final eia report gailf -...

FINAL EIA REPORT

Submitted to: Ministry of Environment and Forests

Prepared For Prepared By

GAIL (India) Limited

SENES Consultants India Pvt. Ltd.

(An Arcadis Company)

March 2015

Onshore Oil and Gas Exploration (Exploratory Drilling)

CAMBAY BASIN, CB-ONN-2010/11 GUJARAT

EIA study for exploratory drilling - Cambay Basin CB-ONN-2010/11

SENES/D-20484/March’15 ii GAIL

INFORMATION ABOUT EIA CONSULTANTS

Brief Company Profile

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been prepared by SENES Consultants India Pvt. Ltd. SENES India, registered with the Companies Act of 1956 (Ranked No. 1 in 1956), has been

operating in the county for more than 11 years and holds expertise in conducting

Environmental Impact Assessments, Social Impact Assessments, Environment Health and

Safety Compliance Audits, Designing and Planning of Solid Waste Management Facilities

and Carbon Advisory Services.

Addresses of SENES offices across India are as below:

Noida (Head Office):

3rd Floor, Tower B, Logix Techno Park,

Plot No. 5, Sector – 127, Noida Uttar

Pradesh -201301

Tel: +91-020-4368400

Fax: +91-020-4368401

Mumbai:

711, Mayuresh Cosmos

Plot No. 37, Sector 11

CBD, Mumbai – 400614

Tel: +91-22-27576298

Fax: +91-22-27564781

Kolkata :

Stesalit Tower

6th Floor, E 2-3,

EP &GP, Block

Sector V, Salt Lake

Kolkata – 700091

Tel: +91-33-23578070/73

Hyderabad:

305, Third Floor,

12-13-97, Tata Tycoon Tarnaka

Hyderabad – 500017

Tel: +91-40-40180801

Fax: +91-40-40180802

QCI/NABET Accreditation Status

As on date, SENES has been granted accreditation by the Quality Council of India / National

Accreditation Board for Education & Training (QCI / NABET) in 12 sectors vide Certificate

No. NABET/EIA/RA016/040 valid up to March 5, 2017. The certificate of accreditation is

enclosed in the following page.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 iii GAIL


SENES/D-20484/March’15 iv GAIL


SENES/D-20484/March’15 v GAIL

Declaration by Experts contributing to EIA study for Seismic & Exploratory Drilling of Onshore Oil and Gas Block CB-ONN-2010/11, Ahmedabad and Anand, Gujarat for GAIL (India) Limited.

I, hereby, certify that I was a part of the EIA team in following capacity that developed this EIA. EIA Coordinator: Name: MANGESH DAKHORE

Signature: Period of involvement: June’13 - till date Contact information: SENES CONSULTANTS INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED IST FLOOR, TOWER B, LOGIX TECHNO PARK PLOT NO. 5 SECTOR 127, NOIDA, UP Functional Area Experts: Functional Area Experts (FAEs) involved in carrying out EIA study for GAIL’s onshore exploratory drilling project in Cambay Basin block CB-ONN-2010/11 are enlisted below.

S. N Functional Areas Name of Expert/s

Involvement (Period & Task**) Signature& Date

1 AQ* Debanjan Bandyopadhyay Full Time

01.03.2015

2 LU* Girish Shukla Full Time

01.03.2015

3 SE Ranjit Mukherjee Empanelled

25.02.2015

4 RH*, SHW*, AP*and WP * Mangesh Dakhore Full Time

01.03.2015

5 EB* Abhishek Goswami Full Time

22.02.2015 *See overleaf for the details


SENES/D-20484/March’15 vi GAIL

Declaration by the Head of Accredited Consultant Organization I, MAINAK HAZRA, hereby, confirm that the above mentioned experts prepared the EIA study for Seismic & Exploratory Drilling of Onshore Oil and Gas Block CB-ONN-2010/11 in Ahmedabad and Anand, Gujarat for GAIL (India) Limited. I also confirm that I shall be fully accountable for any mis-leading information mentioned in this statement. Signature:

Name: MAINAK HAZRA Designation: Director Name of the EIA Consultant Organization: SENES CONSULTANTS INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED NABET Certificate No. & Issue Date: NABET/EIA/RA016/040 & 11 August 2014

S. N Functional Area

Code Complete name of the Functional Areas

1 AP Air Pollution Prevention, Monitoring & Control

2 WP Water Pollution Prevention, Control & Prediction of Impacts

3 SHW Solid Waste and Hazardous Waste Management

4 SE Socio-Economics

5 EB Ecology and Biodiversity

6 AQ Meteorology, Air Quality Modeling & Prediction

7 NV Noise/ Vibration

8 LU Land Use

9 RH Risk Assessment & Hazard Management


SENES/D-20484/March’15 vii GAIL

Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................... xvi

1.0 INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................1

1.1 Brief Outline of Project And Project Proponent ............................................................ 1

1.2 Location and Area of Exploratory Block ....................................................................... 1

1.3 Requirement of EIA ....................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Objective of EIA Study .................................................................................................. 3

1.5 Scope of EIA Study........................................................................................................ 3

1.6 Structure of the EIA Report ......................................................................................... 18

2.0 REGULATORY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................19

2.1 National Environmental Policies ................................................................................. 19

2.2 National Legal Provisions for Oil and Gas Projects .................................................... 19

2.3 Environmental Clearance and Permitting ................................................................... 25

2.3.1 Submission and Approval of EIA as per Production Sharing Contract ..........25 2.3.2 Administrative Permissions as per the Petroleum Exploration License

(PEL) ..............................................................................................................25 2.3.3 Environmental Clearance as per EIA Notification ..........................................25 2.3.4 Consent to Establish and Operate – No Objection Certificate (NOC) ............26 2.3.5 Water uptake ...................................................................................................26 2.3.6 License for Storage of Petroleum Products & Explosives ...............................26

2.4 Siting of Project and Physical Occupation ................................................................... 27

2.4.1 Project Siting ...................................................................................................27 2.4.2 Prevention of Damage to Adjacent Properties and the Environment ..............27

2.5 Design Process & Equipment/Material Selection ........................................................ 28

2.5.1 Noise Standards and Controls for Equipment .................................................28 2.5.2 Flaring Specifications ......................................................................................29 2.5.3 Design of Water Pollution Control System ......................................................29 2.5.4 Drilling Wastes & Chemicals ..........................................................................29 2.5.5 Hazardous Wastes Management ......................................................................30 2.5.6 Contractor Requirements .................................................................................31

2.6 Project on Environmental Considerations.................................................................... 32

2.6.1 Wild Life Protection under Wildlife Act ...........................................................32 2.6.2 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 ..........32 2.6.3 Operation of Motor Vehicles ...........................................................................32

2.7 GAIL Environment Policy ........................................................................................... 33

3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ..........................................................................................34

3.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................... 34

3.2 Objective of Proposed Drilling activity ....................................................................... 34

3.3 Location & Description of Drilling wells .................................................................... 34

3.4 Accessibility to the Block ............................................................................................ 36

3.5 Site Settings of Exploratory Block and Surrounding Area .......................................... 39


SENES/D-20484/March’15 viii GAIL

3.6 Project Activities Involved in Exploratory Drilling ..................................................... 42

3.6.1 Site Selection ....................................................................................................42 3.6.2 Land Lease .......................................................................................................43 3.6.3 Site and Access Road Preparation ...................................................................43 3.6.4 Site Preparation ...............................................................................................43 3.6.5 Drilling Activities .............................................................................................45 3.6.6 Cementing Programme ....................................................................................52 3.6.7 Well Testing .....................................................................................................52 3.6.8 Completion of Drilling .....................................................................................52 3.6.9 Decommissioning and Closure of Wells and Site Restoration.........................52

3.7 Utilities and Resource Requirements ........................................................................... 53

3.7.1 Manpower Requirement and Accommodation: ...............................................53 3.7.2 Water Requirement: .........................................................................................53 3.7.3 Power Supply and Fuel Consumption: ............................................................54 3.7.4 Resource and Chemical Usage ........................................................................54

3.8 Process Emissions and Effluent Generation ................................................................ 57

3.8.1 Noise Generation .............................................................................................57 3.8.2 Air Emissions ...................................................................................................57 3.8.3 Liquid Wastes ...................................................................................................57 3.8.4 Solid and Hazardous Waste Streams ...............................................................58

3.9 Drilling Hazards ........................................................................................................... 59

3.10 Project Benefits ............................................................................................................ 59

3.10.1 Improvement in Physical Infrastructure ........................................................59 3.10.2 Employment Potential ....................................................................................59 3.10.3 Improvement in Future Economy ...................................................................59

4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT ENVIRONMENT ............................................60

4.1 Air Quality ................................................................................................................... 61

4.1.1 Climate and Meteorology ................................................................................61 4.1.2 Ambient Air Quality: ........................................................................................64

4.2 Land Use ...................................................................................................................... 72

4.2.1 Land Use Pattern Within Block Area ...............................................................72 4.2.2 Area Details of 10 km from Block Boundary ...................................................74 4.2.3 Topography and Drainage ...............................................................................76 4.2.4 Physiography and Geology ..............................................................................78 4.2.5 Proximity of Sea/Water Bodies ........................................................................79 4.2.6 Soil Condition ..................................................................................................80 4.2.7 Seismicity of the Area .......................................................................................84 4.2.8 Flood Risk ........................................................................................................84

4.3 Water Availability ........................................................................................................ 86

4.3.1 Surface Water Availability in Sabarmati river: ...............................................90 4.3.2 Groundwater availability: ...............................................................................95 4.3.3 Groundwater Quality Monitoring: ..................................................................99 4.3.4 Surface Water Quality Monitoring ................................................................103

4.4 Noise .......................................................................................................................... 104

4.5 Traffic volumes .......................................................................................................... 108

4.6 Biological Environment ............................................................................................. 110


SENES/D-20484/March’15 ix GAIL

4.6.1 Methodology ..................................................................................................111 4.6.2 Terrestrial Ecosystem ....................................................................................111 4.6.3 Forest Resources ............................................................................................112 4.6.4 Non-Forest Vegetation: .................................................................................112

4.7 Social Forestry ........................................................................................................... 114

4.8 Flora Diversity ........................................................................................................... 115

4.8.1 Agricultural Diversity ....................................................................................115 4.9 Faunal Diversity ......................................................................................................... 116

4.10 Aquatic Ecosystem ..................................................................................................... 117

4.11 Wildlife & Bird Sanctuaries:...................................................................................... 118

4.12 Socio-Economic Environment ................................................................................... 119

4.12.1 General Socio-economic Profile ..................................................................122 4.12.2 Education and Literacy ................................................................................124 4.12.3 Economic Activities and Livelihood Pattern ................................................125

5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS...............................................................................129

5.1 Impact Evaluation Methodology ................................................................................ 133

5.1.1 Impact Criteria and Ranking .........................................................................133 5.1.2 Impact Significance ........................................................................................134

5.2 Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures ............................................................ 135

5.2.1 Visual Impacts and Aesthetics .......................................................................135 5.2.2 Potential Impact on Land use ........................................................................136 5.2.3 Potential Impact on Air Quality .....................................................................136 5.2.4 Potential Impact on Noise Quality .................................................................148 5.2.5 Potential Impact on Soil Quality ....................................................................150 5.2.6 Impact on Topography and Drainage ...........................................................152 5.2.7 Potential Impact on Surface Water Quality ...................................................153 5.2.8 Potential Impact of Hydrology and Groundwater Quality ............................156 5.2.9 Potential Impact on Ecology ..........................................................................157 5.2.10 Potential Impact on Socio -Economic Environment ....................................159 5.2.11 Impact on Historical and Cultural Environment .........................................162

6.0 QUANTITATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT .................................................................166

6.1 Objective of the QRA Study ...................................................................................... 166

6.2 Risk Assessment Methodology .................................................................................. 167

6.2.1 Hazard Identification .....................................................................................168 6.2.2 Frequency Analysis ........................................................................................169 6.2.3 Consequence Analysis ....................................................................................170 6.2.4 Risk Evaluation ..............................................................................................171

6.3 Risk Assessment of Identified Project Hazards ......................................................... 172

6.3.1 Blow Outs/Loss of Well Control ....................................................................172 6.3.2 Process Leaks/Fires .......................................................................................181 6.3.3 Non-process fires/explosions .........................................................................184

7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND MONITORING FRAMEWORK..........................................................................................................185

7.1 Environment Management Plans ............................................................................... 185


SENES/D-20484/March’15 x GAIL

7.1.1 Pollution Prevention and Abatement Plan (PPAP) .......................................186 7.1.2 Waste Management Plan ...............................................................................189 7.1.3 Storm Water Management Plan .....................................................................192 7.1.4 Site Closure Plan ...........................................................................................192 7.1.5 Wildlife Management Plan ............................................................................193 7.1.6 Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan ...................................................194 7.1.7 Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan ......................................195 7.1.8 Management of Social Issues and Concerns .................................................197 7.1.9 Cultural Heritage Management .....................................................................198 7.1.10 CSR Implementation: ...................................................................................199

7.2 EMP BUDGET .......................................................................................................... 200

7.3 Emergency Response and Disaster Management Plan .............................................. 204

7.3.1 Well Kick:.......................................................................................................210 7.3.2 Fire Or Explosion ..........................................................................................211 7.3.3 Flooding in the Field .....................................................................................211 7.3.4 Oil or Chemical Spill Management ...............................................................211 7.3.5 Blow Out ........................................................................................................213 7.3.6 Casualty Evacuation ......................................................................................214 7.3.7 Security Breach ..............................................................................................214 7.3.8 Accidents ........................................................................................................214 7.3.9 Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)..................................................................................214

7.4 Environmental Monitoring Program .......................................................................... 217

8.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION .....................................................................................227

9.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION ..........................................................................230

9.1 Salient Features of the Project ................................................................................... 231

9.2 Overall Justification for Implementation of the Project............................................. 231

10.0 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS .......................................................................232


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xi GAIL

List of Tables Table No. Page No. Table 1-1 Compliance of ToR Points ........................................................................................ 5

Table 2-1: Regulatory Requirements Associated with Oil and Gas Drilling at CB-ONN-2010/11 .................................................................................................................................... 21

Table 2-2 Regularity requirements associated with Hazardous waste Rules 2008 ................. 31

Table 3-1 Description of Well ................................................................................................. 35

Table 3-2 List of Villages Within the Block Area ................................................................... 40

Table 3-3 Water Requirement per well .................................................................................... 54

Table 3-4 Chemical Requirement During Drilling .................................................................. 54

Table 3-5 Liquid Wastes Generated during Drilling and their Disposal ................................. 58

Table 3-6 Waste Streams Generated during Drilling and their Disposal ................................. 58

Table 4-1 Rainfall summary 2004-2006 as per Meteorological center, Ahmedabad .............. 62

Table 4-2 Climatological Summary for IMD Station at Ahmedabad (1951-1980) ................. 63

Table 4-3 Variation in Ahmedabad city temperature (2000-2006) ......................................... 63

Table 4-4 Ambient air quality monitoring by GPCB during 2009-10 ..................................... 64

Table 4-5 Ambient Air Sampling Locations ............................................................................ 65

Table 4-6 Ambient air quality monitoring results for HC, NMHC and TVOC ....................... 70

Table 4-7 Land use pattern of Ahmedabad and AnaNd district (Area 00'ha) ......................... 72

Table 4-8 Land Use Distribution of Exploratory block CB-ONN-2010/11 ............................ 72

Table 4-9 Proximity of water bodies to well locations ............................................................ 79

Table 4-10Soil Sampling Locations......................................................................................... 81

Table 4-12 Sub Basin Wise Mean Annual Surface Water Resources ..................................... 92

Table 4-13 Sub Basin Wise Average Annual Groundwater Resource (million cubic meter) in Gujarat...................................................................................................................................... 93

Table 4-14 Basin -3 (covering study area) monthly rainfall data for 1995-1999 (mm) .......... 93

Table 4-15 Water quality monitoring of Sabarmati river (2009-2010) by GPCB ................... 94

Table 4-16 Location of Ground water monitoring stations ................................................... 100

Table 4-17 Surface water sample location details ................................................................. 103

Table 4-18 Noise Monitoring Results .................................................................................... 105

Table 4-19: Floral Diversity of The Bhal and Coastal Areas ................................................ 110

Table 4-20: District Wise Information about Village Woodlots Raised ................................ 115

Table 4-21 List of study area villages .................................................................................... 121

Table 4-22 Demographical profile of the study villages ....................................................... 122

Table 4-23workforce Participation For Study Area Villages ................................................ 125

Table 5-1 Impact Identification Matrix (Without Mitigation) ............................................... 130

Table 5-2 Impact Prediction Criteria ..................................................................................... 133

Table 5-3 Criteria based Significance of Impacts .................................................................. 134

Table 5-4 DG set Specification .............................................................................................. 139

Table 5-5 GLC and Resultant Value for Criteria Pollutants- Scenario I ............................... 139

Table 5-6 Max. Incremental Concentration and Source Distance (Scenario-I) ..................... 140

Table 5-7 GLC and Resultant Value for Criteria Pollutant - Flaring .................................... 144

Table 5-8 GLC and Resultant Value for Criteria Pollutant - Flaring .................................... 145


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xii GAIL

Table 5-9 Construction Equipment Noise Levels .................................................................. 148

Table 5-10 Drilling Rig and Equipment Noise Levels .......................................................... 149

Table 5-11 Environmental Impact Identification Matrix (With Mitigation) ......................... 163

Table 6-1: Frequency Categories and Criteria ....................................................................... 170

Table 6-2: Severity Categories and Criteria ........................................................................... 171

Table 6-3: Risk Matrix ........................................................................................................... 172

Table 6-4: Risk Criteria and Action Requirements ................................................................ 172

Table 6-5: Blow Out Cause Distribution for Failures During Exploratory Drilling .............. 174

Table 6-6: Pool Fire Modeling Scenarios .............................................................................. 176

Table 6-7: Pool Fire Diameter and Steady State Burning Area ............................................. 176

Table 6-8: Thermal Radiation Intensity Threshold Values Impact Criterion ........................ 176

Table 6-9: Distance to Thermal Radiation Threshold Levels ................................................ 177

Table 6-10: Jet Fire Modeling Scenarios ............................................................................... 178

Table 6-11: Jet Fire Flame Length For Risk Scenarios Considered ...................................... 178

Table 6-12: Jet Fire Hazard Ranges ....................................................................................... 179

Table 6-13: Pool Diameter for Oil Spill Risk Scenarios ........................................................ 180

Table 6-14: Leak Frequencies for Process Equipment .......................................................... 181

Table 6-15: Project Process Equipment’s Leak Frequencies ................................................. 182

Table 6-16: Generic Ignition Probabilities ............................................................................ 183

Table 6-17: Frequency of Occurrence - Non-Process Fires ................................................... 184

Table 7-1 Mitigation Measures for environmental and social impacts .................................. 186

Table 7-2 Mitigation measure for waste stream .................................................................... 190

Table 7-3 Tentative Budget for EMP Implementation .......................................................... 200

Table 7-4 Environmental Management Matrix ...................................................................... 201

Table 7-5 Proposed Monitoring Requirements of the Project ............................................... 219

Table 8-1 Key commitments made during Public Hearings held in JANUARY 2015 ......... 228

Table 9-1 Salient Features of the Project ............................................................................... 231


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xiii GAIL

List of Figures Figure No. Page No. Figure 0-1 Location map of the block .................................................................................... xvii Figure 0-2 Land use map of the block ..................................................................................... xx

Figure 1-1: Site Location of Cambay Basin (CB-ONN-2010/11) ............................................. 2

Figure 3-1 Location of the lead areas in the block ................................................................... 35

Figure 3-2 Block accessibility map for Cambay basin (CB-ONN-2010/11) ........................... 37

Figure 3-3 Block accessibility map from Ahmedabad city ..................................................... 38

Figure 3-4 Environmental and social setting of the block CB-ONN 2010/11 ......................... 41

Figure 3-5 Phases of drilling activities .................................................................................... 42

Figure 3-6 Typical Layout of a Drilling Site ........................................................................... 45

Figure 3-7 Typical Configuration of a Drilling Rig ................................................................. 47

Figure 3-8 Flow Chart for Drilling Mud and Solid Discharge ................................................ 51

Figure 3-9 Water Balance Diagram ......................................................................................... 56

Box 4-1 Consultation with stakeholders .................................................................................. 60

Figure 4-1 Annual variation in average wind speed at Ahmedabad during 1971-2000 .......... 61

Figure 4-2 Wind frequency distribution in different wind speed classes at Ahmedabad during 1971-2000 ................................................................................................................................ 62

Figure 4-3 Annual wind rose for surface wind data (1971-2000) of Ahmedabad ................... 64

Figure 4-4Ambient Air Monitoring Location Map .................................................................. 67

Figure 4-5 Graphical Representation of PM10 ......................................................................... 68

Figure 4-6 Graphical Representation of SO2 ........................................................................... 69

Figure 4-7 Graphical Representation of NOx .......................................................................... 69

Figure 4-8 Monitoring location map ........................................................................................ 71

Figure 4-9Land Use Map of Exploratory Block CB-ONN-2010/11 ....................................... 73

Figure 4-10 Satellite Imagery for 10 Km Area Around the Block .......................................... 75

Figure 4-11 Digital elevation map showing topography and drainage of the block ................ 77

Figure 4-12 Geological map of Gujarat ................................................................................... 78

Figure 4-13Regional Stratigraphy of Cambay Basin ............................................................... 79

Table 4-11 Results of Soil Sample Analysis............................................................................ 82

Figure 4-14 Map Showing 6 Soil Monitoring Locations ......................................................... 83

Figure 4-15 Seismic Zoning Map of India Showing Project Site ............................................ 84

Figure 4-16 Flood zone map of Gujarat ................................................................................... 85

Figure 4-17: Narmada branch canal network ........................................................................... 88

Figure 4-18 Drainage map of the block ................................................................................... 89

Figure 4-19 Map Showing Sabarmati River Basin, Sub-Basins and G&D Sites .................... 91

Figure 4-20 Status of Sabarmati river quality pollution in the block area ............................... 95

Figure 4-21 Water Level Depth during Pre-Monsoon 2003-2012 in Gujarat ......................... 96

Figure 4-22 Plan showing depth to water level (post monsoon 2012) of Gujarat state ........... 97

Figure 4-23 Surface and Ground Water Monitoring Locations ............................................. 101

Figure 4-24 Graphical representation of noise level monitored in Residential areas of the study area ............................................................................................................................... 105

Figure 4-25 Graphical representation of noise levels monitored in commercial area ........... 106


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xiv GAIL

Figure 4-26 Map Showing Noise Monitoring Locations ....................................................... 107

Figure 4-27 Map Showing Traffic Monitoring Locations ..................................................... 109

Figure 4-28 Percent Population of SC and ST In Study Villages .......................................... 123

Figure 4-29 Sex Ratio in the Study Area ............................................................................... 123

Figure 4-30 Male and Female Population (%) in Study Villages .......................................... 124

Figure 4-31 Male and Female Literacy Rate in the Study Area ............................................ 124

Figure 4-32: Employment Details of the Study Area ............................................................ 125

Figure 4-33 Percentage Composition of Various Workers in the Study Area ....................... 126

Figure 5-1 Isopleths for PM Emission from DG sets ............................................................ 141

Figure 5-2 Isopleth for NO2 emission for DG set .................................................................. 142

Figure 5-3 Isopleths for CO Emission from DG Sets ............................................................ 143

Figure 5-4 Isopleth for prediction of CO emission during flaring ......................................... 146

Figure 5-5 Isopleth for prediction of NOx emission during flaring ....................................... 147

Figure 6-1: Risk Assessment Methodology ........................................................................... 168

Figure 6-2: Blow Out Frequencies in Oil and Gas Industry .................................................. 175

Annexure 1 TOR Letter ......................................................................................................... 233

Annexure 2 GAIL Environmental Policy .............................................................................. 237

Annexure 3 District Rainfall Summary for Ahmedabad and Anand District (2008-2012) ... 238

Annexure 4 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring results ............................................................ 239

Annexure 5 Ground water Quality Monitoring results .......................................................... 240

Annexure 6 Surface water Quality Monitoring results .......................................................... 243

Annexure 7 Traffic Analysis at all six locations .................................................................... 245

Annexure 8 Floral Diversity of The Study Area .................................................................... 247

Annexure 9 Faunal Diversity of the Study Area .................................................................... 249

Annexure 10 Planktonic Diversity in Village Ponds ............................................................. 252

Annexure 11 Receipts of compensation given by gail........................................................... 254

Annexure 12 Laboratory Accreditation ................................................................................. 267

List of Photos Picture No. Page No. Photo 4-1 Ambient Air Monitoring (Vataman village) ........................................................... 66

Photo 4-2 Ambient Air Monitoring (Raypur village) .............................................................. 66

Photo 4-3 Air monitoring (Rinjha village)............................................................................... 66

Photo 4-4 Ambient Air Monitoring (Dholi village) ................................................................. 66

Photo 4-5 Block village small to medium sized ponds(Oct-Dec, 2013) .................................. 80

Photo 4-6 Sabarmati River in the block (April, 2014) ............................................................. 80

Photo 4-7: Soil sampling .......................................................................................................... 81

Photo 4-8:Soil sampling ........................................................................................................... 81

Photo 4-9 Dholi village (pond water), Ahmedabad district ..................................................... 98

Photo 4-10 Water canal in Rampura village (Ahmedabad district ) ........................................ 98

Photo 4-11 Pachegam village, nearby waterbody (Anand district) ......................................... 98

Photo 4-12 Chitravada village, drinking water source (Anand district) ................................. 98

Photo 4-13 Sabarmati river within the block (surface water body) ......................................... 99


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xv GAIL

Photo 4-14 Village canal supply water .................................................................................... 99

Photo 4-15 Ground water sampling ......................................................................................... 99

Photo 4-16 Surface water sampling - upstream of Sabarmati river ......................................... 99

Photo 4-17 Village Woodlot .................................................................................................. 114

Photo 4-18 Pond side plantation (April,2014) ....................................................................... 114

Photo 4-19 Vegetation near the streams ................................................................................ 114

(April,2014) ........................................................................................................................... 114

Photo 4-20 Vegetation on the bank of Sabarmati River, (April,2014) .................................. 114

Photo 4-21 Sarus cranes spotted in the Block ........................................................................ 117

Photo 4-22 Cattle egrets and Black Headed Ibis spotted in the Block (April,2014) ............. 117

Photo 4-23 India peafowl spotted in the Block ...................................................................... 117

(April,2014) ........................................................................................................................... 117

Photo 4-24 Eurasian Spoonbill spotted in the Block(April,2014) ......................................... 117

Photo 4-25 Collection of plankton sample from Pachegam Pond ......................................... 118

(April,2014) ........................................................................................................................... 118

Photo 4-26 Dholi village, public consultation (Ahmedabad district) .................................... 119

Photo 4-27 Raypur village, public consultation (Ahmedabad district) ................................ 119

Photo 4-28 Chitravada village (Anand district) ..................................................................... 120

Photo 4-29 Vataman village (Ahmedabad district) ............................................................... 120

Photo 4-30 Dugari village (Anand district) .......................................................................... 120

Photo 4-31 Rinjha village (Anand district) ............................................................................ 120

Photo 4-32 Fatepura village (Anand) ..................................................................................... 120

Photo 4-33 Rampura village (Ahmedabad) ........................................................................... 120

Photo 4-34 Existing transportation facility in Dholi village, (Ahmedabad district) .............. 127

Photo 4-35 Raypur village approach road (Ahmedabad district) .......................................... 127

Photo 4-36 Raypur village well metalled access road (Ahmedabad district) ........................ 127

Photo 4-37 Vataman village metalled access road (Ahmedabad district) ............................. 127

Photo 4-38 Chitravada village internal kachha road (Anand) .............................................. 127

Photo 4-39 Fatepura village internal kachha road ................................................................. 127

Photo 4-40 Primary School in Raypur village ....................................................................... 128

Photo 4-41 Temple at Dugari village .................................................................................... 128

Photo 4-42 Bank branch in Vataman village (Ahmedabad) .................................................. 128

Photo 4-43 Vataman village primary school (Ahmedabad) .................................................. 128


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xvi GAIL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Govt. of India, awarded the oil and gas exploration block CB-ONN-2010/11 jointly to M/s. GAIL India Limited (PI-25%), M/s Bharat Petro Resources Limited (BPRL) (PI-25%), M/s Engineers India Limited (EIL) (PI-20%), BF Infrastructure Limited (BFIL) (15%) and Monnet Ispat and Energy Limited (MIEL) under the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP). The CB-ONN-2010/11 block covers an area of 131 sq. km and is located in Ahmedabad and Anand districts of Gujarat.

The Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for the Block was signed on 28th March, 2012 and the Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) was made effective from 15th March, 2013. According to the provisions of Production Sharing Contract (PSC), GAIL (India) Ltd., being an operator, will carry out the whole process of 3D seismic survey and exploratory drilling of 8 wells. GAIL has engaged SENES India to carry out Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study for the project including assessment of environmental and social impacts for the project before arriving at a site specific Environment Management Plan (EMP).

Project Location Onshore exploratory block CB-ONN-2010/11 is located in Ahmedabad and Anand districts of Gujarat. Based on interpretation of historic 2D seismic survey data, GAIL has identified eight (8) lead areas within block boundary for drilling activities. Though, exact locations of exploratory drilling will be finalized after interpretation of results of 3D seismic survey but exploratory wells will be strictly confined to block boundary. Block has an area of 131 sq.km and covers 8 villages in Dholka taluka of Ahmedabad district and 8 villages in Tarapur taluka (Anand District). List of villages in respective talukas located within the proposed block is given in Table ES 1 and block location map is shown in Figure 1. Table ES1: List of Villages falling within Exploratory Block CB-ONN-2010/11

S. N District Taluka Village 1.

Anand Tarapur

Khada 2. Rinza 3. Pachegam 4. Chitarwada 5. Dugari 6. Nabhoi 7. Haidarpura 8. Fatepura 9.

Ahmedabad Dholka

Vataman 10. Varna 11. Rampur 12. Raypur 13. Dholi 14. Ganol 15. Sarig 16. Motipura


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FIGURE 0-1 LOCATION MAP OF THE BLOCK

Project Description and Activities

The objective of the exploratory drilling program is to determine the potential of commercial hydrocarbon reserves within the block. This activity would involve

Well site preparation, strengthening of access roads,

Well drilling and testing.

Site closure and decommissioning for wells not indicative of potential hydrocarbon reserves.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xviii GAIL

An area of 120m x 100m of land will be required for each well site, which will be taken on temporary lease, after making necessary payments against lease and crop compensation. Each exploratory well will be drilled to a target depth ranging between 2000m to 2500 m using a standard electrical rig. A water-based drilling mud will be utilized during drilling. The drill cuttings will be collected and temporarily stored on-site in HDPE lined pits. Drilling waste management for the proposed exploratory drilling will be in accordance with CPCB and Gujarat Pollution Control Board norms.

Project Utilities and Resource Requirements

The power requirement for drilling activities and well site lighting will be met by two mobile DG sets of capacity 370kVA, of which one would be standby. One drilling rig with an engine capacity of minimum 1000HP as well as two mud pumps with an engine capacity of 1000HP would be used during the drilling purpose. Nearly 4-5 KLD of High Speed Diesel (HSD) is required for the operation of DG sets. Water requirement, approximately 40KLD will be sourced from local suppliers. Around 40 persons deployed in every shift during the drilling phase will be housed onsite in portable quarters equipped with adequate amenities.

Waste generation

Drilling mud and cuttings, domestic wastewater, waste oil and kitchen waste will be generated during drilling activities. Approximately, 200 m3 of drill cutting per well, approximately 20 m3/d of drilling wastewater and around 1.5m3/d of domestic waste is anticipated to be generated during drilling activities. Approximately, 10-20kg per day of solid kitchen waste will also be generated from onsite camp facility. Minor quantities of oily rags and waste oil generation are also anticipated from proposed project activities.

Baseline Environmental Status

To understand the existing physical, biological and socioeconomic environmental situation, both primary and secondary data was collected. Stakeholder consultations were also carried out during site visits for secondary data collection. The study period for primary data collection was during post monsoon season in 2013.

Climate and Meteorology

Meteorological data for the study area is collected from IMD station at Ahmedabad. The maximum rainfall occurs during the month from July to September. The annual average rainfall of the region is 254.8mm. Dholka taluka under Ahmedabad falls under Bhal and coastal area zone, with an average rainfall of 625mm to 1000mm as per the agro-climatic zoning of Gujarat. The average rainfall recorded in Tarapur taluka under Anand district is within 625-875mm.

The maximum temperature is recorded in the month of May (41.80C), whereas the lowest temperature has been observed in the month of January (11.70C). The average wind speed over the period of 30 years is 6.7m/sec, with a varying range of 4.3 m/sec in the month of October to 10.1 m/sec in June.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xix GAIL

Ambient Air Quality

The ambient air quality is monitored at 8 representative locations of the block. The average 24 hourly PM10 in these locations is found within NAAQS limits. Average NOx and SO2 concentration in all monitoring stations is found well within limits as per CPCB 2009 NAAQS standards. Average values for methane hydrocarbons at the sampling stations varied between 377µg/m3-713.8µg/m3 whereas the concentration of non-methane hydrocarbon at all sampling location found to be between 10- 11 µg/m3. TVOC concentration were found to be Below Detectable Limit (i.e. below <0.1ppm) in a total of six locations out of total of eight locations monitored. Monitoring conducted in Vataman and Varna recorded TVOC concentration of 0.2 and 0.1ppm respectively.

Ambient Noise Quality

Ambient noise monitoring within the block reveals that noise levels during day time ranged between 44.0 to 58.7 dB (A) and during night time between 33.4 to 48.6 dB (A). Ambient noise quality results, revealed that all noise levels recorded at respective locations were below the stipulated CPCB noise limits for day and night time both for Residential and Commercial area category. Noise levels in Varna and Vataman villages recorded during day and night time, were found to be 56.5 and 58.7dB (A) respectively. This is probably due to the presence of high traffic movement at Vataman Chowkri, intersection point of SH4 and SH6, Varna village is also located on the road junction. Ambient noise at all monitoring stations is found to be well within permissible limits.

Physiography and Geology

The soil of most of the area mainly comprises of deep black soil. Medium black, poorly drained and saline soil is found in Dholka taluka under Ahmedabad district. The predominant texture varies from Silty clay loam to silty clay and clay. The other major villages in the Anand district fall under Tarapur taluka and have sandy loam to sandy soils. The various geological formation of the block comprises of Alluvium formation. The sub-surface geology also shows presence of Deccan trap group, Songir and Granite formation during the age of Upper Cretaceous, Lower Cretaceous to Jurassic and Archean period respectively.

Groundwater Quality

Ground water samples are collected from wells and bore wells of the seven villages. Among the ground water quality parameters monitored, TDS, Chloride and Sulphate was found to be above the permissible limit set by IS 10500-2012 in three water samples collected from Raypur, Varna and Rinza village. Heavy metal concentration viz. cadmium and Arsenic were observed well below the permissible limits. However, Lead was found to be above the permissible limits as per BIS 10500- 2012 drinking water standards in four villages of the block. The remaining ground water quality parameters are found well below the standard limits. Bacteriological contamination was reported well above the permissible limit (10CFU/100ml) set by BIS and do not comply with drinking water specifications. Total coliform was found to be in the range of 45-120CFU/100ml which is well above the permissible limit of 10CFU/100ml. E.Coli was however found to be absent in Vataman and


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xx GAIL

Dholi village but was found to be present in the remaining four ground water locations between the range of 25 to 69CFU/100ml as against the limit set to zero for E.Coli by BIS. This may be due to the fact that open defecation is practiced in many villages however few villages have septic tanks. Mixing of drainage water, human waste and agricultural runoff are the common reasons for groundwater bacterial contamination. However, it is observed that the groundwater is not used for drinking purpose in the block area villages but is only used for washing, bathing and other domestic purposes.

Surface Water Quality

Sabarmati River is the existing river in the block area, flowing from north eastern direction to south western direction of the block. The stretch of the river in the block is approx.15kms and is only used for bathing and washing purpose by the villagers. Narmada Branch Canal is the source of water supply for irrigation in Dholka and Tarapur block in Anand district. Surface water samples are collected from six locations within the study area. The water quality of three samples collected from Sabarmati river conforms to Class E (Irrigation, Industrial Cooling, Controlled Waste disposal) and the remaining water samples were collected from village ponds which conform to Class D (Propagation of Wild life and Fisheries) inland surface water quality.

Land use

The land-use and land-cover of the study area is interpreted from satellite data (LANDSAT Imagery), topo sheet of the area and subsequently by ground truthing during reconnaissance surveys. The block land use shows that majority of the land (88.6%) in the area is used for agriculture purpose with paddy being the primary produce.

FIGURE 0-2 LAND USE MAP OF THE BLOCK


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxi GAIL

Soil Quality

Medium black, poorly drained and saline soil is found in Dholka taluka under Ahmedabad district. The predominant texture varies from Silty clay loam to silty clay and clay. The other major villages in Anand district fall under Tarapur taluka and have sandy loam to sandy soil. The soil was monitored in six locations within the block. The textural class predominately as per the soil samples analyzed for their silt, sand and clay ratio is Clayey as found in the study area.

Traffic Survey

Traffic count survey is conducted in six locations on different state highways viz. SH4, SH6, SH8 and SH-83 and village approach road junctions. Traffic survey study reveals that traffic density on these roads is less than their carrying capacity.

Natural hazards

The proposed seismic block of Cambay Basin is situated in the seismic zone III, which is classified as having low to moderate damage risk as per the Earthquake Hazard Map of India. Dholka taluka under Ahmedabad falls under Bhal and coastal area zone, with an average rainfall of 625mm to 1000mm as per the ago-climatic zoning of Gujarat. The average rainfall recorded in Tarapur taluka under Anand district is within 625-875mm. Sabarmati river flows through a wide stretch of very flat terrain in the block before reaching the Arabian sea. These flat low lands of the river basin, covering the block area are prone to flooding during monsoons.

Ecology

The block does not have any Reserve or Protected forest, open forest or any other ecological sensitive area. Trees are noticed along the village road and along the state highway connecting to the site. Higher frequency of Mahua (Madhuca indica), Mango (Mangifera indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Siris (Albizzia lebbeck), Babul (Acacia catechu), Chilbil (Holoptelea integrifolia), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Imli (Tamarindus indica) etc. were recorded. Dominant tree species were Tamarindus Indica (Imli), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Prosopis cineraria (Khyigdo), Ailanthus excelsa (Aurdso) and Salvadorao leoides (Piludi). Plantations of Papaya, Banana was most commonly found along this area. Sarus crane is commonly found in Anand district. Periyej wetland in Anand district is an important habitat of Sarus crane. Aves like Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Sarus Cranes (Grus Antigone) was observed in study area. Sarus crane is listed as vulnerable in IUCN Red List. Pea fowl were observed in village woodlots, homestead plantation areas and is categorized under Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Cattle egrets, Pond heron, Intermediate egrets, Black headed Ibis etc. were also found in large number. The other Avifauna includes the Kingfisher, Common Myna, Black Drongo, Parakeets and Kingfisher etc. Eight species of aquatic birds were recorded from the study area viz. Common Sandpiper, Pond Heron, White Breasted Kingfisher, River Tern, Sarus Crane, Intermediate Egret, Red wattled lapwing, Yellow wattled lapwing, Eurasian Spoonbill, Common Sandpiper, Common Snipe etc. A total of 11 phytoplankton genera and 17 zooplankton


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxii GAIL

species were encountered from the village ponds within the Block. Survey results show 10 species of aquatic macrophytes from the study area.

Socio economic

The study area villages comprise of sixteen villages in both the districts viz. Ahmedabad and Anand. Average sex ratio of the study villages was found to be 941 falling under Ahmedabad and Anand districts. Average literacy rate of around 67% is reported in study area.

Environmental Impact Assessment

The potential impacts of the project on different components of the environment is systematically identified and evaluated for significance. The main concerns that emerged are:

Impact on air Quality The operation of DG sets during drilling on site will result in the generation of air pollutants viz. PM, NOx, and CO, which may affect the ambient air quality temporarily. In order to predict the incremental values of air pollutants and resultant Ground Level Concentrations (GLCs) at various distances intervals from the source of the above mentioned pollutants, an air modeling is carried out by using ISC3ST model. Predicted incremental values for PM, NOx and CO due to DG set operations are 0.44 µg/m3, 8.81µg/m3 and 3.6mg/m3 respectively at a distance of 1.4km in the downwind direction (NW) from the location of DG sets at well site. The resultant Ground Level Concentrations (GLCs) for all pollutants in worst-case scenario is well below the CPCB standards limits. As all the DG sets would not be operated at the same time, hence the generation of gaseous pollutants in the ambient environment is not going to cause long term impact. Additionally, maintenance of proper stack height of 11m would help in controlling the ground level concentrations. Therefore, impact on air quality will be of low significance. Maximum GLC of carbon monoxide (24 hrs.) and nitrogen dioxide during flaring is predicted to be 18.4mg/m3 and 3.39µg/m3 at 2.7km distance from source respectively.

