threatened
species in the vicinity of the proposed project site, there will not be any concern for the loss of
important species that needs conservation.

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4.9 Impact on Socio-Economic Environment

Local people would also get job opportunities during construction and operation phases of the
project. Thus the project is expected to contribute to the overall development of the area. There
is no issue of resettlement or rehabilitation as the proposed site belongs to the municipality.

CHAPTER 5 - IMPACT MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1 Introduction
This chapter focuses on the mitigation measures suggested for the impacts identified on the
various environmental components due to the project activities. A detailed environmental
management plan is presented to mitigate all the identified environmental impacts that are
found to be significant. It is observed that most of the project impacts are related to construction
phase activities and are minor and transient in nature. All of these impacts can be mitigated
following good construction practices. The management plans to mitigate the likely negative
impacts due to the project activity is categorized into construction and operation phases for easy
reference and are presented below.

5.2 Construction Phase

5.2.1 Impact on Air Quality
Impact on the air quality at the construction site and its adjoining areas during the construction
phase would be mainly due to the operation of construction machinery at the site and use of
vehicles for transporting the construction material. Since the project involves large-scale
construction activity the negative impacts on the air quality would be significant during this
phase. The impact on the air quality due to the operation of construction machineries in the site
is found to be insignificant given the vast area of the site and the prevailing wind movement
pattern. However, the negative impacts created as a result of movement of construction
vehicles needs critical attention. For mitigation of these impacts following measures are
suggested.
• Vehicles used for transportation of construction material, will be covered to avoid fugitive
emission.
• Idling of delivery trucks or other equipment will not be done during loading and unloading
of materials.

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• All construction vehicles will be maintained in such a way so as to comply with air
emission standards.
• Dust suppression measures such as sprinkling of water will be carried out regularly.
• Adequate improvement of access to withstand the movement of heavy construction
vehicles.

5.2.2 Impact on Noise Levels

During the construction phase generation of noise would be mainly due to movement of vehicles
transporting the construction material to the project site and due to the noise generating
activities at the site itself. To mitigate these impacts during this phase the following measures
are suggested.
• Restriction on the usage of noise generating activities and traffic movement in the
residential areas to day light hours. Contracts should specify that the construction
equipment should meet the noise and air emission levels as per EPA Rules, 1986.
• Generator sets should be provided with noise shields around them.
• Vehicles used for transportation of construction material should be well maintained.
• The workers operating high noise machinery or operating near it should be provided with
ear plugs.

5.2.3 Impact on Micro Climate

The project area is part of an already developed area although the project site as such is devoid
of any structures. Further, it is suggested that sufficient provision for on-site planting of shading
trees should be made during the construction phase. Planting of large numbers of trees, of
species like Poongamia Glabra, Morinda Gtinctoria, Azadirachta indica, Thespesia Populnae,
Enferolobum Samana etc along the roads and on the designated open spaces is envisioned, to
ensure the improvement of microclimatic condition of the project site.

5.2.4 Impact on Water Resources

Water required for the construction phase of the project will be about 150 -200 KLD and the
requirement is only for a short duration. It has been proposed to procure water through bore
wells to meet the requirement during construction. During the construction phase care need to
be taken to also provide adequate sanitary toilets equipped with septic tanks and soak-pits for

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the construction workers. Wastewater discharges from construction site should not be directly
let into the local water resources.

The impact on water resources due to the operation of sewage treatment plant is insignificant
due to the reason that, in the absence of the STP plant, at present the sewage generated in the
Salem City Municipal Corporation area is discharged haphazardly without any treatment.

5.2.5 Storm Water Drainage

It is proposed to construct individual rainwater harvesting pits at regular intervals at the site
level, along the roads, opens spaces for the disposal of storm water from the common areas of
the development.

5.2.6 Health, Safety and Sanitation at Workers Camp

Adequate measures will be taken to maintain the sanitation and health standards of the
construction workers
• Vehicles transporting construction materials and sand prone to fugitive dust emissions
should be covered.
• Idling of delivery trucks or other equipment should not be permitted during loading and
unloading.
• All construction vehicles should comply with air emission standards and be maintained
properly.
• Development of alternative access routes to the site bypassing the residential areas to
avoid air pollution.

5.2.7 Safety and Health related Measures

• During the construction and operational phase, safety precautions will be practiced in
order to prevent any possible occurrence of accident. For this, it will be ensured that all
machines used shall confirm to the relevant Indian standards Code and undergo regular
inspection.
• During construction phase, Personal Protective Equipments (PPE) such as Protective
footwear and protective goggles, Welder’s protective eye-shields shall be provided to
workers who are engaged in welding works, earplugs shall be provided to workers

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exposed to loud noise, and workers working in crushing, compaction, or concrete mixing
operation.
• The workers will also be provided all necessary safety appliances such as helmets,
safety belts, earplugs, mask etc.
• A well maintained first aid kit including an adequate supply of sterilized dressing
materials and appliances will be made available.
• Only the working staff and authorised personnel will only be allowed inside the STP
premises..
• Drinking water facility will be made available. Also, Adequate ablutions and change
facilities to promote appropriate occupational health and safety (OHS) will be provided.