Impact on Noise Quality Proposed drilling operations and related activities will lead to considerable level of noise generation that may have significant impact on the surrounding ecology and local communities in terms of increase in noise levels and associated disturbances. Studies indicated that noise generated from operation of drilling rig generally varies in the range of 88-103 dB (A) with high noise levels being recorded close to the rig. Further considering drilling to be a continuous operation the noise generated from drilling equipment’s has the potential to cause discomfort to the local communities residing in close proximity (within 500m) of the rig facility. Occupational health and safety impacts viz. Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is also anticipated on personnel working close to such noise generating equipment. However considering the short duration of the drilling period (approx. 90 days) and necessary noise prevention and control measures viz. use of acoustic barriers, provisions proper PPEs, regular preventive maintenance of equipment’s, maintaining safe distance from habitation etc. to be implemented by the proponent no significant impact to this regard is envisaged.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxiii GAIL

Impact on Soil Quality Stripping of top soil will be affecting the soil fertility of the well sites. Further, sourcing of borrow material from agricultural fields, improper storage and handling of drill cuttings, waste, fuel and chemicals may contaminate the soil. Site preparation activities may also result in increased soil erosion and degrade soil properties. Specific mitigation measures will be implemented by the proponent to stabilize the top soil, to preserve their fertility characteristics during site restoration. Further, adequate measures will be taken for storage and handling of waste, fuel and chemicals to avoid any soil contamination. The impact is, therefore, considered to be of low significance.

Impact on Topography and drainage Site preparation involves raising of the leased land to about 0.25 m from the ground level. It may lead to alteration of onsite micro-drainage pattern. However, considering the provision of cross drainage structures viz. culverts etc., at road embankments and stream crossings, by the proponent to ensure uninterrupted drainage flow, the impact is considered to be of low significance. Adequate care will be taken by the proponent to restore the site back to its original condition based on the originally existing contours and predominant slope to prevent any such adverse drainage impacts.

Impact on Surface Water Quality and Hydrology The surface run off from drilling waste (cuttings and drilling mud) is likely to be polluting source leading to the pollution of receiving water bodies viz. natural drainage channels, ponds etc. However, taking into account the provision of onsite drainage system and sediment control measures to be implemented by the proponent and discharge in compliance with the CPCB Inland Water Discharge Standards, the impact is considered to be of medium significance.

Impact on Ground Water Quality Souring of water for proposed project from local ground water resources may have adverse impact on ground water availability in the area. However, considering the limited water requirement (40m3/d) for a small duration of drilling period (say 90 days), the impact in terms of ground water availability will be of low significance. Poor casing and cementing of wells and improper storage of drill cuttings and mud may contaminate ground water.

Impact on Biological Environment Impact on local ecology due to proposed exploratory drilling activities is assessed in terms of loss of flora and fauna, impacts on avifauna, impact on aquatic habitats and loss of ecological productivity in agricultural fields. The impacts on local ecology will be like clearing of ground vegetation, disturbance due to noise and light, wastewater discharge, loss of fertility due to top soil stripping etc. However, the proposed drilling is a temporary activity and GAIL will adopt necessary mitigation measures to address adverse impacts on biological environment.

Impact on Socio economic Environment Proposed project will have positive as well as negative impacts on the local people. The adverse impact includes temporary loss of land and related livelihood, safety risk due to


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxiv GAIL

project transportation, influx of population. However, GAIL will ensure proper restoration of temporarily leased drill sites to avoid any impact on crop productivity. The project will benefit the people living in neighboring villages by giving preference to them in relation to direct and indirect employment associated with various project activities and boosts the local economy. The proposed project will also involve the improvement of existing road and/or condition of bridge.

Environmental Monitoring Program Continuous monitoring needs to be carried out for regulatory permit requirements related to environmental effects and to assess performance of EMP implementation. Monitoring indicators have been developed for each of the activity considering mitigation measures proposed. Indicators have been developed for ascertaining performance of the EMP implementation which focuses not only on quantifying or indexing activity-environment interactions that may potentially impact the environment but also will help in comparing different components of environmental quality against previously established baseline values. Monitoring results will be documented, analyzed and reported internally to Drilling Supervisor and HSE Coordinator. Monitoring requirements along with frequency of monitoring and responsibility of carrying out the monitoring have been described in the EIA report.

Additional Studies:

Risk Assessment Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) considered the systematic analysis and evaluation of

risks related to the exploratory drilling in the block CB-ONN-2010/11. The QRA involves the

identification and evaluation of major risks, prioritizing risks identified based on their hazard

consequences and formulating suitable risk reduction measures in line with the As Low as

Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) principle..

Major risks viz. blow out/loss of well control, process leaks/fire, non-process fire and

explosion and their resultant consequences viz. jet fire, pool fire, oil spill have been assessed

and evaluated through a risk matrix generated to combine the risk severity and likelihood

factor. Risk associate with exploratory drilling have been determined semi-quantitatively as

the product of likelihood/probability and severity/consequence by using order of magnitude

data (risk ranking = severity/consequence factor X likelihood/probability factor).

Significance of project related risks are then established through their classification heads

like high, medium, low, very low depending upon risk ranking.

Project Benefits Proposed exploratory drilling of oil and gas will provide benefits to the society as well as the economy at a large scale. The benefits would include Improvement in Physical Infrastructure (improvement in road connectivity in the area, if required); Generation of employment: Most of workforce employed during the stage will be semi-skilled. People from adjoining areas will be given preference according to the skill sets possessed and Improvement in Future Economy


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxv GAIL

Environmental Management Plan Site-specific Environment Management Plans (EMP) is developed to prevent and mitigate significant adverse impacts. Accentuated beneficial impacts will be implemented by GAIL for the proposed project. Key mitigation measures specific to each management plan are:

(a) Pollution Prevention and Abatement Plan:

All vehicles, equipment’s and machinery used for construction will be subjected to preventive maintenance as per manufacturer norms.

Test Flaring will be undertaken in accordance with CPCB Guidelines for discharging of gaseous emissions for Oil and Gas Extraction Industry.

Preventive maintenance of DG sets is to be undertaken as per manufacturers’ schedule to ensure compliance with CPCB specified generator exhaust.

Installing acoustic enclosures and muffler on engine exhaust of DG sets to ensure compliance with generator noise limits specified by CPCB.

Installation and maintenance of effective run-off controls, including silt traps, straw barriers etc. so as to minimize erosion.

Proper casing and cementing of exploratory well will be done to prevent contamination of sub-surface aquifers.

(b) Waste Management Plan

Use of low toxicity chemicals for preparation of drilling fluid.

Storage of drill cuttings in impervious HDPE lined pits

Wastewater disposal will be done either through solar evaporation or necessary treatment to comply with CPCB onshore effluent discharge standard for oil and gas industry.

Hazardous waste (waste and used oil) will be managed in accordance with Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2000.

(c) Wild Life Management Plan

Selection and finalization of exploratory drilling sites based on distance from the existing faunal habitat in the study area.

(d) Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan

Clear signs, flagmen and signal will be set up in major traffic junctions and near sensitive receptors and night time movement of vehicles will be restricted.

(e) Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan

All machines to be used in construction will conform to relevant Indian Standards (IS) codes. These will be kept in good working order and properly maintained.

Contractor workers involved in handling of materials and chemicals will be provided with proper PPEs.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 xxvi GAIL

Workplace must be equipped with fire detectors, alarm systems and fire-fighting equipment.

Health problems of workers should be taken care of by providing basic health care facilities.

(f) Cultural Heritage Management

Cultural and archaeologically important areas within the block will be geographically mapped and communicated to the Contractor.

Consultations will be held with local communities in areas of identified cultural importance prior to the commencement of operations.

(g) Emergency Response Plan

Drilling rig and related equipment to be used for exploratory drilling will be conformed to international standards specified for such equipment.

Blow-out preventers and related well control equipment will be installed, operated, maintained and tested generally in accordance with internationally recognized standards.

Appropriate gas and leak detection system will be made available at each drilling location.

Adequate fire-fighting equipment will be provided in each drilling site

Public Consultation Public Hearings were conducted on 21st Jan’15 and 30th Jan’15 in Dugari village, Tarapur (Taluka), Anand district and at Village Vataman, Dholka (Taluka), Ahmedabad district and respectively. Advertisements to communicate public hearing details were published in local Sandesh (Gujarati Newspaper) and The Times of India (English Newspaper) on 20th Dec’14 and 27th Dec’14 for Anand and Ahmedabad districts respectively. Additional District Magistrate (A.D.M) for respective districts supervised and presided over entire public hearing proceedings. A total of 122 participants were present in the public hearing in Dugari village of Tarapur taluka, Anand district, while 74 participants attended the public hearing in Vataman village of Dholka taluka (Ahmedabad district). Most of the concerns raised by locals during both the public hearings were related to land & crop compensation, damage to houses/structures, pollution due to drilling operations viz. soil contamination, impact on ground water, local employment, land restoration etc. during the proposed drilling operations. Queries were also received from farmers of villages falling in Dholka taluka of Ahmedabad district regarding the compensation for the losses/damages incurred due to seismic survey activities undertaken by GAIL viz. unfilled holes drilled as part of seismic survey, unrestored farm embankments etc. Public hearing concerns are assessed and addressed in relevant sections of the Final EIA report and also summarized in chapter 8. Conclusion The implementation of proposed drilling activity will confirm the availability of oil and gas in the area, which can lead to further improvement in infrastructure, employment & business


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opportunities in the project area. All possible environmental aspects are adequately addressed and necessary control measures are suggested in EIA report to meet with statutory requirement. GAIL will strongly support benefits to the local people and the area as per the policy framework and commits to take care of all the environmental concerns of the local people.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 1 GAIL

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BRIEF OUTLINE OF PROJECT AND PROJECT PROPONENT

GAIL (India) Limited, India's flagship Natural Gas company, is integrating all aspects of the Natural Gas value chain (exploration and production, processing, transmission, distribution and marketing) and its related services. With the changing scenario, GAIL is leading light towards the move to a new era of clean fuel industrialization, creating a quadrilateral of green energy corridors that connect major consumption centers in India with major gas fields, LNG terminals and other cross border gas sourcing points. GAIL (India) Limited is awarded with an exploration block in Cambay Basin, namely CB-ONN-2010/11 by Government of India under the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for exploration of hydrocarbon.

A Production Sharing Contract (PSC) was signed between the Government of India (GOI) and GAIL (India) Limited on 28th March, 2012. The PSC is based on the model PSC available on the website of the Directorate of General Hydrocarbons and can be accessed at www.dgh.org. In addition to this, necessary regulatory approval is taken for the exploration program in form of Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) No: 10-2012-915E from Government of Gujarat on 15th March, 2013.

According to provisions of Production Sharing Contract (PSC), GAIL (India) Ltd., being an operator will carry out the whole process of seismic survey and exploratory drilling in two phases. The first phase will comprise of a 3D seismic program consisting of acquisition, processing and interpretation of about 10 LKM of 2D and 131 Sq. Km full fold 3-D Seismic data. It will further be accompanied by drilling of eight exploration wells, which according to the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) would be of a depth in the range of 2000m- 2500m as per the geological conditions encountered.

GAIL will carry out appraisal procedures for evaluating presence of hydrocarbon in the region, as a part of which, GAIL is planning to carry out exploratory drilling operation after successfully completing the 3D seismic survey of the block CB-ONN-2010/11.

1.2 LOCATION AND AREA OF EXPLORATORY BLOCK

The proposed block, CB-ONN-2010/11 is located in Dholka taluka of Ahmedabad District and Tarapur taluka of Anand District. The location map with administrative boundary is shown in Figure 1-1.



FIGURE 1-1: SITE LOCATION OF CAMBAY BASIN (CB-ONN-2010/11)

1.3 REQUIREMENT OF EIA

As per the EIA Notification 2006, proposed exploratory drilling operation of oil and gas project comes under Schedule 1(b) of Category ‘A’ projects and required environmental clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). None of the General Conditions (GC) as per this notification is applicable for exploratory drilling project of onshore oil and gas exploration. According to this notification, Form I along with proposed Terms of Reference (ToR) and Pre-feasibility Report is submitted to MoEF, vide letter no. GAIL/ND/E&P/EIA/CB-ONN-2010/11/2013 dated 18/09/2013. MoEF has issued Terms of



Reference (ToR) vide F. No. J-II0011/233/2013-IA II (I) dated 29th November, 2013, which is enclosed as Annexure I valid for a period of two years from the date of issue.

The purpose of this report is to document outcomes of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study carried out for proposed exploratory drilling operation in the onshore Block, CB-ONN-2010/11, owned by GAIL (India) Ltd. in consortium with Bharat Petro Resources Limited, Engineers India Limited, Monnet Ispat and Energy Limited, BF Infrastructure Limited and Government of India. M/s GAIL (India) Limited has retained M/s SENES Consultants India (P) Limited to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment study for proposed exploratory drilling operation in line with the ToR issued by MoEF.

1.4 OBJECTIVE OF EIA STUDY

Objectives of the proposed study are as follows:

To assess overall baseline environmental and socioeconomic conditions of the proposed block and its surrounding study area;

To identify environmental sensitive features, places of architectural and cultural importance within study area, where additional safeguards need to be adopted during drilling operations;

To assess environmental, socioeconomic and health impacts arising out of proposed drilling operations and associated activities;

To identify alternative actions in terms of technology and practices that may reduce the extent of impacts;

To recommend project and site specific appropriate preventive and mitigative measures to minimize pollutions, environmental and social disturbances during entire life-cycle of the project;

To suggest suitable environmental management plan and system, so as to implement and monitor appropriate mitigative measures;

Engage local communities through a Public Consultation Programme;

1.5 SCOPE OF EIA STUDY

The scope of the EIA study for the proposed exploratory drilling activities in an onshore Block CB-ONN-2010/11 is to identify and assess environmental, socioeconomic and health impacts of the proposed project and recommending suitable preventive/mitigation measures to reduce adverse impacts. Typical scope of the study includes following:

Detailed review of policies and regulations applicable for the project;

Understanding of the basic project activities based on the discussion with GAIL;

Conducting primary reconnaissance visit to the site to collect primary and secondary information on baseline environmental and socioeconomic conditions of the area;

Carrying out monitoring of environmental parameters by NABL and MoEF approved laboratory;

Carrying out public consultation;



Assessment of environmental and socioeconomic impacts from the proposed project and suggesting mitigation/preventive measures to reduce adverse impacts

Formulation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

Carrying out risk assessment for proposed drilling operations and preparing emergency response plan

The EIA study is carried out based on the ToR issued by MoEF and above-mentioned scope of work. The EIA report covers point wise compliance of the ToR (Refer Table 1.1) and is systematically documented and being formally presented in this report.



TABLE 1-1 COMPLIANCE OF TOR POINTS

S.N TOR Point Compliance Reference in EIA Report

1. Executive summary of a project Executive summary of the project is prepared and enclosed at the beginning of the EIA report

Please Refer (xvi-xxvii)

2. Project description, project objectives and project benefits.

Detailed description of the project along with the activities involved are given in Chapter 3 of the EIA Report. Project benefits of the proposed drilling activity would lead to:

Improvement in physical infrastructure;

Increase in Employment potential and

Improvement in Future economy

Please refer Section 3.2, 3.3, 3.4,3.5 on Pg. 34-39 and 3.10 (Pg. 59) of Chapter 3

3. Site details within 1 km of the each proposed well, any habitation, any other installation/activity, flora and fauna, approachability to site, other activities including agriculture/land, satellite imagery for 10 km area.

Site details covering land use pattern within block area showing habitat, water bodies, agricultural land, road and railway network is described in the report. Major part of the block is covered under agricultural land. The nearest railway station is Koth, 7 km away from the north-west direction of the block. State Highways (SH4) and (SH6) transverse the block and NH8A is 18kms away from the western boundary of the block. Seismic survey is in progress and therefore well locations have not yet been identified. Site details such as land use, habitation, flora & fauna, approachability and other activities have been identified across the entire block. These details will be taken into consideration, while selecting the well locations which will be confined within this block area of 131 sq.km.

Please refer section 4.2 (Pg. 72) of Chapter 4 and Section 4.6 (Pg. 110) for the details of flora and fauna. For site accessibility please refer section 3.4 (Pg. 36) and 3.5 (Pg. 39) . Satellite imagery map for 10km is provided on Page 75.

4. Details of forest land involved in the proposed project. A copy of forest clearance letter, if applicable

No forest land is involved within the block boundary or in the buffer area of the plot boundary i.e. within the 10km radius. Hence, there is not going to be any

Please refer section 4.6 (Pg. 110) of Chapter 4 of the EIA report




diversion of forest land for which forest clearance will be required.

5. Permission from the State Forest Department regarding the impact of the proposed plant on the surrounding National Park/Wild life Sanctuary /Reserve Forest/Eco sensitive area, if any. Approval obtained from the State/Central Government under Forest (Conservation Act, 1980 for the forest land should be submitted.

No ecological sensitive area is present in the vicinity of the project area. The only nearest bird sanctuary is Nal Sarovar Birds Sanctuary, which is 30km away from the block area.

Please refer section 4.11 (Pg.118 )of Chapter 4 of the EIA report

6. Distance from nearby critically/severely polluted area as per Notification dated 13th January, 2010, if applicable.

According to the MoEF Office Memorandum J-11013/5/2010/IA.II (I) dated 13.01.2010, following neighbouring Critically and Severely Polluted Areas of Gujarat are situated at the following distance from the proposed exploratory block: Critically Polluted Area: GIDC areas of Ankleshwar and Panoli (Sr. 1 & CEPI 88.5) in Bharuch district, located at approx 112 kms (aerial distance) from southern boundary of proposed block; Ahmedabad (Sr. 22 & CEPI 75.28 ) is over 52km from the northern boundary of the block; Severely Polluted Area: Industrial area of Vadodara (Sr. 57 & CEPI 66.91), located at a distance of approx. 85 km from northern block boundary.

Please refer section 4.1.2 (Pg. 64-65) of Chapter 4 of the EIA report.

7. Does proposal involves rehabilitation and resettlement? If yes, details thereof

Proposed project will not involve any resettlement and rehabilitation.

Please refer Sec. 3.6.2 (Pg. 43) and Sec. 5.2.2. (Pg. 136)

8. Details of project cost. The total project cost is Rs. 160 crore. Please refer Section 7.2 (Pg. 200)

9. Details of all the facilities including CGS, GGS, OCS, produced water treatment etc to be

This is applicable during the production phase in a field however, the current activity is exploratory drilling and

Not Applicable




installed. If existing facilities, give details. hence not applicable.

10. Environmental considerations in the selection of the drilling locations for which environmental clearance is being sought. Present any analysis suggested for minimizing the foot print giving details of drilling and development options considered.

The drilling location footprint is already optimal based on industry practices, selection of location would be done close to the existing roads to minimize footprint/land requirement for new roads.

Please refer Section 3.5 (Pg. 39)

11. Baseline data collection for air, water and soil for one season leaving the monsoon season in an area of 10 km radius with center of Oil Field as its center covering the area of all proposed drilling wells.

Baseline environment monitoring is conducted for representative month of post monsoon season (Oct-Dec) during year 2013 within proposed block area. Environmental monitoring was conducted in a way to cover the entire block area taking in consideration the small block size.

Results of the same are provided in Chapter 4 of EIA report (Section 4.1-4.5) on Pg. 61-108.

(i) Topography of the project site The topography of the region within the block mainly comprises of flat terrain with most of the land taken up for agriculture. The river Sabarmati is on the eastern part of the block, the site has its drainage towards the southeast direction.

Topography of the project area is given in section 4.2.3 (Pg. 76) of EIA report

(ii) Ambient Air Quality monitoring at 8 locations for PM10, SO2, NOx, VOCs, Methane and non-methane HC.

Ambient air quality monitoring is carried out at 8 identified locations based on land use studies. It was observed that Particulate matter (PM10), SOx and NOx was found to be below the permissible limit set by CPCB 2009. Average values for HC (methane) at the sampling stations varied between 0.0004 -0.001ppm whereas the concentration of HC (non-methane) at all sampling locations was found between 10-11 µg/m3.

Details are provided in section 4.1.2 (Pg. 64-70) of EIA report.




(iii) Soil sample analysis (physical and chemical properties) at the areas located at 5 locations.

Soil samples collected and analysed at 6 locations. All soil samples were found alkaline with pH range 7.7 - 8.3.The textural class predominately is clayey in the study area.

Soil analysis results are discussed in section 4.2.6 (Pg. 80-83) of EIA report

(iv) Ground and surface water quality in the vicinity of the proposed wells site.

Six surface water and seven groundwater samples were collected and analysed within block area and results are discussed. Surface and ground water monitoring was conducted in a way to cover the entire block area taking in consideration the small block size.

Surface water: Samples taken from Sabarmati river (u/s, m/s and d/s) fall under Class E i.e. (Irrigation, Industrial Cooling, Controlled Waste disposal). The remaining three SW samples taken from Vataman, Varna and Selva nala comply to Class D (Propagation of Wild life and Fisheries) water quality criteria as per CPCB standard. Ground water: Chloride, TDS and sulphate levels were found to be above the permissible limits set by IS: 10500:2012, however the heavy metals including Cd and As were below the standard limit, whereas Pb was found above the permissible limit (IS-10500:2012) in three villages.

Please refer section 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 of EIA report (Pg. 99- Pg. 104)

(v) Climatology and Meteorology including wind speed, wind direction, temperature, rainfall relative humidity etc.

The climate of this region is characterized by a hot summer with general dryness except in the monsoon season. The annual average rainfall of the region is 254.8mm. Average wind speed over the period of 30 years is 6.7m/sec.

Findings are discussed in section 4.1.1 (Pg. 61-64) of EIA report




(vi) Measurement of Noise levels within 1 km radius of the proposed wells.

Ambient noise level was monitored at 12 locations within block area. The locations adequately covered the entire block area.

Results are discussed in section 4.4 (Pg. 104-107) of EIA report

(vii) Vegetation and land use; Animal resources

The proposed block area is covered under Central Gujarat, forest type is Dry Deciduous Forests and Secondary Dry deciduous and Thorn forest. The commonly found fauna in the block include field mouse, rabbit, cow, dog, buffalo, Indian Langur etc., avifauna include Peafowl, Sarus crane, River terns etc.

Details of land use within proposed block area is provided in section 4.2 (Pg. 72) of EIA report. Details of flora and fauna present in block area are provided in section 4.6 (Pg. 110-118) of EIA report

12. Incremental GLC as a result of DG set operation.

Incremental GLC as a result of DG set operation is assessed with the help of ISC3ST dispersion model. Maximum predicted concentrations for worst case scenario for PM, NOx and CO due to D.G set operation are estimated to be 0.44µg/m3, 8.81µg/m3, and 3.6mg/m3 respectively at a distance of 1.4km in the downwind direction (i.e. NW) from the location of DG sets at well site.

Description of air pollutant dispersion modelling is given in section 5.2.3 (Pg. 137-147) of EIA report

13. Potential environmental impact envisages during various stages of project activities such as site activation, development, operation/ maintenance and decommissioning.

The temporary drilling activity (120-150 days) will not require any kind of land acquisition.

During construction (temporary phase), the vehicular movement would contribute to air pollution load. During operation of DG sets in the worst case scenario modeling results show GLC of PM, SO2 and NOx well below the NAAQS, 2009. The flaring modeling indicates a maximum carbon monoxide GLC (24hrs.) of 18.4mg/m3 and a maximum NOx GLC (24 hrs) of 3.39µg/m3 at 2.7km distance.

Operation of heavy equipment would contribute to high

Potential environmental impacts due to proposed project are described in Chapter 5 (Pg. 129- 162) of EIA report




noise levels, but this would be an intermittent phase. Operation phase would involve movement of drilling rig and ancillary equipment’s generating noise between 88-103 dB (A).

It is estimated that 20 m3/day of drilling waste, process wastewater and 1.5 m3/day of domestic wastewater to be generated during drilling operation. Impact on ground water and surface water quality would be low due to use of water based mud and storage of drilling and wash wastewater in an onsite HDPE lined pit. The water will be adequately treated in a mobile Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to ensure conformance to the CPCB onshore oil and gas extraction industry effluent standards before disposal.

Chemical and fuel storage areas will have proper bunds so that contaminated run-off cannot escape into the storm-water drainage.

14. Actual source of water and ‘Permission’ for the drawl of water from the Competent Authority. Detailed water balance, waste water generation and discharge.

As exact well locations are not finalized yet, it is very difficult to finalize water sourcing location. However, a detail of water availability in the area is discussed.

Please refer Sec. 2.3.5 (Pg. 26), section 4.3 (Pg. 86) of EIA report. Water requirement for proposed project, waste water generation and its management are discussed in Section 5.2.7 and 5.2.8 (Pg. 153-156) of EIA Report. Water balance diagram is shown in Figure 3.8 of EIA report on Pg. 56

15. Noise abatement measures and measures to minimize disturbance due to light and visual

Anticipated noise impact and mitigation measures are outlined in the report. Further, proposed block is located

Please refer section 5.2.4 (Pg. 148-150) of EIA report.




intrusions in case coastally located. onshore and far from coastal area and hence disturbance due to light and visual intrusions in coastal area is not anticipated from proposed project.

16. Treatment and disposal of waste water. About 20 m3/day of drilling waste, process wastewater and 1.5 m3/day of domestic wastewater would be generated during drilling operation. Use of water based mud and storage of drill cuttings and waste drilling mud in an HDPE lined pit would ensure conformance with CPCB Industry Specific Standards for Oil Drilling & Gas Extraction Industry and guidelines provided by the MoEF under the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 the impact is considered to be of low significance.

Waste water will be treated onsite to meet CPCB discharge criterion and either be reused onsite to the extent possible or discharged outside in line with CPCB industry specific standards designed for oil and gas extraction industry.

Please refer section 7.1.1 (Pg. 186) and 7.1.3 (Pg. 192) of EIA Report

17. Treatment and disposal of solid waste generation.

Drill cuttings and kitchen waste generation is anticipated from proposed project activity. Drill cuttings are likely to be non-hazardous due to water based mud drilling. However, as per requirement of Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008, cuttings will be washed and contained in cuttings disposal area (HDPE lined collection pit) present onsite. The waste will be temporarily stored onsite and disposed. Kitchen waste will be stored in

Please refer section 7.1.2 (Pg. 189-191) of EIA report




compost pits on daily basis. Solid waste generation, collection, segregation, its recycling and reuse, treatment and disposal detail are discussed

18. Disposal of spent oil and loose materials. Very small quantity of spent oil/waste oil generation is anticipated from DG sets and other machineries. Waste oil will be collected in metal drums kept in secured, dyked area, before being disposed as per CPCB rules, or used up in oil recycling facility. Information about disposal measures for spent oil and its leakages is provided.

Please refer section 2.5.5 Pg. 30-31 of EIA report

19. Storage of chemicals and diesel at site. Chemicals and diesel used on drilling site will be stored on paved surface provided with adequate spill control measures, secondary containment provision and weather protection.

Details about chemical and diesel handling are discussed in section 5.2.5 (pg. 151), Table 7.2 (Pg. 190), Sec. 7.3.4 (Pg. 211) of EIA report

20. Commitment for the use of WBM only GAIL will use WBM will only for proposed drilling purpose.

21. Mud makes up and mud and cutting disposal – all options considered should be listed with selective option.

GAIL will use water based mud only for drilling purpose. The disposal of mud will conform to Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling & Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008. Various chemicals will be used for preparation of drilling mud which would include Barites, Bentonites, Biocide, soda ash, KCl, soda ash etc

Mud cutting treatment & disposal details are given in section 7.1.2 (Pg. 189) and Table 7.2 (Pg. 190) of EIA report in Waste and Waste Water Management section.

22. Hazardous material usage, storage accounting and disposal.

All hazardous material required for proposed exploratory drilling will be kept at weather protected, designated areas, lined with impermeable lining, to avoid spillage. Hazardous waste from proposed project like drill cuttings and mud, waste oil etc. will be stored in HDPE lined pits onsite. All hazardous waste will be

Please refer section 3.8.4 (Pg. 58) of the EIA report. Details on hazardous material usage, storage, accounting and disposal are given in section 7.1.2 (Pg. 189) of EIA report in Hazardous Material Handling, Storage and




treated and disposed as per Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008. Details of various chemicals used during drilling phase, mainly for preparation of drilling mud are provided.

Disposal section

23. Disposal of packaging waste from site. Packaging waste will be recycled through locally approved recyclers.

Details of waste management are given in Table 2.2 (Pg. 31) and Table 7.2 (Pg. 190) of EIA report

24. Oil spill emergency plans in respect of recovery/ reclamation.

Oil spill emergency plan is provided. Adequate bunding would be provided around all chemical storages and handling areas and such places will be duly covered by a shed to prevent rainwater to infiltrate, thereby preventing generation of contaminated runoff. Handling/transfer of chemicals will be made over paved land and/or HDPE liner.

Oil spill emergency plan is given in section 7.3.1 (Pg. 211-213) of EIA report

25. H2S emissions control H2S emission, control and safety measures are provided in the report. Safety measures would include awareness creation for H2S potential hazards; check on H2S concentration in gas stream at each well location; installation of hydrogen sulphide detection and alarm equipment; provision of safety equipment and proper training to personnel etc.

Please refer section 7.3.9 (Pg. 214- 217) of EIA report

26. Details of scheme for oil collection system along with process flow diagram and its capacity.

It is an exploratory drilling activity and no oil will be produced at this stage. However, small quantity of oil may be generated during well testing, which will be stored in separate containers onsite before being sent offsite for further processing. Adequate spill control measures will be taken to avoid any spill during well

Not Required




testing.

27. Details of control of air, water and noise pollution in oil collection system.

Since the proposed activity is exploratory drilling, oil collection systems would be of small scale; storage and transfer precautions in barrels are good enough to avoid water and noise pollution.

Not Required

28. Disposal of produced/formation water. Produced oil is not generated during exploratory drilling. Not Required

29. Whether any burn pits being utilized for well test operations.

Use of burn pits will be decided at later stages of the project and proper precautions will be taken as per DGMS guidelines for burn pits. Burn pits would be located where prevailing winds will reduce fire hazards and smoke nuisance

30. Restoration and decommissioning plans which should include mud pits and wastage restoration also and documentation and monitoring of site recovery.

Wells not commercially viable will be closed and site will be restored to near original condition. All waste products will be disposed of in accordance with EMP requirements the decommissioning activities would also include spreading of top soil back to locations from where it was originally stripped.

Detailed process of restoration and decommissioning are given in Section 3.6.9 (Pg. 52-53) of the EIA report. Also refer Table 7.5 (Pg. 219)

31. Measures to protect ground water and shallow aquifers from contamination.

Groundwater and shallow aquifers is likely to get contaminated due to improper storage of drill cuttings and hazardous material and waste and leakage of oil in porous aquifers formations. GAIL will ensure proper storage of drill cutting and other waste material in HDPE lined pit and proper cementing and casing of wells to avoid impacts on ground water and shallow aquifer.

Potential impacts on ground water are explained in section 5.2.8 (Pg. 156) and mitigation measures to avoid groundwater contamination are given in Section 7.1.1 (Pg. 186-189) of the EIA report

32. Risk assessment and disaster management plan for independent reviews of well-designed construction etc. for prevention of blow out.

Quantitative Risk Assessment for proposed project has been carried out.

Please refer Chapter 6 (Pg. 166-184) of EIA report. Emergency and Disaster Management plan are also developed and provided




in Section 7.3 (Pg. 204-217) of EIA report.

33. Environmental management plan. A suitable Environmental Management Plan and Monitoring Framework are included in the report.

Please refer Chapter 7 (Pg. 185-203) of the EIA Report

34. Documentary proof of membership of common disposal facilities, if any.

At this stage of the project, membership of any TSDF is not obtained. Same will be obtained before commencement of actual drilling onsite

35. Details of environmental and safety related documentation within the company including documentation and proposed occupational health and safety Surveillance Safety Programme for all personnel at site. This should also include monitoring programme for the environmental.

Details of proposed Occupational Health and Surveillance Safety programme for employees and labourer’s is provided

Please refer Section 7.1.7 (Pg. 195-196) of EIA report Detailed Environment Monitoring Plan is provided in Table 7.5 (Pg. 219-226) of EIA report.

36. Total capital and recurring cost for environmental control measures.

All the environmental pollution control measures proposed in the EMP will be the part of the scope of the drilling rig contractor to be hired by GAIL and therefore separate costing is not being provided. However, it is generally found to be 2%-3% of the hiring cost of the drilling rig. The monitoring and supervision cost of the mitigation/control measures will be borne by GAIL and is estimated to be around Rs. 40 – 50 Lakhs per well.

Please refer Section 7.2 (Pg. 200)

37. A copy of Corporate Environment Policy of the ONGC as per the Ministry’s O.M. No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II(I) dated 26th April, 2011 available on the Ministry’s website.

GAIL has a corporate Environment policy as part of the HSE policy as per the Ministry of Office Memorandum referred.

GAIL’s Corporate Safety Health and Environment Policy is provided as Annexure 2 (Pg. 237) in EIA report.

38. Public hearing to be conducted and issues Public Hearings conducted in both the districts of Anand Please refer Section 8.0 (Pg. 227-229)




raised and commitments made by the project proponent on the same should be included in EIA/EMP Report in the form of tabular chart with financial budget for complying with the commitments made.

and Ahmedabad during January 2015. Issues raised during these Public Hearings, and the relevant commitments made by GAIL are tabulated in this EIA report

39. Any litigation pending against the project and or any direction/order passed by any court of law against the project. If so details thereof.

No litigation is pending against the project. Not Applicable

40. A tabular chart with index for point-wise compliance of above TORs. The following general points should be noted: (i) All documents should be properly indexed, page numbered. (ii) Period/date of data collection should be clearly indicated. (iii) Authenticated English translation of all material provided in Regional languages. (iv) The letter/application for EC should quote the MOEF file No. and also attach a copy of the letter. (v) A copy of the letter received from the Ministry should be also attached as an annexure to the final EIA-EMP Report. (vi) The final EIA-EMP report submitted to the Ministry must incorporate the issues in this letter. The index of the final EIA-EMP report must indicate the specific chapter and page no. of the EIA-EMP Report where the above issues

This table itself represents a tabular chart for point wise compliance of ToR issued by MoEF. 17. Period of primary monitoring as

well as continuous village level and stakeholder consultations were carried between the period of Oct-Dec’13 and July’13-April’14 respectively

18. Approved TOR Letter has also been annexed in Annexure –1 (Pg. 233)

19. The certificate of Accreditation has been incorporated on Pg ( ii-iii)




have been incorporated. (vii) Certificate of Accreditation’ issued by the QCI to the environmental consultant should be included.



In addition to the above mentioned points, due care was taken to address general points of approved ToR issued by MoEF, while preparing this EIA report. As a part of this, against the general point no. VIII, the appointed consultant, SENES Consultants India Pvt. Ltd. is registered under QCI/NABET scheme and has got accreditation for a total of 14 sectors including “Offshore and Onshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Development and Production”. Details about QCI accreditation and list of QCI accredited sectors and personnel are provided at the beginning of the EIA report.

1.6 STRUCTURE OF THE EIA REPORT

The remainder of this report is as follows:

Chapter 2 : Regulatory and Legal Framework

Chapter 3 : Project Description

Chapter 4 : Description of Present Environment

Chapter 5 : Environmental Impacts

Chapter 6 : Quantitative Risk Assessment

Chapter 7 : Environmental Management Plan and Monitoring Framework

Chapter 8 : Public Consultation

Chapter 9 : Summary and Conclusion

Chapter 10 : Disclosure of Consultants



2.0 REGULATORY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK

The first UN Conference on Human Development & Environment was held at Stockholm, Sweden, in June 1972, which emphasized on the need for formulating appropriate legal mechanism and framework to conserve resources, protect the environment and ensure health and well-being of people of India. Over the years, the Government of India has framed several policies and promulgated a number of Acts, Rules, Notifications and Standards aimed at conservation and management of environment. As a result of this, India, now, has a fairly comprehensive set of environmental legislation and standards aimed at ensuring that the development process meets the overall objectives of promoting sustainability in the long run. Moreover, the Indian Constitution has also incorporated specific articles to address environmental concerns through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment of 1976.

2.1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES

A series of environment policy statements have been announced in the last few decades as a part of the Governments’ approach to integrate environmental and developmental aspects together. The policies reflect a gradual shift in emphasis from pollution abatement and control to proactive and voluntary approaches for pollution prevention, besides keeping pace with global paradigm shifts and trends in environment management. Following are some of the key policies that have been laid down by the Central Government:

National Forest Policy, 1988

National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992

Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution,1992

National Water Policy, 2002

Despite these policy documents, a need for comprehensive policy statement had been evidenced over time to introduce a common linkage between various sectoral and cross-sectoral approaches of environmental management. As a result, a National Environment Policy (NEP, 2006) has been drawn up as a response to India’s national commitment to a clean environment, which was mandated in the Constitution in Articles 48 A and 51 A (G) thereby strengthened by judicial interpretation of Article 21.

The National Environment Policy deals with the key environmental challenges, regulatory reforms, environmental standards, re-emphasizing conservation of environment resources and stakeholder involvement.

2.2 NATIONAL LEGAL PROVISIONS FOR OIL AND GAS PROJECTS

The proposed project will be governed by various acts, rules and regulations set by Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) at the national level and other regulatory agencies at the state and local level. Various environmental standards, specifications and guidelines of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) and other



district level agencies will also be applicable. The proposed project of exploratory drilling is governed by the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 and Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules, 1959, which make provision for the regulation of petroleum operation and grants licenses and leases for exploration, development and production of petroleum in India. It is important to note here that the Central government has framed “umbrella legislation”, called the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to broadly encompass and regulate an array of environmental issues. However, the following Table 2.1 gives an idea of the specific regulatory requirements associated with this particular project during various phases of its lifecycle, to assist in complying with the legislation applicable.



TABLE 2-1: REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH OIL AND GAS DRILLING AT CB-ONN-2010/11

Activity Applicable Legislation Requirement Citation

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act.

Before the commencement of any project activity, GAIL has to obtain a CTE/NOC. This NOC has to be subsequently followed by Consent to Operate (CTO) before drilling operations can be commenced at site. No person will establish or operate any activity, which can cause air or water pollution without obtaining Consent to Establish (CTE) as per the Air and Water Acts.

Protection of Air Quality

Protection of Water Quality

According to Section 21 of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Section 25 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

In compliance to Industry specific standards for oil drilling and gas extraction industry –Point B “Guidelines for Discharge of Gaseous Emission by DG sets” and in compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards, posted by CPCB, 2009.

In compliance to Industry specific standards for oil drilling and gas extraction industry –Point A-Standards for Liquid Effluents

Under Water Pollution Act, 1974 obtaining consent to establish as per form XIII

Exploratory Drilling of Wells The Explosives Rules, 1983

License for Storage of Petroleum Products & Explosives

According to this Rule, license is required for manufacture, storage (possession), sale and/or use, transport, import, export of explosives, etc.

Exploratory Drilling of Wells The Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules, 1959

GAIL is required to obtain a Petroleum Exploration License from the Gujarat Government prior to the exploration of block for any hydrocarbon reserves.

Section 4: No person shall prospect for petroleum except in pursuance of a petroleum exploration license granted under these rules

During the license period, if any discovery (minerals) is made, license has to immediately report to the State Government and Director of Petroleum with full particulars.

According to PEL order terms and conditions, point (e) and (f)




GAIL will keep with them equipment’s, supplies and means to extinguish fire and in case of any damage caused by fire.

According to PEL order terms and conditions, point (i)

Licensee shall issue identity card to each of the employees.

According to PEL order terms and conditions, point (8)

No drilling work will be done near residential areas, approach road and natural drainage.

According to PEL order terms and conditions, point (19,20,22 and 23)

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948

Section 6 (d): Power to make rules as respects development of mineral oil. The regulation of the drilling, redrilling, deepening, shutting down, plugging and abandoning of oil-wells in an oilfield and for the limitation or prohibition of such operations and for the taking of remedial measures to prevent waste of or damage to oil;

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Production Sharing Contract It demands impact assessment study for exploratory drilling operations to prepare EIA along with EMP and approval of the same from the Central Government (Ministry of Environment and Forests).

According to Section Protection of Environment, Point 14.4

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Oil Mines Regulations 1984 (OMR) under the Mines Act, 1952

Covers safety aspects, storage of material and protection against pollution of environment at the drill site;

According to point 38 (Storage of Materials) under Oil Mines regulations, 1984.

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000

Ensure compliance with Ambient Noise Standards in accordance with land use of the area

In compliance to Rule 3 and 4 under Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000

Exploratory Drilling of Wells EIA Notification, 2006 under the EPA, 1986

It demands all offshore and onshore oil and gas exploration, development and production projects to get Environmental Clearance from MoEF; however the seismic activity is

According to EIA notification, 2006: Schedule 1 (b)–List of projects requiring Environment Clearance




exempted from Environmental Clearance

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 (as amended)

Obtaining authorization from SPCB for generation, handling and storing of hazardous waste like drill cuttings, waste oil, ETP sludge etc. Following guidance for handling, storing and disposal of such hazardous waste

As per chapter 2,3 and 5 under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 (as amended)

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Manufacture, Storage & Import of Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 2000 (as amended)

Notifying regulatory authority (in this case, the State Factories Inspectorate) of storage of hazardous substances like Petroleum products. Follow guidance on such storage, maintain updated MSDS, submit annual Safety Report to authority. Prepare Onsite Emergency Plan.

As per Rule 2 under Manufacture, storage and Import of Hazardous Chemical Rules, 2000 (amended).

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Motor Vehicles Act (MVA) and Rules, 1989 (MVR)

Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) will be required for all the vehicles operating within the site. Proper labeling of the vehicles carrying hazardous substances.