Storage and Use of Hazardous Materials like chlorine etc

• Hazardous substances, if any will be stored in accordance with safety standards and
regulations in force and accompanied by material safety data sheets
• Storing of chlorine and chlorination arrangements will be provided with proper leak
detecting arrangements
• The quantity of material stored on-site will be kept to a minimum and chemicals will be
preferentially ordered on a needs basis.
• Operators will be trained in the safe handling and storage of hazardous goods

Plant Operations and Maintenance

• The manuals grading Operations and maintenance procedures will be developed and
maintained to ensure optimum environmental management of the activity will be
produced.
• The workers involved in O& M will be adequately trained to operate the plant and also
trained in environmental management requirements of the plant.

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CHAPTER 6 - ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

Environmental Monitoring is carried out to record the environmental parameters likely to be

affected by the project at pre-defined intervals. The purpose of these observations is to ensure
that the mitigation measures are adequate and the residual negative impacts remain within
acceptable limits. Where necessary, these observations also help in timely up gradation of
mitigation measure. In the context of this project, the negative environmental impacts, although
minor, will be experienced during the construction period. The environmental monitoring
therefore focuses on construction phase and aims to give an indication of level of compliance
with the recommended mitigation measures. In addition to direct observations of environmental
parameters, periodic inspection to ensure compliance with good construction practices and
adherence to distance norms for locating the construction yards and workers camp is also
recommended. During the operation phase, the recommended monitoring is limited to visual
observations on the site to see that the infrastructure facilities are working appropriately and
ground water quality observations in the wells and sump provided for auxiliary water supply.

6.1 Environmental Monitoring at Site

The environmental quality of the project area with respect to air, noise water and soil will be
monitored as in Table 6.1 for compliance with the applicable regulatory requirements. The
monitoring should be implemented through the environmental monitoring laboratories.

Table 6.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

Project stage Pre Construction , Construction & operation phase

Parameter SPM, RPM, SO2, NOx, CO
Sampling
Use method specified by CPCB for analysis
Method
Standards Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules, CPCB 1994
Once before start of work & once every season of the year during
Frequency
construction period and operation Period.
Duration Continuous 24 hours / or as per standards
Location Sensitive locations of the project site.

Measures Whenever air pollution parameters increase above specified

standards, additional measures as decided by the engineer are to be

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adopted

Stack Monitoring of the Diesel Generators

Project stage Construction & operation phase

Parameter SPM, SO2, NOx, CO
Sampling
Use method specified by CPCB for analysis
Method
Standards Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules, CPCB, 1994
Once every season of the year during construction period and
Frequency
operation Period/or as specified by PCB
Duration Continuous 24 hours / or as per standards
Location Stacks of the Diesel Generator Sets
Wherever air emission parameters increase above specified
Measures standards, additional measures as decided by the engineer shall be
adopted

Water quality Monitoring

Project stage Construction & operation phase

pH, TSS, BOD, COD, DO, TDS, Pb, nutrients and microbes for
Parameter
Surface water to which the drainage disposal takes place.
Sampling Grab sample collected from source and analysis as per Standard
Method Methods for Examination of water and Waste water (APHA, 2005)
Indian standards for Inland Surface Water (IS; 2296, 1982) and for
Standards
Drinking water (IS; 10500,1991)
Twice a year (pre monsoon and post monsoon seasons) during the
Frequency
construction period and monthly during O&M.
All inflow channels shall be checked for pollution loads and channel
Measures delivering higher pollution load shall be terminated from disposal into
the water source and monitored by local wells.

Sewage Analysis

Project stage Operation phase

Parameter pH, TSS, BOD, COD, TDS, TKN
Sampling Grab sample collected from source and analysis as per Standard
Method Methods for Examination of water and Waste water (APHA, 2005)
Standards As per CPCB standards
Frequency Weekly
Measures Inflow and outflow channels shall be checked for pollution loads and

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channel delivering higher pollution load

Noise Level Monitoring

Project stage Pre Construction , Construction & operation phase

Parameter Noise level on dB (A) scale
Free field at 1 m from the equipments whose noise level are being
Special guidance determined. Equivalent noise levels using an integrated noise level
meter kept at a distance of 15m from edge of pavement
Standards MoEF Noise Rules, 2000
Frequency Once every season (except monsoon)
Reading to be taken at 15 seconds interval for 15 minutes every
Duration
hour and then averaged
In case of noise levels causing disturbance to the sensitive
Measures receptors, management measures as suggested in the EMP shall be
carried out.