As per Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Petroleum Act and Rules, 2000

Obtain License for Storage of Petroleum Substances Comply with guidance and safety measures for storage and transportation of petroleum substances for the project

As per chapter V under Petroleum Act and Rules, 2000

Exploratory Drilling of Wells The Explosives Acts, 1984 with Rules, 1983

Obtaining license for storage of explosives Complying with guidance and safety measures for storage and transportation of petroleum substances for the project

As per Clause 6(B) under Explosives Act 1884.

Exploratory Drilling of Wells The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Refers protection to the species of flora and As per chapter III A and chapter IV.




fauna and wildlife habitat to establish a network of ecologically important protected areas

Exploratory Drilling of Wells The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 and Rules, 1959

Refers protection of archaeological sites, ancient monuments and demands fencing or covering and/or otherwise preserving such monuments and sites

As per section Archaeological Monuments (pt. 21-24); Protected Area (19-20) and Protected Monuments (5-18)

Exploratory Drilling of Wells Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 with Rules

Overall environmental protection Compliance to general environmental (Air, Water and Noise) standards issued under Environment (Protection) Rules Disposal of solid waste, drill cutting and drilling fluid for drilling operations notified vide notification G.S.R.546 (E) dated 30th August, 2005 Compliance to MINAS of Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction industry as notified vide notification dated GSR 176 (E) April 1996

According to EPR rules 1986, guidelines given under Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction Industry A, B and C.



2.3 ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AND PERMITTING

This section discusses some of the specific regulatory requirements associated with this particular project along with some common legislation applicable to the proposed exploratory drilling operation in Cambay Basin block CB-ONN-2010/11 under the onshore oil and gas exploration.

2.3.1 Submission and Approval of EIA as per Production Sharing Contract

A Production Sharing Contract (PSC) was signed between the Government of India and the GAIL (India) Limited, according to which an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study has to be carried out for exploratory drilling. Study will assess prevailing situation with respect to the environment, human beings and local communities- the wildlife and forest resources, presence of any ancient or historical sites of cultural importance in the proposed contract area and in the adjoining or neighboring areas and concentrate on establishing the likely impacts, that may arises from the proposed drilling operations. The impact assessment study has to be accompanied by appropriate mitigation measures and an Environment Management Plan (EMP) to minimize negative impacts of the project on environment. As per the provision of PSC, the documented EIA report has to be submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) for approval before the commencement of drilling operations.

2.3.2 Administrative Permissions as per the Petroleum Exploration License (PEL)

In exercising of powers given in Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, 1959, the Government of Gujarat has granted Petroleum Exploration License to the GAIL on certain terms and condition. As per the provision of PEL, GAIL has to bring details of minerals found in the area during exploration work unto the notice of the Central Government. GAIL will keep with them equipment’s, supplies and means to extinguish fire and in case of any damage caused by fire, GAIL has to compensate to third party and/or Government, as the case may be. GAIL has to submit detailed results of all operations associated with activity to Central Government every six months. GAIL has to issue identity card to each employee working in this project and has to carry out regular checking of their identity, besides ensuring security of their personnel. The proposed drilling of wells will be carried out on the strict condition that, no drilling work will be carried out in and around the lake or residential area and/or any sensitive area. Roads and natural drainage of the area has to be kept clear, open and intact. GAIL will not damage any object of public interest in any form during carrying out drilling, neither will it cause harm to existing infrastructure, underground utility or human beings. The same has been summarized in Table 2.1 above.

2.3.3 Environmental Clearance as per EIA Notification

The new EIA Notification, dated 14th September, 2006 is administered by the Ministry of Environment and Forests at the Central Government level. According to the new notification, new or expansion or modernization of any activity falling within the Schedule, (which



specifies eight categories of developmental and industrial activities) can be undertaken in any part of India only after obtaining environmental clearance from the MoEF/ State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) in accordance with procedures specified in the notification. This involves use of “Environmental Impact Assessment” study as a decision-making tool.

The proposed exploratory drilling operation for oil and gas comes under Schedule 1 (b) of EIA Notification; hence it requires Environmental Clearance from MoEF. As per the provision of EIA Notification, GAIL has already submitted an application to MoEF in prescribed Form-I along with proposed Terms of Reference (TOR) and has received some additional TOR from MoEF vide F. No. J-II0011/233/2013-IA II (I) dated 29th November, 2013.

2.3.4 Consent to Establish and Operate – No Objection Certificate (NOC)

According to Section 21 of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Section 25 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, no person will establish or operate any activity, which can cause air or water pollution without obtaining Consent to Establish (CTE) as per the Air and Water Acts.

The NOC would contain a set of site specific environmental safeguards and standards for air, water and noise pollution as also for handling and disposal of hazardous waste which have to be complied by GAIL at the drill sites. This NOC has to be subsequently followed by Consent to Operate (CTO) before drilling operations can be commenced at site.

2.3.5 Water uptake

The water required for the proposed exploratory drilling operation and domestic activities will be obtained mainly from local surface water bodies, namely Sabarmati River or the Narmada canal (depending upon the availability of water in them).

2.3.6 License for Storage of Petroleum Products & Explosives

The Explosives Rules, 1983, was framed to regulate the manufacture, possession, sale, use, transportation and import of condensed explosives. The Explosive Rules, 1983, deals with condensed explosives like high explosives (dynamite, detonators etc.) fireworks and low explosives (safety fuse etc.). According to this Rule, license is required for manufacture, storage (possession), sale and/or use, transport, import, export of explosives, etc. According to The Explosive Rules, 1983, explosives are divided into 8 classes; Class 1 to 8 and any person(s) wishing to possess any of the explosives have to take a license in the prescribed Form 22 or Form 23, depending upon nature and quantity of explosives.

GAIL has to apply to the Chief Controller or Controller of Explosives authorized by Chief Controller or District Authority as the case may be (depending on the Class of explosives and its quantity), for possessing explosives. For secure and safe storage of explosives, a portable magazine can be set up with necessary approval from Chief Controller of Explosives. Since drilling activity will last for no more than 120 days, GAIL can also prefer use of road van or trucks for carrying out explosives. In case of use of road van, GAIL will need to take the



license from authorized controller in the prescribed Form 25. Storage and transport specifications obeying rules and license conditions will need to be adhered.

2.4 SITING OF PROJECT AND PHYSICAL OCCUPATION

2.4.1 Project Siting

The major consideration of the site selection is geological formation. Due consideration would be given on the same by GAIL, all locations selected by GAIL would be based on geological data available. Suitable drilling locations would be selected based on the physical (terrain and access) and technical suitability. Detailed drill site and access road survey will be carried prior to land procurement and construction of drill site. Selecting drill site’s environmental considerations is as below:

Non-forest area and area with low vegetation.

Away from organized human habitats.

Easy access to area of interest

Away from sensitive ecological habitat and migratory route

Detailed drill site and access road survey will be carried prior to taking the land on a lease basis and construction of drill site. During the site selection process, all legal requirements will be considered and surface location finalized. Once surface drilling location is finalized, land acquisition will be done. On one hand, if well location falls in agricultural lands, compensation for the standing crops will be provided to the land owner.

2.4.2 Prevention of Damage to Adjacent Properties and the Environment

According to PEL’s terms and conditions (point 18-27), GAIL will take permission under relevant rules, regulations, orders etc. of concerned Government Authorities or any other agency as the case may be for carrying out PEL activities. No drilling work or installations of pipeline shall be carried out in and around villages, lake or residential area. If the work has to be carried out in the land owned by Gram Panchayat permission of appropriate authority shall be taken before beginning the work. All approach roads and natural drainages should be kept clear, open and intact. No work shall be carried out as to damage public interest in any form. No existing infrastructure public or private underground utility and human beings to be harmed.

Although exact location of the wells will be finalized only after successful interpretation of seismic data, well locations will be strictly confined within the block CB-ONN 2010/11 located in Cambay Basin covering Ahmedabad and Anand district itself.

According to PSC, if operation of GAIL endanger people or any adjacent property, or cause pollution resulting in harm to wildlife or the environment around the drill site- to a degree that the Government (here meaning the District Administrator or Collector) deems unacceptable, it may direct GAIL to take remedial measures. This should be within a reasonable period of time (as may be determined) and be made to repair any damage caused to environment.



The PSC requires GAIL to prepare an emergency plan to deal with spills, fires and other accidents like a possible blowout of the well. The plan will be designed to achieve rapid and effective emergency response. In case of emergency situations, GAIL will promptly report such accidents to government authorities and take necessary control and remedial action based on international best practices.

In addition, the Oil Mines Regulations Act, 1984 (OMR) deals with issues related to safety, storage of materials and protection against pollution of environment from drilling operations. As per provisions of this Act, GAIL needs to notify accident like blowout; prepare area plans where drilling operations are carried out, surface plan showing railways, power transmission lines, public roads, existing buildings or other permanent structures - not belonging to the owner, rivers and water courses within the drill site and its surrounding areas; ensure protection against pollution of environment arising out of discharge of formation water, oil, drilling fluid, waste, chemical substances or refuse from a well, tank or other production installation which may create hazard to public health and safety, contaminate any fresh water source and run over or damage any land, highway or public road.

During the initial planning phase of exploratory drilling, GAIL has to give due consideration to these various provisions mentioned in this Act.

2.5 DESIGN PROCESS & EQUIPMENT/MATERIAL SELECTION

2.5.1 Noise Standards and Controls for Equipment

The EPR lays down equipment specific noise emission standards for DG Sets, air conditioners and construction equipment’s, which will be used for the proposed drilling activity. Specific standards for control of noise from DG sets and various measurements need to be taken for reduction of noise. This has also been specified in the Environment (Protection) Second Amendment Rules, 2002, specified through notification GSR 371 (E) on 17th May, 2002. According to provisions of this Rule, maximum permissible sound pressure level for new diesel generator (DG) sets with rated capacity of upto 1000 KVA, manufactured on or after the 1st July, 2003 will be 75 dB(A) at 1 meter from the enclosed surface.

DG sets to be selected and installed for the proposed project is required to be fitted with acoustic enclosure. Noise from DG set will be controlled by providing an acoustic enclosure. GAIL is likely to install DG sets, designed with acoustic enclosure or acoustic treatment of room (housing the generator) with a minimum of 25 dB(A) insertion loss or for meeting ambient noise standards. In addition, DG, having a proper exhaust muffler with a minimum insertion loss of 25 dB (A) may be installed for fulfilling the requirement. All possible efforts will be made by GAIL to bring down noise levels outside premises to ambient levels by installing proper siting and control measures, as required.

Given the fact that, high noise emissions will be generated from the drilling rig, GAIL may need to design additional engineering controls like noise barriers to attenuate such noise and reduce it to the extent practicable so that it does not violate standards for ambient noise quality.



2.5.2 Flaring Specifications

Following guidelines are to be followed for planning and design of the Flaring System according to the MINAS specified for Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction industry (as notified vide notification dated GSR 176 (E) April 1996):

Cold venting of gases never be resorted to and all gaseous emissions must be flared;

All flaring will be done by elevated flares except where there is no effect on crop production in adjoining areas due to glaring. In such cases, ground flaring can be adopted;

In case of ground flare, to minimize effects of flaring, the flare pit should be made of RCC, surrounded by a permanent wall (made of refractory bricks) of minimum 5 m height, to reduce radiation and glaring effects in adjoining areas;

In case of ground flaring, provisions of green belt being not feasible, enclosed ground flaring system is likely to be adopted and should be designed with proper enclosure height to meet the Ground Level Concentrations (GLC) requirement;

In case of elevated flaring, the minimum stack height will be 30m. Height of the stack will be such that the maximum GLC never exceeds the prescribed standard for ambient air quality. However, for temporary test flaring during drilling operations, a vertical rise of at-least 9 m or so as may be required by the Regional Inspector by an order in writing is to be kept as per provision under Oil Mines Regulations Act, 1984;

Burning of effluents in pits should not be carried out at any stage;

GAIL will use elevated flaring with a stack height of 9m during drilling operations.

2.5.3 Design of Water Pollution Control System

GAIL will take appropriate measures to treat and dispose waste water that is likely to be generated from the drilling process or sanitary and domestic sources from within the site before draining it into surface water body. The treating system will be tested for efficiency after installation and commissioning to ensure that treated water conforms to discharge standards specified by MINAS for processing waste water and general standards specified by CPCB for effluent standards for discharge into inland surface water, public sewer etc.

2.5.4 Drilling Wastes & Chemicals

The Central Government has made third amendment to Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, vide Notification G.S.R. 546 (E), dated 30th August, 2005, which is known as Environment (Protection) Third Amendment Rules, 2005. “As drilling wastes in the form of drill cutting and drilling mud is to be generated from the proposed exploratory operations the following requirements need to be met for the disposal of these waster as per the provision of EPR 1986. According to the provisions of this Rule, GAIL has to follow the onshore disposal guidelines for drill cuttings and drilling mud:

Drill Cuttings (DC) originating from on-shore and separated from Water Base Mud (WBM) should be properly washed;



Unusable drilling fluids (DF) such as WBM, should be disposed off in a well-designed pit lined with impervious liner located off-site or on-site. The disposal pit should be provided additionally with leachate collection system;

Design aspects of the impervious waste disposal pit; capping of disposal pit should be informed by the oil industry to State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) at the time of obtaining consent;

If any problem occurs with Water Based Mud (WBM) for drilling, due to geological formation, low toxicity Oil Based Mud (OBM) having aromatic content <1% can be used only after intimating the Ministry of Environment and Forests and/or State Pollution Control Board;

The waste pit after being filled completely will be covered with impervious liner, over which, a thick layer of native soil- with proper top slope is to be provided;

Drilling wastewater including drill cuttings wash water should be collected in the disposal pit evaporated or treated and should comply with notified standards for on-shore disposal;

Total material acquired for preparation of drill site must be restored after completion of drilling operation leaving no waste material at site. GAIL will have to inform Gujarat Pollution Control Board about the restoration work;

The disposal of mud will conform to guidelines specified by the Ministry of Environment & Forests under Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling & Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008.

The chemicals used (mainly organic constituents) should be biodegradable;

2.5.5 Hazardous Wastes Management

The Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 requires facilities to classify wastes into categories, manage them as per prescribed guidelines and obtain prior authorization from the SPCB for handling, treatment, storage and disposal of Hazardous Wastes. According to the provisions of these Rules, GAIL needs to have prior authorization i.e. permission for collection, transport, treatment, reception, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes, to be granted by the competent authority (Gujarat Pollution Control Board) as per Form 1 of the Rules.

The following kinds of hazardous waste may be generated during site preparation, exploratory drilling phase and restoration of the project:

Spent oil and lubricants from construction equipment’s and DG sets.

Paint residues during the painting of structures, camps, etc.

Drilling mud and chemicals

The requirement’s under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 has been listed below.



TABLE 2-2 REGULARITY REQUIREMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH HAZARDOUS WASTE RULES 2008

S.N Requirements Applicability 1 Prior authorization to be obtained for collection,

transport, treatment, reception, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes by the competent authority (Gujarat Pollution Control Board) as per Form 1 of the Rules.

GAIL would be using water based drilling mud which is not hazardous, however drill cuttings (as specified under Schedule I is hazardous) separated from drilling fluid will be adequately washed and temporarily stored and disposed in an impervious pit lined by HDPE as per GPCB norms and for final disposal of the same to the nearest TSDF facility, a prior authorization would be taken from GPCB.

2 Proper management of wastes (waste and used oil) by sending them to authorized recyclers or storing them in secure containers for disposal at a later stage after treatment to the neighbouring drainage/water bodies

GAIL will ensure to store hazardous waste in properly labelled and covered bins located in paved and bunded areas. Hazardous waste, stored, will be periodically sent to GPCB registered and/or waste oil recyclers/ facilities.

3 GAIL will be responsible for proper management of the hazardous waste by disposing it to the nearest Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility as per the technical guidelines issued under Chap. V (Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility for Hazardous Waste) of Hazardous Waste Management Rules, 2008.

At this stage of the project, membership of any TSDF is not obtained. Same will be obtained before commencement of actual drilling onsite

4 The transport of the hazardous wastes shall be in accordance with the provisions of these rules and the rules made by the Central Government under the Motor Vehicles Act. 1988 and other guidelines issued from time to time in this regard.

GAIL will comply to the guidelines mentioned under Chapter VI -Packaging, Labelling and Transport of Hazardous Waste of the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2008 during transport of hazardous waste.

2.5.6 Contractor Requirements

The PSC clearly mentions that the drilling operation will be conducted in an environmentally acceptable and a safe manner consistent with good international industry practice. It requires that contracts between GAIL and any subcontractor must have provisions, which make it obligatory for the subcontractor to conform to established measures and methods in relation to protection of the environment. GAIL will conform to all rules and guidelines as per the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970. GAIL will incorporate such specifications and environmental practices/procedures in the tender and contract documents as and where applicable. Further information in this regard is detailed out in the proposed Environmental Management Plan.



2.6 PROJECT ON ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

2.6.1 Wild Life Protection under Wildlife Act

The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, provides for protection to listed species of flora and fauna and establishes a network of ecologically important protected areas. As per Article 17A WPA, Prohibition of picking, uprooting etc., of specified plants. – Save, as otherwise provided in this Chapter, no person shall –

Willfully pick, uproot, damage, destroy, acquire or collect any specified plant from any forest land and area specified, by notification, by the Central Government.

Possess, sell, or transfer by way of gift or otherwise, or transport any specified plant, whether alive or dead, or part or derivative thereof.

As proposed block where drilling operations will be carried out does not involve any Wildlife Sanctuary or National Park under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, project does not come under the purview of this Act. However, as per provisions of this Act, if the fauna categorized under different schedule (Schedule I to IV) on the basis of their priority, proportion and population are found in the block, necessary precautions as per Wildlife Protection Act and Rules, 1972 will be taken. During the EIA study, Pavo cristatus (Common pea fowl) categorized under schedule I was observed in the block area.

2.6.2 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958

According to “The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Rules, 1959” an area of upto 300m near or adjoining protected monuments is prohibited or regulated for the purpose of mining operation or construction activities. Since, no monuments and

archeological site is present within or near the proposed block, GAIL need not take any permission from any regulatory body for carrying out drilling operations in this block. However, necessary precautions will be taken during the movement of trucks and other vehicles carrying equipment’s and machineries and personnel to the site.

2.6.3 Operation of Motor Vehicles

The Central Motor Vehicles Act (MVA) and Rules, 1989 (MVR) prescribes that vehicles falling in the category of transport vehicles (buses, trucks, taxis and auto rickshaws) undergo an annual fitness certification. Vehicle owners also have to obtain Pollution Under Control Certification (PUCC) from a recognized testing center and has to display it on their vehicles. Additionally, to address the problem of risks associated with transportation of hazardous substances by road and consequences of transportation emergencies arising out of these substances, provisions have been laid down in the MVR.

GAIL during their proposed drilling operations may restrict usage of vehicles that do not have PUCC or do not comply with emission rating of engines specified under the MVR (for vehicles carrying hazardous substances like petroleum products) within their premises.



2.7 GAIL ENVIRONMENT POLICY

GAIL is committed to conduct business with strong environment conscience ensuring sustainable development, safe workplaces and enrichment of quality of life of employees, customers and the community. GAIL believes that good Safety, Health and Environmental performance is an integral part of efficient and profitable business management. Hence, they will maintain the following practices:

Achieve an organizational culture of Health, Safety and Environmental Excellence as an integral part of company’s business.

Design, construct and maintain its facilities as per the best practices to ensure adequate safety of all stakeholders, plants, pipelines, projects and surroundings.

Identify all Health, Safety and Environmental hazards, evaluate associated risks and manage them through effective control programs and deployment of latest technology.

Establish, maintain and continually improve Fire Defence System and all other aspects of Emergency Preparedness to respond promptly and effectively.

Minimize emissions and discharges in the environment and take measures to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle all wastes including E-wastes and Bio-medical waste

Implement Occupational Hygiene measures and Medical Surveillance programs to achieve highest levels of Occupational Health.

Provide structural training to all employees on HSE best practices.

Comply with all statutory Rules and Regulations on Health, Safety and Environment and go beyond in these in setting internal targets.

Set tangible and measurable targets for monitoring the performance of HSE Management System and conduct periodic Health, Safety and Environmental audits to ensure effectiveness and continual improvement of HSE System.

The GAIL Environment Policy is given in Annexure II.



3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

3.1 OVERVIEW

Government of India (GoI) has awarded the Cambay Basin exploration block CB-ONN-2010/11, located in districts of Ahmedabad and Anand of Gujarat state, to GAIL (India) Limited through Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for carrying out seismic survey and exploration activities. As per provisions of PSC, GAIL (India) Limited will carry out a seismic program consisting of acquisition, processing and interpretation of 10 line kilometers of 2D and 3D seismic survey program for 131sq kms area and drilling of eight exploration wells up to depths of 2000m to 2500m respectively. As discussed in earlier chapter, required regulatory approval for petroleum exploration has been received in the form of Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) from Government of Gujarat.

This chapter discusses project activities, associated with proposed drilling of eight exploratory wells. It includes description of initial site preparation and construction activities, drilling activities and activities associated with subsequent testing and decommissioning of the wells.

3.2 OBJECTIVE OF PROPOSED DRILLING ACTIVITY

On the basis of interpretation of the 3D seismic survey results of current seismic study, GAIL (India) Ltd. will identify exploratory well location and undertake drilling of 8 wells to determine the presence of hydrocarbons in geological formation at depths in the range of 2000-2500m.

The basic objectives of the exploratory drilling will be as follows:-

To drill and evaluate hydrocarbons’ prospects safely without putting significant impact on the environment.

To plan for the future production of oil & gas from the area

3.3 LOCATION & DESCRIPTION OF DRILLING WELLS

The acquired exploratory block CB-ONN-2010/11 is situated in Ahmedabad and Anand districts of Gujarat on the western region of India (Refer Figure 2.1). Geographically block lies between the following broad coordinates (point A) 72°20'54"N; 22°35' E to (point B) 72°29'1.83"N; 22°35'E and (point E) 72°27'08"N; 22°28'35"E to (point F) 72°21'40"N; 22°28'41"E. Locations for drilling wells will be finalized based on interpretation of results from 3D seismic survey.

However, based on interpretation of historic 2D seismic survey data, GAIL has identified eight (8) lead areas within block boundary for drilling activities. The location of these lead areas has been shown in Figure 3.1 However exact drill locations will be finalized based on interpretation of results from 3D seismic survey. Specific details of exploratory wells are given in Table 3.1 below.



FIGURE 3-1 LOCATION OF THE LEAD AREAS IN THE BLOCK

TABLE 3-1 DESCRIPTION OF WELL

Well Characteristics Detailed Information

Well locations

Eight locations confined within the block area CB-ONN-2010/11, to be determined based on processing of acquired seismic data.

Depth of well 2000m-2500m

Commencement of drilling September 2015

Total estimated drilling period including site preparation 120-150days/well

Total estimated testing period 30-45 days/well

Proposed drilling fluid Water based mud



3.4 ACCESSIBILITY TO THE BLOCK

The acquired seismic block is easily accessible through the rail and road network.

Roads: The nearest city is Dholka at 16.2 km, which is well connected to the national highway NH-8A through Bagodra-Dholka road. Ahmedabad city is at a distance of 54 km from the north boundary of the block. The block area is approached by the Bagodra-Vataman Road and the Dholka Vataman Road, which ultimately connects to NH-8A. The approach roads to the block are also well developed, which GAIL can use for transportation of machineries, equipment and manpower.

Railways: The nearest railway station to the block is Koth railway station on the north boundary of the block (7.3 km) as well as Arnej Railway Station as close to about 8.5 km from the North West boundary of the block and Tarapur railway station which is within 23 km from the south-east boundary of the block. Ahmedabad and Anand are the major Railway Junctions and the railway line connecting these two junctions passes through block in parallel to NH-8A. The narrow gauge railway route from Koth connects to Arnej at the north of the block.

Airport: The nearest Airport to the block is located in Ahmedabad, which is approximately 54km from the block.

The map showing the accessibility to the block is depicted in Figure 3-2.The accessibility map showing the connectivity of the block from Ahmedabad city is shown in Figure 3-3.



FIGURE 3-2 BLOCK ACCESSIBILITY MAP FOR CAMBAY BASIN (CB-ONN-2010/11)



FIGURE 3-3 BLOCK ACCESSIBILITY MAP FROM AHMEDABAD CITY



3.5 SITE SETTINGS OF EXPLORATORY BLOCK AND SURROUNDING AREA

The exploration block of Cambay Basin, CB-ONN-2010/11 is situated in districts of Ahmedabad and Anand. The block is very well connected through rail and road networks with other parts of Gujarat. The topography of the region within the block mainly comprises of flat terrain with most of the land taken up for agriculture. The river Sabarmati is on the eastern part of the block, the site has its drainage towards the southeast direction. Total area of the block is 131 sq. km. The key physical features (Refer Figure 3.4) of CB-ONN 2010/11 block have been described below:

The western side of the block is accessed through Bagodra –Vataman road, which in turn connects NH8-A, which further connects Ahmedabad city.

The block only comprises of the road side plantations and plantations along canal and river are also observed. However, there are no ecologically sensitive areas located within the block.

The block on a whole is a rural area with major portion consisting of the agricultural land. Dholka is a major town from which block can be accessed easily. However within the bock, Vataman is the major and highly populated town.

Apart from GAIL facilities that will be coming up during exploratory drilling, no other industrial set up is present within the Block.

The river Sabarmati is the major river, passing through the northeastern part. Apart from this, few other small streams are also passing through the block, most of which are non-perennial and rain fed and remains dry during most part of the year.

With reference to the discussions with Dr. Jagdish Prasad CCF (SF), Ahmedabad, the block area is devoid of any ecological sensitive area or protected/reserved forest area and vegetation except few plantations along the roads, canals and farm forest.

Total number of 16 villages in Dholka and Tarapur Talukas of two districts are located within block area (Table 3.2). The village settlements are scattered within the whole block area. Major land use within block area is agricultural followed by water bodies comprise of small to medium size ponds and canals.

On discussions with Mr. Prakash Gupte, Scientist, CGWB, West Coast, Ahmedabad, it was found that the underground water sources are not adequate to cater to the drinking water demand of the region. Further with reference to the post and pre-monsoon report on water depth level for 2012, CGWB, it was assessed that the water depth level ranges between 5-20m, this was also supported from the primary survey and discussions done with village communities of the block. Hence the main source of drinking water for Dholka and Tarapur taluka are the minor canals viz. Periyej talav and Kanewal talav. Pariyej talav is big in size and covers an area of about 361 ha. It is situated at a distance of about 25 km from Nadiad and comes under Anand district. It



receives rain water from surrounding area and fresh water from Mahi channel. Pariyej lake is a manmade reservoir. The water is used for drinking, fisheries, agriculture and domestic purposes. Government of Gujarat has implemented a master plan called the Sardar Sarovar Project, under which a 71.11km Dholka branch canal envisages supply of water for drinking purposes, irrigation and industrial uses to various villages under the taluka. Presently, based on Sardar Sarovar Narmada Canals progress report, June 2013, the Sardar Sarovar Branch Canal network enters the block via Dholka and the water is then supplied to various villages in the block for irrigation and drinking purpose.

TABLE 3-2 LIST OF VILLAGES WITHIN THE BLOCK AREA

S. N District Taluka Village 1

Anand Tarapur

Khada 2 Rinza 3 Pachegam 4 Chitarwada 5 Dugari 6 Nabhoi 7 Haidarpura 8 Fatepura 9

Ahmedabad Dholka

Vataman

10 Varna 11 Rampur 12 Raypur 13 Dholi 14 Ganol 15 Sarig 16 Motipura



FIGURE 3-4 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SETTING OF THE BLOCK CB-ONN 2010/11



3.6 PROJECT ACTIVITIES INVOLVED IN EXPLORATORY DRILLING

Lifecycle of proposed drilling activities will involve well site selection, site and access road preparation and its maintenance, construction of drilling well pad, drilling activities, well testing and decommissioning and closure of wells, if not proved economically viable for production of oil and gas. The flow chart (Figure 3.5) shows various phases of drilling activities:

FIGURE 3-5 PHASES OF DRILLING ACTIVITIES

Various activities involved as part of the drilling of exploration wells are described in detail in subsequent sections.

3.6.1 Site Selection

Exploration history of the area exhibits potential presence of oil and gas in the region. An initial survey through 3D seismic survey process is already initiated in the area for further assessment of oil and gas potential in the region. Data interpretation of the seismic survey will decide exact locations for the drilling well.



3.6.2 Land Lease

After finalization of exploratory well site, an area sized about 120m X 100m will be taken on temporary lease for construction of well pad, drill site etc. for carrying out exploratory drilling for each well. No land acquisition or rehabilitation/resettlement is required for the proposed project activity.

3.6.3 Site and Access Road Preparation

Block is very well connected with National Highway (NH)-8A and other major state highways and developed internal village roads, which can be used by GAIL for transportation of machineries, equipment’s and drilling crewmembers. Additionally, strengthening of existing approach road to the site can be done, if required, for transportation of drilling rig and associated equipment.

In general, movement of drilling rig and ancillary equipment will involve around 100-125 truck & trailer load for time period for entire drilling operation. A provision will be kept for parking of operational and service vehicles within the drill site or in close proximity to it.

3.6.4 Site Preparation

Site preparation will involve all activities required to facilitate operation of the drilling rig and associated equipment’s and machineries. At the initial stage, the drilling site will be elevated (based on area flood level) from existing ground level with minimal clearance of existing ground vegetation. The loose top soil will be removed by using mechanical means like dozer and accumulated in a nearby place for later usage during site restoration. Leveling and compaction will be done with the help of graders and mechanical rollers. Land filling materials and rubbles will be required for the purpose of site preparation activities. All such materials will be procured by GAIL through contractors and it will be ensured that materials be sourced from government approved borrows and quarries. A backhoe will be used for all excavation and cutting activities (for construction of pits) on site. Subsequently, the proposed well site and campsite will be duly fenced using chain link and barbed wires.

Platforms for drilling rig pad and all other heavy equipment systems or machinery, Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) will be used for the construction of foundation system. The rig foundation will be of 20m x 20m in size and will have an elevation of 0.6 m. For making the foundations of main rig structure, cast in-situ bored under- reamed piles of specified lengths will also be used. The elevated structures will have proper garland drains for storm water with sufficient gradient, made of brick masonry, to take care of surface runoff water.

Specially designed pit with an impervious HDPE liner of 1-1.5 mm thickness will be provided as part of the site development for disposal of drilling waste in the form of spent drilling mud and cuttings. In addition to that, drill cutting pit of 35m x 35m dimension



will be used for disposal of drill cuttings, mud and wash water and two waste pits of 35m x 35m for disposal of drilling mud and rig wash water will be provided. A campsite of size 100 x 50m, elevated to the height as that of the drilling site (approx. 2.0 m), will be set up adjoining the well site. Local earth and rubble will be used as the fill material. Proper surface gradients and brick masonry drains will take care of the run-off water, whereas separate septic tanks and soak pits will be provided for disposal of domestic wastewater.

It is to be mentioned here, that the site preparation activities including transportation of heavy equipment’s and machinery to site may involve temporary shifting of some existing utilities like overhead power lines, phone lines, water pipelines which will be restored by GAIL personnel as a topmost priority.

The transportation of the Rig including auxiliary equipment’s and camp facilities to the site are expected to comprise of around 100-125 truckloads. Though the rig and related equipment’s will be directly brought to site, spares, mud preparing agents and other materials will be stored in a warehouse near the site and will be received by the site from intermediate storage area. The rig equipment will however be transported directly to the drilling site during mobilization and will be de-mobilized directly from the site. Materials will be intermittently supplied from warehouse to the drilling site, during operations - with some stock at the drilling site itself. A typical layout of exploratory drill site is shown in Figure 3.6 below.



FIGURE 3-6 TYPICAL LAYOUT OF A DRILLING SITE

3.6.5 Drilling Activities

Initial Well Construction Wells will be drilled in sections, with diameter of each section decreasing with increasing depth. Before commencement of the actual drilling, large diameter pipe (Conductor) will be lowered into a hole and cemented/grouted. Conductor pipes provide a conduit for the return fluid during drilling next section and prevents unconsolidated material falling into hole and potential washout problems. Typical depths of such pipes are 6m.

Lengths and diameters of each section of the well will be determined prior to the starting of the drilling activities and are dependent on geological conditions through which well is to be drilled. Once each section of the well is completed, the drill string is lifted and protective steel pipe or casing lowered into the well and cemented into place. The casing helps to maintain stability of the hole and reduce fluid losses from the well bore into surrounding rock formations.

The Drilling Process Exploitation of hydrocarbon requires construction of a conduit between surface and reservoir, which is achieved by drilling process.

All the eight exploration wells within the block will be drilled using an Electric Land Rig of around minimum 1000HP capacity, equipped with a Rotory/Top Drive System. The



typical configuration of a Drilling Rig along with layout plan is shown in Figure 3.7 GAIL will appoint a Drilling Contractor to carry out the drilling work, although the Drilling Contractor is not yet selected and tendering process is presently in progress. To support the drilling operation, following systems and services will be included in the rig package:

Portable Living Quarters – to house important personnel on site on a 24 hr basis. These units are provided with washrooms.

Crane-age - cranes for loading/off-loading equipment and supplies.

Emergency Systems - it includes fire detection and protection equipment. Environmental Protection – Blow Out Prevention (BOP) system, wastewater

treatment unit, cuttings handling equipment. The BOP generic design details is provided in Box 3.1 below.

Additionally, there will ancillary facilities like drilling mud preparation system, cuttings disposal, drill cementing equipment etc. and utilities to supply power (DG sets), water, fuel (HSD) to the drilling process and will be set up as a part of the project.



FIGURE 3-7 TYPICAL CONFIGURATION OF A DRILLING RIG



Box 3-1 BLOW OUT PREVENTOR (BOP) DESIGN DETAILS

Blowout preventers (BOPs) will be used for all wells and ensured that blowout preventers will operate at the location they will be deployed. Designs of blowout preventers will be as per internationally (API 16 series) and nationally (OISD, under development) available standard. BOP designs will in general include:

Min one set of Pipe ram to match the rig drill pipe

Min one set of Variable Pipe Ram (VBR) to cover the tubular range used on the rig

Min one set of blind/shear rams

Independent and redundant hydraulic and activation systems for each ram;

One or more emergency backup control systems; and

Remote control panel for secondary control.

Independent third-party certification of a blowout preventer prior to drilling a high-risk well will be undertaken and based on a detailed physical inspection, design review, system integration test, and function and pressure testing. Certification ensures that the blowout preventer, is properly designed for circumstances and will operate effectively. It, includes blind shear rams and casing shear rams that will function effectively and cut the drill pipe or casing, including emergency control systems that will function effectively and has not been compromised or damaged from prior service. Design specifications of BOP equipment for exploratory wells will depend on anticipated well profile, depth, temperature, pressure, hydrogen sulfide concentration, and safety margins. BOP selection will ensure compliance with acceptable industry practices. Major design considerations include pressure rating, component selection and arrangement. Pressure ratings of the standard BOP stacks are 10,000 psi (high pressure), 5000 psi (medium pressure), and 3000 psi (low pressure). Selection of proper stack is determined by ‘worst case’ pressure containment, which occurs when all drilling fluid is evacuated from the annulus and only low-density formation fluid remains. Working pressure rating of the BOP and burst rating of the casing strings (with a 1.33 minimum design factor) will be verified for all pressure applications to ensure a shut-in capacity greater than the worst pressure condition that can be imposed during a well control incident. Main components of the standard BOP stacks include annular preventer, fixed pipe rams; variable bore rams (VBR), blind/shear rams and drilling spool. Components are selected by maximum anticipated surface pressure, wellhead temperature, and H2S concentration.”

Mud System and Cuttings

During drilling operations, a fluid known as drilling fluid (or ‘mud’) is pumped through the drill string down to the drilling bit and returns between the drill pipe – casing annulus up to surface back into the circulation system after separation of drill cuttings /solids through solids control equipment. Drilling fluid is important to the operation of drilling rig, as it performs the following functions:

Control the down hole pressure;



Lift soil/rock cuttings from the bottom of the borehole and carry them to a settling pit;

Allow cuttings to drop out in the mud pit so that they are not re-circulated (influenced by mud thickness, flow rate in the settling pits and shape/size of the pits);

Prevent cuttings from rapidly settling while another length of drill pipe is being added (if cuttings drop too fast, they can build up on top of the bit and seize it in the hole);

Create a film of small particles on the borehole wall to prevent caving and to ensure that the upward flowing stream of drilling fluid does not erode the adjacent formation;

Seal the borehole wall to reduce fluid loss (minimizing volumes of drilling fluid is especially important in dry areas where water must be carried from far away);

Cool and clean the drill bit; and

Lubricate the bit, bearings, mud pump and drill pipe.

It is decided that a uniform environment-friendly water-based mud system will be used for all eight exploratory wells. Unlike an oil-based mud system, the use of water-based mud will not pose higher risk of contamination to subsurface formations. The disposal of the fluid and the cuttings will be less problematic. Because of anticipated borehole instability problems, it will be necessary to introduce a base salt, such as Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4) into the system. Base salt additions will only be considered after all commonly accessed freshwater aquifers are securely cased and cemented off.

Mud used during operation will flush out formation cuttings from well hole. These cuttings will be separated from drilling mud using a solids-control and waste management package. This will comprise a stepped system of processes consisting of linear motion vibrating screens called shakers and centrifuges to mechanically separate cuttings from mud fluid. Mud from the hole is first screened in shakers through a mud flow line which separates 100 micron size of cuttings. Solids up to 2 micron are separated in a centrifuge. Mud is then collected in mud tanks I and II (Refer Fig 3.8). Both cuttings from shale shakers and centrifuge are collected in a solid discharge pit and then removed to a specially designed pit lined with HDPE of 35m x30m x2.5m dimension. This cutting pit has a certain slope to drain off water in adjacent waste pit. Total amount of mud cuttings produced during entire drilling period is projected to be about 200MT per well and depending on their hazardous nature will be disposed to nearby authorized hazardous waste treatment and disposal facility.

Once the cuttings have been separated, the drilling fluid will be reused or processed after further treatment in a Chemically Enhanced Dewatering (CED) system designed to remove suspended solids that are too fine for mechanical separation in solids control package producing inlet particles called ‘flocs’. The flocs will be removed in the decanting centrifuges and the resultant sludge disposed off in High Density Polyethylene (HDPE 1-1.5mm



thickness) lined pits conforming to the regulatory requirements. The cleaned waste water will also be stored in HDPE lined pits and disposed off, after testing and any necessary treatment, to meet the regulatory requirements in the nearby surface water body.

The whole process by which drilling fluid will be reused during drilling operation is commonly known as a “closed loop system.” Figure 3.8 shows the schematic layout of drilling mud and solids discharge involved as a part of the drilling system for exploratory wells.


SENES/D-20484/March’15 GAIL 51

FIGURE 3-8 FLOW CHART FOR DRILLING MUD AND SOLID DISCHARGE



The mud chemicals will be added to the mud system to adjust mud properties and ensure the following functions: Fluid loss control (by adding bentonite as well as naturally occurring additives such as starch and cellulose); lost circulation (adding fibrous, filamentous, granular and flake materials e.g. groundnut shells and mica (max. 30%); lubricity (drilling fluid); shale inhibition (adding KCl and K2SO4 ); pH Control ( in the range 9-10); pressure control (by adding barite to control hole pressure)

3.6.6 Cementing Programme

Cementing is a necessary aspect of exploratory drilling oil and gas wells. Cement is used to fulfill following works:

Secure/support casing strings

Isolate zones for production purposes Cementing generally utilizes Portland cement (API Class G Oil Well Cement) with various additives in small quantities as accelerators/retarders, density adjusters, dispersants, fluid loss additives, anti-gas migration additives etc.

3.6.7 Well Testing

Between the drilling operations for different zones, logging operations are undertaken to provide information on the potential type and quantities of hydrocarbons present in the target formations. Technicians employed by a specialist logging service company will be entrusted with the job of well logging.

3.6.8 Completion of Drilling

On completion of activities, and if the well evaluations indicate commercial quantities of hydrocarbons the well will be plugged and suspended, else it will be killed and permanently abandoned. In the event of a decision to suspend the well, it will be filled with a brine solution containing very small quantities of inhibitors to protect the well. The well will be sealed with cement plugs and some of the wellhead equipment (Blind Flange) will be left on the surface (Cellar). If the well is abandoned, it will be sealed with a series of cement plugs, all wellhead equipment’s will be removed, by leaving the surface clear of any debris and the site will be restored.

3.6.9 Decommissioning and Closure of Wells and Site Restoration

After completion of drilling activity, partial de-mobilization of the drilling rig and associated infrastructure will be initiated. As discussed earlier, well testing may be carried out immediately after the drilling is complete. Complete de-mobilization of facilities on site will happen once when well-testing is completed successfully. This will involve dismantling of the rig, all associated equipment’s and the residential camp, transporting it out of the project area. It is expected that demobilization will take approximately 20-25 days and involve the trucking away of materials, equipment’s and other materials from the site to bring it back to its original condition. It is estimated that about 100-125 truckloads will be transported out of site during this period. If no indication of any commercially viable amount of oil or gas is encountered either before or after testing, the well will be declared dry and accordingly be



plugged of and abandoned, and site will be restored in line with regulations and good industry practice. Following steps will be typically involved to restore and rehabilitate the area:

The wellhead and all casing string will be cut off to a minimum depth of 3 m (10 ft.) below ground level.