6.2 Environmental Monitoring during O & M Stage

The monitoring activities wil be carried out as mentioned in the Table 6.1. and also during O &
M stage. The location for monitoring are given below.

Table 6.2 Proposed Environmental Monitoring Stations During O & M Stage

[Link] Location Name & Code Distance in m Direction
1 Near Main Gate of STP Site (L5) At site -
2 Near Admin Building At site -
3 Jeyarahini Middle school (L1) 150 E
4 Near Narasimman Road (L2) 350 N
5 Near Kaliamman Koil (L3) 300 NW
6 Kuppuraj Mill, Burial ground road, Chevvapet 250 SW
(L4)

6.2 Ground water and surface water monitoring:

The ground water quality will be monitored once in six months in six locations around the site
and the locations will be selected in the direction of water flow. Surface watr quality will be
monitored twice a year and samples will be taken from downstream of outlet.

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CHAPTER 7 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environmental Management Plans have the purpose of protecting the environment, and are
based around the objectives of the Act. The Environment Protection Act 1997 to ensure
sustainable development in the area of the project site. The identification of impacts due to the
proposed STP project have been presented in Chapter 4.

7.1 Management Plan

The environmental attributes in the region include air quality, water quality, ecology and public
health. The Environmental Management Plan aims at controlling pollution at the source level to
the possible extent with the available and affordable technology followed by treatment
measures. The proposed EMP measures are discussed below.

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Table 7.1 Environmental Management Plan during Pre-Construction Phase

[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible
Impact Agencies
PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE
1 Clearance All clearance required for Environmental As a prelude for Before Salem City
aspects during construction shall be getting consent for Construction Municipal
ensured and made available before start of establishment, TNPCB Corporation
work. has issued no (SMC)/ concerned
objection certificate departments &
(NOC) for setting up agency /
STP at Vandipettai. contractor
Consent to establish
STP has been
obtained from TNPCB
on 26.08.2011.
2 Tree Cutting i) Try to save the trees by adjusting The proposed site is a Pre- Contractor / SMC
the plant layout or the alignment of vacant land without construction &
sewage intake structures, sewer mains, any kind of vegetation, construction
pumping stations, etc. hence tree cutting not phase
ii) Provide adequate protection to the done.
trees to be retained with tree guards (eg.
Masonry tree guards, low level RCC tree
guards, circular iron tree guard with Bars)
as required.
iii) Identify the number of trees that will
be affected with girth size & species type
along the sewer mains, pumping / lifting
station sites and sewerage treatment plant
site. The details to be indicated on map to
scale and / or a strip map as may be
appropriate. Prepare tree cutting schedule
to facilitate clearance requirements.
iv) Trees identified for cutting shall be
removed from the construction sites before
commencement of construction with prior
permission from the concerned

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Impact Agencies
department.
v) Undertake tree plantation (not less
than three rows inside and along the
boundary of STP, and compensatory
plantation as per the tree cutting
clearances)
vi) Compensatory plantation by way of
Re-plantation of at least twice the number
of trees cut should be carried out in the
project area.
3 Utility i) Identify the common utilities to be There are no utilities in Pre- SMC / Concerned
Relocation affected such as: telephone cables. the proposed site, construction & departments.
Electric cables, electric poles, water hence relocation not construction
pipelines, public tabs, etc. required. phase
ii) Affected utilities shall be relocated
with prior approval of the concerned
agencies before construction starts.
iii) Provide advance notice (not less
than 10 working days) to affected parties.
The advance notice shall be in the form of
written notice and a grievance redressal
cell shall be established for timely
addressing of grievances.
4 Baseline Adequate measures shall be taken and Existing environmental Pre- Prospective
parameters checked to control the baseline parameters parameters were construction, contractor / SMC
of Air, Water and Noise pollution. Baseline measured and the construction
parameters shall be recorded and ensured baseline environment and post
conformance till the completion of the was found to be within construction
project. The monitoring requirements, at prescribed standards. phase
minimum shall comply with consent
conditions by the pollution control Board.
5 Planning i) Temporary diversion will be Traffic diversion is not Pre- Prospective
temporary provided with the approval of the engineer. required. construction, contractor / SMC
traffic Detailed traffic control plans will be construction