All concrete structures will be broken up, and the debris disposed off as per regulatory requirements.

All other waste products, solid and liquid, will be disposed of in accordance with EMP requirements and will be treated to render them harmless.

All fencing and access gates will be removed. All pits whose contents will show regulatory compliance for on-site disposal, at the time

of site closure, will be backfilled and closed out as per legal requirements. Spreading of top soil back to locations from where it was originally stripped. Restoration of unusable portion of the access track, removal of pilings and landscaping.

3.7 UTILITIES AND RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS

Utilities considered for the proposed drilling operation include requirement of skilled as well as unskilled workers, place for accommodation for outside workers, availability of roads for movement of personnel and machineries, power, fuel and water requirement for drilling and associated activities- place for waste dumping and other infrastructure facilities. Details of these aspects are presented in this section:

3.7.1 Manpower Requirement and Accommodation:

The project will be employing workers for both the site construction and drilling phase. Around 35-45 persons will be involved every day in site preparation and drilling activities on a basis of 12hr shift/day. Executives and supervisor’s will also be appointed to carry out the operation. As far the local labors to be employed during site preparation, no accommodation will be required for them, whereas for the executives and supervisory personnel a temporary camp/porta cabins with water and power back up will be provided in the nearby area of the block. At any time there will be around 35-45 staffs including security personnel on the well site, thus a temporary camp will be set up to provide boarding and lodging.

3.7.2 Water Requirement:

The domestic water requirement for the laborers is estimated to be 2.0 KLD (considering 45 workers and 45 lpcd demand). However, an additional requirement of 10KLD of water would be required for site preparation, which is to be sourced from the ground water through bore wells. Hence, the total water requirement for site preparation during construction phase of the project is estimated to be about 10-12 KLD per well site.

Total projected average consumption of water during drilling phase will be around 40 KLD for mud preparation, rig washing, domestic purposes etc. Water for this purpose will be sourced from nearby surface as well as ground water sources depending on availability of water and will be supplied on site by tanker. A temporary provision of storage of water will be prepared onsite. Potable water requirement will be met through filtered bore well and package drinking water source. Water Requirement per well has been calculated in Table 3.3



TABLE 3-3 WATER REQUIREMENT PER WELL

Description Quantity Total Water Requirement for Drilling (KL) 2700 No. of Days on well 90 Average drilling water consumption per day (KLD) 30 Average water for domestic use/day (KLD) 10 Total water consumption/day (KLD) 40

Water balance of drilling operations is provided in Figure 3.9 below.

3.7.3 Power Supply and Fuel Consumption:

Power requirements during site preparation and drilling phase will be met by DG Sets. Drilling operations will be a continuous activity; however, power requirement will vary depending upon activities being carried out. Electric rig of capacity around 1000 HP will be used for exploratory drilling and two DG sets of 370 KVA each will be used to suffice power requirement of rig operations (of which one would be for stand by purpose). During the drilling phase, fuel consumption is estimated to be about 4 – 5 KLD of HSD per well. Out of this, major part will be consumed by rig operations and rest will be for the campsite. Fuel will be supplied onsite through mobile diesel bowser and there will be no onsite fuel storage. Hired vehicles would be used for carrying personnel as well as equipment to the site. The heavy vehicles like trucks and tankers would be used for movement of materials and equipment; whereas light motor vehicles would carry personnel to the site. No fuel storage facility will be created; as it will be supplied through local pumping stations found along the village roads.

3.7.4 Resource and Chemical Usage

Various chemicals will be used during the drilling phase, mainly for preparation of drilling mud. At the planning stage, an estimate of potential usage for every chemical will be made and documented in chemical usage tracking sheet. During the operational phase, chemical usage will be monitored and efforts will be made to reduce or conserve its usage to the extent technically feasible. List of chemical likely to be used onsite is provided in Table 3.4 below.

TABLE 3-4 CHEMICAL REQUIREMENT DURING DRILLING

S. N Chemical 1 Al stearate 2 Barites 3 Bentonite 4 Caustic Soda 5 Causticized Lignite 6 Chrom Free Lignosulphonate 7 PGS 8 DD 9 Biocide

10 Oil Soluble emulsifier 11 KCl 12 Soda Ash 13 Resignated Lignite 14 Soltex



Other infrastructural facility

Warehouse: GAIL will rent a building or construct a temporary warehouse facility for temporary storage of cementing materials, various chemicals, steel casing pipes, tools, equipment’s and materials required for exploratory drilling activities. Constructed warehouse will be demolished later. Approximate dimension of the warehouse would be 500-800 sqm., depending on the quantity of materials to be handled and stored. All materials will be stored within the warehouse for a short duration and be supplied to the well locations, as required.

Logistics: As mentioned earlier, the site is well connected through railway and roads network. However the nearest airport is at Ahmedabad, which is approximately 55 km from the block. Such connectivity means will help in transportation of personnel and equipment and machineries to the site. The internal village roads within the blocks are also well developed, which can be used as a means of transportation of vehicles and machineries within the site.

Hired vehicles would be used for carrying personnel as well as equipment to the site. The heavy vehicles like trucks and tankers would be used for movement of materials and equipment; whereas light motor vehicles would carry personnel to the site.



FIGURE 3-9 WATER BALANCE DIAGRAM



3.8 PROCESS EMISSIONS AND EFFLUENT GENERATION

3.8.1 Noise Generation

Noise emissions will primarily emanate from DG sets, drilling equipment and vehicles. DG sets and other equipment’s will be fitted with mufflers and silencers. As a result, there will be considerable reduction of noise emissions at source.

Noise will be emitted from exploratory drill site during site preparation, drilling and decommissioning phases. Major noise generating operations from proposed activity during drilling, testing are the operation of rotary drilling equipment as part of rig, diesel engines for power generation, mud pumps and operation of vehicles. Noise during site preparation phase will primarily be contributed by heavy construction machinery operating on site and vehicular sources. As drilling activity is continuous, part of the noise associated with functioning of the rig and ancillaries will be generated throughout day and night.

3.8.2 Air Emissions

Air emissions from point sources expected from the proposed exploratory drilling will be mainly from combustion of diesel in diesel engines and power generators which will be operative to meet power requirement of the drilling rig and campsite. Principal pollutants will comprise of Particulate Matter (PM), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon monoxide (CO) and other hydrocarbons (HC).

Additionally, the flaring and burning of oil during testing of the well will also lead to the release of some pollutants including un-burnt hydrocarbons to the atmosphere. Low fugitive emissions of dust and air pollutants from vehicular exhaust will also happen during the project lifecycle, mostly during construction and decommissioning activities. Additionally, there will be re-entrainment of dust from approach road leading to the site mainly during the dry season.

3.8.3 Liquid Wastes

During drilling operations in 8 proposed drill sites, drilling wastewater generated (approximately 20 m3 per day) as a result of rig wash and dewatering of spent mud, effluents from washing of drill cuttings, floor washings, pump, seal leakages, spillages will comprise of chemical ingredients of drilling fluid thereby rendering effluent to be polluted. Characteristics of drilling and wash wastewater will primarily be dependent on type and composition of drilling fluid used for drilling. As GAIL is proposing use of water-based drilling mud, the potential for contamination of such waste water is significantly lower. Drilling wastewater will contain spent drilling fluid generated as a result of washings. Rig wash water and drilling wastewater generated is proposed to be collected in a wastewater pit constructed at the drilling site.



Domestic and Process Waste Water

Quantities of liquid wastes, their characteristics and anticipated disposal methods are given in Table 3.5

TABLE 3-5 LIQUID WASTES GENERATED DURING DRILLING AND THEIR DISPOSAL

Waste Type Quantity Disposal

Drilling and wash Wastewater

20 m3 per day

The water will be either solar evaporated or adequately treated in an ETP to ensure conformance to the CPCB onshore oil and gas extraction industry effluent standards. Treated waste water from rig wash would be reused for mud preparation. Excess waste water if any, will be treated and discharged into locally available drains after ensuring that the waste water conforms to the discharge standard of CPCB and when it is assessed to be safe, not impacting the water use by local communities.

Domestic Wastewater

1.5 m3 per day from

drilling site Septic tank followed by soak pit

3.8.4 Solid and Hazardous Waste Streams

Different solid and hazardous waste streams generated during drilling and their disposal methodology is presented in Table 3.6

TABLE 3-6 WASTE STREAMS GENERATED DURING DRILLING AND THEIR DISPOSAL

Waste Type Quantity Characteristics Disposal

Kitchen Waste 10 – 20 kg

per day Organic waste (Non HW) Will be stored in compost pits on a daily basis.

Drill Cuttings 200 MT per well

Mainly inert material consisting of shales, sands and clay; about 1% of drilling mud. (Non HW)

Drill cuttings will be disposed off in a well-designed pit lined with impervious liner located on site as per S No. 72 C.1.a Schedule I Standards for Emission or Discharge of Environmental Pollutants from Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction Industry of CPCB as modified in 2005.

Drilling Mud (Fluid) 20 m3

Barite, Bentonite and Traces ofHeavy metals (HW)

The mud will be tested for hazardous contaminants and will be disposed as per S No. 72 C.1.a Schedule I Standards for Emission or Discharge of Environmental Pollutants from Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction Industry of CPCB as modified in 2005

Lead-Acid Batteries

2 – 3 Batteries per drilling of a

well Lead – Acid (HW)

Will be recycled through vendors supplying lead-acid batteries as required under the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001.

Oily waste- used oil and Waste Oil

0.3 m3 5-10 Kg Used and Waste oil

Will be collected in metal drums be kept in secured dyked area and be disposed as per used oil rules in approved used oil recycling units.



3.9 DRILLING HAZARDS

Loss of well control / blow-out, fire, explosion and oil spills are the major potential hazards associated with drilling for oil and gas. Effective response plans to foreseeable emergencies will be developed by GAIL and communicated to project teams. A risk assessment will be carried out as part of this EIA will also contribute towards identification of hazards, risks and formulation of management plans for emergency response, blowout, oil spills.

3.10 PROJECT BENEFITS

Proposed exploratory drilling of oil and gas will provide benefits to the society as well as the economy at a large scale. Following benefits are envisaged from the proposed drilling operation:

3.10.1 Improvement in Physical Infrastructure

Drill site development may lead to improvement in road connectivity in the area, if required. The proposed activity may sometimes lead to improvement in the basic road infrastructure as when required.

3.10.2 Employment Potential

During site construction, approximately 40-45 workmen are likely to be involved. Most of workforce employed during the stage will be semi-skilled. People from adjoining areas will be given preference according to the skill sets possessed.

3.10.3 Improvement in Future Economy

Proposed exploratory drilling activity may have the potential for future development of the area and nation at large, if proved to be economically viable for production of hydrocarbon.



4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT ENVIRONMENT

This chapter describes present environmental settings of the entire block and its surrounding areas. This includes physical environment comprising of land, water, air, noise, biological and socio-economic environment. Attributes of physical environment like air, water, soil and noise quality in the surrounding area was assessed based on monitoring carried out for various environmental parameters in this region of post monsoon i.e. Oct-Dec 2013 and on secondary data made available from reconnaissance visit to the site. Detailed information on geology, meteorology, prevailing natural hazards like floods and biological characteristics of the area is collected from literature reviews, past studies and information made available by Government Departments or local agencies.

Reconnaissance field surveys and consultations were also carried out with local people and Government Departments or agencies during July’13 to April’14 to understand and record the existing environment prevailing in the area and the same was verified against published information and literature. Various government regional offices were visited and information regarding the block was obtained. The team from SENES Consultants met different state government officials and the brief of their discussions has been summed up in the box (Box No. 4.1) below

BOX 4-1 CONSULTATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS

The Regional Officer (Mr. J.P Babariya), Pollution Control Board, Anand district was apprised about the upcoming GAIL project and on further discussion, information regarding the environment monitoring frequency, number of monitoring stations and environmental quality trend of the region was obtained. Information regarding the number of similar oil exploration activities conducted in the past in the neighboring areas of the block was also obtained. The Regional Officer (Mr. B.R Patel), Pollution Control Board, Ahmedabad district was also updated on the upcoming project activities to be conducted in the block area upon Environmental clearance, information regarding the villages in the block covered under Dholka taluka was also obtained. During discussions with Mr. Prakash Gupte, Scientist, CGWB, West Coast, Ahmedabad, it was found that the region does not exhibit any ground water quality problems except that of high salinity. It was also known that the region (including the block area) has not shown any fluctuations in the water quality trend over a vast period of time, due to absence of any industrial development in the region. On a meeting with Mr. Jagdish Prasad, Chief Conservator of Forest, Forest Department, Gujarat, it was confirmed that the block area does not have protected/reserve forest , the region is devoid of a vast forest cover, tress are sparse and tree plantations are seen only alongside the roads, canals and river. Mr. T. Karuppasamy (DCF), Ahmedabad further confirmed that these plantations have been done under the Social Forestry program.



The socioeconomic environment has been studied through consultations with various stakeholders in the villages within CB-ONN 2010/11. Additionally, socioeconomic data have been obtained from the Census of India reports. Major purposes for describing environmental settings of the area are:

To understand the project need and environmental characteristics of the area.

To assess the existing environmental quality, as well as environmental impacts of future operations.

To identify environmentally significant factors or geographical areas that can preclude future developments.

4.1 AIR QUALITY

4.1.1 Climate and Meteorology

According to the various secondary data available and the climatic trend of Ahmedabad as per IMD Pune (1971-2000), the annual variation in average wind speed recorded in Ahmedabad is shown in Figure 4.1 The highest monthly mean wind speed obtained is 3.1mps in May followed by 3.0mps in June. The lowest monthly mean wind speed is 1.5mps in October. Annual wind speed direction irrespective of wind direction in Ahmedabad suggests 1.5mps to 4.5mps as the most common wind speed, which occurred on 69.3% of the time during 1971-2000 (Figure 4.1). While the number of occasions with wind speed in the range 7.0mps – 9.0mps are 0.1%, wind speed more than 9.0mps are rare.

FIGURE 4-1 ANNUAL VARIATION IN AVERAGE WIND SPEED AT AHMEDABAD DURING 1971-2000



FIGURE 4-2 WIND FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION IN DIFFERENT WIND SPEED CLASSES AT

AHMEDABAD DURING 1971-2000

The climate of this region is characterized by dry hot summer except in the monsoon season. The region experiences four seasons, the cold winter month’s from December to February, hot summers between March to middle of June. The period from middle of June to September is the monsoon season. October and November constitute the post-monsoon or retreating monsoon season.

Rainfall: The average rainfall in Ahmedabad varies from 21.1mm to 952.5mm. The maximum rainfall occurs during the month from July to September. The district rainfall of Ahmedabad and Anand district as recorded for 2008-2012 as per IMD, Ahmedabad has been shown in Annexure 3. The annual average rainfall of the region is 254.8mm. Dholka taluka under Ahmedabad falls under Bhal and coastal area zone, with an average rainfall of 625mm to 1000mm as per the ago-climatic zoning of Gujarat. The average rainfall recorded in Tarapur taluka under Anand district is within 625-875mm. The Rainfall summary for 2004-2006 has been shown in Table 4.2

TABLE 4-1 RAINFALL SUMMARY 2004-2006 AS PER METEOROLOGICAL CENTER, AHMEDABAD

Rain- fall (mm) 2004 2005 2006 Rainy days Rainfall Rainy days Rainfall Rainy days Rainfall Jan - - - - - -

Feb - - - - - -

March - - - 0.1 - 0.0

April - - - - - -

May 1 15.2 - - -- -

June 7 100.3 7 275.1 4 141.9

July 7 210.6 9 429.2 13 309.0

Aug 18 468.1 8 215.0 14 462.5

Sept 3 27.4 16 408.2 6 155.0

Oct 1 8.7 - - - -

Nov - 0.6 - - - -

Dec - - - - - -

Total 37 830.9 40 1327.6 37 1068.4



From the trend of the climatological summary (1951-1980), it can be inferred that the highest average wind speed (8.2m/s) was recorded during Summer (March-June) followed by monsoon (8.0m/s) and the lowest in post monsoon. (Refer Table 4.1)

TABLE 4-2 CLIMATOLOGICAL SUMMARY FOR IMD STATION AT AHMEDABAD (1951-1980)

Month

Total Rainfall

(mm)

Predominant wind

direction

Mean Wind Speed (Kmph)

Relative Humidity

%

Mean Temp.

Max (C) Min (C)

January 57.4 NE 5.8 57 28.4 11.7

February 26.4 NE 5.9 50 31.3 13.8

March 21.1 NW 6.3 46 36.0 18.8

April 26.4 NW 7.0 51 39.9 23.4

May 107.2 W 9.2 63 41.8 26.2

June 345.8 SW 10.1 74 38.4 27.0

July 952.5 SW 8.7 85 33.3 25.7

August 588.8 SW 7.2 88 31.9 24.8

September 636.5 NW 6.0 83 33.4 24.1

October 180.9 E 4.3 64 35.8 20.9

November 84.4 E 4.6 53 33.2 16.5

December 31.2 E 5.3 57 29.8 13.0

Annual Total/ Avg. 254.8 6.7 64.3 34.4 20.5

Temperature: The maximum temperature is recorded in the month of May (41.80C), whereas the lowest temperature has been observed in the month of January (11.70C) (Table 4.3)

TABLE 4-3 VARIATION IN AHMEDABAD CITY TEMPERATURE (2000-2006)

Temp. (°C) 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Maximum 44.2 44.5 46.3 44.2 45.2 44.4 44.3 Minimum 4.9 6.1 5.4 7.4 7.7 5.6 8.3 Source: Meteorological center, Ahmedabad Wind Speed: Average wind speed over the period of 30 years is 6.7m/sec, with a varying range of 4.3 m/sec in the month of October to 10.1 m/sec in June.

Wind rose Diagram Taking the proximity of Ahmedabad to be over 54kms away from the block, the annual wind rose reported for Ahmedabad by IMD, Pune was taken into consideration Figure 4.3. Annual wind rose prepared from daily surface wind data recorded at 300 UTC for 1971-2000 for Ahmedabad indicates that southwest (SW) winds are approximately equal in frequency to the northwest winds (NW), which occurred on 19% of the years. The wind rarely comes from the south east direction at this synoptic hour. The strongest winds, those with wind speeds more than 7mps come from the south west.



FIGURE 4-3 ANNUAL WIND ROSE FOR SURFACE WIND DATA (1971-2000) OF AHMEDABAD

4.1.2 Ambient Air Quality:

Existing quality of the air environment serves as an index for assessing pollution load and assimilative capacity of any region. The ambient air quality monitoring was conducted by Gujarat Pollution Control Board in 48 locations of Gujarat during 2009-10. Table 4.4 below gives the air quality status recorded in the locations in proximity to the block area;

TABLE 4-4 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING BY GPCB DURING 2009-10

S.N Location of monitoring station

Distance from the block

Parameters µg/m3

PM10 PM2.5 SO2 NOX

1 Bavla Nagarpalika, Bavla, dist: Ahmedabad

27km away from northern side of block 97.00 332.00 15.62 15.75

2 Petlad Nagarpalika Office, (at ground level) Dist.Anand

37km away from eastern side of block 174.16 226.59 8.33 18.52

3 Mahemdabad Nagarpalika Office, Dist. Kheda

40 km away from north-eastern side of block 39.29 227.88 Nil 13.86

4 Anand nagarpalika office fire station , Anand Dist.Anand

51 km away from eastern side of block 119.00 417.41 Nil 11.09

5 Nr. Woodland restorant , Opp. Kheta talav , Nadiad. Dist.Kheda

42 km away from north-eastern side of block 106.00 200.00 4.62 11.30

6 Gujarat Vidhyapith, Ahmedabad 53 km away from northern side of block 81.00 423.00 11.45 16.59

7 At CETP ,Odhav, Ahmedabad 60 km away from northern side of block 132.00 472.00 16.66 20.69

From Table 4.4, it can be inferred that among all seven locations falling within the block radius of 60km have SO2 and NOx concentration well within the CPCB standard limit of 80 µg/m3. However PM2.5 concentration exceeds the CPCB limit of 60 µg/m3 in all locations monitored. Bavla monitoring station falling closest to the block



(27km) shows all parameters to be well within the permissible limit set by CPCB except PM2.5 (332.00 µg/m3) which is above the standard limit of 60 µg/m3.

However, according to the MoEF Office Memorandum J-11013/5/2010/IA.II (I) dated 13.01.2010, following neighboring critically and severely polluted areas of Gujarat are situated at the following distance from the proposed exploratory block:

Critically Polluted Area: GIDC areas of Ankleshwar and Panoli (Sr. 1 & CEPI 88.5) in Bharuch district, located at approx. 112 kms (aerial distance) from southern boundary of proposed block; Ahmedabad (Sr. 22 & CEPI 75.28 ) is over 52km from the northern boundary of the block;

Severely Polluted Area: Industrial area of Vadodara (Sr. 57 & CEPI 66.91), located at a distance of approx. 85 km from northern block boundary.

As per reconnaissance visit in various regions within Ahmedabad and Anand, the main contributing source to air pollution is vehicular movement along the state highways and village road. This movement contributes to air pollution load within the block. As exploratory block is located in the rural settings, generation of dust during traffic movement is the major air pollutant in the exploratory block area. In few villages, internal village roads are kuchha in nature. An air quality monitoring study was carried out to understand the prevailing air quality of the exploratory block and its surrounding area. The location details of the air monitoring conducted is given blow in Table 4.5

TABLE 4-5 AMBIENT AIR SAMPLING LOCATIONS

Monitoring Station Locations

AQ1 Vataman

AQ2 Dholi

AQ3 Raypur

AQ4 Varna

AQ5 Rinjha

AQ6 Fatepura

AQ7 Ganol

AQ8 Haidarpura

Methodology & Location of AAQ

Existing ambient air quality of the study region was monitored at eight identified locations within the exploratory block. The purpose of selecting the eight monitoring locations was primarily to cover the entire block area (being small in size 131sq.km). Since the block has no industrial activity taking place so the only source of air pollution in the study area is the vehicular movement. Hence, in selecting the locations, proper consideration was taken to cover the high traffic density areas as well as the sensitive receptors (settlements). Parameters monitored included Particulate Matter (PM10), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx), Non methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), Methane hydrocarbons and Total volatile organic compound (TVOC). Respirable Dust sampler UERL/AIR/RDS/01 and Gas analyzer



were used for monitoring of ambient air quality at all eight locations. Selected locations of ambient air quality monitored are shown in Figure 4.4

The pictures below show the ambient air quality monitoring conducted in the block (Photo 4.1-Photo 4.4)

Photo 4-1 Ambient Air Monitoring (Vataman village)

Photo 4-2 Ambient Air Monitoring (Raypur village)

Photo 4-3 Air monitoring (Rinjha village)

Photo 4-4 Ambient Air Monitoring (Dholi village)



FIGURE 4-4AMBIENT AIR MONITORING LOCATION MAP



Ambient Air Quality within Exploratory Block A summary of ambient air quality results are presented in Annexure 4. The results obtained have been graphically represented below:

Particulate Matter (PM10):

FIGURE 4-5 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF PM10

With reference to the above Figure 4.5 , it can be inferred that PM10 observed in all three months (post-monsoon i.e. Oct’13-Dec’13) in all eight locations showed an average/mean value in the range of 51.4 – 93.7µg/m3, which is below the permissible limit set for PM10 by CPCB i.e. 100 µg/m3 . Ambient air quality monitoring results showed maximum values in Vataman village-AQ-1 i.e. 117 µg/m3 and minimum value in Ganol village-AQ-7 i.e. 35 µg/m3. The highest mean value for PM10 was reported in Varna village. The maximum value reported in AQ-1 can be attributed due to high traffic load in Vataman junction.

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2):

It can be interpreted from the results shown in Annexure 4 that all the eight monitoring locations showed Sulphur dioxide concentration well below the permissible limit set by CPCB i.e. 80 µg/m3. The mean average value for SO2 monitored at all eight locations ranged between 11.0- 14.3 µg/m3. The monitoring result for SO2 has been graphically represented shown below in Figure 4.6



FIGURE 4-6 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF SO2

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100Co

nc. µ

g/m

3

Villages

Sox Max Sox Mean Sox Min

CPCB Std. : 80µg/m3

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx):

The ambient air quality monitoring results show that, NOx concentration at all eight monitoring stations ranges between 11.54 to 13.4 µg/m3, which reveals that air quality in terms of NOx concentration is below the permissible limit determined by CPCB i.e. 80 µg/m3 (Figure 4.7)

FIGURE 4-7 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF NOX



Methane and Non-methane Hydrocarbons and Total Volatile Organic Compounds:

Monitoring result for Non-Methane hydrocarbon and TVOC’s are shown in Table 4.6.

TABLE 4-6 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING RESULTS FOR HC, NMHC AND TVOC

VIILAGE MEAN VALUE

Non-methane hydrocarbons

(NMHC)

Methane hydrocarbons

(HC) Standard method

Total volatile organic

compounds (TVOC) ppm

Standard method

µg/m3 µg/m3

Vataman 10 626.1

IS 5182 (Part 21):2001

0.2

PID Detector as per USEPA

Dholi 11 668.4 BDL*

Raypur 10 562.7 BDL*

Varna 11 713.8 0.1

Rinjha 10 377.0 BDL*

Fatepura 10 474.2 BDL*

Ganol 10 489 BDL*

Haidarpura 10 526.6 BDL*

*Below Detectable Limit for TVOC: <0.1ppm

*Below Detectable Limit for Non methane hydro carbon (NMHC): 0.5 ppm/0.0009µg/m3

*Below Detectable Limit for Methane hydrocarbon (HC): 0.2 ppm/0.0001µg/m3

The Figure 4.8 below shows the monitoring locations of all environment quality parameters monitored. Methane and Non- Methane Hydrocarbon: Concentration for methane hydrocarbons at the

eight sampling stations varied between 377 – 713.8 µg/m3 whereas the concentration of non-

methane hydrocarbon at all eight sampling location found to be between 10- 11 µg/m3.

Total Volatile Organic Carbon (TVOCs): TVOC concentration were found to be Below Detectable Limit (BDL limit is less than 0.1ppm) in a total of six locations out of total of eight locations monitored. Monitoring conducted in Vataman and Varna recorded TVOC concentration of 0.2 and 0.1ppm respectively.



FIGURE 4-8 MONITORING LOCATION MAP



4.2 LAND USE

According to Gujarat Forest Statistics 2009-10, Ahmedabad district covers 8087.00 sq.km of geographical area, out of which only 106.82sq.km falls under forest area. However, no land falls under forest area in Anand district, which covers a total geographical area of 2941.00 sq.km of geographical area covered by Anand district. As per District wise Land Utilization 2006-07, the land use pattern of Ahmedabad and Anand district is given in Table 4.7 as per Statistical abstract of Gujarat State 2009

TABLE 4-7 LAND USE PATTERN OF AHMEDABAD AND ANAND DISTRICT (AREA 00'HA)

S.N District Area under non

Agricultural

uses

Barren and

unculturable Land

Permanent Pasture & Grazing

land

Land under misc. crops

Culturable

Wasteland

Fallow land

Current Fallow

Net Area Sown

1 Ahmedabad

669 661 279 0 263 15 662 5093

2 Anand 470 269 143 0 104 11 59 1891

Existing land use pattern and land cover distribution of exploratory block is studied from satellite imagery, Topo-sheet available from Survey of India and information collected during field surveys. The land use of the region is largely influenced by:

Topographical features;

Number of human settlements/habitation, their density and distribution; and

Relief and geological features

4.2.1 Land Use Pattern Within Block Area The block covers a geographical area of 131sq.km, out of which the maximum percentage of land use is covered under agriculture (88.6%). Commonly grown crops in the region include bi-annual crops of Kharif (Kharif: Rice, Bajra, Groundnut, Cotton, etc. Season: July to October) and Rabi (Rabi: Wheat, Mustard, Cumen, Makki etc. Season: December to March). The block has small to medium sized village ponds (natural and man-made) all across the block. Sabarmati River flows from north east to south west in block, which finally joins the Gulf of Cambay. There is no Reserve/ Protected forest area within the block, however, some scattered plantations are found along roadsides, canals and river. The land-use distribution of the area is presented in Table 4.8 and is shown in Figure 4.9.

TABLE 4-8 LAND USE DISTRIBUTION OF EXPLORATORY BLOCK CB-ONN-2010/11

Land-use Type CB-ONN-2010/11 Block

Area (sq km) Percentage

Agricultural land 116.14 88.66

Settlements 1.89 1.45

Water bodies 8.7 6.65

Roads 1.02 0.78

Open Scrubs 3.2 2.46

Total 131 100.00



FIGURE 4-9LAND USE MAP OF EXPLORATORY BLOCK CB-ONN-2010/11



4.2.2 Area Details of 10 km from Block Boundary

The site surrounding area within 10 km from the block boundary is studied on the basis of available satellite imagery of the area. The site surrounding area of the block comprises of agricultural land, followed by scattered settlements of densely populated towns to small villages, network of national and state highways (NH-8A, SH-8, SH-4, SH-6 and SH-83). The major surface water body in the study area (10km buffer area) are Sabarmati River (flowing NE-SW direction in the block), Vatrak river (joins the Sabarmati river and enters the block from the North east direction), Bhogava river (flowing in the south-west direction to the block) and the Narmada branch canal (which supplies canal water for irrigation and enters the block from the north west direction). Besides, few other small streams also pass through the block, most of which are non-perennial and rain fed and remain dry during most part of the year. Kanewal Talav is also in close proximity (6kms away from SE side of the block) to the block. There is no Biosphere Reserve, National Park, Sanctuary or Reserved Forest within the 10 km buffer area of the block.Topo-sheet imagery, showing details of site surroundings of up to 10 km distance in all directions from respective block boundary is shown in Figure 4-10.



FIGURE 4-10 SATELLITE IMAGERY FOR 10 KM AREA AROUND THE BLOCK



4.2.3 Topography and Drainage

The topography of the region within the block mainly comprises of flat terrain with most of the land taken up for agriculture. The river Sabarmati is on the eastern part of the block, the site has its drainage towards the southeast direction.

The river Sabarmati is the major river, passing through the north eastern part flowing towards the south western part of the block, which finally flows into the Gulf of Khambhat. Apart from this, few other small streams are also passing through the block, most of which are non-perennial and rain fed and remains dry during most part of the year. The digital elevation map showing the topography and drainage of the block has been shown in Figure 4.11



FIGURE 4-11 DIGITAL ELEVATION MAP SHOWING TOPOGRAPHY AND DRAINAGE OF THE BLOCK



4.2.4 Physiography and Geology

Geologically Gujarat provides a wide spectrum of rock types of different ages with the Aravallies in the north east and the unconsolidated alluvium and beach material in its Central and Western parts. The Geological map of Gujarat below (Figure 4.12) confirms the block region of alluvial deposits.

FIGURE 4-12 GEOLOGICAL MAP OF GUJARAT

Source: Narmada Water resource, water supply and Kalpsar department

The Cambay rift Basin (covering the block) is a rich Petroleum Province of India and is a narrow, elongated rift graben, extending from Surat in the south to Sanchor in the north. The total area of the basin is about 53,500 sq. km. Thick Cambay Shale has been the main hydrocarbon source rock in the Cambay Basin. A study of secondary data reveals that geological formation of study area Cambay Basin, sub surface layer belongs to the Archean Age to Pleistocene Age. Various geological formation of the block comprises of Jambusar, Broach Formation and Jhagadia Formations. Sub surface geology also shows presence of Deccan trap group, Songir and granite formation during the age of Upper Cretaceous, Lower Cretaceous to Jurassic and Archean period respectively. The generalized stratigraphy of the region is presented in Figure 4.13



FIGURE 4-13REGIONAL STRATIGRAPHY OF CAMBAY BASIN

Source: NELP-VII/Cambay Basin

4.2.5 Proximity of Sea/Water Bodies

The major surface water body in study area is Sabarmati River and the Narmada branch canal. The availability of sea / water bodies in the block is tabulated in Table 4-9.

TABLE 4-9 PROXIMITY OF WATER BODIES TO WELL LOCATIONS

Sea / Water body Aerial Distance in Km Block Boundary River

Sabarmati Passing through the north-eastern side and flowing towards the edge of the block in the south west direction. Canal

Branch canal Water from Narmada main canal via the Dholka branch canal is supplied via 71.4km long pipeline Ponds

Nabhoi village pond, (Anand district) Within the block Vataman village pond, (Ahmedabad district) Within the block Dugari village pond (Anand district) Within the block Dholi, village pond, (Ahmedabad district) Within the block Raypur, village pond, (Ahmedabad district) Within the block Varna, village pond, (Ahmedabad district) Within the block Selva Nala, (Ahmedabad district) Within the block Khada, village pond, (Anand district) Within the block Fatepura village pond, (Anand district) Within the block

Gulf

Gulf of Khambhat The southern boundary of the block is over 20-30kms (approx.) away from the Gulf of Khambhat shore.



Photo 4-5 Block village small to medium sized ponds(Oct-Dec, 2013)

Photo 4-6 Sabarmati River in the block (April, 2014)

4.2.6 Soil Condition

1Out of the 8 agro-climatic zones defined, the block falls under Bhal and coastal area zone (Dholka taluka) and partly in North Gujarat zone (Tarapur taluka). The soil in Dholka taluka is predominately medium black, poorly drained and saline and is Dark brown, grayish brown and the soil texture varies from silty clay loam to silty clay and clay whereas in Tarapur taluka the soil texture varies between sandy loam to loam and the soils are basically dark yellowish, brown, yellowish brown and the crops grown in the region are tobacco, wheat,

1 Agriculture and Cooperation department, Government of Gujarat



jowar, minor millet, vegetables, spices, oil seeds and condiments. The general trend of fertility in the block region comprises of Nitrogen-poor, Phosphorus medium, Potash medium soil.

Photo 4-7: Soil sampling

Photo 4-8:Soil sampling

Detailed monitoring of soil quality of the area was carried out in the post monsoon season. Six soil monitoring locations were identified in the block area. The locations were selected with a purpose to cover the entire block area particularly to get a proper understanding of the soil variability in the block. One sample from each location was collected using Auger/Farah/Spade. Soil sampling locations along with type of area and detailed analysis results depicting physio-chemical characteristics of soil in representative locations within the study area is given in Tables 4-10 and Table 4–11. Map showing soil sampling locations within the block is given in Figure 4-14

TABLE 4-10SOIL SAMPLING LOCATIONS

Station Code Sampling Location Type of Area S-1 Dholi village, Ahmedabad district Agricultural land S-2 Raypur village, Ahmedabad district Agricultural land S-3 Vataman village, Ahmedabad district Agricultural land S-4 Varna village, Ahmedabad district Agricultural land S-5 Fatepura village, Anand district Agricultural land S-6 Rinjha village, Anand district Agricultural land



TABLE 4-11 RESULTS OF SOIL SAMPLE ANALYSIS

S N Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 1 pH ( 5% Solution) - 8.3 7.9 7.7 8.3 8.1 8.0

2 Conductivity µs 95.3 65.2 120.2 88.7 97.7 109.2

3 Cation Exchange Capacity

meq/100gm Clay 48 49 47 49 48 49

4 Nitrogen as N mg/kg 65.9 77.5 74.0 92.5 90.2 85.4

5 Potassium as K mg/kg 255.7 168.2 149.1 159.2 144.3 149.3

6 Phosphorus as P mg/100 gm 1.25 0.94 0.65 1.05 1.16 1.21

7 Total Organic Content % 0.27 0.19 0.52 0.37 0.24 0.31

8 Sodium Absorption Ratio 12.3 15.1 12.8 8.2 23.8 11.8

9 Textural Classification

a Sand % 10 08 10 10 10 08

b Silt % 16 14 10 09 12 09

c Clay % 74 78 80 81 78 83

10 Porosity % 55 53 54 53 52 56

11 Water Holding Capacity ml/100 gm 21 22 20 21 19 20

12 Colour Light brown

Light brown

Light brown

Light brown

Light brown

Light Brown

Interpretation of soil sample analysis

Soil samples are analyzed for texture, porosity, bulk density, SAR, CEC, pH, conductivity, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, water holding capacity, etc. The summary results of soil samples are presented in Table 4.11 Soil analysis table indicates that the soil, at all the monitoring locations are alkaline having pH range between 7.7 to 8.3. Soil's capacity to hold water has several important influences on water management. Fine textured soil holds more water for a long time; while coarse soils having fewer and larger pores cannot retain as much water. The textural class predominately as per the soil samples analyzed for their silt, sand and clay ratio is clayey soil in the study area. The porosity of the soil samples analyzed vary between 52-56, this further confirms the soil texture as clayey.

Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) is a measure of the suitability of water for use in irrigation. High concentration of sodium disperses soil colloidal particles, rendering the soil hard and resistant to water penetration. The higher the sodium adsorption ratio, the less suitable the water is for irrigation. The potential of sodium hazards increases in soil with higher SAR values. Analysis of samples shows SAR for all the monitoring locations ranging between 8.2 to 23.8. When the SAR rises above 12 to 15, plants have difficulty absorbing water. This causes a decrease in the ability of the soil to form stable aggregates and a loss of soil structure and tilth. This also leads to a decrease in infiltration and permeability of the soil to water leading to problems with crop production. Among the soil samples monitored except Varna village soil sample all other have high SAR values.



FIGURE 4-14 MAP SHOWING 6 SOIL MONITORING LOCATIONS



4.2.7 Seismicity of the Area

The proposed exploratory block of Cambay Basin is situated in low to moderate damage risk zone MSK III as per the earthquake hazard map of India. The map showing seismic zoning of the proposed block is provided in Figure 4.15. With Sabarmati river flowing across the block, chances of water logging of the low lying areas during monsoon season cannot be denied.

FIGURE 4-15 SEISMIC ZONING MAP OF INDIA SHOWING PROJECT SITE

Source: Seismic map of Gujarat from Institute of Seismological Research (Government Of Gujarat.)

4.2.8 Flood Risk

Sabarmati river flows through a wide stretch of very flat terrain in the block before reaching the sea. These flat low lands the river basin, which also cover the block area are prone to flooding during monsoons. The Figure 4.16 depicts the food zone map of Gujarat



FIGURE 4-16 FLOOD ZONE MAP OF GUJARAT

Source: Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority



4.3 WATER AVAILABILITY

The main source of water in block and its surrounding area is the Narmanda Branch Canal. Presently, Sardar Sarovar Project is implemented in Gujarat, as a part of which Narmada Minor Canal has become an important source of irrigated water in districts of Ahmedabad and Anand. Water from Narmada Minor Canal can be used for proposed drilling operations, only with due permission from the office of Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) in Karjan. 2Government of Gujarat has implemented a master plan for creation of State Wide Water Supply Grid, this Grid is aimed at inter basin water transfer from sustainable surface water sources to water scarce and quality affected areas to supply drinking water. Sardar Sarovar Project through its 71.11km Dholka branch canal envisages supply of water for drinking purposes, irrigation and industrial uses to various villages under the taluka.

Narmada Branch Canal is the source of water supply for irrigation to Tarapur block in Anand district. The study area consists of villages falling under two main blocks, namely, Dholka (Ahmedabad district) and Tarapur (Anand district). Presently, based on Sardar Sarovar Narmada Canals progress report, June 2013, over 27 villages under Dholka taluka have been covered under the under the Drinking Water Supply Master Plan Scheme. The Sardar Sarovar Branch Canal network enters the block via Dholka and the water is then supplied to various villages in the block for irrigation and drinking purpose. The canal network is depicted in the Figure 4.17.

The main source of drinking water for Dholka and Tarapur taluka are Periyej talav and Kanewal talav. Pariyej talav is big in size and covers an area of about 361 ha. It is situated at a distance of about 25 km from Nadiad and comes under Kheda district and is over 14 kms away from the eastern side of the block. It receives rain water from surrounding area as well as from Mahi channel. Pariyej lake is a manmade reservoir. The water is used for drinking, fisheries, agriculture and domestic purposes. The Kanewal lake is a sweet water lake, has an approx. area of 1000 acres, it also has a pumping station which pumps water to the surrounding area. Kanewal lake is over 6 kms away from the south eastern boundary of the block and is used for drinking purposes.

Sabarmati River passes through the northeastern part of the block and flows down towards southwest. The Sabarmati stretches to 15km across the study block area, which is used for bathing and washing purpose by the villagers. Through survey it was noticed that the groundwater is available at a depth of approximately 15-25m, from where water is drawn through bore wells or dug wells. However, villagers are mainly dependent on Narmada Branch Canal and personally owned tube wells for irrigation and drinking purpose. The Panchayat owned well has storage, chlorination and pumping distribution facility in most of the villages. Village ponds are also very common in the region, which is used for cattle washing and other domestic washing purposes. It can be concluded that water from these surface water bodies can be utilized during the site preparation and drilling activities of the exploration project after obtaining due permissions from concerned authorities.

2 Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd.



Water Availability in 10km buffer area of the block: Apart from Sabarmati River being the major surface water body in the study area (flowing NE-SW direction in the block), Vatrak river (joins the Sabarmati river and enters the block from the North east direction), Bhogava river (flowing in the south-west direction to the block) and the Narmada branch canal (which supplies canal water for irrigation and enters the block from the north west direction). Besides, few other small streams also pass through the block, most of which are non-perennial and rain fed and remain dry during most part of the year. Selva nala is a waste water channel, which does not contain enough volume of water except when it receives rainfall during monsoon. The Nala receives domestic waste water from neighboring villages Varna, Vataman, Rampura, Raypur, Motipura, Fatepura and so is black water, the Nala further flows to join the Sabarmati river at Moti Boru, which in turn adds on to the river’s pollution load. The drainage pattern of the 10km buffer area of the block has been shown in Figure 4.18



FIGURE 4-17: NARMADA BRANCH CANAL NETWORK

Source: Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited



FIGURE 4-18 DRAINAGE MAP OF THE BLOCK



4.3.1 Surface Water Availability in Sabarmati river:

Sabarmati river is the existing river in the block area. It flows from north eastern direction of the block to the south western direction of the block. The stretch of the river in the block is approx.15kms. The surface water of Sabarmati is used by the villagers for washing and bathing purposes. Sabarmati River is one of the major west flowing Interstate Rivers in India, draining into the Gulf of Khambhat. The basin has a maximum length of 300 km and maximum width of 105 km. It is triangular in shape with the main river as the base and the source of the Vatrak as the apex point. (Refer 4.19)



FIGURE 4-19 MAP SHOWING SABARMATI RIVER BASIN, SUB-BASINS AND G&D SITES

Source: Water Resources Assessment of Sabarmati River Basin, India 2005



The Sabarmati River has a length of 371 kms and the drainage area is of 21674 sq km. As per the map shown in Figure 4.10, the block area is covered under Sub-basin 3. 3The Sabarmati River enters the Gujarat State and passes through the plains and continues to flow in the same direction and joins the Gulf of Khambhat in the Arabian Sea. There are a number of river Gauge and Discharge (G&D) sites maintained both by Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Water Resources Department of the Gujarat state. The annual surface water resources have been estimated sub- basin wise by Department of Water Resources, Government of Gujarat, based on available monthly time series of stream flow and rainfall (GOG, 1996). Their estimate of the average annual surface water resource for the Gujarat portion of the basin is 3,256 million cubic meters with sub basin wise break-up as shown in Table 4.12

TABLE 4-12 SUB BASIN WISE MEAN ANNUAL SURFACE WATER RESOURCES

SUB- BASIN WATER RESOURCES

Dharoi 629

Hathmati 672

Vatrak 1955

Total: 3256

There is a severe shortfall in the availability of surface water in the Sabarmati river basin, especially in upper sub-basin (Dharoi). Water is currently being imported from the Mahi river basin to the portion of Sabarmati river basin in Gujarat to the extent of 1584 million cubic meters, of which 128 million cubic meters is to meet the domestic needs, and remaining 2030 million cubic meters is for irrigation.

The Sabarmati basin is one of the most intensively irrigated regions in Gujarat. Irrigation continues to be a major user of water in the basin in spite of the fact that most part of the basin falls in water stressed region of the state. The area under irrigation has shown dramatic increase over the years due to the construction of storage and diversion structures on the river and its tributaries and easy access to groundwater abstraction because of wide scale use of electric pumps. There are 11 major and medium surface water storage projects and 5 diversion projects and a number of minor projects in the Gujarat portion of the Sabarmati river basin. The current surface water withdrawal for irrigation in the basin has been estimated as 1,304 million cubic meters per year.

From respective sources beyond this confluence, Sabarmati flows through the Dharoi gorge. Emerging from the gorge it passes through the plains and is joined on its left bank at about 170 km from its source by the Hathmati, which is its major tributary. Continuing to flow in South - West direction, the river passes through Ahmedabad and about 65 km

3 Water Resources Assessment of Sabarmati River Basin, India International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage, 2005



downstream, another major tributary, Vatrak joins it on the left bank, flowing for a further distance of 68 km, the river outfalls in the Gulf of Khambhat in Arabian Sea.

The Table 4.13 shows the sub-basin wise average annual groundwater resource in Gujarat. The block falls in Vatrak sub basin and the groundwater resource for agricultural use is recorded as 1149.93 million cubic meters.

TABLE 4-13 SUB BASIN WISE AVERAGE ANNUAL GROUNDWATER RESOURCE (MILLION

CUBIC METER) IN GUJARAT

Sub Basin Replenish able groundwater

recharge industrial use

Groundwater recharge for domestic and

industrial (5% of GR)

Groundwater recharge for environment (15% of GR)

Groundwater recharge for

agricultural use (80% of GR)

Dharoi 224.65 33.70 11.23 179.72 Hathmati 908.31 136.25 45.41 726.65 Vatrak 1437.41 215.61 71.87 1149.93 Total 2570.37 385.56 128.51 2056.30

Sabarmati river basin falls in semi-arid zone. Rainfall in the basin-3 (which includes block area) is low and highly erratic. Rainfall occurs in only four months in a year (Table 4.14). The per capita annual water availability is one of the lowest among the Indian river basins and the present use is sustained by large import of water from adjacent river basins. It can be seen from Table 4.14 that the average rainfall received in sub-basin 3 is moderately low.

TABLE 4-14 BASIN -3 (COVERING STUDY AREA) MONTHLY RAINFALL DATA FOR 1995-1999

(MM)

Month 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 5 year average

Long term avg.

June 9 109 442 141 143 168 65

July 305 290 248 246 246 267 259

August 106 198 298 184 24 162 294

September 65 129 63 187 22 93 86

October 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

November 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

December 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

January 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

February 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

March 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

April 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

May 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 485 726 1051 759 435 691 704



Sabarmati Surface Water Quality: There are 20 industrial estates operating in the Sabarmati river basin. The industries in the basin include small-scale industries, factories, medium and large industries. There are 2,687 medium and large industries. In addition, there are 45,133 small-scale industries. They include textiles, paper products and printing, leather products, rubber and plastic industries, chemical and chemical products and are highly water consuming. Due to discharge of domestic wastewater and industrial effluents, partially treated/untreated into the tributaries of the river and main Sabarmati River, surface water pollution is rather high. However, no industries are located within 10kms radius of the block boundary. But during site survey and village consultation, the water of the river was found to be highly polluted and villagers complained of odour. The river water is not used for drinking or cooking purpose by the villagers. The surface water quality monitored for Sabarmati River by GPCB in 2009-2010 has been given in Table 4.15

TABLE 4-15 WATER QUALITY MONITORING OF SABARMATI RIVER (2009-2010) BY GPCB

River Location

Parameters *

pH D.O. B.O.D. C.O.D.

Sabarmati Hansol Bridge 8.50 6.50 7.00 30.00

Sabarmati Railway Bridge, Ahmedabad 8.00 4.82 2.53 18.40

Sabarmati Vasna - Narol Bridge 8.19 3.37 51.33 211.67

Sabarmati Vautha village 8.04 Nil 49.00 202.00

Sabarmati Miroli 7.86 0.0 67.00 213.00

Sabarmati Kheroj Bridge 8.36 6.90 04.00 37.00

As per GPCB water quality test results, it can be found that the river water quality is alkaline in nature in all the stations monitored. Among the six stations monitored, Vautha village site is closest to the block (approx.10 km from the northern boundary of the block) and the water is found unfit for the survival of aquatic organisms due to absence of dissolved oxygen, this might be due to the high pollution load in this stretch. Additionally, high BOD and COD levels are observed primarily due to discharge of industrial effluents in this stretch.



FIGURE 4-20 STATUS OF SABARMATI RIVER QUALITY POLLUTION IN THE BLOCK AREA

Source: UNEP/GEMS Water programme –Sabarmati river at Vautha

Sabarmati River flowing across the region including the block is critically polluted (Refer Fig 4.20). One of the stations monitored under this program is the Vautha village, where high level of water pollution is recorded. Vautha is the confluence of seven rivers, two of which are the Sabarmati River and the Vartak river. This village is famous for many temples. The site is a pilgrimage site and the influx of people from different communities explains the stretch having low water quality.

4.3.2 Groundwater availability:

The region has been categorized as over exploited w.r.t ground water resource availability. The underground water sources are not adequate to cater to the drinking water demand of the region. The ground water quality of the block is saline. During village consultation, it was noted that the general trend of water level depth in the block area varied between 10-25m (bgl). However, as per the ground water level scenario for Pre Monsoon 2013 studied for Gujarat by CGWB, India, it is found that out the water depth level range between 5-10m (bgl) (Figure 4.21). During post monsoon season, the water depth level has been recorded in the range of 0-5m (bgl) (Figure 4.22).



FIGURE 4-21 WATER LEVEL DEPTH DURING PRE-MONSOON 2003-2012 IN GUJARAT



FIGURE 4-22 PLAN SHOWING DEPTH TO WATER LEVEL (POST MONSOON 2012) OF GUJARAT STATE

Source: Central Ground water board



As per CGWB, West Coast Region, Ahmedabad report, it was found that the Utilizable Ground Water Resources for west coast region is 642 MCM/yr, net ground water draft is 469MCM/yr. Some blocks under Ahmedabad region show Intensive Ground Water Development namely in Ahmedabad City, Bavla, Daskroi, Dholka, Sanand. Hence, GAIL plans to utilize the surface water available in the block namely the Narmada branch canal after due permission from the concerned authorities. The pictures below (Photo 4.9- 4.16) show the ground water, surface water availability as well as ground water/surface water monitoring conducted in the block during post monsoon season, 2013.

Photo 4-9 Dholi village (pond water), Ahmedabad district

Photo 4-10 Water canal in Rampura village

(Ahmedabad district )

Photo 4-11 Pachegam village, nearby waterbody (Anand district)

Photo 4-12 Chitravada village, drinking

water source (Anand district)



Photo 4-13 Sabarmati river within the block (surface water body)

Photo 4-14 Village canal supply water

Photo 4-15 Ground water sampling Photo 4-16 Surface water sampling - upstream of Sabarmati river

Primary monitoring of the surface and ground water bodies is carried out within the block, to assess the existing water quality in the area; as such it can be taken for project purposes. Location of the surface and groundwater monitoring stations is shown in Figure 4-23.

4.3.3 Groundwater Quality Monitoring: In order to study the ground water quality in the block area, samples were collected from seven wells/bore wells and analyzed. The purpose of selection of ground water monitoring locations was to cover the entire block size to get a proper understanding of the water quality in the block area. The location details are presented in Table 4.16. The criteria of selection of ground water locations were based on the following:

1. Distance from anthropogenic sources that can interfere with the monitoring results. 2. Present use of ground water sources



TABLE 4-16 LOCATION OF GROUND WATER MONITORING STATIONS

Station Code

Sampling Location District Water level depth (m)

Source Current Use

GW-1 Vataman village Ahmedabad 10-20 Well Washing/Bathing

GW-2 Dholi village Ahmedabad 20-25 Well Washing/Bathing

GW-3 Raypur village Ahmedabad 10-20 Well Washing/Bathing

GW-4 Varna village Ahmedabad 10-15 Borewell Washing/Bathing

GW-5 Rhinja village Anand 20-25 Borewell Washing/Bathing

GW-6 Fatepura village Anand 20-25 Borewell Washing/Bathing

GW-7 Khada village Anand 20-25 Well Washing/Bathing

Results of ground water sampling is given in Annexure 5



FIGURE 4-23 SURFACE AND GROUND WATER MONITORING LOCATIONS



Interpretation of ground water quality

Physio-chemical analysis of groundwater samples show Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Chloride, Sulphate concentrations above permissible limit in three locations out of the seven sampling locations. Chloride was found above the permissible limit (1000mg/l) in Varna and Rinjha village water samples viz. 1178.1mg/l. TDS was found higher in Raypur, Varna and Rinjha village water samples viz. 2640mg/l, 3740mg/l and 3208mg/l respectively than the permissible limit set as 2000mg/l. Varna and Rinjha water samples showed high sulphate content i.e above the permissible limit of 400mg/l. High chloride, TDS and sulphate levels can be attributed to the proximity of the block to the Gulf of Khambhat, which is over 25-30kms away from the southern boundary of the block.

However, concentration of heavy metals were found well within the permissible limits of IS 10500- 2012 viz. Cadmium and Arsenic, whereas for Lead concentration in samples taken from Varna, Rinza, Fatepura and Khada village were found to be above the permissible limit specified for drinking water.

High Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is present in ground water samples of GW3- Raypur (2640 mg/l), GW4-Varna (3740 mg/l) and Rinza (3208 mg/l). Although TDS is generally not considered as a primary pollutant, the principal application of TDS in study of water quality is an indication of aesthetic characteristics of drinking water.

High TDS levels generally indicate hard water and high salinity, which is caused by the presence of calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium cations and bicarbonate, carbonate, chloride, nitrate, and sulfate anions. Overall, it is observed that the Total Coliform results for all water samples analyzed shows the presence of bacteriological contamination well above the permissible limit (10CFU/100ml) set by BIS and do not comply with drinking water specifications. This may be due to the fact that open defecation is practiced in many villages however few villages have septic tanks. Mixing of drainage water, human waste and agricultural runoff are the common reasons for groundwater bacterial contamination. However, it can be inferred that the groundwater from these locations can be used for drinking only after disinfection in Vataman, Dholi, Fatepura and Khada village, however for Raypur, Varna and Rinjha village water samples show that proper treatment is required prior disinfection. Focusing on the present trend of use of ground water in the block area, it is observed that the groundwater is not used for drinking purpose and is only used for washing, bathing and other domestic purposes.

In absence of analysis for the other heavy metal concentrations (other than Lead, Arsenic and Cadmium) in ground water during the current monitoring program, secondary sources were explored. The only relevant source identified was part of EIA done in late 2011, for an oil and gas exploratory drilling project adjoining this block. With reference to the EIA study conducted for Jay Polychem (India) Limited in Oct 2011, for its block which lies adjacent (northern boundary) to GAIL’s block has ground water locations within a distance of 3 km from the villages located on the



northern side of the current study area. The distance of these locations from GAIL block as well as the monitoring result is shown in Annexure 5.

With reference to Annexure 5, it can be inferred that all monitoring locations have Cd, Cr, Cu, CN and Hg below the CPCB limits. Even iron concentration in all locations were found to be below the CPCB limit set except in Ingoli village where Iron concentration was observed to be high (3.962mg/l) and above the permissible limit for drinking water.

4.3.4 Surface Water Quality Monitoring

The surface water monitoring locations details are mentioned below in Table 4.17. Sabarmati river was monitored upstream, mid-stream and downstream. However, the criterion for sampling location selection was distance from anthropogenic sources and use of the surface water body. The reason of selecting six locations in the block was to obtain information of all the major surface water bodies present in the entire block area. Surface water monitoring results have been shown in Annexure 6.

TABLE 4-17 SURFACE WATER SAMPLE LOCATION DETAILS

Station Code Sampling Location

SW-1 Upstream Sabarmati river (Near Ganol village, Ahmedabad district

SW-2 Mid-stream of Sabarmati river (near Rinza village, Anand district)

SW 3 Downstream of Sabarmati river (near Haidarpura village, Anand district)

SW 4 Vataman village pond, Ahmedabad district

SW 5 Varna village pond, Ahmedabad district

SW 6 Selva nala, Ahmedabad district

Interpretation of Surface water quality

Six surface water bodies were monitored for their physiochemical and bacteriological characteristics. It can be inferred from the results (Annexure 6) that the surface water samples taken from Sabarmati river (u/s, m/s and d/s) have very low dissolved oxygen levels in the range of (<0.5 to 3.0 mg/l) as well as high Biological Oxygen demand (B.O.D) levels in the range of 23-48mg/l, hence do not comply to class of A,B,C and D but is suitable for Class E i.e. (Irrigation, Industrial Cooling, Controlled Waste disposal) as per CPCB standard, mentioned for best use classification of surface water. The total coliform values observed in these three samples were 160CFU/100ml, 198CFU/100ml and 92CFU/100ml.

The remaining three surface water samples taken from Vataman, Varna and Selva nala have Dissolved Oxygen (DO) values in the range of 5.9 – 7.1 and BOD values in the range of 6-91mg/l and hence comply to Class D (Propagation of Wild life and



Fisheries) water quality criteria as per CPCB standard. However, we suspect an error to have occurred in the analysis, due to which there seem to be a contradiction between BOD and DO values in these locations. Due to possible error in the analysis of DO, the values of DO in these surface water bodies seem to be normally higher vis-à-vis the BOD values observed. The total coliform observed was 18CFU/100ml, 56CFU/100ml and 92CFU/100ml respectively.

In the current monitoring program, heavy metals could not be analyzed in surface water. In absence of any other secondary data available for relevant surface water locations, surface water monitoring analysis done as part of the EIA study conducted in an adjacent area has been referred. With reference to the EIA study conducted for Jay Polychem (India) Limited in Oct 2011, for its block which lies adjacent (northern boundary) to GAIL’s block has surface water locations within a distance of 5km from the villages located on the northern side of the current study area. The distance of these locations from GAIL block as well as the monitoring result is shown in Annexure 6.

From these results, it can be inferred that all six heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, CN, Fe, Pb and Hg) show that heavy metal concentrations in all these surface water bodies/village ponds monitored were found to be below detectable limits. The Sabarmati river monitoring location (A-7) is further 5 km upstream of the monitoring location selected in the current surface water monitoring program. The heavy metal results for the same show heavy metal concentrations to be below detectable limit.

4.4 NOISE

Noise Level is recorded at 12 locations so as to cover the entire block area. Taking the small size of the block, all major road junctions and sensitive receptors (settlements) were taken into consideration while selecting the noise monitoring locations. Noise levels are recorded with the help of a digital noise level meter of Envirotech- SLM 100

model. Noise level is recorded for 24 hours and the noise quality is reported in the form of db (A) day & night for each of the 12 locations. Daytime is considered between 06:00 a.m. to 22:00 p.m. and night between 22:00 p.m. to 06:00 a.m. As per the reconnaissance survey visit, the block does not envisage any major noise generating activity except the vehicular movement. A number of state highways (SH-6, SH-8, SH-4 and SH-83) pass within the block, where vehicular traffic movement occurs throughout the day. It has been identified as the major noise generating source in the block, as there are no other factories present near /within the block. The location of noise monitoring stations is shown in Figure 4-24. Monitoring of prevailing noise levels is carried out within the exploratory block in twelve stations. Noise monitoring results are given in Table 4-18.



TABLE 4-18 NOISE MONITORING RESULTS

Location Code

Location Area Category

Daytime (Ldn) in dB (A)

Night times (Ln) dB (A)

Results Limits Results Limits

N1 Khada village Commercial 45.9 65 34.2 55

N2 Fatepura Village Commercial 46.7 65 33.4 55

N3 Rinza village Residential 47.0 55 33.5 45

N4 Varna village Commercial 56.5 65 48.5 55

N5 Raypur village Commercial 48.4 65 34.9 55

N6 Dholi village Residential 44.0 55 34.0 45

N7 Ganol village Residential 44.6 55 34.5 45

N8 Vataman village Commercial 58.7 65 48.6 55

N9 Rampura village Residential 43.6 55 34.8 45

N10 Motipura village Residential 43.5 55 35.0 45

N11 Pachegam village Residential 43.7 55 34.6 45

N12 Dugari village Commercial 42.0 65 34.3 55

Interpretation of noise quality results Ambient noise monitoring is conducted at six Residential and six Commercial areas within the block. Ambient noise monitoring (Table 4.18) within the block reveals that noise levels during day time ranged between 44.0 to 58.7 dB (A) and during night time between 33.4 to 48.6 dB (A). Ambient noise quality results, revealed that all noise levels recorded at respective locations were below the stipulated CPCB noise limits for day and night time both for Residential and Commercial area category. Noise levels in Varna and Vataman villages recorded both during day and night time, were found to be 56.5 and 58.7dB (A) respectively. This is probably due to the presence of high traffic movement at Vataman Chowkri, intersection point of SH4 and SH6, Varna village is also located on the road junction. The graphical representation of the noise level observed in the various monitoring locations is depicted below in Figure 4.24

FIGURE 4-24 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF NOISE LEVEL MONITORED IN

RESIDENTIAL AREAS OF THE STUDY AREA



FIGURE 4-25 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF NOISE LEVELS MONITORED IN

COMMERCIAL AREA



FIGURE 4-26 MAP SHOWING NOISE MONITORING LOCATIONS



4.5 TRAFFIC VOLUMES

Traffic density was recorded in six locations. The traffic monitoring is carried out at major junctions near and around the block. Monitoring was carried out once at each location for a period of 24 hours continuously. T1 is located in the most centrally located village viz. Vataman, the monitoring point is the junction of all state highways (viz. SH8, SH4 and SH6), which intersect at a point. Location T2 is the entry point of the block from north western side on Dholi approach road. Location T3 is the junction of Bagodra –Vataman road and the approach road to Raypur village. Location T4, T5 and T6 were the major road junction points in Rampura, Fatepura and Khada village. Location of traffic monitoring points is given in Figure 4.26. Traffic survey results are tabulated and described in Annexure 7.

Interpretation:

From the traffic analysis at six monitored locations, it can be inferred the maximum number of two and three wheeler movement observed throughout the day mostly during morning and evening. Light motor vehicles containing four wheelers and small trucks on an average have numbers highest in the afternoon and night time. However, for heavy motor vehicles, the number was observed highest in the morning hours and the night time. Among the villages surveyed, highest traffic was observed in Varna village, where all types and maximum number of vehicles ply on roads at all hours observed. This is basically because Varna is situated near SH6 which leads to Bhavnagar joining NH8E.



FIGURE 4-27 MAP SHOWING TRAFFIC MONITORING LOCATIONS



4.6 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

The block area falls under one of the eight agro climatic zones of the State of Gujarat, namely Bhal and coastal areas zone. The Bhal region is the arid and saline area north of Gulf of Khambhat that covers an area of 1,420 sq. km. under the talukas of Dholka, Dhandhuka, Vallabhipur is the ’Bhal’ region.

TABLE 4-19: FLORAL DIVERSITY OF THE BHAL AND COASTAL AREAS

Zone name Dominant tree types Bhal and the coastal areas

Kasida, Neem, Ceres, sonamahora, reintiji, Babul, gam. Babul, sirasa, sisu, araduso, Nilgiri, kanaji pilu, khijado, manavela bamboo, subavala, bearing, Mango, tamarind, amla, ber, Jambu, gunda, Tamarind etc.

Source: Forest and Environment Department, Gujarat

The proposed block area is covered under Central Gujarat; forest type of this zone has been categorized as Dry Deciduous Forests and Secondary Dry deciduous and Thorn forest. This type of forest is visible in the districts of Vadodara, Panchmahals, Dahod, Kheda (Nadiad), Anand, Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The main species found in this zone are Nilgiri, Neem, Desi baval, Gando baval, Ardusa, Mango and Goras amli etc. However, no Protected/ Reserve Forest area is covered under the block. According to Champion & Seth (1968), natural vegetation in the study area can be classified into four sub groups distributed within 2 groups of forest type, such as:

Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest: 1. 5A/C3 Southern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest 2. 5/DS1 Dry Deciduous Scrub 3. 5/IS1 Southern Dry Tropical reverie forest

Tropical Thorn Forest: 1. 6B/DS2 Tropical Euphorbia scrub

The primary objectives of the biological environment study are:

To assess forest types

To identify common flora and fauna in the study area

To find out any rare and endangered floral and faunal species (if any)

To evaluate wildlife habitat of the area and assess impact of the proposed project on wildlife and their habitats.

The forest areas of Gujarat are unevenly distributed. The major concentration of forests is found all along the eastern border of the state and the hilly portion of Saurashtra. The forests are found mainly in the districts of Dangs, Valsad, Surat and Junagadh.4 Number of the major species such as Nilgiri, Neem and Deshi baval has increased substantially. Nilgiri plantation is expanding due to quick return and available market.

4 Tree wealth in the non-forest areas of Gujarat-Tree Resource-2013



4.6.1 Methodology

Study Area The study area for ecological surveys is considered taking the entire area of CB-ONN-2010/11 Block located in Dholka and Tarapur taluka falling under Ahmedabad and Anand district respectively.

Desktop Review and Reconnaissance Survey A desktop review (management plan and other published document etc.) was conducted to determine the forest area (Toposheet and Satellite imagery), vegetation type (Champion and Seth, 1962), floral and faunal assemblage in the study area. A site reconnaissance visit was conducted in Oct and December, 2013 to identify different ecological habitats, and also to identify the targeted study area for baseline survey.

Baseline Survey Baseline survey was carried out to determine the existing ecological conditions and was designed to fill any data gaps, and to facilitate an adequate assessment of the project’s impacts upon ecology and the development of appropriate mitigation measures. Baseline survey was conducted from December, 2013 and April, 2014 for habitat survey, flora & faunal assemblage, in the study area. Baseline survey has two parts-

(i) Secondary data collection and

(ii) Primary Survey.

Secondary Data Collection Secondary baseline data regarding sensitive ecological habitat (National Park, Sanctuary, Ecological Sensitive Area, Migratory Corridor, etc.), flora & fauna in the study area, forest cover was collected from Forest Department’s website; Management Plan of protected areas and other publish and unpublished documents. Stakeholder consultations (Forest Department, local villagers etc.) were also carried out to understand the major flora & fauna in the study area, pressure on forest resources, presence of any Schedule I species.

Primary Survey Primary survey was carried out in the targeted block area to study the habitat (terrestrial and aquatic), flora and faunal survey (terrestrial and aquatic). Walkthrough survey method was employed for conducting the primary surveys for vegetation in the area. Walkthrough survey method was also employed for studying birds, mammals, reptiles etc. About 50 liters of water was strained through plankton net for collection of samples for planktonic study. Planktonic samples were undertaken from village ponds within the Block.

4.6.2 Terrestrial Ecosystem

The proposed Block and its surrounding areas do not have any protected/reserve forests or any demarcated forest areas. During the site visit, it was observed that major portion of the block area is covered under agricultural land. Plantations along the highways, village road, canals side, pond side and river and stream side are present. Vegetation around the study area comprises of mainly thorny deciduous and bushy vegetation.



4.6.3 Forest Resources

As per India State of Forest Report 2009, Ahmedabad district has a total 143 sq.km of forest area, out of which 15 sq.km falls under moderately dense forest area and 128 sq.km of open forest area. Anand district has 55 sq.km under forest cover, i.e. only 1.71 % of its total geographic area. Out of this total forest cover, 19 sq.km. is under moderately dense forest and 36 sq.km. under open forest area. In particular to the Block, no forest area is present, however some road side, river/canal side plantations along with some village woodlots were observed during the survey.

Forest Type The list of floral species is prepared based on visual observation during site visit and through review of site literatures and secondary data available with various government offices.

Trees are noticed along the village road and along the state highway connecting to the site. Thick lustrous leaves with dense canopy leaning over the road were commonly noticed. These trees provide foraging, nesting and movement corridor for birds and small mammals. Higher frequency of Mahua (Madhuca indica), Mango (Mangifera indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Siris (Albizzia lebbeck), Babul (Acacia catechu), Chilbil (Holoptelea integrifolia), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Imli (Tamarindus indica) etc. were recorded.

4.6.4 Non-Forest Vegetation:

According to the Forest Survey of India, non-forest area includes all area outside the traditional/notified reserve and protected area. 5Trees available in the non-forest area is classified into eight categories for the purpose of data processing and analysis, which are farm forest, roadside plantation, village woodlot, block plantation, pond side plantation, railway side plantation, canal side plantation and others which do not fall in any of the above categories. Tree species in the Block area are mostly planted and few are natural. The proposed exploration block area exhibits presence of the following type of non-forest vegetation;

Farm Forest Trees along farm bunds and small patches of homestead land at various villages are noticed. Few tree species recorded along the farm bunds are Neem (Azadirachta indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Kikar (Acacia catechu), Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia catechu, Acacia nilotica, Jamun (Syzygium cumini) etc. Extensive growth of weeds like castor (Ricinus communis), Babul of various types etc. were recorded in wasteland and non-cultivated land. These trees provide nesting and roosting habitats for avifauna and hideout for small mammals.

5 Forest Survey of India



Village Woodlot Village woodlots are naturally or planted trees on community or private land. Planted trees recorded in village woodlot are Nilgiri (Eucalyptus sp.) Mango (Mangifera indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Mahua (Madhuca indica), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Bakain (Melia azaderach), Imli (Tamarindus indica), species of bamboo etc. These trees provide fruits, timbers and source of income to locals.

Road side plantation Trees are noticed along village road and state highway connecting to the site. Thick lustrous leaves with dense canopy leaning over the road were commonly noticed. These trees provide foraging, nesting and movement corridor for birds and small mammals. Higher frequency of Mahua (Madhuca indica), Mango (Mangifera indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Siris (Albizia lebbeck), Bakain (Melia azaderach) etc. are recorded. The district road connecting the villages showed the presence of Babul (Acacia nilotica), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Chilbil (Holoptelea integrifolia), Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna), Imli (Tamarindus indica), etc. The undergrowth comprises of weed like Congress grass, Munja, Aristida sp., Cenchrus cilitaris.

Pond side Plantation Majority of plants recorded along the pond side are Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Peepal (Ficus religiosa) etc. These are mainly planted by local villagers. The wild growth of Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia catechu, Acacia nilotica, Acacia senegal, Acacia tortilis, dates, Caster (Ricinus communis) etc. are witnessed with extensive growth covering the edge of ponds. These plants have ecological significance, as it acts as hide outs for birds when they fly to these ponds for drinking water.

River and stream side plantation: Banana and papaya, Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Goras Amli, Neem, Babul etc, were spotted as the river side plantations along the Sabarmati River and streams during survey.



Photo 4-17 Village Woodlot

Photo 4-18 Pond side plantation (April,2014)

Photo 4-19 Vegetation near the streams (April,2014)

Photo 4-20 Vegetation on the bank of Sabarmati River, (April,2014)

4.7 SOCIAL FORESTRY

Social forestry program started in 1980, to improve tree resource in Gujarat. 6Under the scheme the development initiative taken included: Raising of Gram Van (village forests) in gaucher lands; afforestation along road sides; canal sides and railway sides; developing grasslands and raising energy plantations, thereby providing and improving tree cover. It also included afforestation of barren hills, degraded areas and ravines. A number of such plantations have also been observed in the block area. A number of trees have been planted under the program, which include Kasida, Neem, Sirus, Sonamahora, Reintri, Babul, Sirasa, Sissoo, Araduso, Nilgiri, Kanaji Pilu, Khijado, Manavela Bamboo, Subavala, Mango, Tamarind, Amla, Ber, Gunda, Prosopis juliflora, Prosopis spicegera, Goras Amli, Jamun. Social forestry has maximum impact in Central Gujarat. As per the Social Forestry division, Forest department, Gujarat, the number of village woodlots raised in Ahmedabad and Anand district is given in the following Table 4.20

6 Final District Agricultural plan, Ahmedabad



TABLE 4-20: DISTRICT WISE INFORMATION ABOUT VILLAGE WOODLOTS RAISED

S.N District 2010-2011 Village Number Hectare 1 Ahmedabad 18 18 99 2 Anand 15 15 65

On a meeting with Mr. Jagdish Prasad, Chief Conservator of Forest, Social Forestry, Gujarat, it was confirmed that the block area does not have protected/reserve forest , the region is devoid of a vast forest cover, tress are sparse and tree plantations are seen only alongside the roads, canals and

river. Mr. T. Karuppasamy (DCF), Ahmedabad further confirmed that these plantations have been done under the Social Forestry program.

Discussion with Dr. T. Karuppaswamy, DCF, Social Forestry, Ahmedabad

A meeting was conducted on 16th April 2014 with Dr. T. Karuppaswamy and the project area is shown to him in a map. He informed us as part of Social Forestry plantation has been made near roads, canals, streams, water bodies in Ahmedabad district. He also informed that the forest department does not have jurisdiction of land that is not included under forest and if drilling is done in an area where social forestry is conducted, permission has to be taken from other concerned departments.

4.8 FLORA DIVERSITY

A detailed survey of the study area witnesses moderate growth of trees around villages, along the roads side and in open fields. In open field higher frequency of mango (Mangifera indica), neem (Azadirachta indica), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), babul. were observed. Dominant tree species were Tamarindus indica (Imli), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Prosopis cineraria (Khyigdo), Ailanthus excelsa (Aurdso) and Salvadorao leoides (Piludi). Plantations of Papaya, Banana was most commonly found along this area. The common tree species found in the study area are included in Annexure 8.

The dominant shrubs observed in this area included Calotropis procera, C. gigantea (Akado), Prosopis juliflora (Gando baval), Ipomoea fistulosa (Nasarmo) etc. (Refer Table 1.5). Climbers/ twinners in the study area dominated by Coccinia grandis (Ghiloda), Luffa cylindrica (Galku), L. acutangula (Jungli turia), Mucuna prurita (Kavach), Oxystelma secamone (Jal dudhi) and Pentatropis spiralis (Shingroti). The floral diversity observed during primary walkthrough survey has been listed under Annexure 8

4.8.1 Agricultural Diversity

Agriculture is the main occupation of the people in the district. Major crops produced in Tarapur taluka of Anand district are banana, papaya, potato, mango, gooseberry, onion, cabbage etc. A significant amount of cereals, pulses and cotton production is witnessed in the villages of Tarapur taluka. Some of the major crops produced in the villages surveyed in Dholka taluka (Ahmedabad district) include cucurbits, cabbage, cumin and cotton. Commonly grown are wheat, Jowar, paddy and mustard. Cotton and Banana plantation are



very good source of income to the farmers and local people. Vegetable farming is practiced by small land holders in areas adjacent to village.

4.9 FAUNAL DIVERSITY

Mammals During the site visit, the most commonly found mammals, noticed during the field survey were field mouse, rabbit, cow, dog, buffalo, Indian langur etc. List of mammals identified by walk through surveys and based on secondary information are given in Annexure 9. Avifauna Aves like Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), sarus cranes (Grus antigone) was observed in study area. Sarus crane is listed as vulnerable in IUCN Red List. 7Gujarat is the third most important State as far as the global population of the Sarus crane is concerned – the first being Uttar Pradesh and second Rajasthan. Ahmedabad, Anand, Baroda and Kheda are important districts for the habitat of Sarus Cranes. Sarus Cranes were observed to forage in shallow water and in agricultural fields. Pea fowl were observed in village woodlots, homestead plantation areas. Cattle egrets, pond heron, intermediate egrets, black headed Ibis etc. were found in large no. in the adjacent agricultural fields and in and around water holes. These birds nest in trees, near water and gather in groups, which may include other heron or egret species.

Grey wagtails, white wagtails and yellow wagtails were also spotted at the project site. Apart from these, Paddy field pipit (Anthus rufulus) which is a small passerine bird was found foraging in open scrub, grassland and cultivated areas within the project site. Other water birds like common sandpiper, common snipe, red wattled lapwing, yellow wattled lapwing, Blackwinged Stilt, Eurasian Spoonbill were also observed.

As river Sabarmati passes through the Block, many birds like River Terns (Sterna aurantia) were found at the site. The River Tern feeds by plunge-diving for fish, crustaceans, tadpoles and aquatic insects in rivers, lakes, and tanks.

The area supports varied habitats viz. open space, scrub-land, agricultural fields, wetlands and human settlements. Common Crow, Pigeon and Lapwing were most commonly observed on the agriculture fields. The other Avifauna includes the Kingfisher, Common Myna, Black Drongo, Parakeets and Kingfisher etc. Annexure 9 below lists the faunal diversity observed in the study area.

7 IBCN



Photo 4-21 Sarus cranes spotted in the Block

Photo 4-22 Cattle egrets and Black Headed Ibis spotted in the Block (April,2014)

Photo 4-23 India peafowl spotted in the Block

(April,2014)

Photo 4-24 Eurasian Spoonbill spotted in the Block(April,2014)

Reptiles Reptilian fauna in the study area represented by the common rat snake, lizard, gecko etc. The list of reptilian species has been presented in Annexure 9.

Some of the fauna recorded from or reported from the Block area were given protection by the Indian Wild life (Protection) Act, 1972, by including them in different schedules. Among the birds in the study area, Pea fowl (Pavo cristatus) is included in Schedule I. Among the reptiles Common rat snake (Ptyas mucosus), Indian cobra and among the mammals Common Langur (Presbytis entellus) were included under Schedule-II of Wild life protection Act, (1972).

4.10 AQUATIC ECOSYSTEM

Aquatic ecosystem in the study area is represented by the Sabarmati River and small tributaries of the river and also the village ponds. The river and the water bodies have been considered for study of the aquatic ecology.

Macrophytes Survey results show 10 species of aquatic macrophytes from the study area. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), Lemna natans, Pistia stratiotes, Sagittaria sagittifolia, Ipomoea pes-tigridis (Wagpadi), Ipomea pes-caprae (Dariani vel), Ipomea aquatica (Nali ni Bhaji), Hydrilla verticillata, Cyperus rotendus, Tridax procumbens etc.



Plankton A total of 11 phytoplankton genera and 17 zooplankton species were encountered from the village ponds within the Block (Vataman Pond, Dholi Pond, Rampura Pond, Pachegam Pond, Fatepura pond). The phytoplankton encountered were common freshwater algae belonging to groups Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Bacillariophyceae. Among the phytoplankton Chlorella sp. was dominant and encountered at all the sampling stations. Crustacean zooplankton belonging to orders Copepoda, Cladocera and zooplankton belonging to phylum Rotifera were dominant. Three copepods viz. Mesocyclops hyalinus Heliodiaptomus sp. and Paradiaptomus sp. were encountered which are common freshwater zooplankters. Six cladocerans Bosmina longirostris, Ceriodaphnia cornuta, Diaphanosoma excisum, Diaphanosoma sarsi, Moina micrura and Moina brachiata were recorded from the study area. Six rotiferan zooplankton viz. Brachionus angularis, B. calyciflorus, B. urceolaris, Filinia terminalis, Keratella cochlearis, K. tropica were also recorded from the study sites. Two ostracods viz. Cyclocypris sp. and Stenocypris sp. were also recorded.

Photo 4-25 Collection of plankton sample from Pachegam Pond

(April,2014)

The density of phytoplankters and zooplankters at the studied ponds are listed in Annexure 10.

Aquatic Bird

Eight species of aquatic birds were recorded from the study area viz. Common Sandpiper, Pond Heron, White Breasted Kingfisher, River Tern, Sarus Crane, Intermediate Egret, Red wattled lapwing,Yellow wattled lapwing, Eurasian Spoonbill, Common Sandpiper, Common Snipe etc.

4.11 WILDLIFE & BIRD SANCTUARIES:

The only bird sanctuary closest to the block is the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, which is a natural lake with muddy water and is a land of spectacular migratory birds. The sanctuary is over 35 km away from north western boundary of the block. 8

8 Forest and Environment Department, Gujarat



4.12 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

The socio-economic study focuses on demographic structure, economic activity, education and literacy profile of the area. Based on data compiled in this section, the EIA will later, attempt to predict and evaluate future impacts of the project on people of the surrounding area, their physical and psychological health and well-being, economic facilities, heritage and culture, lifestyle and other value systems.

Information provided in the following sections is primarily derived from secondary sources (Census of India 2011, District Statistical Handbook etc.).

Public Consultation

Primary information on block, socio-economic infrastructure, is gathered through informal discussion with locals. A team of environment and social scientists along with a GAIL representative made a visit to block area falling under Ahmedabad and Anand district to collect information from primary and secondary sources. The section below gives a clear picture of the socio economic status of the 16 study villages falling under two sub districts viz. Tarapur and Dholka. The primary survey exercise was carried out to collect information on the economic activities, agricultural practices, social infrastructure and community view and aspirations from the project/activity.

Primary survey was carried out in Ganol, Haidarpura, Kheda, Vataman, Varna, Rinza, Rampur, Pachegam, Chitarwada, Dugari, Nabhoi, Dholi, Fatepura, Sarig, Motipura and Raypur village. During the public consultation it was found that the villagers are very positive towards the project and are aware of the direct and indirect benefits due to the project activities. The pictures below (Photo 4-26 to 4-33) show the public consultation conducted in a number of villages of Ahmedabad and Anand district.

Photo 4-26 Dholi village, public consultation (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-27 Raypur village, public consultation (Ahmedabad district)



Photo 4-28 Chitravada village (Anand district)

Photo 4-29 Vataman village (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-30 Dugari village (Anand district)

Photo 4-31 Rinjha village (Anand district)

Photo 4-32 Fatepura village (Anand)

Photo 4-33 Rampura village (Ahmedabad)



Discussions with the informed people at the site and empirical observation helped in further validating the data. In order to know the socioeconomic profile of the block, data was collected from the following 16 villages (Table 4.21) falling within the study range.

TABLE 4-21 LIST OF STUDY AREA VILLAGES

S. N District Taluka Village

1

Anand Tarapur

Khada

2 Rinza

3 Pachegam

4 Chitarwada

5 Dugari

6 Nabhoi

7 Haidarpura

8 Fatepuraa

9

Ahmedabad Dholka

Vataman

10 Varna

11 Rampur

12 Raypur

13 Dholi

14 Ganol

15 Sarig

16 Motipura

Public and Stakeholder Consultation The social team of Senes Consultants India Pvt. Ltd. conducted public consultations in the block area villages during July’13- March’14 and informed the locals about the upcoming project and obtained their opinion w.r.t to the same. The locals inquired about the project risks as well as benefits, the team updated the locals of the environment mitigation measures which would be adopted during construction and operation phase and also about the direct and indirect benefits viz. improvement in physical infrastructure, future economy as well as strengthening of employment potential. Consultations with key stakeholders are a continuous process that was carried all through the EIA process. The stakeholder analysis was followed by discussions with some of the key stakeholders to identify their dependence on the affected or shared resources, the extent of impact on them and measure, which will be undertaken to mitigate these impacts. Issues like land and resource damage, social disturbance, severance and increased congestion, noise and air pollution, employment opportunities, need for development of basic infrastructure, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities in the surrounding villages were discussed during the consultations so that they can be adequately addressed through the environment management plans. The consultations also helped in developing preliminary understanding of the requirement of social development initiatives, which are required in the project village and may be undertaken as part of the GAIL’s CSR activity.