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Impact Agencies
arrangements prepared and submitted to the engineers and post
for approval, at least two weeks prior to construction
commencement of works. phase
ii) The traffic control and plans shall
contain details of temporary diversion,
details of traffic arrangements after
cessation of work each day, SIGNAGES,
safety measures for transport of
hazardous materials and arrangements of
flagmen.
iii) Any accidents and/or risk of
inconveniences caused to the community
shall be borne by the contractor.
6 Disposal of i) The construction activities at STP i) Consent for Pre- Prospective
treated waste shall be initiated only after consent to establishment for the construction, contractor / SMC
water establish certificate is secured from the STP has been construction
TNPCB. obtained. and post
ii) STP operations shall take place construction
only after Consent to Operate certificate is ii) Operation of STP phase
accorded by the TNPCB and treated water will be carried out only
quality shall comply with the consent after obtaining consent
conditions stipulated by TNPCB or at to operate from
minimum shall meet the discharge TNPCB.
standards depending on the type of
receiving water body (stream/nullah/open iii) Standards will be
land/irrigation purpose, etc) maintained.
iii) Performance standards shall
always be maintained, ensuring efficient
working condition of treatment plant.
7 Storage of The contractor shall identify the site for Storage of Pre- Prospective
materials temporary use of land for construction sites construction materials construction, contractor / SMC
/ storage of construction materials, etc. will be done in a place construction
These sites shall be operated only after identified within the and post
prior approval of the engineer. premises construction

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Impact Agencies
phase
8 Construction of Contractor shall follow all relevant Labour required for During the Prospective
labour camps provisions of the Factories Act, 1948 and construction will be construction contractor.
the Building and the other Construction sourced locally, hence
Workers (Regulation of Employment and labour camps are not
Conditions of Service) Act, 1996 for proposed
construction and maintenance of labour
camp.
The location, layout and basic facility
provision of each labour camp will be
submitted to Engineer prior to their
construction.
The construction will commence only upon
the written approval of the Engineer.
The contractor shall maintain necessary
living accommodation and ancillary
facilities in functional and hygienic manner
and as approved by the engineer.
All temporary accommodation must be
constructed and maintained in such a
fashion that uncontaminated water is
available for drinking, cooking and
washing.
The sewage system for the camp must be
planned. Adequate health care is to be
provided for the work force. The layout of
the construction camp and details of the
facilities provided should be prepared shall
be approved by the engineer. The
construction camp shall not be located
within 1000 m from the nearest water
stream, residential areas and / or any
sensitive land uses like schools, hospitals,
etc.

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Table 7.2 Environmental Management Plan during Construction and Operation Phase

[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible

Impact Agencies
1 Compensatory Compensatory plantation of The site is a open and barren Pre-construction, Prospective
plantation of atleast twice the number of land and no trees are construction and post contractor /
trees trees felled should be done in present. construction phase SMC
line with competent authority
guidelines.
2 Protection of The top soil to be protected and Top soil will be stored During construction Prospective
soil compacted after completion of separately and it will be used contractor/
& work. Top soil from the STP for gardening. SMC
Environmental area should be stored in stock
enhancing piles and that can be used for
gardening purposes at STP site
which will be an environmental
enhancing measure.
3 Disposal of A suitable site should be The construction debris will During construction Prospective
construction identified for safe disposal, in be used for leveling of land. contractor/
debris and relatively low lying areas, away SMC
excavated from the water bodies,
materials residential and agricultural
fields, etc., and got approved by
the engineer. Care should be
taken that dumped material
does not affect natural drainage
system.
4 Pollution from i) The contractor shall vi) Servicing of vehicles Construction and Prospective
fuel and ensure that all constructions will be carried out at the operation contractor/
lubricants vehicle parking location, fuel / existing service centres SMC
lubricants storage sites, vehicle owned by 3rd parties. Hence
machinery and equipments no water pollution is
Maintenance and refueling sites expected and there is no
will be located at least 500m issue of generation of oily
from rivers and irrigation wastes.
canal/ponds.

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Impact Agencies
ii) All location and layout
plans of such sites submitted by
the contractor prior to their
establishment and will be
approved by the engineer.
iii) Contractor shall ensure
that all vehicle/machinery and
equipment operation,
Maintenance and refueling will
be carried out in such a fashion
that spillage of fuels and
lubricants does not contaminate
the ground.
iv) Contractor will arrange
for collection, storing and
disposal of oily wastes to the
pre-identified disposal sites (list
to be submitted to Engineer)
and approved by the engineer.
All spills and collected
petroleum products will be
disposed off in accordance with
MoEF and state PCB
guidelines.
v) Engineer will certify that
all arrangements comply with
the guidelines of PCB/MoEF or
any other relevant laws.
5 Decline of i) Ground water quality The treated sewage will be Construction and Prospective
ground water may get contaminated due to suitably reused. operation contractor/
quality leaching of waste water. So, the SMC
treated water quality shall
comply with the standards laid
down by the pcb for disposal

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[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible

Impact Agencies
onto land, water body or for
irrigation use.
ii) Regular monitoring is
required for the treated sewage
quality and also the ground
water quality in the nearby
areas and ensures compliance
with PCB standards.
6 Water pollution The contractor shall take all Care will be taken so that Construction and Prospective
from precautionary measures to runoff of waste concrete does operation contractor/
construction prevent the waste water not enter water bodies. SMC
phase generated during construction Construction waste
from entering into streams, generated from the site will
water bodies or the irrigation be collected and disposed at
system. All waste arising from the identified sites by the
the project is to be disposed off Engineer.
in the manner that is acceptable
by the Engineer.
7 Impact of To avoid the problems of foul Adequate greenery will be During construction Prospective
surrounding smell polluted air, insects, noise maintained to foul smell contractor/
areas pollution and other problems polluted air, insects, noise SMC
buffer zones to be provided in pollution and other problems.
the form of green belt around
the STP site, this has to be
strictly ensured.
8 Information The contractor shall provide, The condition will be During construction Prospective
signs and erect and maintain informatory complied with. contractor/
hoardings /safety signs, hoardings written SMC
in English and local languages,
whatever required or as
suggested by the Engineer.
9 Risk from The contractor shall take all The condition will be During construction Prospective
Electrical required precautions to prevent complied with. contractor/
Equipments danger from electrical SMC

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[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible

Impact Agencies
equipment and ensure that-
i) No material shall be
stacked or placed as to cause
danger or inconvenience to any
person or the public.
ii) All necessary fencing
and lights will be provided to
protect the public in
construction zones. All
machines to be used in the
construction will conform to the
relevant Indian Standards (IS)
codes, will be free from patent
defect, will be kept in good
working order, will be regularly
inspected and properly
maintained as per IS provision
and to satisfaction of the
Engineer.
10 Disposal of i) The treated water quality The treated sewage will be Pre SMC
treated waste shall comply with the standards analysed in order to meet construction/construction /Prospected
water of TNPCB before let out into the prescribed standards. and operation stage contractor
stram/nullah/open land/
irrigation purposes, and
necessary permission to be
obtained from the concerned
department.
ii) Ensure efficient working
condition or treatment plant.
iii) Prevent the pollution of
stream water and other water
bodies receiving STP
discharge.
11 Disposal of A suitable site should identify Sludge will be disposed Pre-construction- Prospective

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[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible

Impact Agencies
sludge for the safe the safe disposal of suitably in compliance to construction and contractor/
sludge generated at the STP standard. operation SMC
site and got approved by the
Engineer. Prepare a sludge
disposal plan and adheres to
the same.
12 Labour camp & Settling up of labour camps Labour from neighbouring During pre-construction Perspective
facilities needs to be done as per the areas will be employed and and construction contractor/
procedures. Adequate potable hence labour camps are not SMC
water facilities, sanitation and required.
drainage etc., in conformity with
the Indian labour laws shall be
ensured. The contractor shall
also guarantee the following:
i) The location, layout and
basic facility provision of each
labour camp will be submitted to
Engineer prior to their
construction.
ii) The construction will
commence only upon the
written approval of the
Engineer.
iii) The contractor shall
construct and maintain all
labour accommodation in such
a fashion that uncontaminated
water is available for drinking,
cooking and washing.
iv) Supply of sufficient
quantity of potable water (as per
IS) in every workplace/labour
camp site at suitable and easily
accessible places and regular

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Impact Agencies
maintance of such facilities.
v) The sewage system for
the camp are designed, built
and operated in such fashion
that no health hazards occurs
and no pollution to the air,
ground water or adjacent water
courses take place. Ensure
adequate water supply is to be
provided in all toilets and
urinals.
13 Safety aspects i) Adequate precautions Requisite safety precautions During construction Prospective
shall be taken to prevent the will be taken and PPEs will contractor.
accidents and from the be provided.
machineries. All machines
used shall confirm to the
relevant Indian standards code
and shall be regularly
inspected by the PIA.
ii) Where loose soil is met
with, shoring and strutting shall
be provided to avoid collapse
of soil.
iii) Protective footwear and
protective goggles to all
workers employed on mixing of
materials like cement, concrete
etc.
iv) Welder’s protective eye-
shields shall be provided to
workers who are engaged in
welding works.
v) Earplugs shall be
provided to workers exposed to

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[Link] Potential Mitigation measures Steps taken Time frame Responsible