The socio-economic study focuses on demographic structure, economic activity, education and literacy profile of a particular region. The village-wise secondary data (obtained from Census, 2011) is taken into consideration for analyzing the socio-economic profile in a comparative manner for the exploratory block.

4.12.1 General Socio-economic Profile

The population density of the state is 308 persons per sq.km. in census 2011, whereas it was 258 persons per sq.km. in census 2001. This shows a rapid increase in the density of population in the state during the decade of 2001-2011. The literacy rate of Gujarat as per the census 2011 is 79.31%. In rural areas the literacy rate is 73.00 % and in urban areas it is 87.58%. The Schedule caste and Schedule tribe population are 7.1% and 14.8% respectively. Administratively state is divided into 26 districts, 231 talukas, 18,618 villages and 242 towns.

Demographic Profile

According to the 2011 census, the total population of Ahmedabad and Anand district is 72,08,200 and 20,90,276 respectively.

Among the villages falling under Ahmedabad and Anand district, Vataman village has the highest population (6830) followed by Varna (4239) and Khada (2346). Ahmedabad is spread across ten talukas - Barwala, Daskroi, Dholka, Dhandhuka, Detroj, Sanand, Bavla, Ranpur, Mandal and Viramgam. Ahmedabad is an industrial hub for textiles. The sex ratio is 903 females per 1000 males. Anand has a sex ratio as 921 females per 1000 males. The demographical profile as per Census 2011 is given in Table 4.22 below.

TABLE 4-22 DEMOGRAPHICAL PROFILE OF THE STUDY VILLAGES

S N Village name

Total population

No. of House holds

Male population

Female population

Sex ratio

SC ST

1 Khada 2346 476 1235 1111 900 326 0

2 Rinza 2255 423 1133 1122 990 151 0

3 Pachegam 1492 323 771 721 935 207 6

4 Chitarwada 1254 256 669 585 874 476 0

5 Dugari 1330 267 683 647 947 298 11

6 Nabhoi 1170 212 612 558 912 214 0

7 Vataman 6830 1336 3536 3294 932 560 0

8 Varna 4239 787 2246 1993 887 416 0

9 Rampura 300 53 136 164 1206 0 0

10 Raypur 1212 239 640 572 894 22 0

11 Dholi 869 176 456 413 906 154 0

12 Ganol 1719 336 900 819 910 317 0

Source: Census of India 2011

The study area falls under two sub districts (talukas), namely Dholka and Tarapur. With respect to the census data, the total population of the study area is about 25016, out of which 13017 are males and 11999 females. Out of the 16 villages visited, Rampura has the lowest population (300). In the block area, the scheduled caste constitutes only 12.6 % of the total population and scheduled tribe makes a small negligible percentage of 0.1%. The General



Castes (GC) population constitutes the dominant category making it up to 87.4 % of the total population, please refer Figure 4.27

FIGURE 4-28 PERCENT POPULATION OF SC AND ST IN STUDY VILLAGES

FIGURE 4-29 SEX RATIO IN THE STUDY AREA

The highest sex ratio (1,206) within the study area is found in Rampura while lowest (874) is reported in Chitarwada village. (Figure 4.28)



FIGURE 4-30 MALE AND FEMALE POPULATION (%) IN STUDY VILLAGES

Out of the study area villages, equitable number of females and males were found in Rhinza, and the highest percentage of females (55%) were found in Rampura (Figure 4-29).

4.12.2 Education and Literacy

Study of education and literacy profile in the region is relevant in order to have an understanding whether the proposed project can utilize skilled human resources available within the study area. Highest literacy rate is found in Khada village (74.5%) and the lowest is observed in Raypur village (55.7%). As shown in Figure 4-30, highest male literacy rate is observed in Khada village (43.8%) and lowest male literacy is found in Rampura (29.7%) whereas highest female literacy rate is observed in Pachegam (31.8%).

FIGURE 4-31 MALE AND FEMALE LITERACY RATE IN THE STUDY AREA



4.12.3 Economic Activities and Livelihood Pattern

An understanding of the economic activity and livelihood pattern is important to predict the impact of the project activities on the economy of the regions. The major occupation in the area is agriculture. A significant percentage of the workforce is engaged in agriculture in Dholka and Tarapur taluka. Small shops are owned by villagers, which is another source of livelihood for some.

The percentage of economically active population in the district, is substantively lower than the state average of 36.9 per cent. Majority of inhabitants (about 78.3% in Nabhoi , 59.0% in Ganol) in the study area villages are employed as agriculture labors. This is followed by cultivators category and then by other workers. Percentage of people employed as household workers is less.

TABLE 4-23WORKFORCE PARTICIPATION FOR STUDY AREA VILLAGES

It was reported that a major portion of the agriculture labors comprise of migrants from U.P, Orissa and Bihar.

FIGURE 4-32: EMPLOYMENT DETAILS OF THE STUDY AREA

Village Total

Worker %

Cultivator % Agriculture

Labour

% Household

Worker

% Other Worker

Khada 1238 20.3 24.4 0.4 31.6

Rinza 1293 16.4 18.1 0.6 10.4

Pachegam 641 25.0 38.1 0.3 7.3

Chitarwada 510 22.0 50.4 0.2 22.7

Dugari 494 40.5 26.7 1.2 9.9

Nabhoi 397 8.1 78.3 0.3 9.3

Vataman 2234 27.5 45.7 0.4 15.4

Varna 1872 12.4 19.9 0.7 16.0

Rampura 112 29.5 19.6 0.0 8.9

Raypur 456 44.3 30.7 1.8 8.6

Dholi 300 31.0 45.7 0.3 22.7

Ganol 629 20.3 59.0 0.2 15.3



FIGURE 4-33 PERCENTAGE COMPOSITION OF VARIOUS WORKERS IN THE STUDY AREA

As seen in Figure: 4.32, major workforce is engaged in agriculture sector followed by cultivator workers. Agriculture constitutes major income generation sector in the study area.

Economic Activity

Agriculture is the major activity with sowing of Rice, Cotton, Wheat, Mustard, Jowar etc. The main source of water for drinking is the Pariyej canal and Kaneval canal water. Livestock rearing is carried out on a very small scale mainly for non-commercial purposes.

Infrastructure

Ahmedabad District is surrounded by Mehsana, Sabarkantha, and Gandhinagar districts to the north, Kheda district to the east, the Gulf of Khambhat (Gulf of Cambay) and Bhavnagar district to the south, and Surendranagar district to the west. District has its headquartes in Ahmedabad city. Anand lies between Ahmedabad and Vadodara on the Western Railway, 101 km from state capital Gandhinagar. The National express highway from Ahmedabad to Vadodara also passes through Anand. National Highway 8 passes through the Ahmedabad district connecting it to major industrial centers, which includes Gandhinagar (28 km), Vadodara, Bharuch (182 km), Surat (278 km), Anand (73 km), Navsari (301 km) and Mumbai (516 km). The block area is approachable through the National Highway NH-8A via the Bagodra- Vataman Road. The study area has internal well metalled roads namely Bagodra- Vataman Road and the Simej-Pipali road connecting the villages under the bloack area.

The road infrastructure facility within the villages is not very good. The internal village roads are mostly kuccha roads but the approach roads to the villages are metalled namely Bagodra- Vataman Road and the Dholka-Vataman road connecting the villages under the block area.”. Transportation to the towns and cities is through means of private vehicles as well as



government bus service. Power supply is available in all the village households. The drinking water is mainly sourced from Periyej and Kanewal lake.

Photo 4-34 Existing transportation facility in Dholi village, (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-35 Raypur village approach road (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-36 Raypur village well metalled access road (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-37 Vataman village metalled access road (Ahmedabad district)

Photo 4-38 Chitravada village internal kachha road (Anand)

Photo 4-39 Fatepura village internal kachha road



Social Infrastructure

Based on site reconnaissance survey and village consultation, the social infrastructure facilities in the study area has been studied. Almost all the villages have Government run primary schools. Secondary schools are only available in Khambhat, Kheda, Tarapur and Dholka, which are big cities. For higher education, the village youth has to travel to Dholka or Tarapur city. Primary health centers are not commonly available in the villages surveyed and for major medical situations, people have to travel to Dholka or Tarapur. Government owned ambulances are available by dialing 108 at the time of emergency.

Photo 4-40 Primary School in Raypur village

Photo 4-41 Temple at Dugari village

Photo 4-42 Bank branch in Vataman village (Ahmedabad)

Photo 4-43 Vataman village primary school (Ahmedabad)



5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

This section of EIA systematically identifies, characterizes and evaluates potential impacts arising out of the project through a semi-quantitative system so that these can be effectively addressed in environment management plan for the proposed exploratory project.

An environmental impact identification matrix is developed to formally give an overview of possible interactions between project activities and environmental components, which are affected. The matrix structure takes into account physical, biological and socioeconomic components of the environment on one axis (X axis) and activities or aspects involved in the proposed exploratory drilling on the other side (Y axis). Environmental aspects (based on site preparation and drilling phase activities) and impacts taken into consideration in line with standard management system terminology is presented in the Box 5.1 below.

Box 5.1: Environmental Aspects and Impacts The International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS), ISO 14001 defines environmental aspect as: “An element of an organization’s activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.” and environmental impact as :

“Any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organization’s activities, products or services.”

An environmental and socio-economic impact may result from any of identified project activities listed in the matrix below, i.e. the activity-component interaction. Matrix with identified environmental and social impacts is presented in Table 5.1 in the adjoining page.

EIA Study for Exploratory Drilling Project in CB-ONN-2010/11 block


TABLE 5-1 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX (WITHOUT MITIGATION)

Physical Environment Biological Environment Socio-Economic Environment

Aes

thet

ics

and

Vis

ual

impa

cts

Air

Qua

lity

Noi

se Q

uali

ty

Soil

Qua

lity

Lan

d U

se

Loc

al D

rain

age

and

Phys

iogr

aphy

Surf

ace

wat

er q

uali

ty

Gro

und

Wat

er R

esou

rces

Gro

und

wat

er q

uali

ty

Ter

rest

rial

hab

itat

Eco

logi

cal S

ensi

tive

Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

re

sour

ces

Mig

rato

ry b

irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

esti

cate

d A

nim

als

Los

s of

land

and

live

liho

od

sour

ce

Com

mon

Pro

pert

y U

sage

C

onfl

ict

Job

and

Eco

nom

ic

Opp

ortu

nity

C

ultu

ral a

nd B

ehav

iour

al

Con

flic

t C

omm

unit

y H

ealt

h an

d Sa

fety

O

ccup

atio

nal H

ealt

h an

d Sa

fety

A. Pre-Drilling Activities

Land acquisition, Site clearance and approach road development

Well site preparation

Sourcing and transportation of borrow material etc

Storage and handling of raw material and debris

Transportation of drilling rig and ancillaries

Surface run-off discharge

B. Exploratory Well Drilling and Testing

Physical Presence at site

Operation of DG sets and machineries

Casing and cementing of exploratory well




Aes

thet

ics

and

Vis

ual

impa

cts

Air

Qua

lity

Noi

se Q

uali

ty

Soi

l Qua

lity

Lan

d U

se

Loc

al D

rain

age

and

Phy

siog

raph

y

Sur

face

wat

er q

uali

ty

Gro

und

Wat

er R

esou

rces

Gro

und

wat

er q

uali

ty

Ter

rest

rial

hab

itat

Eco

logi

cal S

ensi

tive

Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

re

sour

ces

Mig

rato

ry b

irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

esti

cate

d A

nim

als

Los

s of

land

and

live

liho

od

sour

ce

Com

mon

Pro

pert

y U

sage

C

onfl

ict

Job

and

Eco

nom

ic

Opp

ortu

nity

C

ultu

ral a

nd B

ehav

iour

al

Con

flic

t C

omm

unit

y H

ealt

h an

d S

afet

y O

ccup

atio

nal H

ealt

h an

d S

afet

y

Drilling mud preparation and usage (water sourcing)

Exploratory well drilling

Storage and disposal of drill cuttings and mud

Treatment and disposal of process waste water

Discharge of surface run-off

Sewage treatment

Operation of base camp

Flaring during production testing and process upset

Accidental events viz. blow out

C. Decommissioning and Reinstatement

Dismantling of rig and associated facilities




Aes

thet

ics

and

Vis

ual

impa

cts

Air

Qua

lity

Noi

se Q

uali

ty

Soi

l Qua

lity

Lan

d U

se

Loc

al D

rain

age

and

Phy

siog

raph

y

Sur

face

wat

er q

uali

ty

Gro

und

Wat

er R

esou

rces

Gro

und

wat

er q

uali

ty

Ter

rest

rial

hab

itat

Eco

logi

cal S

ensi

tive

Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

re

sour

ces

Mig

rato

ry b

irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

esti

cate

d A

nim

als

Los

s of

land

and

live

liho

od

sour

ce

Com

mon

Pro

pert

y U

sage

C

onfl

ict

Job

and

Eco

nom

ic

Opp

ortu

nity

C

ultu

ral a

nd B

ehav

iour

al

Con

flic

t C

omm

unit

y H

ealt

h an

d S

afet

y O

ccup

atio

nal H

ealt

h an

d S

afet

y


Removal of well site construction materials

Top soil laying and site reinstatement

Probable negative impacts Probable positive impacts



5.1 IMPACT EVALUATION METHODOLOGY

5.1.1 Impact Criteria and Ranking Once all project environmental activities are comprehensively identified for the site preparation and drilling phase of the proposed project, the level of impact that may result from each of the activity-component interactions is assessed based on subjective criteria. For doing this, three key elements are taken into consideration based on standard environmental assessment methodologies: Severity of Impact: Degree of damage that may be caused to concerned environmental components ; Extent of Impact : Geographical spread of the impact around project location and corridors of activities; and Duration of Impact: Time for which the impact lasts taking into account the project lifecycle. These elements are ranked into three levels viz. 1 (low), 2 (moderate) and 3 (high) based on the following criteria provided in Table 5.2 below:

TABLE 5-2 IMPACT PREDICTION CRITERIA

Impact Elements

Criteria Ranking

Severity Regional impact resulting in long term changes and/or damage to the environment components.

Major impact on regional resources viz. loss of endangered species, aquifer depletion etc

Major impact on human health (e.g. serious injury, loss of life) on account of accidental events viz. fire or explosion, blow outs etc

Negative wide spread national and international media coverage.

3

Local scale impact resulting in short term change and/or damage to the environment components.

Local scale impact on community resources and infrastructure facilities.

Moderate impact on human health and well-being (e.g. noise, light, odour, dust, injuries to individuals),

Complaints from public

2

Limited local scale impact resulting in temporary disturbance/loss of environment components.

Limited impact on human health and well-being (e.g. occasional dust, odour, and traffic noise).

Limited impact on common property resources

Public perceptionor concern

1

Extent Regional scale impact and including impacts on physical, biological and socio-economic environment of the site

3

Largely local level impact limited to immediate vicinity of the proposed project facility

2

Impact not discernable on a local scale 1

Duration Impact is likely to occur during the entire project life cycle at all times. 3

Impact is likely to occur in some phases of project life under normal operating conditions.

2

Impact very unlikely to occur during project life cycle but may occur in exceptional circumstances.

1



These elements are ranked into three levels viz. 1 (low), 2 (moderate) and 3 (high) based on the following criteria provided in Table 5.2 above. A positive or beneficial impact that may result from this project is not ranked and is depicted in the form of ++.

5.1.2 Impact Significance

Significance of the impact is adjudged based on a multiplicative factor of three element rankings. Table 5.3 below assigns impact significance in the scale of LOW-MEDIUM-HIGH and will be used for delineation of preventive actions, if any, and management plans for mitigation of impacts. Impact significance is determined taking into account measures, which are factored in the design and planning phase of the project. Legal issues are taken into account in the criterion sets, wherever appropriate, to aid GAIL’s effort to comply with all relevant legislations and project HSE requirements. Additionally, results of quantitative impact prediction exercise, wherever undertaken, are also fed into the process.

TABLE 5-3 CRITERIA BASED SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACTS

To assist in determining and presenting the significance of an impact, an impact evaluation matrix (Table 5.3) is developed based on the one developed for impact identification exercise. In addition to ranked weights, the significance of impacts is depicted using colour codes for easy understanding. In cases environmental component is impacted by more than one project activity, higher impact significance ranking is taken as significance ranking for the subject receptor. Impacts determined to be having high significance ranking of “>12” are considered significant requiring intervention in terms

Severity of Impact (A)

Extent of Impact (B)

Duration of Impact (C)

Impact Significance

(A X B X C)

1 1 1 1

LOW

1 1 2 2

1 2 1 2

1 1 2 2

2 1 2 4

1 2 2 4

3 1 2 6

MEDIUM

1 3 2 6

2 2 2 8

3 2 2 12

2 3 2 12

2 2 3 12

3 3 2 18 HIGH

3 2 3 18

2 3 3 18

3 3 3 27

- Impact is Beneficial - ++ POSITIVE



of preventive actions and/or requires additional mitigation to reduce level of potential impact. Recommended mitigation measures and management plans are presented in Chapter 7. A second impact evaluation matrix after including mitigation measures is given in Table 5-8.

5.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES

This section discusses probable impacts during various phases of the project lifecycle on environmental and socioeconomic components. Rankings for each activity – component interaction is based on the criterion set earlier and the resulting environmental significance with necessary justification is recorded below for each set of impacts and the same is represented in evaluation matrices. Potential project related impacts are assessed and ranked considering mitigation measures that are likely to be implemented by the proponent during exploratory drilling. Significance ranking of potential impacts identified and assessed for proposed project activities is based on, without any prior adoption of mitigation measures by the proponent. In broader context, it is however, important, to remember that such a project (exploration of oil and gas) also includes positive socioeconomic impacts in terms of increase in local business on a larger perspective by providing potential energy security at a national level.

5.2.1 Visual Impacts and Aesthetics

Visual impacts during exploratory drilling operations is anticipated from site clearance and well site preparation, vehicles involved in the transportation of raw materials and personnel, material stockpiles and physical presence and operation of drilling rig and associated facilities. During drilling site preparation, nearly 120m X 100m of land area is to be cleared for each well to be drilled. Considering major portion (88.6%) of block being occupied by agricultural land9, visual impacts are likely to be more distinctive. However, taking into account the temporary nature of site preparatory activities and necessary mitigation measures to be implemented by the proponent with respect to siting of well locations and borrow areas, use of existing infrastructure, etc. impact is not considered majorly significance. The visual impact, due to operation of drilling rig and presence of base camp is not considered significant given the temporary nature of exploratory activities (about 90 days). Some visual impacts are envisaged from light generated from flaring events. However, such activity is likely to be intermittent in nature, to occur only during process upset and production testing. Reinstatement of well site not indicative of commercially exploitable hydrocarbon reserve and is also likely to positively contribute to the site visual aesthetic.

9 Source: SENES GIS maps



Severity of Impact 1 Extent of Impact 2 Duration of Impact 2

Impact Significance = 4 i.e. Low

5.2.2 Potential Impact on Land use

During drilling operation:

Major land use changes will occur only during the implementation of drilling program Since the block area has agricultural land (more than 80%) as the major portion, changes in land use is anticipated as part of this project. However this change would be temporary, given the drilling period of 90-120 days. In addition to this, the drilling activities will only be restricted within a small area (~3 acres). Further, taking into account that GAIL will be restoring the land to its original use for wells not indicative of hydrocarbon reserve the impact is not likely to be significant.

The entire drilling operation, being a temporary activity, will not require any kind of land acquisition (as it involves temporary leasing of land) and also will not involve clearing of trees to the extent possible, except few ground vegetation. During drilling activities, soil property may get affected due to clearing of undergrowth for movement of truck load with drilling rig & associated machineries and crew.



5.2.3 Potential Impact on Air Quality

The region under study exhibits general dryness throughout the year, and as per the reconnaissance visit as well as the primary ambient air quality monitoring conducted, it is known that the primary source of air pollution in the block is only the vehicular movement. Operation of vehicles and construction machineries: As the existing PM10 levels are almost touching CPCB limits, any addition of particulate matters from construction activity may exceed CPCB limits for PM10 (Pls. refer section 4.1.2). Exhaust emission from movement of vehicles and operation of construction machineries is likely to contribute to air pollutant load (primarily PM, NOx, SOx and CO) in the ambient air near well site facilities. So due to the already existing high baseline PM10 levels, the addition of vehicular movement would aggravate the pollution load, which would only be mitigated by adopting more precautionary measures/commitment for controlling such emissions from project. The impact is considered to be of low significance. However, considering localized nature of impacts, temporary nature of construction and drilling activities, along with necessary mitigation measures is likely to be adopted by the proponent.





Raw material transport, storage and handling: During construction phase, it is anticipated that borrow material and aggregates will be required at well site location for road construction or strengthening and site preparatory activities. Fugitive emission is therefore anticipated from transportation, storage and handling. Fugitive emissions are also anticipated from top soil stockpiles generated from stripping during site preparation activities.

However, the generation of such fugitive dust is likely to be governed by micro-meteorological conditions (wind speed and direction) and transportation route condition. Within the exploratory block, micro-meteorology is characterized by dry conditions in most parts of the year. This is further reinforced by temporary nature of the construction phase activities and limited movement of project vehicles (5 no’s/well). Also, with proponent adopting specific mitigation measures to this regard, no significant impact is envisaged.

Mitigation Measures:

All vehicles used for transportation of loose and friable materials will not be loaded over the freeboard limit and will be covered.

Water spraying will be done on the access roads to control re-entrained dust during dry season.

Equipment, machinery and vehicles having inbuilt pollution control devices will be considered as a measure for prevention of air pollution at source.

Engines and exhaust systems of all vehicles and equipment used for the project will be maintained so that exhaust emissions are low and do not breach statutory limits set for that vehicle/equipment type.



Emissions from DG sets: Drilling consumes a considerable amount of electric power, for which two DG sets of capacity 370 KVA will be installed to fulfill the pota cabin and related emergency power requirements of the labour camp. Air pollution from point sources will be principally contributed by the two DG sets (370 kVA capacity of each operational during the drilling operation. The primary pollutants emitted by a DG set consist of particulate matter, Oxides of Sulphur and Nitrogen, and Carbon monoxide. Dispersion of these air pollutants may affect receptors viz. village settlements located in



near vicinity of the well site only under exceptional combination of meteorological conditions. However, considering the temporary nature of drilling phase (approx. 90 days) and provision of adequate DG set stack height for effective dispersion of air pollutants, no significant impact to this regard is envisaged. Additionally, the proponent also plans to adopt and implement necessary mitigation measures as discussed in subsequent section to effectively address potential air quality impacts from DG set operation. However given the intermittent nature of the proposed project the impact is likely to be localized in nature and can be adequately managed through implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. The DG set specification has been provided in Table 5.5

Flaring is an important safety measure used at onshore oil and gas facilities to ensure gas and other hydrocarbons are safely disposed off in the event of an emergency, power or equipment failure or other process upset conditions. An air pollutant dispersion modeling exercise has been undertaken to predict the ground level concentrations of pollutants at various distances from the source in order to assess and evaluate possible air quality impacts that may arise from the combined DG set and flaring operation.

Air quality in terms of ground level pollutant concentrations (GLCs) on a Cartesian grid have been calculated using the Industrial Source Complex – Short Term (ISC3-ST) model which is considered to be a standard model for prediction of air quality impacts worldwide, including the US EPA. Based on the operation of DG sets the following scenarios have been considered for assess the cumulative impact of operation of DG sets, gas based generator sets and flaring operations:

Scenario-1: Drilling Operations: 2 x 370 KVA DG sets

Scenario-2: Flaring operation

Particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide have been identified as the criteria pollutants resulting from DG set emission and have been considered for prediction modeling to compute the incremental and ground level concentration (GLC) near sensitive receptors viz. village settlements. Emission factor for various pollutants, viz. NOx, CO and particulate matter was presumed based on values recommended by the US EPA AP 42: Compilation of Emission Factors for DG Sets and information provided by GAIL. The following input data were utilized for carrying out ISC-ST3 dispersion modeling for Scenario 1:



TABLE 5-4 DG SET SPECIFICATION

S. No. Particulars Values

1 DG set capacity (KVA) 370 3 No of stacks 2

4 Height of stack 11

5 Diameter of stack (m) 0.15

6 Exit velocity of gas (m/s) 15.6

7 Exit gas Temperature (0C) 435

8 Sulphur Content in Fuel (%) 0.25

9 Fuel Consumption (L/h) each DG set at 100% load 24

10 Density of Fuel (kg/m3) 856

11 Emission rate (g/s) for each DG set

NOx 0.20

PM 0.01

CO 0.08

In time of assessing the potential impact from DG set operation, worst case scenario assumption has been considered when both the DG sets of 370 KVA capacities will run at the same time. The incremental value of the PM, NOx and CO as obtained through predictive modeling undertaken for DG operation at drill site (Scenario 1) is given in Table 5.6 below.

TABLE 5-5 GLC AND RESULTANT VALUE FOR CRITERIA POLLUTANTS- SCENARIO I

Concentration (µg/m3) AQ1 AQ2 AQ3 AQ4 AQ5 AQ6 AQ7 AQ8

PM

Incremental Conc. 0.00 0.11 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.01 0.04 0.02

Baseline Conc. 89.1 58.4 56.0 93.7 54.9 53.1 51.4 61.7

Resultant Concentration 89.1 58.51 56.01 93.72 54.92 53.11 51.44 61.72

NAAQS 100 µg/m3

NOx


Baseline Conc. 11.5 12 11.6 13.4 12.7 11.5 12.1 12.0

Resultant Concentration 11.5 14.4 11.99 13.91 13.29 11.81 12.99 12.46

NAAQS 80 µg/m3

CO*


NAAQS 2 mg/m3

* CO value computed is the predicted incremental concentration of CO during DG set operation, however as per approved TOR, CO monitoring was not proposed, hence no baseline concentration has been obtained.



Though, ISC3-ST is a refined model, the simulation was carried out based on primary meteorological data to be able to predict worst case air quality impacts for an average 24 hr. period that may be caused by peak power utilization at site. The maximum GLC and its distance of occurrence from source as recorded for criteria pollutants from air dispersion modeling undertaken for the operation of 370kVA DG set at the borehole drill site (Scenario 1) is presented below:

TABLE 5-6 MAX. INCREMENTAL CONCENTRATION AND SOURCE DISTANCE (SCENARIO-I)

S.N PARAMETERS MAXIMUM GLC µg/m3 Distance and Direction from Source

1 PM 0.44 1.4 km NW 2 NOx 8.81

3 CO (mg/m3) 3.6

Spatial distribution of predicted concentration as a result of DG set operation and flaring is shown in Figure 5.1 and Figure 5.5 respectively.



FIGURE 5-1 ISOPLETHS FOR PM EMISSION FROM DG SETS



FIGURE 5-2 ISOPLETH FOR NO2 EMISSION FOR DG SET



FIGURE 5-3 ISOPLETHS FOR CO EMISSION FROM DG SETS



The emitted pollutant concentration of PM, NOx and CO will also remain as per the NAAQS. Additionally, maintenance of proper stack height of 11m will help in controlling ground level concentrations.


Impact Significance = Low

Flaring:

Flaring provides a means of safe disposal of vapor stream from its facilities, by burning them under controlled conditions so that adjacent equipment or personnel are not exposed to hazards. With combustion, gas products depending on feed gas composition, flaring of gases may lead to generation of un-burnt hydrocarbons and other pollutants viz. soot, CO and NOx. These pollutants emitted may therefore contribute to air pollutant load of the ambient air, thereby affecting well site receptors nearby viz. village settlements, schools etc. However, such impact will again be governed by location of flare stack and prevalent micro-meteorological conditions which may assist in localized dispersion of air pollutants.

Though, ISC3-ST is a refined model, the simulation was carried out based on primary meteorological data to be able to predict worst case air quality impacts for an average 24 hr. period that may be caused by peak power utilization at site. The maximum GLC and its distance of occurrence from source as recorded for criteria pollutants from air dispersion modeling undertaken for flaring at well site (Scenario 2) is presented below. Figure 5.4 and Figure 5.5 represent the isopleths showing CO and NOx emission during flaring.

TABLE 5-7 GLC AND RESULTANT VALUE FOR CRITERIA POLLUTANT - FLARING

Pollutants Nitrogen Oxide Carbon Monoxide (mg/m3)

Maximum GLC (μg/m3)* 3.39 18.4

Distance from source (m) 2700

Direction NW

*The incremental concentration of CO is represented as mg/m3



TABLE 5-8 GLC AND RESULTANT VALUE FOR CRITERIA POLLUTANT - FLARING

Components NOx (µg/m3) CO (mg/m3) *

AQ-1

Incremental Concentration 0.008 0.008

Baseline Concentration 11.5

Resultant Concentration 11.51 0.008

AQ-2 Incremental Concentration 0.80 4.39












AQ-6

Incremental Concentration 0.18 0.99









NAAQS 80 2

* CO value computed is the predicted incremental concentration of CO during DG set operation, however as per approved TOR, CO monitoring was not proposed, hence no baseline concentration has been obtained.



FIGURE 5-4 ISOPLETH FOR PREDICTION OF CO EMISSION DURING FLARING



FIGURE 5-5 ISOPLETH FOR PREDICTION OF NOX EMISSION DURING FLARING



Further, considering intermittent nature of flaring operation, only during process upset, use of elevated flaring system, related design considerations with respect to fuel-air mixture, and GAIL’s conformance with CPCB Flaring Guidelines, the impact is not envisaged to be significant.



5.2.4 Potential Impact on Noise Quality

Proposed drilling operations and related activities will lead to generation of noise that may have potential impact on surrounding communities in terms of increase in ambient noise levels and associated disturbances. Increase in noise level may arise out of the following:

Noise Emanated by Machineries and Equipment’s Site preparation or closure related activities will involve operation of heavy equipment like pile drivers, loaders, tippers, bulldozers, etc. Such heavy equipment’s are likely to contribute to high ambient noise levels and may possibly lead to disturbance to local communities, if residing close to the well location. Some activities like piling may also result in minor vibration impacts, which are expected to subside to acceptable levels with distance.

TABLE 5-9 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NOISE LEVELS

Equipment Sound Level At Operator (in decibels) Average Range

A. Earth Moving Equipment

Front End Loader 88.0 85-91

Back Hoe 86.5 79-89 Bull Dozer 96.0 89-103 Roller 90.0 79-93 Truck 96.0 89-103

B. Material Handling Equipment

Concrete Mixer <85.0 - Crane/Hydra <85.0 - Derrick 100 97-102

Source: British Columbia, “Construction Noise,” Workers Compensation Board of BC

Proposed project involves movement of vehicles for bringing goods, material and manpower to the drilling site and subsequent transportation of rig/equipment’s and debris during decommissioning. From the traffic density discussed in the baseline chapter it is understood that there is considerable vehicular movement in the block. So movement of 5 vehicles/day for the project can possibly lead to increased noise level that can have



significant impact on the communities residing within the block. This will result in increase in traffic density on site access road and will cause increase in noise levels in the nearby settlement and other sensitive receptors like schools, hospitals etc. located within the block. Residents of these areas are likely to experience higher noise levels due to plying of vehicular traffic. But such noise generation will be intermittent in nature and will be restricted only during the construction phase which is of short duration.


Impact Significance =4 i.e. Low

Noise from the Drilling Rig Operational phase noise impacts are anticipated from operation of drilling rig and ancillary equipment’s viz. shale shakers, mud pumps and diesel generators. Studies indicate that noise generated from operation of drilling rig generally varies in the range of 88-103 dB (A) with high noise levels recorded close to the rig. Average equivalent noise levels of drilling rig and ancillary equipment is provided in the Table 5.10 below for reference.

TABLE 5-10 DRILLING RIG AND EQUIPMENT NOISE LEVELS

Equipment Equivalent noise levels in dB(A)

Average Range

Drilling Rig 96.9 88.0-103.0

Mud Pumps 76.9 73.3 -80.5 Diesel Generators 72.7 71.8-73.7 Shale Shakers 76.6 -

Further, considering drilling to be a continuous operation, the noise generated from aforesaid equipment’s has the potential to cause discomfort to local communities residing in close proximity (within 500m) of the rig facility.


Impact Significance = 8 i.e. Medium

Mitigation Measures: Typical mitigation measures for noise will include the following:

Installation of sufficient engineering control on equipment and machinery (like mufflers & noise enclosures for DG sets and PC pumps) to reduce noise and vibration emission levels at source, carrying out proper maintenance and subjecting them to rigid noise and vibration control procedures.



Re-locating noise sources distantly from the sensitive receptors (viz. settlements, schools etc.) to take advantage of distance and shielding

Providing noise barrier at the fence line of the well site facing the sensitive receptors

Providing Personnel Protective Equipment’s (PPEs) like ear plugs/muffs to workers at site.

Undertaking preventive maintenance of vehicles to reduce noise levels.

5.2.5 Potential Impact on Soil Quality

Potential impact on soil quality is envisaged in the form of increase in soil erosion and loss of soil fertility resulting from site clearance and top soil stripping for exploratory well site preparation and accidental spillage resulting from storage and handling of mud chemicals. Potential impacts on soil resources will start during site preparation and setting up of rig and associated machinery and continue till the site is completely rehabilitated. Soil quality impacts as identified is assessed and evaluated in section below.

Alteration of Topsoil Environment & Fertility

More than 80% of the land area in the block is covered under agriculture, so any alteration in the soil quality will affect the agriculture activity. However, taking into consideration that the soil type in the area is already clayey in nature (which is however not good for cultivation as it has low permeability), the soil texture would be marginally degraded. In addition to this, the effect on soil quality would be temporary in nature i.e. restricted to the construction phase, besides the effect would also be localized (confined to the drilling sites). Site preparation will cause stripping and removal of the topsoil from project site, which contains most of the nutrients and organisms that give soil a living character and productivity. This will in turn result in minor changes in soil hydrology and topsoil structure. However, project design will take into account preservation of the top soil and its subsequent use for topping up of the rehabilitated land. In spite of this, however, fertility of the soil stands to be affected in the site area for a short duration.



Runoff and soil erosion During site preparation, loose and un-compacted soil has a high potential for erosion. Additionally, inadequate site drainage provisions can also lead to increased storm water run-off from paved areas within the site resulting in soil erosion of unpaved areas.



Removal of ground vegetation in the site surrounding areas will also result in increased erosion potential of those areas. The top soil stockpiles will be subject to erosion and therefore need to be stabilized considering the same is to be utilized for site restoration.

Compaction of Soil Setting up of the rig and associated machinery will require the setting up of a strong base. Piling equipment will be used for compaction of the soil, so that it can take the load of equipment’s. Compaction of the soil will also be made to occur from the heavy truck movement in the approach road connecting highways to site. Compaction of subsoil may result in a change in soil texture thereby changing the percolation rates, drainage patterns and water-logging in nearby areas.



Storage and disposal of drill cuttings and drilling mud It is estimated that nearly 200 MT of drill cuttings is likely to be generated from each well during exploratory drilling operation. Improper storage and disposal of such material on open soil or unpaved areas may, therefore, lead to contamination of soil onsite and abutting land, if not properly managed. With the project design planning taking into account, construction of a HDPE lined impervious pit of adequate capacity for temporary storage of drill cuttings, drilling fluid and their disposal in accordance with “CPCB Oil and Extraction Industry Standard – Guidelines for Disposal of Solid Wastes” no significant impact to this regard is envisaged. Further, with the proponent catering to the use of water based mud, drill cuttings and waste drilling mud generated are likely to be non-hazardous in nature and is not anticipated to pose any potential threat to the soil quality. Impact is therefore considered to be of low significance. However, the whole drilling process, being a temporary activity will not cause any long term impact on the environment. Debris generated during decommissioning activities along with domestic waste will be stored temporarily within the site before final offsite disposal.



Storage and handling of fuel and chemicals Contamination of soil can result from project activities if certain operations like storage of chemicals and fuels, spent oil and lubricants are not managed efficiently. Storage of chemicals and fuel, spent lubricants on unpaved surfaces also have a potential for soil contamination, if in case, chemicals, drilling mud, oil and lubricants are spilled accidentally on open soil, either during transportation or handling. However, considering



appropriate spill prevention and control measures to be implemented by the proponent, impact is not considered significant.



The following mitigation measures are proposed for reducing impact on soil quality:

Restricted project and related activities during monsoon season;

Carrying out adequate restoration of soil, to the extent possible;

Implementing adequate sediment control measures to prevent discharge of untreated surface run-off characterized by increased sediment load to abutting agricultural land.

Ensuring proper storage of drill cutting (in impervious HDPE lined pits) and chemicals (paved and bunded areas) to prevent any potential contamination from spillage.

Implementing appropriate spill prevention and control measures.

Provision of an oil-water separator at the storm water drainage outlet to prevent discharge of contaminated run-off.

5.2.6 Impact on Topography and Drainage

Potential impact on drainage and topography viz. alteration of drainage pattern, water logging etc. is anticipated during well site preparation, widening/strengthening of access roads and minor bridges and restoration of exploratory well facilities. Small and medium sized ponds are observed in the block. Besides, the Sabarmati river is a major river flowing from NW to SE of the block. Impact details are discussed below:

Site preparation and road construction/strengthening Potential impact on drainage is primarily anticipated in the form of disruption of natural drainage pattern during site preparation and approach road construction. Since site preparation involves raising of acquired/leased land to about 0.25 m from the ground level, it may lead to alteration of onsite micro-drainage pattern leading to potential problems of water logging in the agricultural land and settlements near drill sites.

Although the block is very well connected with several state highways and other major district roads but for effective transportation of drilling rig and heavy equipment’s to the well site facilities in rural settings, it may involve construction and/or strengthening of access roads. Widening/ new construction of roads can therefore result in the alteration of drainage along water crossings and may lead to water-logging of adjacent lands and settlements, if not properly managed. However, considering provision of cross drainage



structures, viz. culverts etc. at road embankments and stream crossings by the proponent to ensure uninterrupted drainage flow the impact is considered to be of low significance.



Well site restoration Site restoration will be initiated for well site, not indicative of any commercially exploitable hydrocarbon reserves. Unplanned restoration may lead to long term disruption in natural drainage pattern and water logging in the neighbouring agricultural land abutting the site. However, adequate care will be taken by the proponent to restore the site back to its original condition based on the originally existing contours and predominant slope to prevent any such adverse drainage impacts. The impact is considered to be of medium significance with onsite drainage being dependent on proper site restoration.



Mitigation Measure Levelling and grading operations will be undertaken with minimal disturbance to

the existing contour, thereby maintaining the general slope of site;

Disruption/alteration of micro-watershed drainage pattern will be minimized to the extent possible.

Loss of micro-watershed drainage, if any, is to be compensated through provision of alternate drainage.

5.2.7 Potential Impact on Surface Water Quality

The proposed drilling operation will include construction site preparation, drilling of wells to the depth of 2500m and campsite activities, which involves use of surface water for domestic purpose and mud preparation and will cause generation of waste water. Following potential impacts may cause from proposed project:

Surface run-off discharge Site clearance and stripping of top soil during site preparation and road development activities will result in an increase in soil erosion potential leading to an increased sediment load in the surface run-off during monsoon. Excess soil erosion may indirectly affect aquatic ecosystem by increasing level of suspended solid in receiving water bodies, thereby reducing infiltration of sunlight and dissolved oxygen availability to the water. Also, surface run off from drilling waste (cuttings and drilling mud), hazardous waste (waste oil, used oil etc.) and chemical storage, areas on open soil is likely to be contaminated leading to the pollution of receiving water bodies viz. natural drainage



channels, small to medium sized village ponds etc., which are used by the villagers for washing and other domestic purposes. However, taking into account, the provision of onsite drainage system and sediment control measures to be implemented by the proponent in compliance with the CPCB Inland Water Discharge Standards, the impact is considered low, since it would be localized and most likely to occur from its site preparatory activities during monsoon.



Water Pollution from Storm Water Drainage Storm water generally contains high concentration of suspended matter eroded from the soil by runoff. The storm water can also get contaminated if runoff picks up chemicals, oil and lubricants etc. that have been spilled over the ground or even if material is stored in open areas (uncovered) in any particular area like the fuel or chemical storage areas. This may result in potential impact to receiving water body. In event of heavy rainfall, chances of chemical contaminants (heavy metals, hydrocarbons, other toxic chemicals) along with wastewater from the site creating harmful long term impacts cannot be ruled out, if not managed properly.



Discharge of drilling mud and process wash water It is estimated that nearly 20 m3/day of drilling waste ,process wastewater and 1.5 m3/day of domestic wastewater is likely to be generated during drilling operation. The drilling waste so generated may be characterized by the presence of oil and grease, barites and heavy metal, which on being discharged in nearby natural drainage channels and/or rivers may lead to possible surface water contamination. This is of significance given the presence of small to medium sized ponds present in the villages, which are being used by the local communities for washing and other domestic purposes. Again such discharges to Sabarmati River passing through the block may contribute to the pollutant load with the river already being identified to be critically polluted in a study conducted under UNEP/GEMS Water Programme on Sabarmati river.