Impact Agencies
loud noise, and workers working
in crushing, compaction, or
concrete mixing operation.
vi) The contractor shall
supply all necessary safety
appliances such as safety
goggles, helmets, safety belts,
ear plugs, mask etc to workers
and staffs.
The contractor will comply with
all the precautions as required
for ensuring the safety of the
workmen as per the
international labour organization
(ILO) convention No. 62 as far
as those are applicable to this
contract.
The contractor will make sure
that during the construction
work all relevant provisions of
the factories act, 1948 and
Building and other Conditions of
Services) Act, 1996 are
adhered to.
The contractor will not employ
any person below the age 14
years for any work and no
woman will be employed on the
work of painting with products
containing lead in any form.
14 First Aid The contractor shall arrange for: First aid kit will be made During construction Prospective
i) A readily available first available and in case of contractor.
aid unit including an adequate incidents affected persons
supply of sterilized dressing will be transported

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Impact Agencies
materials and appliances as immediately to nearby
per the factories rules I every hospital
work zone.
ii) Availability of suitable
transport at all times to take
injured or sick persons to the
nearest hospital.
15 Odour control The sludge from the Lamella
Adequate green belt will be Clarifier may produce odor
developed around STP to when becomes anaerobic
control odour. wherein an Aeration system
Spraying of water will be done is being provided there to
on the odour creating units keep the sludge in aerobic
conditions. The Aerobic
Monitoring will be done on sludge so produced will be
ambient air quality around STP. disposed as per the
guidelines of State Pollution
Control Board. The odour
control measures are given in
section 7.2
16 Noise pollution DG sets will be provided with During construction & Prospective
due to operation acoustic enclosures operation phases contractor.
of pumps & Green belt will be developed
machineries. which will attenuate noise

17 Protective For Chlorination System the Perspective

Equipments following mitigation measures contractor/
will be in place to arrest/ identify SMC
any leakage of chlorine

1) Neutralization System.
2) Leak Detection System.
3) Ventilation System.

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Impact Agencies
The personnel will be provided
with personnel protective
equipments (PPEs)

18 Safety 1) All plant personnel will be Operation phase Perspective

measures provided safety clothing and contractor/
Personal Protective Equipments SMC
(PPE) and also trained to
implement Occupational Health
and Safety (OHS)

2) During storage and Use of

Hazardous Materials like
chlorine etc it willbe ensured
that chemicals and fuel handling
and storage is safe and
materials do not causing any
damage

3) Chlorine will be stored in

accordance with safety
standards and regulations in
force
4) Operating staff will be
provided induction training on
safe handling, storage and
precautions in use of hazardous
materials. Also directions will be
given regarding chlorine
emergency repair kits, and
other emergency procedures.
5) Leak detecting arrangements
will be properly provided in the
plant

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Impact Agencies
6) Storage of large quantity of
chlorine will be avoided and
only procured based on need
and accurate inventory will be
maintained.
7) Only approved instruments
should be used for lifting and
opening cylinders

Table 7.3 Environmental Management Plan - Environmental Enhancement and Special Issues
[Link] Environmental enhancement and special issues Steps Implementing location
agency
1 Flora and chance The contractor will take reasonable precaution to The site is open and Prospective Project
found fauna prevent his workmen or any other persons from barren land and there is contractor area
removing and damaging any flora no trees present
(plant/vegetation) and fauna (animal) including
fishing in any water body and haunting of any
animal.
If any wild animal is found near the construction
site at any point of time, the contractor will
immediately upon discovery thereof acquaint the
Engineer and carry out the Engineers
instructions for dealing with the same.
The Engineer will report to the nearby forest
office (range office or divisional office) and will
take appropriate steps/measures, if required in
consultation with the forest officials.
2 Chance found All fossils, coins, articles of value of antiquity, The condition will be Prospective Project
archaeological structures and other remains or things of complied with contractor area
property geological or archaeological interest discovered
on the site shall be property of the government

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[Link] Environmental enhancement and special issues Steps Implementing location

agency
and shall be dealt with as per provisions of the
relevant legislation. The contractor will take
reasonable precautions to prevent his workmen
or any other persons from removing and
damaging any such article or thing. He will,
immediately upon discovery and carry out the
SC’s instructions for dealing with the same,
waiting which all work shall be stopped.
The Engineer will seek direction from the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) before
instructing the Contractor to recommence of the
work in the site.
3 Monitoring of The contractor shall undertake seasonal Environmental Prospective Project
environment monitoring of air, water, and noise and soil Monitoring Plan will be contractor area
parameters quality through an approved monitoring agency. prepared and executed.
The parameter to be monitored, frequency and
duration of monitoring plan shall be prepared.
4 Sensitive areas The sensitive areas like Schools, hospitals to be Sensitive areas like Prospective Project
provided with suitable noise barriers and safety school and residential contractor area
measures, prior to the start of work in order to areas are not located
minimize the dust and noise impacts due to nearby the proposed
vehicle movement during construction and their STP.
effectiveness to be checked and during
operation phase.
5 Clearing of Contractor to prepare site restoration plans for This will be complied Prospective Corridor
construction of approval by the engineer. The plan is to be with Contractor of Impact
campus and implemented by the contractor prior to
restoration demobilization. On completion of the works, all
temporary structures will be cleared away, all
rubbish cleared, excreta or other disposal pits or
trenches filled in and effectively sealed off and
the site left clean and tidy, at the contractors
expenses, to the entire satisfaction of the
engineer.