If the domestic waste water discharges into the nearby surface water body, it may have some negative impact on surface water quality as it would increase the TSS and BOD. There is also a potential for chemical contaminants (heavy metals, hydrocarbons, other toxic chemicals) to be discharged along with wastewater creating harmful long term impacts, especially waste stream from the process, until it is properly treated, based on chemical analysis of pollutants.



The drilling waste so generated may be characterized by the presence of oil & grease, barites and heavy metal which on discharge to nearby natural drainage channels and/or rivers may lead to possible surface water contamination. However considering usage of low toxicity chemical for preparation of water based mud for the proposed project, temporarily storage of drilling waste in an HDPE lined pit and subsequent treatment to ensure conformance with CPCB Industry Specific Standards for Oil Drilling & Gas Extraction Industry and guidelines provided by the MoEF under the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling & Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 the impact is not considered to be of significance.



Mitigation Measures

Following mitigation measures will be implemented for water pollution control: Proper treatment of all wastewater and produced water discharges will be made to ensure

that they comply with criteria set by the regulatory body (MoEF and SPCB).

Drainage and sediment control systems at the well site will be efficiently designed.

Construction activities viz. stripping, excavation etc. during monsoon season will be restricted to the extent possible.

All chemical and fuel storage areas, process areas will have proper bunds so that contaminated run-off cannot escape into the storm-water drainage system. An oil- water separator will be provided at the storm water drainage outlet, to prevent discharge of contaminated run-off.

Water requirement and utilization It has been estimated that, during site preparation, approximately 1.5 KLD10 of water will be required for laborers, whereas, during drilling operation, the water requirement will be around 2 KLD11 for laborers and supervisory staffs.

In addition to this, the water will be required for preparation of drilling mud, which will be 40 KLD approximately. Exact quantity of water, required for drilling activities will be estimated in due course of time. Surface water availability in the block is from local surface water bodies, Narmada Canal or ponds or wells (depending upon the availability of water as per requirement).

10 Assuming 35 labourers and 45 LPCD of water requirement 11 Assuming 40 labourers and 45 LPCD of water requirement



During drilling, water can be sourced from nearby surface water bodies (existing river depending on the availability of water in it or from Narmada Canal) through pumps and canvas hoses. Further, taking into account drilling to be a temporary activity (approximately 90 days), impact on groundwater resource is considered negligible.



5.2.8 Potential Impact of Hydrology and Groundwater Quality

Groundwater is an environmental factor that can have an impact on the proposed project as well as get affected by it. Potential impacts on groundwater resources that could arise from proposed drilling operations include the following:

Groundwater extraction, Reduced Infiltration and Localized Drawdown Water to meet domestic water requirement of operational workforce and drilling mud preparation can be sourced from local water suppliers through tube wells and bore wells. It is estimated that on an average 40KLD of water will be required per exploratory well for preparation of drilling mud and cater to domestic requirements. Further, taking into account drilling to be a temporary activity (approximately 90 days), impact on groundwater resource is considered negligible.

According to primary reconnaissance survey, it was known that the water depth level of the region is within 10-25m (bgl). However, as per the ground water level scenario studied for Gujarat by CGWB, for Pre Monsoon 2013, it is found that out the water depth level range between 5-10m (bgl). During post monsoon season, the water depth level has been recorded in the range of 0-5m (bgl). However, drilling operation, being a temporary activity, will not become a cause of permanent loss to groundwater recharging. Additionally, a good number of rivers and canal in block (Sabarmati River and Narmada Branch canal) will provide a good source of water supply to almost all villages within the exploratory block; hence, slight effect on groundwater regime will not affect water availability of the area.



Storage of drill cuttings and waste drilling mud Possibility of contamination of subsurface and unconfined aquifers may exist if the casing and cementing of the well is not carried out properly leading to infiltration or seeping of drilling chemicals or mud into porous aquiferous region. The same is also valid for disposal of drilling waste and mud in an open/unpaved pit. However, with project proponent catering to the use of water based mud and storage of drill cuttings



and waste drilling mud in an HDPE lined pit, the impact is considered to be of low significance.



5.2.9 Potential Impact on Ecology

The predicated impact of proposed drilling activity on local as well as regional ecology is has been described at the sections below. The predicated impact of proposed drilling activity on local as well as regional ecology is not very significant. The proposed block area lacks reserve forest, protected forest, planted forest, national park, any sensitive wildlife habitat etc.. Existing ecology in the study comprises of manmade habitat dominated by agricultural sets, with village wood lots, road side plantations, river side plantations, pond side plantations etc. The detailed ecological impact is summarized below.

Impacts on wildlife habitat in the Non Forested Area: The land use data presented earlier in the baseline shows that most of the area of Ahmedabad and Anand district within the Block comes under man made ecosystems, viz. agricultural land, village woodlot, farm forest etc. Frequent vehicular movement, construction of drill site, light and noise generation during drilling phase may impact the local flora and fauna abutting the drill sites and transportation routes. As per provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, animals present apart from Schedule I species India Peafowl the other species do not require very special protection for carrying out necessary project work. Peafowl generally inhabits in village woodlots and plantation areas near pond/rivers. Care should be taken to avoid those sites while selecting drilling locations. As drilling activity, would be conducted temporarily for three months, will not hamper ecological balance of the area and will not cause permanent shifting of birds or faunal habitats. Therefore, the predicted impact due to project will be low. Severity of Impact 1 Extent of Impact 2 Duration of Impact 2


Impact on aquatic habitats: Lotic (river, streams etc.) and lentic (ponds etc.) water bodies are reported in block area. It has been observed during the baseline studies, that the existing water quality of surface water bodies is quite favorable to support diverse range of aquatic fauna and flora. The water bodies within the Block also serve as habitat for migratory water birds. Hence, in case of accidental discharge of toxic pollutants (eg. oil, drilling mud etc.) to rivers, and village ponds potential chance of contamination of water bodies could not be ruled out. The proponent will take utmost care to locate the drilling areas away from the village



ponds, streams and rivers. As migratory water birds mainly colonize during the winter season, care should be taken to avoid the winter months as far as feasible. In addition to that all discharges from the drill site would be adequately treated to comply with the CPCB discharge standards before disposal. In view of the limited period of drilling activities and the control measures taken by the proponent as part of the project design the impact is considered to be of low significance. Severity of Impact 1 Extent of Impact 2 Duration of Impact 2


Impacts on Avifauna: Drilling rig, DG sets and vehicles are major noise sources at project site. Impacts due to noise and vibration on birds are identified as:

Behavioral and/or physiological effects

Masking of communication signals and other biologically relevant sounds

Indian peafowl a Schedule I species is primarily observed at the village woodlot area and plantation areas near ponds and rivers. In addition to that Sarus crane, included under the vulnerable category of IUCN red list are also recorded from the agricultural lands. There is a probability that drilling would be undertaken close to the habitats of these bird species, there is a chance that continuous noise generated from the drill site would affect the habit and habitat of the bird species. To control noise intensity and vibrations, various engineering control like vibration absorbing pad and acoustically treated equipment will be used at the project site. Further, the proposed drilling activity, being a temporary work, will not hamper the ecological balance of the area and will not cause permanent migration of any bird or shifting of faunal habitats. Considering that drilling operation is a short term activity and moreover proper mitigation measures would be adopted by project proponent, impacts on avifauna will be of low significance.


Impact Significance =4 i.e. Low

Ecological Productivity of Agricultural Fields Ecological productivity of the agricultural land being taken up for exploratory drilling activity stands to be temporarily affected during entire lifecycle of the project. Reinstatement of ecological productivity will be dependent on successful restoration of soils, their structure, chemistry drainage characteristics and possibly other physical factors, such as micro-topography. These will provide the basis for successful recovery of ecological populations, whether allowed to occur naturally or aided by seeding and cultivation. However, considering necessary mitigation measures like top soil



preservation, process water treatment etc. will be implemented by the proponent during various project phases. Any impact in this regard is considered to be of low significance. Severity of Impact 2 Extent of Impact 2 Duration of Impact 1


5.2.10 Potential Impact on Socio -Economic Environment

Based on nature and type of impacts, the assessment is divided into two sections namely:

Impact on surrounding inhabitants in neighboring villages;

Impact on neighboring schools and other sensitive areas closer to the site.

Population living in the periphery of the proposed site as well as in surrounding villages will be exposed to noise, dust and frequent movement of trucks at the time of construction. Adequate onsite precautions will be adopted to minimize those effects. This community can look forward to a number of benefits like jobs, access to utilities, and availability of better infrastructure like roads and also in terms of wider economy generation.

Adverse Impacts: Loss of Land and Livelihood Source: The site for the exploratory drilling purpose will be strictly confined within the block, where agriculture serves as major livelihood for communities residing within the block. Agricultural land for drill sites will be obtained on temporary lease for short term period. Wells yielding positive results with respect to hydrocarbons reserves will be retained for a longer period. In all cases, necessary payments will be made against lease/purchase and crop compensation to concerned landowners. However, adequate measures will be implemented by the project proponent to restore all acquired land to its original condition for wells not indicative of any commercial hydrocarbon reserve.



Transport and Road Safety: Drilling activity involves the movement of heavy vehicles including 100-125 truck load and machineries, which results in the road safety concerns of villagers and school children especially near the village settlements located adjacent to the approaching road to the site. However, there is a likelihood of vehicles and other heavy equipment’s plying through the road may have this implication.

Influx of population: The functioning of workers camp, the warehouse and the office will cause an influx of population. The campsite will provide shelter to approximately 35-



40 workers; drilling activities will involve a large number of labours including security staff. Thus there may be an impact on surrounding areas:

a. Use of common resource: The unskilled workers will be deployed locally and the skilled will be housed in temporary porta cabins. However, there might be an impact in the surrounding area due to sharing of common resources like drinking water (which is presently being sourced from Kanewal and Pariyej lake), roads etc.

b. Interaction of the workers residing in the campsite with the villagers: Unskilled local laborers will also be hired during project activities and the skilled workers would be housed in some rented accommodation neighboring to the block and supervisors on site will be housed in porta cabins. Hence, this will not give rise to any issues like conflict of workers with local population, safety and privacy issues of women of surrounding villages, spread of various communicable diseases, nuisance caused by workers due to improper sanitation facilities etc.

However, taking into account that workforce is likely to be sourced from nearby villages; adequate sanitation facilities will be provided. Chances of such conflict are negligible.



Noise discomfort: Increase in vehicular movement and ongoing drilling activity is likely to have major impacts in increasing the noise level of surrounding areas.

Inhabitants residing close to approach roads will get affected due to noise and dust generated from vehicular movement during site preparation, setting up of rig and associated facilities, decommissioning of rig and associated facilities. Considering short term activity with proper mitigation measures, impact will be of low significance.

Community Health and Safety: Flaring of gasses during the drilling and well testing stage, presents a safety concern for residents of adjacent villages and for workforce residing in the camp site. Flaring will predominantly produce carbon dioxide emissions and also would be associated with generation of noise and heat. The probability of accidental release of gas or liquid hydrocarbon or a blow out during the exploratory drilling of the well will be there within the drill site. Flaring would lead to air emission, which would in turn be a discomfort to nearby communities

Mitigation measures :

Siting of flare stack considering nearest habitation and sensitive receptor.

Elevated flaring to be undertaken as per guidelines issued by CPCB for Oil & Gas Extraction Industry.

Duration of flaring to be minimized by careful planning;



Beneficial Impacts:

Employment opportunities: The project will benefit people living in the neighboring villages by giving preference to them in relation to direct employment associated with various project related activities including drilling. Land filling process of the site area during site preparatory phase will involve certain number of labourers, wherein, local people can be engaged for this purpose. Drilling process will involve a number of skilled and unskilled workers. There is a possibility that local people be engaged for this purpose to the extent possible and hence improve the existing employment scenario of the region. However, jobs requiring technical involvement, will not encourage hiring of villagers, as they can only be employed in certain non-technical or casual labor jobs, that too for a limited duration. It is proposed that preference be given to people whose land has been taken on lease. Considering this, impact is significantly positive.

Development of the area and Impact on the local economy: Since drilling activities involve a large number of workers residing in the site, there will be a significant rise in developmental and commercial activities of the region. Local business (e.g. suppliers of construction materials, shop owners of stationery and grocery shops of the nearby area) in this region is also expected to flourish. The proposed project is therefore likely to benefit people living in neighboring village by boosting the local economy. Additional expenditures incurred by those employed at the facility are likely to enhance economy of the region. Villagers engaged in side work activities like running shops within the villages or near the project site, vendors or domestic helps are likely to be benefited from the project.

Improvement in road condition: The villagers would be benefited through the project, since during site preparatory phase, existing earthen road, which would be used as the approach road to the drill site, will be upgraded and will thereby ensure better accessibility to villagers. At the same time, wooden bridge near (if any with poor condition) will be strengthened to ensure even movement of vehicles and drilling machineries to the site.

Impact Significance = ++ i.e. POSITIVE





Mitigation Measures Details of mitigation measures to be taken to minimize adverse socioeconomic impacts and at the same time accentuate positive impacts to communities in surrounding villages are discussed in detail in section 7.1.7 of the EIA report

5.2.11 Impact on Historical and Cultural Environment

According to “The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Rules, 1959” an area of upto 300m near or adjoining protected monuments is prohibited or regulated for the purpose of mining operation or construction activities. Since, no monuments and archeological site is present within or near the proposed block, GAIL need not take any permission from any regulatory body for carrying out drilling operations in this block. However, there are few cultural/historical spots like old temples in the block. Necessary precautions will be taken during the movement of trucks and other vehicles carrying equipment’s and machineries and personnel to the site. Prior to commencement of site construction activities, location of culturally important properties (old temples) will be communicated to the contractor. Thus, any significant impact due to project activities on the cultural environment of the block is unlikely.





TABLE 5-11 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX (WITH MITIGATION)


Aes

thet

ics

and

Vis

ual i

mpa

cts

Air

Qua

lity

Noi

se Q

uali

ty

Soi

l Qua

lity

Lan

d U

se

Loc

al D

rain

age

and

Phy

siog

raph

y

Sur

face

wat

er q

uali

ty

Gro

und

Wat

er R

esou

rces

Gro

und

wat

er q

uali

ty

Ter

rest

rial

hab

itat

Eco

logi

cal S

ensi

tive

Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

reso

urce

s

Mig

rato

ry B

irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

estic

ated

Ani

mal

s

Los

s of

land

and

live

liho

od s

ourc

e

Com

mon

Pro

pert

y U

sage

Con

flic

t

Job

and

Eco

nom

ic O

ppor

tuni

ty

Cul

tura

l and

Beh

avio

ural

Con

flic

t

Com

mun

ity H

ealth

and

Saf

ety

Occ

upat

iona

l Hea

lth a

nd S

afet

y

A. Pre-Drilling Activities

Site clearance and approach road development L L M L L L M ++ L

Well site preparation L L M L Sourcing and transportation of borrow material etc L L L L L Storage and handling of raw material and debris L L

Transportation of drilling rig and ancillaries M L L

Surface run-off discharge L L L

B. Exploratory Well Drilling and Testing

Physical Presence at site L L




Aes

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ics

and

Vis

ual i

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cts

Air

Qua

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Noi

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ty

Soi

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se

Loc

al D

rain

age

and

Phy

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raph

y

Sur

face

wat

er q

ualit

y

Gro

und

Wat

er R

esou

rces

Gro

und

wat

er q

ualit

y

Ter

rest

rial

hab

itat

Eco

logi

cal S

ensi

tive

Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

res

ourc

es

Mig

rato

ry B

irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

estic

ated

Ani

mal

s

Los

s of

land

and

live

liho

od s

ourc

e

Com

mon

Pro

pert

y U

sage

Con

flic

t

Job

and

Eco

nom

ic O

ppor

tuni

ty

Cul

tura

l and

Beh

avio

ural

Con

flic

t

Com

mun

ity H

ealth

and

Saf

ety

Occ

upat

iona

l Hea

lth a

nd S

afet

y

Operation of DG sets and machineries

L M L L L

Casing and cementing of exploratory well

L

Drilling mud preparation and usage

L L L

Exploratory well drilling L M ++ L

Storage and disposal of drill cuttings and mud

L L L

Treatment and disposal of process waste water

L L

Discharge of surface run-off M

L

L

Sewage treatment

L

Operation of base camp

M L




Aes

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ics

and

Vis

ual i

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cts

Air

Qua

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Noi

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Sur

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wat

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Gro

und

Wat

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Gro

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Ter

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Eco

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Are

as

Aqu

atic

Hab

itat

and

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Mig

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irds

Agr

icul

ture

Dom

estic

ated

Ani

mal

s

Los

s of

land

and

live

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ourc

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Com

mon

Pro

pert

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Con

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Job

and

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ty

Cul

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l and

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Con

flic

t

Com

mun

ity H

ealth

and

Saf

ety

Occ

upat

iona

l Hea

lth a

nd S

afet

y

Flaring during production testing and process upset L L L

L

Accidental events viz. blow out L L L H H

C. Decommissioning and Reinstatement

Dismantling of rig and associated facilities

L L

++ L


M

L

Stripping and removal of well site construction materials

L

M

L L L

Top soil laying and site reinstatement ++

++

EIA Study for Exploratory Drilling Project in CB-ONN-2010/11 Block

SENES/D-20484/ March‘15 GAIL 166

QRA as a part of integrated risk management process for the proposed project consists of the following iterative steps:

Identification of hazards

Setting Acceptance Standards for the defined risks

Evaluation of likelihood and consequences and risks of possible events.

Confirmation of arrangements to mitigate the events and respond to the same on occurrence.

Establishment of performance standards

Establishment of continuous monitoring, review and auditing of arrangements

6.0 QUANTITATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT

This section on Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) aims to provide a systematic analysis of major risks that may arise as a result of onshore exploration activities by GAIL in the CB-ONN-2010/11 block. The QRA process outlines rational evaluations of identified risks based on significance and provides the outline for appropriate preventive and risk mitigation measures. Results of the QRA provide valuable inputs into the overall project planning and decision making process for effectively addressing identified risks. This will ensure that project risks stay below As Low as Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) levels at all times during project implementation. In addition, the QRA will also help in assessing risks arising from potential emergency situations like a blow out and develop structured Emergency Response Plan (ERP) to restrict damage to personnel, infrastructure and environment.

QRA – INTEGRATED RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS

Risk study for onshore exploration activities has considered all aspects of operation of the drilling rig and other associated activities during the exploratory phase. Oil spills, loss of well control / blow-out and process leaks constitute major potential hazard that may be associated with the proposed onshore drilling for oil and gas in the exploratory block. The study however does not examine risks or hazards associated with development and production program of exploratory wells.

The following section describes objectives, methodology of the risk assessment study and then presents the assessment for each of the potential risk separately. This includes identification of major hazards, hazard screening and ranking and frequency and consequence analysis for major hazards. Hazards have subsequently been quantitatively evaluated through a criterion based risk evaluation matrix. Risk mitigation measures to reduce significant risks to acceptable levels are also recommended as part of risk assessment study.

6.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE QRA STUDY

The overall objective of this QRA with respect to the proposed project involves the identification and evaluation of major risks, prioritizing risks identified based on their hazard



consequences and formulating suitable risk reduction/mitigation measures in line with the ALARP principle. Hence, in order to ensure effective management of any emergency situation (with potential individual and societal risks) that may arise during the exploratory drilling phase, the following specific objectives need to be achieved.

Identifying potential risk scenarios that may arise from proposed drilling and other associated activities like operation of ancillary facilities and equipment’s, mud chemicals storage and handling etc.

Analyzing the possible likelihood and frequency of such risk scenarios by reviewing historical accident related data for offshore oil and gas industries.

Predicting consequences of potential risk scenarios and if consequences are high, establishing the same through application of quantitative simulations.

Recommending feasible preventive and risk mitigation measures as well as providing inputs for drawing up of Disaster Management Plan (DMP) for the project.

6.2 RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

The risk assessment process is primarily based on likelihood of occurrence of risks identified and their possible hazard consequences particularly being evaluated through hypothetical accident scenarios. With respect to the proposed project, major risks viz. blow outs, process leaks and fires, non-process fires etc. is assessed and evaluated through a risk matrix generated to combine risk severity and likelihood factor. Risk associated with exploratory drilling activities is determined semi- quantitatively as the product of likelihood/probability and severity/consequence by using order of magnitude data (risk ranking = severity/consequence factor X likelihood/probability factor). Significance of such project related risks is then established through their classification as high, medium, low, very low depending upon risk ranking.

The risk matrix is a widely accepted and standardized method of quantitative risk assessment and is preferred over purely quantitative methods, given its inherent limitations to define a risk event with certainty. The application of this tool has resulted in the prioritization of potential risks events for the proposed seismic and exploratory drilling operations thus providing the basis for drawing up risk mitigation measures and leading to formulation of plans for risk and emergency management. The overall approach is summarized in the Figure 6.1



FIGURE 6-1: RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

6.2.1 Hazard Identification

Hazard identification for the purpose of this QRA comprises of a review of the project and associated activity related information provided by GAIL. In addition, guidance provided by knowledge platforms/portals of the upstream oil and gas industry including OGP, ITOPF and DNV, Norwegian Petroleum Directorate etc. were used to identify potential hazards that can arise out proposed project activities.

Taking into account applicability of different risk aspects in context of drilling operations to be undertaken in the CB-ONN-2010/11 Block, there are three major categories of hazards that can be associated with proposed project is dealt with in detail. This includes:

Blowouts leading to pool fires/jet fires and oil spills

Process leaks and fires

Non-process fires / explosions



Well control incident covers a range events which has the potential of leading to blow outs but are generally controlled by necessary technological interventions. Hence such incidents are considered of minor consequences and as a result not well documented. Other possible hazard scenarios like mud chemical spills, falls, etc. has also not been considered for detailed assessment as preliminary evaluation has indicated that overall risk may arise out of it and would be low. In addition, it is understood that causative factors and mitigation measures, for such events can adequately be taken care of through exiting safety management procedures and practices of GAIL.

It must also be noted here that many of the hazards identified are( sometimes) interrelated with one hazard often having the ability to trigger off another hazard through a domino effect. For example, a large oil spill in most instances is caused by another hazardous incident like a blowout or process leak. This aspect is considered while drawing up hazard mitigation measures and such linkages (between hazards) has also been given due importance for managing hazards and associated risks in a composite manner through GAIL’s Health, Safety and Environmental Management System (HSEMS) and through Disaster Management Plan, if a contingency situation arises.

6.2.2 Frequency Analysis

Frequency analysis involves estimating likelihood of each of the failure cases identified during hazard identification stage. The analysis of frequencies of occurrences for the key hazards that has been listed out is important to assess the likelihood of such hazards to actually unfold during the lifecycle of the project. The frequency analysis approach for the proposed project is based primarily on historical accident frequency data, event tree analysis and judgmental evaluation. Major oil and gas industry information sources viz. statistical data, historical records and global industry experience are considered during frequency analysis of major identified risks12.

For the purpose of QRA undertaken for the proposed project, various accident statistics and published oil industry databases are consulted for arriving at probable frequencies of identified hazards. However, taking into account the absence of representative historical data/statistics with respect to onshore operations13 relevant offshore accident databases are considered in the frequency analysis of identified hazards. The same is recommended in “Risk Assessment Data Directory” published by International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP). Key databases/reports referred as part of the QRA study includes Worldwide Offshore Accident Databank (WOAD), Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Reports, Norwegian Petroleum Directorate Directives, Offshore Reliability Data (OREDA) Handbook, HSE Offshore Incident Database, SINTEF Offshore Blowout Database etc.

12 It is to be noted that the frequency of occurrences are usually obtained by a combination of component probabilities derived on basis of reliability data and /or statistical analysis of historical data. 13 Although Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) maintains a database for onshore incidents for the period 1975-1990 the same has not been considered in the context of the present study as the Alberta wells are believed to be sour with precaution being taken accordingly to minimize the likelihood of release.



Based on the range of probabilities arrived at for different potential hazards that may be encountered during proposed drilling activities, the following criterion for likelihood rankings is drawn up as presented in the Table 6.1.

Table 6-1: Frequency Categories and Criteria

Likelihood Ranking Criteria Ranking

(cases/year) Frequency Class

5 >1.0 Frequent

4 >10-1 to <1.0 Probable

3 >10-3 to <10-1 Occasional/Rare

2 >10-5 to <10-3 Not Likely

1 >10-6 to <10-5 Improbable

6.2.3 Consequence Analysis

In parallel to the frequency analysis, hazard prediction / consequence analysis exercise assesses resulting effects as and when accidents occur and their likely impact on project personnel, infrastructure and environment. In relation to the proposed project, estimation of consequences for each possible event is based either on accident experience, consequence modeling or professional judgment, as appropriate.

Given the high risk perception associated with blow outs in context of onshore drilling operation, a detailed analysis of consequences is undertaken for blow outs taking into account physical factors and technological interventions. Consequences of such accidental events on the physical, biological and socio-economic environment are studied to evaluate potential of identified risks/hazards. In all, consequence analysis takes the following aspects into account:

Nature of impact on environment and community;

Occupational health and safety;

Asset and property damage;

Corporate image

Timeline for restoration of environmental and property damage

Restoration cost for environmental and property damage The following criterion for consequence rankings (Table 6.2) is drawn up in context of possible consequences of risky events that may occur during proposed exploratory drilling activities:



Table 6-2: Severity Categories and Criteria

Consequence Ranking Criterion Definition

Catastrophic 5

Multiple fatalities/Permanent total disability to more than 50 persons Severe violations of national limits for environmental emission More than 5 years for natural recovery Net negative financial impact of >10 crores Long term impact on ecologically sensitive areas International media coverage National stakeholder concern and media coverage

Major 4

Single fatality/permanent total disability to one or more persons Major violations of national limits for environmental emissions 2-5 years for natural recovery Net negative financial impact of 5 -10 crores Significant impact on endangered and threatened floral and faunal species Loss of corporate image and reputation

Moderate 3

Short term hospitalization and rehabilitation leading to recovery Short term violations of national limits for environmental emissions 1-2 years for natural recovery Net negative financial impact of 1-5 crores Short term impact on protected natural habitats State wide media coverage

Minor 2

Medical treatment injuries 1 year for natural recovery Net negative financial impact of 0.5 – 1 crore Temporary and mitigable environmental impacts Local stakeholder concern and public attention

Insignificant 1

First Aid treatment with no Lost Time Incidents (LTIs) Natural recovery < 1year Net negative financial impact of <0.5 crores. No significant impact on environmental components No media coverage

6.2.4 Risk Evaluation

Based on ranking of likelihood and frequencies, each identified hazard is evaluated based on the likelihood of occurrence and magnitude of consequences. The significance of risk is expressed as product of likelihood and consequence of the risk event, expressed as follows:

Significance = Likelihood X Consequence

Table 6.3 below illustrates all possible product results for five likelihood and consequence categories while Table 6.4 assigns risk significance criterion in four regions that identify the limit of risk acceptability as per HSE management system of GAIL. Depending on the position of intersection of a column with a row in the risk matrix, hazard prone activities are classified as low, medium and high, thereby qualifying for a set of risk reduction / mitigation strategies.



Table 6-3: Risk Matrix

Con

seq

uen

ce →

Likelihood →

Frequent Probable Remote Not Likely Improbable

5 4 3 2 1

Catastrophic 5 25 20 15 10 5

Major 4 20 16 12 8 4

Moderate 3 15 12 9 6 3

Minor 2 10 8 6 4 2

Insignificant 1 5 4 3 2 1

TABLE 6-4: RISK CRITERIA AND ACTION REQUIREMENTS

Risk Significance Criteria Definition and Action Requirements

High (16 - 25) “Risk requires attention” – Project HSE Management need to ensure that necessary mitigation are adopted to ensure that possible risk remains within acceptable limits

Medium (10 – 15) “Risk is tolerable” – Project HSE Management needs to adopt necessary measures to prevent any change/modification of existing risk controls and ensure implementation of all practicable controls.

Low (5 – 9) “Risk is acceptable” – Project related risks are managed by well-established controls and routine processes/procedures. Implementation of additional controls can be considered.

Very Low (1 – 4) “Risk is acceptable” – All risks are managed by well-established controls and routine processes/procedures. Additional risk controls need not to be considered

6.3 RISK ASSESSMENT OF IDENTIFIED PROJECT HAZARDS

As already discussed in the previous section, three major categories of risk are identified in relation to proposed exploratory well drilling activities. A comprehensive risk assessment study is undertaken to assess and evaluate significance of the identified risks in terms of severity of consequences and likelihood of occurrence. Risk assessment study details are summarized in subsequent sections below:

6.3.1 Blow Outs/Loss of Well Control

Blow out is an uncontrolled release of well fluid (primarily hydrocarbons viz. oil and/or gas and may also include drilling mud, completion fluid, water etc.) from an exploratory or producing well. Blow out results from failure to control a kick and regain pressure control



and are typically caused by equipment failure or human error. The possible blow out caused events occurring in isolation or in combination is listed below:

Formation fluid entry into well bore

Loss of containment due to mal-operation (viz. wire lining)

Well head damage (e.g. by fires, storms, dropped object etc.) The most common cause of blow out can be associated with sudden/unexpected entry/release of formation fluid into well bore that may arise as a result of following events discussed in Box 6.1 below.

Box 6-1 PRIMARY CAUSES OF BLOW OUTS

Shallow gas In shallow formations, there may be pockets of shallow gas. In these instances, there is often insufficient mud density in the well. If the hole strikes shallow gas, the gas may be released through diverter from drilling rig very rapidly. Main preventative measures of shallow gas are to carry out prior seismic surveys of the area. Typical geological features which suggest presence of shallow gas can then be detected. Historically, striking of shallow gas is one of the most frequent causes of blowouts in drilling. Swabbing As the drill pipe is pulled upwards during trips out of the hole or upward movement of the drill string, pressure in the hole beneath the drill bit is reduced, creating a suction effect. Sufficient drilling mud must be pumped down-hole to compensate for this effect. Well fluids may enter the bore. Swabbing is also a frequent cause of drilling blowouts. High formation pressure Drilling into an unexpected zone of high pressure may allow formation fluids to enter the well before mud weight can be increased to prevent it. Insufficient mud weight Primary method of well control is the use of drilling mud; in correct operation. The hydrostatic pressure exerted by mud prevents well fluids from entering the well bore. A high mud weight provides safety against well fluids in-flows. However, a high mud weight reduces drilling speed, therefore, the mud weight is calculated to establish the weight most suitable to safely control anticipated formation pressures and allows optimum rates of penetration. If the required mud weight is incorrectly calculated then well fluid may be able to enter the bore. Lost Circulation Drilling mud circulation can be lost if the mud enters a permeable formation instead of returning to the rig. This reduces the hydrostatic pressures exerted by the mud throughout the well bore and may allow well fluids from another formation to enter the bore. Gas cut mud Drilling fluids are denser than well fluids; this density is required to provide hydrostatic pressure which prevents well fluids from entering the bore. If well fluids mix with mud then its density will be reduced. As the mud is circulated back to surface, the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the mud column is reduced. Once the gas reaches surface it is released into the atmosphere.

Source: A Guide to Quantitative Risk Assessment for Offshore Installations; John Spouge – DNV Technical Publication 99/100a



For better understanding, causes of blow outs are systematically defined in terms of loss of pressure control (failure of primary barrier), uncontrolled flow of fluid or failure of secondary barrier (BOP). The blow out incidents resulting from primary and secondary failures for exploratory drilling operations as obtained through comprehensive root cause analysis of the Gulf Coast (Texas, OCS and US Gulf of Mexico) Blow Outs14 during 1960-1996 is presented in the Table 6.5 below.

Table 6-5: Blow Out Cause Distribution for Failures During Exploratory Drilling

S.N Causal Factors Blow Out Incidents (nos.)

A Primary Barrier

1 Swabbing 77

2 Drilling Break 52

3 Formation breakdown 38

4 Trapped/expanding gas 09

5 Gas cut mud 26

6 Low mud weight 17

7 Wellhead failure 05

8 Cement setting 05

B Secondary Barrier

1 Failure to close BOP 07

2 Failure of BOP after closure 13

3 BOP not in place 10

4 Fracture at casing shoe 03

5 Failure to stab string valve 09

6 Casing leakage 06

Thus, underlying blowout causes, as discussed in the above table can be primarily attributed to swabbing as primary barrier failure, which indicative of insufficient attention is given to trip margin controlling pipe movement speed. Also it is evident from the above table that lack of proper maintenance, operational failures and absence of BOPs as secondary barrier contributes to majority of blowout incidents (approx. 30 nos.) recorded.

Blowout Frequency Analysis Blow out frequency estimates is obtained from a combination of incident experience and associated exposure in a given area over a given period. For the purpose of calculation of blow out frequency analysis in context of the present study involving exploratory drilling, blow out frequencies per exploratory well drilled is considered. However, due to lack of availability of representative data on onshore, blow out incidents relevant offshore accident database viz. SINTEF Offshore Blowout Database, OGP Risk Assessment Data Directory (RADD) and Scandpower are referred. The blow out frequency per operation as calculated is based on the SINTEF. Offshore Blowout Database for oil and gas extraction industry is presented in the Figure 6.2 below.

14 “Trends extracted from 1200 Gulf Coast blowouts during 1960-1996” – Pal Skalle and A.L.Podio



FIGURE 6-2: BLOW OUT FREQUENCIES IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

With respect to the proposed project, blow out occurrence frequency as based on analysis of historical data15 is considered to be 7.5 X 10-3 per well drilled. Based on given frequency and information provided by GAIL on the proposed exploratory drilling program, the blow out frequency is calculated as follows:

No of exploratory wells to be drilled = 8 (A) (Eight well are to be drilled) Blow out frequency for exploratory drilling = 7.5 X 10-3 per well drilled (B) Frequency of blow out occurrence for the proposed project = (A X B) = 8 X 7.5 X 10-3

= 6 X 10-4 per well drilled

Thus the blow out frequency for the proposed project is calculated to be 6 X 10-4 per well drilled i.e. the likelihood of its occurrence is “Remote”

Blowout Consequence Analysis Blow out from a hydrocarbon exploratory and/or producing well may lead to the following possible risk consequences:

Pool fires and smoke plumes resulting from ignited oil blow-outs

Jet fires resulting from ignited gas blow outs

Oil slicks resulting from un-ignited oil pools.

Pool fire A pool fire is a turbulent diffusion fire burning above a pool of vaporizing hydrocarbon fuel where the fuel vapor has negligible initial momentum. The probability of occurrence of pool fires for oil and gas exploration is high due to continuous handling of heavy hydrocarbons.

15 Analysis of the SINTEF database for the US GoM OCS/North Sea for the period 1980-92 by Scand power (1995)



The evaporation of hydrocarbons from a pool forms a cloud of vapor above the pool surface which on ignition lead to the generation of pool fire.

For the purpose of consequence modeling for pool fires resulting from blowouts, following hypothetical scenarios in terms of hydrocarbon (particularly crude oil) release rates (Table 6.6) are considered based on DNV Technica’s FLARE programme.

TABLE 6-6: POOL FIRE MODELING SCENARIOS Scenario Release Rate (kg/s) Release Type

Scenario - I 1 Small Scenario - II 10 Medium Scenario – III (Worst Case) 50 Large

Release rates as specified for aforesaid scenarios is utilized in computing the pool fire diameter utilizing the following equation and input parameters:

D = √4Q/πb Where D = pool diameter (m)

Q = release rate (kg/s)

b = burning rate (kg/m2s)

The mass burning rate for crude oil is considered 0.05 kg/m2s Based on the above equation, pool fire diameter and steady study burning areas computed for various release types are presented in the Table 6.7 below.

TABLE 6-7: POOL FIRE DIAMETER AND STEADY STATE BURNING AREA

Scenario Release

Rate (kg/s) Release

Type Pool fire

diameter (m) Steady State

Burning Area (m2) Scenario - I 1 Small 5.05 6.37 Scenario - II 10 Medium 15.96 63.69 Scenario - III 50 Large 35.69 318.47

Impact zone for long duration fires is conveniently described by thermal radiation contours and its effects on the people who are exposed to such radiation levels for one minute (60sec). The thermal radiation threshold values (measured in kilowatts per square meter) defined for crude oil pool fire consequence modeling is provided in Table 6.8 below:

TABLE 6-8: THERMAL RADIATION INTENSITY THRESHOLD VALUES IMPACT CRITERION Threshold Radiation

Intensity Threat Zone

Impact Criterion

5.0 kW/m2 Green Escape actions within one minute. Cause second degree burns within 60 sec.

12.5 kW/m2 Blue Escape actions lasting for few seconds. Cause second degree burns within 40 sec.

37.5 kW/m2 Red Results in immediate fatality. Pain threshold is instantaneous leading to second degree burns within 8 sec.



For estimating the distance to a pool fire, heat radiation level that could cause second degree burns and fatality for a maximum exposure of 60 secs, the following EPA equation and input parameters are utilized.

))T - (T C (H 5000

A0.0001 H X

ABpvc

Where: X = distance to the heat radiation level (m) HC = heat of combustion of the flammable liquid (joules/kg) HV = heat of vaporization of the flammable liquid (joules/kg) A = pool area (m2) CP = liquid heat capacity (joules/kg-ºK) TB = boiling temperature of the liquid (ºK) TA = ambient temperature (ºK) For crude oil HC = 42600000 joules/kg; HV = 957144 joules/kg; CP = 1892 joules/kg-ºK; TB = 633 ºK and TA = 300 ºK. The following input parameter along with pool area (m2) computed for blow out risk scenarios provides distance to the threshold heat radiation levels for the threat zones and is presented in Table 6.9 below

TABLE 6-9: DISTANCE TO THERMAL RADIATION THRESHOLD LEVELS

Release Type

Pool fire diameter (m)

Pool fire area (m2)

Distance to 5.0 kW/m2

(m)


(m)


(m) Small 5.05 6.37 6.81 4.31 2.49 Medium 15.96 63.69 21.54 13.62 7.86 Large 35.69 318.47 48.16 30.46 17.59

The worst hazard for release and ignition of crude oil at a rate of 50kg/s for a thermal radiation intensity of 37.5 kW/m2 is likely to be experienced to a maximum distance of 17.59m from the source with potential lethal effects experienced within 8 sec.

Risk Ranking – Blowout Pool Fire (Worst Case Scenario)

Likelihood ranking 3 Consequence ranking 4

Risk Ranking and Significance = 12 i.e. “Medium”

Jet fire Jet fires are burning jets of gas or sprays of atomized liquids resulting from gas and condensate released from high pressure equipment and blow outs. Jet fires may also result in the release of high pressure liquid containing dissolved gas due to gas flashing off and turning the liquid into a spray of small droplets. In context of the present study, formation of jet fires can be attributed to the high pressure release and ignition of natural gas, if encountered during exploration of block hydrocarbon reserves.



Natural gas, as recovered from underground deposits not only contains methane (CH4) as flammable component, but also heavier gaseous hydrocarbons such as ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). Other gases such as CO2, nitrogen and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are also often present. Methane is typically 70-90 percent, ethane 5-15 percent, propane and butane up to 5 percent. Thus, considering higher percentage of methane in natural gas, the thermo-chemical properties of the same is utilized in the jet fire blow out consequence modeling. The following risk scenarios (Table 6.10) are considered for jet fire consequence modeling:

TABLE 6-10: JET FIRE MODELING SCENARIOS

Scenario Release Rate (kg/s) Release Type Scenario - I 1 Small Scenario - II 5 Medium Scenario – III (Worst Case) 10 Large

The gas release rates for each scenario is utilized in the calculating jet fire flame length. The flame length calculation is done using API RP521 (API 1982) model and is based on the fuel type Lf = 0.00326 (Q Hc)

0.41

Where Lf = flame length (m) Q = release rate (kg/s) Hc = heat of combustion (J/kg) i.e. (5.0 X 107 J/kg for methane) The flame length calculated based on the above equation for jet fire is presented in the Table 6.11 below.

TABLE 6-11: JET FIRE FLAME LENGTH FOR RISK SCENARIOS CONSIDERED

Scenario Release Rate (kg/s) Release Type Flame Length (m)

Scenario - I 1 Small 4.68 Scenario - II 5 Medium 9.04 Scenario – III (Worst Case) 10 Large 12.02

The thermal radiation intensity threshold values and its possible impacts for jet fire is similar to that considered for pool fire (Refer Table 6.8) The distance to the radiation intensity levels for the risk scenarios is predicted based on Chamberlain model calculation. The following relationships for distance along the flame axis to various thermal radiation levels are calculated:

For 5.0 kW/m2; Lf = 19.50 (Q) 0.447 For 12.5 kW/m2; Lf = 16.15 (Q) 0.447 For 37.5 kW/m2; Lf = 13.37 (Q) 0.447

Where Lf = flame length (m) Q = release rate (kg/s) Based on the equation specified for thermal radiation intensities, the distance of flame calculated for various gas release rates under the risk scenarios discussed are presented in the Table 6.12 below.