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[Link] Environmental enhancement and special issues Steps Implementing location

agency
6 Tree protection, • Giving due protection to the trees that fall in There will be no cutting Prospective Corridor
tree planting the shoulders/corridor of impact shall be the of trees as there is no Contractor of impact
prime focus during Construction/post trees or plantation in the
construction. site./ The planted
• Masonry tree guards, low level RCC tree saplings will be given
guards, Circular Iron Tree Guard with Bars, due care.
use of plate compactors near trees may also
be consider where necessary.
• Re-plantation of a least twice the number of
trees cut should be carried out along the
project road. Since the major portion of the
project road may pass through open lands,
planting of trees along the entire stretch of the
road is recommended as an enhancement
measure.
• Growth and survival of trees planted shall be
ensured and monitoring done at least for a
period of 3 years. Survival status shall be
reported on monthly basis by Engineer
incharge.
• Green Belt will be developed as per the
instructions contained in page 124 of NIT Vol-
II Section-5 of NIT & Compensatory
Afforestation shall be carried out as per the
provisions contained in Page no 128 of Vol-II
Section-5 Tech Spcs of NIT.

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Table 7.4 Causes and Remedy of STP units

[Link] Units problems Remedies
1 Inlet Chamber Foam development may arise Sprinkling of water will be done
during inflow through hose
Leakages in bottom of sluice Periodical greasing and proper
gates lubrication for proper
functioning
2 Screen Chamber Damage to screens by Periodical inspection and
breakage rectification of damaged parts
will be carried out.
3 Grit Chamber Washing away of grit particles velocity of flow will be controlled
along with the sewage properly

4 Fluidized Aerobic Media may be washed away Screens will be installed at the
Bioreactor outlet of FAB reactors
2 Sludge handling Choking of Pump due to Maintenance activity will be
pump heavy inflow. taken for uninterrupted
sets operation.

Table 7.5 Table Budget Allocation For Environmental Protection

S. No Component Capital Cost Operational Cost per
(Rs in annum (Rs in Lakhs)
Lakhs)
1 Development of green area and 10.0 1.0
maintenance
2 Environmental monitoring for quarterly - 4.0
study of air, noise, water and soil
3 Protective equipments for personal and 5.0 1.0
fire safety
Total 15 6.0

7.2 Odour control measures

The treatment chain consists of Raw sewage pumping, screening, grit removal, Fluidised
Aerobic Bed (FAB) reactor, Lamella clarifier and chlorination. The secondary biological
treatment technology proposed in the treatment system which is the FAB system has
specifically been proposed in view of its advantage vis a-vis the requirement of land, low
odour, high effluent quality and ease of operation. Therefore, apart from the preliminary
treatment consisting of screening and grit removal, the treatment system is purely aerobic
thus resulting in minimal offensive odour. The need therefore is to minimize any offensive
odour in and near the preliminary treatment structures. This is proposed by taking the
following measures:

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1. The odour produced in inlet region shall be regular and proper house keeping and
maintenance, inlet sump and pump house, screens, approach channels and grit
chambers would be maintained clean by suitably disposing off all generated waste on
daily basis.
2. All screenings and grit would be properly collected through chutes into trolleys and
disposed off as per laid down procedures.
3. A three meter wide green belt as shown in the plant layout drawing with suitable tree
plantation would be provided in area between existing road and treatment units to
control and reduce odour in nearby localities.
4. The possibility of having an additional green belt between existing road and the
residential colony would have to be examined by the concerned authorities to further
improve the situation in the area.

7.3 Water tight structures in the plant

To assess the water tight nature of the structure, a hydrotest will be conducted for liquid
storage concrete structure in the treatment plant. On construction of structures in the plant
they are physically verified for possible honey comb surface. If any such surface is found the
same is properly grouted with grouting materials using grouting [Link] sealing of the
open outlets, water will be filed up to a level of 6” to observe the weaker parts, if any. If any
weaker part is observed, it will be grouted properly. Again to verify absorption of water, if
any, and on finding satisfactory results, again fill it for lost water, if any up to the level of
6”.On observation, if the water level does not recede, it can be considered that there is no
leakage from the floor [Link], water is to be filled to full capacity of the structure to verify
any seepage, weepage or leakage, and if any is found it will be grouted with proper grouting
pumps and special [Link] verification and finding the structure, fully ready in all
aspects, it will be tested as per IS 4370 Part [Link] the structure is found to be 100% leak proof
after testing, sewage can be received in the structure.

7.4 Safety measures

In case of any emergency cetain precautionary measures have been planned in the plant in
the process stages.
The activated sludge from the underflow of the final settling tanks will be returned to the inlet
of the aeration tanks at a rate sufficient to maintain the MLSS concentration at at plant
designed value. Solids are generated by microorganism growth and reproduction. The
influent BOD Supplies the food for the growth and reproduction. As microorganisms’

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populations multiply, excess solids must be removed. If excess solids are not removed, the
mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) and sludge age will increase and process efficiency
will be lowered. Sludge settling rates are affected. Eventually, if excess solids do not get
wasted, they can overflow the clarifier weirs and into the receiving water. These operating
parameters are widely used and the details of the operating procedure will varies
accordingly.
Other precautions will also be carried out:

1. There will be sufficient aeration to maintain a dissolved oxygen concentration of at

least two mg/L at all times throughout the aeration tanks.
2. Dissolved oxygen will be present at all times in the treated wastewater in the final
settling tanks.
3. Activated sludge will be returned continuously from the final settling tanks to the
aeration tanks.
4. Optimum rate of returning activated sludge will vary with each installation and with
different load factors.
5. The optimum mix liquor suspended solids concentration in the aeration tanks will be
in the range of 600 to 3000 mg/L.
6. A sludge volume index of about 100 and a sludge age of three days to fifteen days
will be maintained.
7. The suspended solids content in the aeration tanks may partially be controlled by the
amount of sludge returned to them. All sludge in excess of that needed in the
aeration tanks will be removed from the system. It will be removed in small amounts
continuously or at frequent intervals rather than in large amounts at any one time.
Sludge held too long in the final settling tank will be avoided.

The quality of the treated water will be continuously monitored as this is the basic
indicator of the normal plant operation.

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CHAPTER 8 - PROJECT BENEFITS

8.1 Effective technology

The project uses Fluidised Aerobic Bio-Reactor (FAB), which is a space and power saving
technology and is a better alternative to conventional wastewater treatment plants that are
large-sized, power intensive and require a lot of monitoring.

FAB offers an effective option to the conventional systems made unviable due to scarcity of
open space, geographical network of piping, high power and land cost. It has Odourless
operations, with a self-regulating system, reduced power consumption, simple to operate,
low maintenance requirements and removes pathogenic coli forms.

8.2 Improvement of Environmental Status

The project will contribute to the substantial decrease of pollution caused by the discharge of
untreated sewage into the environment. This in turn would improve the quality of water
resources such as ground as well as surface water. The contamination of the region’s soil is
also prevented by the proper collection and disposal of waste water.

8.3 Health Benefits

The proposed project which would ensure the efficient disposal of the waste generation will
ultimately bring about social, economic, health and benefits to the community. The allied
benefits include reduction in health-care costs related with waterborne and water-related
diseases.

8.4 Generation of Employment

The construction phase will have positive effects on employment. During the construction
phase, services of local subcontractors will be used which will generate job opportunities for
skilled and unskilled workers in addition to professional services of engineers and others

8.5 Socio-economic Benefits

The Project will promote sustainability of water and wastewater infrastructure to be

supported by the Project through high standards of O&M and environmental mitigation and
management. The project will enhance the infrastructure of the area with respect to waste

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water collection and disposal thus enriching the aesthetic appearance of the overall region.
The project will promote domestic wastewater management, as a result of discharge their
wastewater into the proposed sewer systems.

8.6 Reuse of Treated Effluent

The project will promote water conservation measures such as water reuse that will reduce
future increases in water demand. The proposed STP project will ensure beneficial reuse of
treated sewage for various uses of industry and agricultural activities in and around the
project site. The treated sewage sludge which is rich in organic content would serve as low
cost organic manure.

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CHAPTER 9 - PUBLIC CONSULTATION

9.1 Public hearing conducted

Public consultation with Public and various stakeholders was conducted on 30.12.2009 at
the Central Hall of Salem Municipal Corporation. The details about the proposed STP in
Vandipettai were explained to the participants of the meeting. The details of public
consultation activities are reported in this chapter.

There are two PAPs as per the minutes of meeting of Grievance Redressal Committee held
on 30.12.2009, which may require resettlement or rehabilitation. As per the Chairman of the
Grievance Redressal Committee of Salem Corporation, two PAPs were identified and
identity cards and monetary compensation has been provided.

The details of public consultation and the notices issued, venue details and list of
participants and minutes of meeting is enclosed as Annexure 2.

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Annexure – 1
Consnt For Establishment

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A. Water Act

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B. Air Act

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Annexure – 2 Public Con

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