TABLE 6-12: JET FIRE HAZARD RANGES

Release Type

Release Rate (kg/s)


(m)


(m)


(m) Small 1 19.5 16.2 13.4

Medium 5 40.0 33.2 27.5 Large 10 54.6 45.2 37.4

As provided in the above table, flame length for the jet fire risk scenarios considered at respective threshold radiation intensity values is likely to vary from

19.5 – 54.6m for 5.0 kW/m2 thermal radiation 16.2 – 45.2m for 12.5 kW/m2 thermal radiation 13.4 – 37.4m for 37.5 kW/m2 thermal radiation

The worst hazard for release and ignition of natural gas at a rate of 10kg/s for a thermal radiation intensity of 37.5 kW/m2 is likely to be experienced to a maximum distance of 37.4m from the source with potential lethal effects likely to be experienced within 8 secs. Risk Ranking – Blowout Jet Fire (Worst Case Scenario)


Risk Ranking and Significance = 12 i.e. “Medium”

Oil Spill Crude oil spills resulting from blow out may result in the formation of unignited pools of liquid, the spreading of which is governed by physical factors viz. wind speed, sea currents (for offshore spills), release rates and spilled chemical characteristics viz. density. Near the source of a continuous release, the spreading is dominated by gravity and limited by internal forces with thickness, generally varying within 10-20mm. The spill movement is then resisted by the viscous shear forces which then continue until the spill thickness is about 1.0mm. Subsequently, surface tension takes over as the dominant spreading mechanism and it continues until thickness has reduced to 0.01 – 0.1mm which may take about 7-10 days for a large spill depending on various factors discussed earlier.

With respect to the QRA study, hypothetical release rates of 1.0kg/s, 5.0 kg/s and 10.0 kg/s for 1 day, 4days and 7days are considered as possible risk scenarios for modeling the spread of oil spill following a blow out incident. The diameter of the pool in the first phase of an unignited continuous release is obtained by the following equation:

D = 2 [g X Q/ρL 2π] t3/4

Where D = pool diameter (m) g = acceleration due to gravity (m/s2) Q = release rate (kg/s) ρL = liquid density (kg/m3) (crude oil density is 790 kg/ m3) t = time since start of release (s)



The pool fire diameter so calculated for the aforesaid risk scenarios are presented in the Table 6.13 below.

TABLE 6-13: POOL DIAMETER FOR OIL SPILL RISK SCENARIOS

Release Type Release Rate (kg/s) Release Time (s) Oil Spill Pool Diameter (m)

Small 1 86400 19.9 Medium 5 259200 226.9

Large 10 432000 665.7

Hence for a worst case spill scenario involving a crude oil release rate of 10kg/s for a period of 7 days the pool diameter for an un-ignited continuous release is predicted to be about 665.7 m. The ignition of oil pool may lead to formation of pool fires, consequences of which is discussed earlier under risk related to pool fires. Although unignited pool is not considered of major significance, it may gain significance based on the environmental impacts that may results from it depending on sensitive receptors identified abutting the proposed project of exploratory well sites. Risk Ranking – Blowout Oil Spills (Worst Case Scenario)


Risk Ranking and Significance = 9 i.e. “Low”

Preventive and Mitigation Measures Blowouts being events, catastrophic to well operation, is essential to take up a preventive measure that is feasible. This includes:

Necessary active barriers (For eg. well-designed blowout preventors) be installed to control or contain a potential blowout event.

Weekly blow out drills be carried out to test reliability of BOP and preparedness of drilling team.

Close monitoring of drilling activity be done to check for signs of increasing pressure, like shallow gas formations.

Installation of hydrocarbon detectors.

Periodic monitoring and preventive maintenance be undertaken for primary and secondary barriers installed for blow out prevention, including third party inspection and testing

An appropriate Emergency Response Plan be formulated and implemented by GAIL.

Marking of hazardous zone (500 meters) around the well site and monitoring of human movements in the zone.

Training and capacity building exercises/programs be carried out for onsite drilling crew on potential risks associated with exploratory drilling and their possible mitigation measures.

Installation of mass communication and public address equipment.



Good layout of well site and escape routes.

6.3.2 Process Leaks/Fires

Process leaks are defined as hydrocarbon releases from process equipments excluding blowouts and are relatively frequent events. In most cases, they are small in nature and can be effectively controlled. However, in its absence, they can trigger events like fire or explosions which may potentially have higher consequences.

Process Leaks – Frequency Analysis Frequency of process leaks can be estimated directly from analysis of historical data obtained from E and P Forum hydrocarbon leak database (E&P forum 1992), World Offshore Accident Database (WOAD) and OREDA. Although onshore data is available for process leaks, the information is not considered representative of actual scenario. Under such circumstances, historical data available on hydrocarbon leaks in the OGP authenticated offshore accident databases are considered for purpose of process leak frequency analysis. Review of HSE hydrocarbon release database indicates that majority of leaks (approx. 45%) occur during production with drilling/well operation contributing only 10%. The range of frequencies for various possible events is presented in the Table 6.14 below.

Table 6-14: Leak Frequencies for Process Equipment

Equipment Type Frequency

(per equipment item year) Flanges 8.8 X 10-5 Valves 2.3 X 10-4 Small Bore Fitting 4.7 X 10-4 Pressure Vessel 1.5 X 10-4 Pumps, centrifugal, double seal 1.7 X 10-2 Pumps, reciprocating, double seal 3.1 X 10-1 Compressors, centrifugal 1.4 X 10-2 Compressors, reciprocating 6.6 X 10-1

Source: HSE Hydrocarbon Release Database

Hence, with seismic and exploratory drilling for the proposed project, spinning over a period of 7, months i.e. 0.58 year, the frequency analysis for the process leaks from various process equipment’s is calculated as follows (Table 6.15):



Table 6-15: Project Process Equipment’s Leak Frequencies

Equipment Type Frequency (A)

(per item year) Drilling Period

(yrs) –(B) Occurrence

Frequency (A x B) Frequency

Class

Flanges 8.8 X 10-5 0.97 8.54 X 10-5 Improbable

Valves 2.3 X 10-4 0.97 2.23 X 10-4 Not Likely

Small Bore Fitting 4.7 X 10-4 0.97 4.56 X 10-4 Not Likely

Pressure Vessel 1.5 X 10-4 0.97 1.46 X 10-4 Not Likely Pumps, centrifugal, double seal 1.7 X 10-2 0.97 1.65 X 10-4 Not Likely Pumps, reciprocating, double seal 3.1 X 10-1 0.97 3.01 X 10-1 Occasional/Rare Compressors, centrifugal 1.4 X 10-2 0.97 1.36 X 10-3 Not Likely Compressors, reciprocating 6.6 X 10-1 0.97 6.40 X 10-1 Occasional/Rare

Thus, as discussed above in most of the cases, the frequency of occurrence of process leaks for the proposed project is either “Not Likely” or “Occasional/Rare” .Under the conditions of hydrocarbon releasing from reciprocating pumps, the compressor is predicted to be “Probable”. Furthermore, taking into account that GAIL plans to undertake periodic monitoring and preventive maintenance of such process equipment’s, it is anticipated that occurrence of such process leaks is likely to be less frequent.

Process Leaks – Consequence Analysis The potential consequences of a hydrocarbon leak from process equipment’s will depend, to a large extent, on steps that can be taken to control or mitigate its effect. There is considerable chance of a process leak might being ignited (either immediate or delayed) ,resulting in a fire or explosion. The following scenario can occur if a hydrocarbon leak is ignited:

Jet fires resulting from gas releases ignited early

Pool fires and smoke plumes from ignited oil releases.

Evolution of a fire or explosion scenario, as a result of a process leak can follow a complex chain of events which can be studied in detail through a ‘fault tree’ or’ what-if ‘analysis. On one hand, fires or explosions resulting from ignition of hydrocarbon leaks can cause severe consequences, as and when it goes out of control. On the other hand it may damage equipment’s, including drilling rig itself.

The process leak consequences viz. jet fire and pool fire is likely to arise following ignition of the oil pool/vapour cloud formed. However, the same is dependent on ignition probabilities accounted in relevant databases maintaining records of accidental events occurring over the years with respect to oil and gas industry. Reviewing of SINTEF database



for major and minor process leaks indicates the following generic ignition probabilities (Table 6.16).

Table 6-16: Generic Ignition Probabilities

Release Rate Category Release Rate (kg/s) Gas Leak

Probability Oil Leak

Probability

Minor <1 0.01 0.01

Major 1-50 0.07 0.03

Massive >50 0.30 0.08

Although reviewing records of OCS and Norwegian oil and gas installations indicates, ignition delay for process leaks, but also OCB/Technica (1988) reveals that for half the instances, ignition is delayed by about 5 minutes or more allowing escape of onsite crew and drilling personnel.

However, as similar consequences, viz. pool fire and jet fires are anticipated from process leaks, as in blow outs, identical risk scenarios are considered (in terms of oil and gas release rates) for leak consequence modeling based on professional judgment and analysis of process leak accident database. Hence, consequence modeling for process leaks/fires will be similar to that undertaken for exploratory well blow outs as discussed in the earlier section (Refer section 6.3.1).

Risk Ranking – Process Leak Pool fire and Jet fire (Worst Case Scenario)



Preventive and Mitigation Measures

Preventive and mitigation measures for process leaks, fires and explosions will be implemented with:

Provision of adequate leakage and fire detection alarm systems;

Installation of firefighting equipment’s, both portable and fixed.

Minimizing, (as far as practicable) potential sources of ignition like welding/hot works, compressors, electrical equipment, compressors etc.

Arrangement of proper ventilation for hazardous areas to allow inflammable gases to dissipate, when a release has occurred;

Proper mechanisms like ESDs which can isolate leaks effectively to be installed, in high risk process trains.

Effective barriers in form of blast walls, blast relief panels, etc. installed to shield workers from high risk area where explosions may occur.

Strict implementation of permits to work system and hazardous zone classification.

Basic firefighting training to all working on the drilling rig.

Installation of electrical equipment as per hazardous zone classification.



6.3.3 Non-process fires/explosions

Non-process fires are fires and explosions that involve materials other than hydrocarbons (e.g. electrical fires, diesel fires, accommodation fires, DG set fires, miscellaneous sources etc.). Most non-process fires are small incidents which can be managed within the facility using existing firefighting equipment’s. Such fires have, however, a higher frequency of occurrence compared to process fires and explosions as recorded by HSE database and World Offshore Accident Database (WOAD). Due to absence of veritable data source, recording non-process fire/explosion incidents for onshore installations, aforesaid databases for upstream oil and gas sector is referred in an effort to analyze non-process fire/explosion risks with respect to proposed onshore exploratory project.

Historically, few fatalities are reported from non-process fires and most of them are successfully managed at installation level. Based on WOAD 1996 statistical report, average fatality rate for non-process fires is estimated at 10-3 platform year. Again, these fatalities are already addressed under risks covered within the purview of personal accidents and need not be considered for fatalities due to non-process fires. However, as they have a higher probability to occur, such incidents may cause inconveniences and come in way of smooth operation of the drilling activities. The frequency of occurrence of fires due to possible non-process accident is listed in the Table 6.17 below:

TABLE 6-17: FREQUENCY OF OCCURRENCE - NON-PROCESS FIRES

Non-Process Accidents Frequency (per year)

Electrical fires 7.0 X 10-2

Diesel fires 9.2 X 10-3

Machinery fires 2.2 X 10-3

Miscellaneous fires 2.1 X 10-3

Source: WOAD

As a result, though damage potential is low, it is important to take appropriate safeguarding measures to minimize their occurrence. Many of these measures are implemented through the stipulation of simple work instructions and procedures. Risk Ranking for Non-Process Fires



Preventive and Mitigation Measures Preventive and mitigation measures for small non-process fires will be implemented by delineating appropriate operational procedures through existing safety management system. .



7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND MONITORING FRAMEWORK

This Environmental Management Plan and Monitoring Framework is a site specific document for exploratory drilling within the CB-ONN-2010/11 block that is developed to ensure that GAIL can implement the project in an environmentally conscious manner where all contractors, understand potential environmental risks arising from proposed project and take appropriate actions to properly manage such risk.

This EMP will be considered an overview document that will guide environment management of all aspects of GAIL’s activities within the block. With the progress of the well site preparation, exploratory drilling and site decommissioning activities. This EMP will be backed up by more specific Environmental Action Plans, Procedures and Bridging Documents

The EMP describes actions to be adopted in terms of:

National Policies and Regulations

IFC/World Bank Group Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines

Best Practices and guides

Local Environmental and Social Sensitivities

7.1 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS

The Environment Management Plan details out the mitigation measures to be implemented by both GAIL and the Contractors during various stages of the seismic survey and exploratory well drilling operations within the CB-ONN-2010/11 block. The following environmental management plans is formulated in line with proposed project activities viz. site preparation, exploratory drilling and decommissioning.

Pollution Prevention and Abatement Plan

Waste Management Plan

Storm Water Management Plan

Wild Life Management Plan

Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan

Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan

GAIL will ensure communication and implementation of the aforesaid management plans prior to commencement of site preparation and exploratory well drilling operations on field. In addition, mitigation measures for social issues and concerns are also separately presented in this report. Disaster Management Plan to address technological emergency situations viz. blowouts etc. that may arise from drilling operations is also incorporated later in this chapter. In cases where there are possible overlaps, the plans are cross-referenced to avoid repetition. Additional mitigation measures to ensure effective management of identified environmental



aspects during various phases of the proposed project is discussed under aforesaid plans in subsequent sections and summarized in Table 7.1 for ease of reference.

7.1.1 Pollution Prevention and Abatement Plan (PPAP)

Scope The Pollution Prevention and Abatement Plan (PPAP) is applicable to and encompasses both construction and operational phase activities for the proposed project which has potential to adversely impact the ambient air and noise quality, surface and groundwater quality and soil quality of the CB-ONN-2010/11 exploratory block.

Purpose The PPAP establishes specific measures and guidelines aimed at effectively addressing and mitigating the air, noise, water and soil quality impacts that may arise as result of seismic surveys, well site preparation and access road construction/strengthening, drilling operations and decommissioning/site closure. The plan also details out roles and responsibilities of GAIL and its contractors (both civil and drilling) to ensure effective implementation of the plan.

Mitigation Measures and Strategies The following mitigation measures need to be adopted and implemented by GAIL and its contractors during various phases of the proposed project to prevent and control air emissions (both point and fugitive), high noise generation, soil contamination and fertility loss, contamination and depletion of groundwater resources and storm water discharge.

TABLE 7-1 MITIGATION MEASURES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS

Project Phase Mitigation measures

A. Control of fugitive and point source emissions

Drill Site Preparation Care will be taken to site the exploratory well and borrow areas away from human settlement/habitation and sensitive receptors.

Vehicles delivering raw materials like soil and fine aggregates will be covered to prevent fugitive emissions.

Storage and handling of raw material and debris will be carefully managed to prevent generation of fugitive dust.

Sprinkling of water on earthworks, material haulage and transportation routes on a regular basis during dry season.

All vehicles, equipment and machinery used for construction will be subjected to preventive maintenance as per manufacturer norms.

All vehicles utilized in transportation of raw material and personnel will have valid Pollution under Control Certificate (PUC). Vehicular exhaust will be complying with CPCB specified emission norms for heavy diesel vehicles.

The top soil generated from site clearance activities is to be stored in designated area and stabilized to prevent fugitive dust emissions.

Drilling Test Flaring will be undertaken in accordance with the CPCB Guidelines for Discharge of Gaseous Emissions for Oil and Gas Extraction Industry.

Location of test flare stack is to be governed by the presence of habitation and sensitive receptors.




A. Control of fugitive and point source emissions

Duration of test flaring is to be minimized by careful planning;

High combustion efficiency, smokeless flare/burner will be used.

An efficient test flare burner head equipped with an appropriate combustion enhancement system will be selected to minimize incomplete combustion, black smoke, and hydrocarbon fallout.

Volumes of hydrocarbons flared will be recorded.

Exhausts of engines on the drilling rig diesel generators will be positioned at a sufficient height to ensure dispersal of exhaust emissions; engines will not be left running unnecessarily.

Preventive maintenance of DG sets is to be undertaken as per manufacturers schedule to ensure compliance with CPCB specified generator exhaust.

Decommissioning/Site Closure

Mitigation measures to address the air quality impacts resulting from vehicular movement, operation of heavy construction machineries and material handling are similar to those discussed above and are not detailed out separately in this section.

B. Control of Noise and Vibration


Drill Site Preparation Selection and use of low noise generating equipment equipped with engineering controls viz. mufflers, silencers etc.

All vehicles utilized in transportation of raw material and personnel will have valid Pollution under Control Certificate (PUCC)

Periodic preventive maintenance of vehicles as per manufacturer’s schedule to ensure compliance with the vehicular noise limits specified by CPCB

All high noise generating equipment’s will be identified and subjected to periodic preventive maintenance.

Care will be taken that no night time operation of vehicles and construction activities will be undertaken.

Engines of vehicles and construction equipment are to be turned off when not in use for long periods.

Drilling Siting of drilling rig and facilities away from sensitive receptors viz. schools, settlements etc. with all reasonable screening being utilized where necessary.

Installing acoustic enclosures and muffler on engine exhaust of DG sets to ensure compliance with generator noise limits specified by CPCB.

Care will be taken to minimize the all noise generating operations, except drilling, to daytime;

Periodic monitoring of noise levels on site and nearby receptors to ensure compliance with Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000.


Management measures to address noise impacts with respect to operation of heavy equipment’s/machineries and movement of vehicles during decommissioning/site closure phase are similar to those discussed in the “Construction Phase” of this section



C. Prevention and Control of Soil Quality Impacts


Drill Site Preparation Minimizing felling of trees and removal of vegetation through proper and careful selection of site thereby reducing soil erosion.

Site preparation and road strengthening/widening activities is to be restricted within defined boundaries.

Avoiding construction activities during monsoon season as moist soil is most susceptible to compaction.

Using appropriate machinery during top soil stripping to ensure minimum compaction.

Debris and excavated material generated during construction activities to be stockpiled in designated areas onsite. No material to be disposed in adjacent land surrounding the site boundary.

For cleared areas, retaining top soil in stockpile, where possible, on perimeter of site for subsequent re-spreading onsite during restoration.

Providing embankment all around the heap of excavated top soil and covering it with tarpaulin sheet to avoid erosion by the action of rains/strong winds.

Drilling Fuel and chemical storage areas will be paved and properly bunded. Bunded

areas will be designed to accommodate 110% of the volume of spilled material.

Spill kits will be made available at all fuel and chemical storage areas. All spills/leaks contained will be reported and cleaned up immediately.

Drip pans/trays will be used in areas identified having spillage potential but not limited to drill rig engine; electric generator engine; pumps or other motors; maintenance areas; fuel transfer areas.

Management of drill cuttings, waste drilling mud, waste oil and domestic waste will be made in accordance with “Waste Management Plan”


Decommissioning at the end of project life/drilling will have some adverse impacts in terms of increase in soil erosion and will require adequate mitigative measures to minimize adverse impacts. Mitigation measures will be similar to those outlined for construction phase activities as discussed earlier.

Drill sites will be restored to near original conditions and top soil will be spread back to its original place.

D. Prevention and Control of Surface Water Quality Impacts


Drill Site Preparation Minimal clearing and construction activities during monsoon season (as far as practicable).

Construction work close to streams or water bodies will be avoided during monsoon

During site preparation and construction, surface water run-off will be managed through implementation of proper drainage system onsite.

Sediment filters and oil-water interceptor will be installed by the Contractor to intercept run-off and remove sediment before it enters water courses.

Run-off discharges to natural drainage channels/water bodies will conform to




CPCB Inland Water Discharge Standards.

Regular inspection of surface water drainage/diversion system and sediment controls.

Drilling Run-off from rig wash and chemical storage areas will be channelled through closed drainage system to specially designed pit of impervious HDPE waste pit.

Drip trays will be used during preventive maintenance of machineries.

Hazardous chemicals and fuel drum will be stored in bunded and lined area equipped with proper spill control equipment.

Management of drill cuttings, waste drilling mud, waste oil and domestic waste will be made in accordance with “Waste Management Plan”.


No significant impacts on surface water quality can be associated with activities during decommissioning/site closure phase. Any possible impact that may arise due to surface run-off will be mitigated in manner similar to that discussed during construction phase activities.

Site will be restored as per original contour to avoid any alteration in natural drainage pattern of the area.

E. Prevention and Control of Ground Water Quality Impacts


Drill Site Preparation No significant impact on the groundwater quality can be associated with construction phase activities.

Drilling Exploratory wells will be sited at a sufficient distance away from an existing tube well or open well.

Water supplies will be obtained through authorized vendors.

Proper casing and cementing of exploratory wells will be done to prevent contamination of sub-surface aquifers.

Water based mud will be used as a drilling fluid for the proposed project

Selection of low toxicity chemicals/additives in the preparation of water based mud will be done

Periodic monitoring of groundwater quality will be carried out for village wells located outside project boundary to assess the level of ground water contamination, if any.

Storage and disposal of drill cutting and waste mud is to be made in accordance with “Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Plan”.


No significant impacts on groundwater quality can be associated with activities during decommissioning/site closure phase

7.1.2 Waste Management Plan

Scope The Waste Management Plan is applicable for all process and non-process waste streams, which are generated during various phases of GAIL’s proposed exploratory drilling operations in the CB-ONN-2010/11 block. The major waste streams covered under this plan includes drill cuttings, waste drilling mud; cuttings wash water, kitchen waste and sewage. In addition, waste oil and lead acid batteries generated from the proposed project operations is also dealt with in this plan.



Purpose The WMP establishes specific measures to ensure proper collection, storage, treatment and disposal of identified process and non-process waste streams in accordance with applicable national regulations and guidelines16 to ensure compliance with GAIL’s corporate HSE Policy. The plan also outlines roles and responsibilities of both GAIL and its contractors involved in implementation of the plan.

Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures need to be adopted and implemented by GAIL and its contractors for the major waste streams identified in the plan.

TABLE 7-2 MITIGATION MEASURE FOR WASTE STREAM

Waste Quantity Mitigation Measure Drill Cuttings 200 MT/well Drill cuttings separated from drilling fluid will be adequately

washed and temporarily stored and disposed in an impervious pit lined by HDPE.

Design aspects of the impervious waste disposal pit to be communicated/shared by GAIL with Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB).

The drilling cuttings pit will be bunded and kept covered using tarpaulin sheets, when the pit is full and during monsoon.

Periodic monitoring and analysis of drill cuttings will be undertaken to establish its nature and characteristics.

Waste pit, after it is filled up, will be covered with impervious liner over which a thick layer of native top soil with proper top slope will be provided.

Feasibility study for using drill cuttings as a road construction material will be initiated if the drill cuttings are found non-hazardous as per Schedule I and II under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 in consultation with nodal authorities. However, in case of hazardous nature of drill cuttings, proper authorisation will be obtained from GPCB for disposal of the same to the nearest TSDF facility.

Drilling Mud and wash waste water

20m3/day Use of water based mud as drilling fluid.

Use of low toxicity chemicals for preparation of drilling fluid.

Barite used in the preparation of drilling fluid will not contain Hg>1mg/kg and Cd>3mg/kg

Recycling of drilling mud to be ensured to the maximum extent possible.

Temporary storage of drilling fluid and wash waste water will be done in an impervious pit lined with HDPE.

Drilling fluid pit will be bunded to prevent water overflow during heavy monsoon.

Disposal will be achieved either through solar evaporation or

16 “Guidelines for Disposal of Waste – CPCB Oil and Gas Extraction Industry Standard” – EPA Notification [GSR 176(E), April 1996] “Guidelines for disposal of Solid Waste, Drill Cuttings and Drilling Fluids for Offshore and Onshore Drilling Operation” –MoEF Notification, 30th August 2005



Waste Quantity Mitigation Measure necessary treatment to comply with the CPCB onshore effluent discharge standard for oil and gas industry.

The waste water will be adequately treated in a mobile Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to ensure conformance to the CPCB onshore oil and gas extraction industry effluent standards before disposal.

Kitchen Waste 10-20 kg/day Waste will be segregated and stored in designated waste bins.

All such waste bins will be properly labelled and covered.

Kitchen waste will be disposed in nearest municipal dumping site on a daily basis.

Waste oil Used oil

5-10 kg/day per well 0.3 m3/well

Hazardous wastes (waste and used oil) will be managed in accordance with Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans boundary Movement) Second Amendment Rules, 2009.

Hazardous waste will be stored in properly labelled and covered oil drums located in paved and bunded areas.

Necessary spill prevention measures viz. spill kit will be made available at hazardous material storage areas

Storage details of onsite hazardous waste generated to be maintained and periodically updated.

Adequate care will be taken during storage and handling of such waste viz. use of proper PPEs by personnel

Hazardous waste, stored, will be periodically sent to GPCB registered and/or waste oil recyclers/ facilities.

Proper manifest as per HWMH rules will be maintained during storage, transportation and disposal of hazardous waste.

Sewage 1.5m3/day per well

Sewage generated will be treated in a combination of septic tank and soak pit or portable ETP

Regular supervision will be undertaken for domestic waste treatment system to report overflows, leakage, foul odour etc.

Lead Acid Batteries

2-3 batteries per well

Will be recycled through vendors supplying lead acid batteries as required under Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001.

Proper manifest will be maintained as per Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001.

Recyclables viz. paper, plastic etc

Depending on usage

Proper segregation and storage of recyclable waste in designated bins onsite.

Recyclables will be periodically sold to local waste recyclers.

In addition to the management measures specified for major waste stream, GAIL will prepare a waste management inventory of all the waste streams identified for the proposed project and will be periodically be updating it through contractors. Necessary measure will also be taken by GAIL to incorporate appropriate waste management and handling procedures in the contractor work document and conduct periodic training of personnel involved in waste handling onsite to ensure proper implementation of the WMP. In this regard, necessary inspection, record keeping, training program and monitoring procedures will be established by GAIL and made operational to achieve proper management of all wastes generated on site.



7.1.3 Storm Water Management Plan

Scope Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) refers to proper management of surface run-off generated during monsoon. This is applicable only for construction (well site preparation and access road construction/widening) phase of the proposed project

Purpose The purpose of Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) is to ensure, prevent and control any adverse impact of discharging of storm water from the well site and road widening/strengthening areas to nearby natural drainage channels and community water bodies. Proper management of storm water runoff will minimize damage to public and private properties reduce effects of development on land, control stream channel erosion, pollution and sediment deposition besides reducing local flooding.

Mitigation Measures

Pipe drainages will be provided for diversion roads constructed for the construction of new bridges and culverts.

Storm water from all longitudinal and cross drainage works will be connected to natural drainage courses.

Necessary measures will be undertaken by civil contractor during construction phase to prevent earth and stone material from blocking cross drainage structures.

Periodic cleaning will be undertaken of cross drainage structures and road drainage system to maintain uninterrupted storm water flow.

The contractor will remove obstructions that may cause temporary flooding of local drainage channels, due to construction activities.

7.1.4 Site Closure Plan

The site closure plan for will identify all the activities which would be performed during the restoration of a particular site in case the well is not economically viable and no further use of that particular well bore is envisaged. Along with the well site the approach road connecting the well will be restored accordingly.

Chronological inventory of activities which would be performed during the closure of the site are detailed in this section. The following activities have been considered in the closure plan:

Plugging & Abandonment of well: Close the well head properly to prevent any further leakage

Decommissioning Phase : Removal of the materials form the site

Waste/mud pit closure and reclamation

Reinstatement Phase: regeneration of the land

Handover Phase : Returning the land to the original owner



Plugging & Abandonment of well

As and when the well will be declared as non-productive/dry, plugging of the well will be performed to close and abandon the well as per prescribed guidelines.

Decommissioning The decommissioning phase includes activities dismantling and removal of surface facilities from the well site, removal of construction fill material form site and storage in the Material Dumping Area. The activities which are envisaged during this phase are:

Waste Management: clean up the site and remove all waste materials e.g. HDPE

liners, any waste material etc. The waste will be dumped in the designated area as per the guidelines of Gujarat pollution control board.

Removing & Dumping of Fill Materials: The fill materials (aggregates, morrum etc) should be removed mechanically from the site. It will be used for the local road preparation or dumped in the designated area as filling material.

Road Restoration: The fill materials should be removed and restore the site or it may be left for further local community use as per the agreement with community.

Waste and mud pit closure and reclamation Following decommissioning and abandonment of the well site the waste and mud pits (4-5 nos) will be subject to closure through onsite burial of solids in accordance with lease and landowner obligations and with local, state and national regulations. Reclamation of closed pits or any other temporary retaining pits, including reserve pits, will be carried out within a period of one year from well closure/abandonment.

7.1.5 Wildlife Management Plan

Scope Likely impacts of project activities on ecological habitats and their mitigation measures are addressed below.

Purpose The purpose of Wildlife Management Plan is to minimize impact on natural habitat in the form of vibrations, noise and flaring etc. from drilling operations and controlling of (any) adverse impact of discharging of untreated waste water from drilling operation and storm water from the well site to the nearby natural drainage channels, ponds and river. Management Plan details out mitigation measures and strategies to be adopted by the project proponent and contractors during each phase of the project, at the same time establishing a monitoring network to investigate effective implementation of the Management Plan.

Mitigation measures

Care will be taken during finalization of exploratory drilling sites and location will avoid village woodlots etc.

Care would be taken to locate the drilling areas away from the village ponds, streams and rivers, which have identified as habitats for pea fowls and other local ponds.



Due diligence inspections will be undertaken prior to selection of drilling sites to ensure minimal impact.

Drill site will be properly fenced (chain-linked) to avoid straying of outsider or animals;

No temporary electric supply connection line from the grid will be laid for the proposed project activity. All electrical requirements will be supplied from internal DG sets.

Noise levels at drill site will be controlled through selection of low noise generating equipment and installation of sufficient engineering controls viz. mufflers, silencers etc.

Drill cutting and other drilling waste should be stored in HDPE lined pit within the drill site.

The Environment Compliance Officer will conduct training programs for all GAIL employees and its contractor on the subject of applicable practice and mitigation measures contained within ‘Wildlife Management Plan’.

7.1.6 Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan

Scope Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan is applicable to all operation pertaining to GAIL and contractor vehicular movement viz. vehicle involved in transportation of raw materials, project and contractor personnel, drilling rig and heavy equipment transportation to well site and decommissioning.

Purpose Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan outlines specific measures to be adopted and implemented by GAIL to mitigate potential impact on community health and safety that may arise from movement of vehicles and transportation of drilling rig and heavy equipment’s during site preparation, drilling and decommissioning activities.

Mitigation Measures

Project vehicular movement involved in sourcing and transportation of borrow material will be restricted to defined access routes to be identified in consultation with locals and concerned authorities.

Proper signage will be displayed at important traffic junctions along predefined access routes, to be used by construction and operational phase traffic. The signage will aid to prevent diversion from designated routes and ensure proper speed limits are maintained near village residential areas.

The condition of roads and bridges identified for movement of vehicles and drilling rig will be assessed by GAIL and civil contractor to ensure their safe movement.

Precautions will be taken by the contractor to avoid damage to public access routes including highways during vehicular movement.

Contractor will provide safe and convenient passage for vehicles, pedestrians and livestock to and from side roads and property accesses connecting project road. Work that affects use of side roads and existing accesses will not be undertaken without providing adequate provisions.



Parking of project vehicles along village access roads will be prohibited. Proper signs will be posted at parking facilities.

Any road diversion and closure will be informed in advance to villagers who access defined routes

Traffic flows will be scheduled wherever practicable during period of increased commuter movement.

Clear signs, flagmen and signal will be set up at major traffic junctions and near sensitive receptors viz. primary schools in discussion with Gram Panchayat and local villagers.

Movement of vehicles during night time will be restricted. Speed limits will be maintained by vehicles involved in transportation of raw material and drilling rig.

Regular supervision will be done by contractor to control vehicular traffic movement along defined traffic routes particularly near identified sensitive receptors

Routine maintenance of project vehicles will be ensured to prevent abnormal emissions and high noise generation.

Adequate training on traffic and road safety operations will be imparted to drivers of project vehicles. Road safety awareness programs will be organized in coordination with concerned authorities to sensitize target groups viz. school children, commuters etc. on traffic safety rules and signage’s.

In addition, GAIL will ensure that all vehicles transporting hazardous substances (fuel oil, chemicals, etc.) will be properly labeled in accordance with specifications of Motor Vehicles Rules. Implementation of Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan will be monitored which will include keeping track of vehicular densities on all site connecting state highways and vehicular speeds on access road to well sites.

7.1.7 Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan

Scope The Occupation Health and Safety Management Plan (OHSMP) is applicable for all project operations which have the potential to adversely affect health and safety of contractor workers and onsite personnel.

Purpose The Occupation Health and Safety Management Plan (OHSMP) is formulated to address occupational health and safety related impacts that may arise from proposed project activities viz seismic surveys, operation of construction machineries/equipment’s, storage and handling of fuel and chemicals, operation of drilling rig and associated equipment, during exploratory drilling and decommissioning/site closure. Occupational health and safety impacts viz. Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is also anticipated on personnel working close to such noise generating equipment. However, considering short duration of the drilling period (approximately 90 days) and necessary noise prevention and control measures viz. use of acoustic barriers, provisions proper PPEs, regular preventive maintenance of equipment’s,



maintaining safe distance from habitation etc. is to be implemented by the proponent- no significant impact to this regard is envisaged.

Mitigation Measures All machines to be used in the construction will conform to relevant Indian Standards

(IS) codes, will be kept in good working order, will be regularly inspected and properly maintained as per IS provisions to the satisfaction of the site Engineer.

Contractor workers involved in handling of construction materials viz. borrow material, cement etc. will be provided with proper PPEs viz. safety boots, nose masks etc.

The Contractor will, at all times, take every possible precaution and will comply with appropriate laws and regulations relating to handling, transportation, storage and usage of explosives for shot hole blasting operations during seismic surveys.

No employee will be exposed to a noise level greater than 85 dB(A) for a duration of more than 8 hours a day. Provision of ear plugs, ear muffs etc. and rotation of workers operating near high noise generating areas will be kept.

Hazardous and risky areas, installations, materials, safety measures, emergency exits, etc. will be appropriately marked.

All chemicals and hazardous material storage containers will be properly labeled and marked according to national and internationally recognized requirements and standards. Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or equivalent data/information in an easily understood language will be made readily available to exposed workers and first-aid personnel.

GAIL will adopt “Occupational Health Surveillance Programme” for its employee and workers working onsite, which include routinely held health check-ups, clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, job rotation etc.

Workplace will be equipped with fire detectors, alarm systems and fire-fighting equipment. Equipment will be periodically inspected and maintained to ensure good working conditions

Health problems of workers will be taken care of by providing basic health care facilities temporarily set up for drilling base camp.

Sewage system for the camp will be properly designed, built and operated so that no health hazard occurs.

Adequate sanitation facilities will be provided onsite for the operational workforce both during construction and operational phase of the project.

Garbage bins will be provided in camps, be regularly emptied and garbage disposed off in hygienic manner.

Training programs will be organized for operational workforce regarding proper usage of PPEs, handling and storage of fuels and chemicals etc.



7.1.8 Management of Social Issues and Concerns

Mitigation measure are outlined to address project related social issues and concerns for GAIL to take proactive steps and adopt best practices, which are sensitive to socio-cultural setting of the region.

Providing Job Opportunities During site construction non-technical jobs will be generated. Most of the people employed at this stage will be semi-skilled. People from adjoining areas will be given preference through local contractors according to skill sets possessed.

Ensuring Public Safety Noise and vibration generated during short-hole blasting may cause temporary discomfort to local communities and infrastructure. All blasting operations will be undertaken by licensed contractors.

Since the project involves movement of heavy vehicles and machineries in the area, issue of public safety of villagers, especially children, is an important concern. During the drilling phase and for rest of the project activities, proper safety measures will be undertaken, both for transportation as well as other operations. The drill site will be fenced and gates will be constructed so that children are refrained from straying into the site.

Movement of traffic is also likely to disrupt access conditions of the inhabitants residing close to the approach road. The increase in traffic will have implications on their safety too! It will create congestion, potential delays and inconvenience for pedestrians. Mitigation measures in this regard are discussed in detail under the Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan.

Common Property Resources During the project tenure there might be some sharing of resources viz. land, water, access routes etc. by villagers and contractor workforce. Prior to the commencement of the proposed activity, a consultation program will be conducted by GAIL with target groups and local authorities. The primary objective of such consultation will be, to share with the concerned villagers/stakeholders, the purpose of the proposed project, its impacts and subsequent mitigation. Movement of heavy vehicles and machineries might lead to conditions like disruption of electric wires and telephone wires in the site area and along transportation routes. These public utilities will be restored back to normal conditions, at the earliest. Fencing of the site will lead to, some cases of temporary loss of shortest foot track routes for villagers to their agricultural fields. Consultation with villagers will be carried out in such cases, to assist them in finding alternative foot track routes.

Land/crop compensation

During Public Hearing queries related to compensation against the damage/loss (viz. damage to houses/structures, wells, broken farm embankments etc.) incurred by the locals due to seismic survey activities previously undertaken by GAIL were raised. Clarifications on the compensation mode of payments, duration was sought from GAIL. GAIL assured that proper compensation as per mutual agreement would be paid to the affected farmers. To address the



issue, GAIL through their hired contractor has identified all local farmers affected by the seismic survey activities conducted by GAIL previously. Currently 37 affected farmers have been identified, to whom compensation against the damage/loss incurred have been paid (Pls. find the receipt of compensation in Annexure 11). GAIL will ensure that all affected people are identified and given due compensation.

GAIL also commits to minimize the losses/damages due to drilling operations and also to timely pay the required and negotiated compensation to the affected locals, if any

7.1.9 Cultural Heritage Management

Possible impact on cultural and historical resources is anticipated primarily during the project construction phase, following site excavation and movement of vehicles. Since, no monuments and archeological site is present within or near the proposed block, GAIL need not take any permission from any regulatory body for carrying out drilling operations in this block. However, there are few cultural/historical spots like old temples in the block. Necessary precautions will be taken during the movement of trucks and other vehicles carrying equipment’s and machineries and personnel to the site.

Prior to commencement of site construction activities, location of culturally important properties (old temples) will be communicated to the contractor. Thus, any significant impact due to project activities on the cultural environment of the block is unlikely. Hence, necessary mitigation measures need to be adopted and implemented by GAIL during site preparation and exploratory drilling of the project. This includes:

Cultural important areas within the block (old temples) will be geographically mapped and communicated to the contractor.

Consultations will be held with local communities in areas of identified cultural importance prior to the commencement of operations.

Reporting protocol will be established by the Contractor to communicate any chance sighting during site preparatory and pipeline trenching activities to the onsite project personnel.

.



7.1.10 CSR Implementation:

Over the last few years, GAIL has focused its CSR activities in the areas of Education, Skill Development and Healthcare for a long term and sustainable impact. For purposes of focusing its CSR efforts in a continued and effective manner, the following seven thrust Areas have been identified:

Environment Protection / Horticulture Infrastructure i.e. Building/Roads/ Electrification/ Street lighting Drinking water/ Sanitation Healthcare/ Medical Facility Community Development

CSR programs will be undertaken by various work centers of GAIL to the best possible extent within the defined ambit of the identified ’Thrust Areas’. The time period/duration over which a particular program will be spread, will depend on its nature, extent of coverage and the intended impact of the program. GAIL will dovetail and synergise its CSR activities with the initiatives of State Governments, District Administration, Local Administration as well as Central Government Departments Agencies, Self Help Groups, etc.,



7.2 EMP BUDGET

The tentative budget for implementation of the environmental management plans has been provided below:

TABLE 7-3 TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR EMP IMPLEMENTATION

S.N Particulars of Work Budget (in Rs.)1 Air Quality Management Plan A Dust Suppression through water sprinkling in the internal unpaved roads @ Rs.

10000/month x 32 months for 8 wells (taking 120 days for site preparation and drilling works) in a year

3.2 lakhs

B Ambient air quality monitoring -8 monitoring stations x once per month x 12 (Rs. 6000 x 32 samples (during drilling period for 8 wells).

1.92 lakhs

C Stack emission monitoring (@ 5000/sample x 24 samples (3sample x 8wells) x once in each months of drilling (4 months)

3.2 lakhs

2 Noise Monitoring A Ambient noise monitoring – @ Rs 2500 x 32 samples (once in a month for entire

drilling phase) 80000

3 Water Quality Monitoring A Surface water quality monitoring @ Rs 7000 x 6 locations once in each during site

construction, drilling and after decommissioning) x 18 samples. For ETP inlet outlet, oil/water separator twice during drilling from 8 exploratory wells @Rs. 4000 x 8 x 4months x 2 (inlet/outlet)

3.82 lakhs

B Commissioning and operational cost of ETP (commissioning cost 10 lakhs for one ETP; cost; operational cost Rs. 10000/well x 8 sites)

10.8lakhs

C Soil quality monitoring @ Rs. 5000 x 18 samples (6 locations x once during site construction, drilling and decommissioning)

90000

Total cost of Implementation of EMP for environment pollution monitoring (Note: Budgetary provision for all other Management plans is already included in the infrastructure development cost)

23.12 lakhs

The costing has been done based on drilling period of 120 days.

The Environmental Management Plan Matrix for the proposed project is presented in the Table 7.4.


SENES/D-20484/ March ‘15 GAIL 201

TABLE 7-4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MATRIX

S.N Activity Potential Impact Mitigation

Pre-drilling Activities

A1 Siting of well site facility Potential adverse impact on environment in the vicinity of the drill site Potential safety issues to local people related to drill site preparation and drilling operation

Selection of drill site taking into account local environmental vulnerability

Sufficient distance maintained in between site and nearest habitation

A2 Lease of land for well sites and

related facilities Temporary loss of agricultural land and crop productivity Temporary loss of livelihood for affected communities

Minimizing project foot print to the extent possible Providing compensation for standing crops Finalization of compensation package in consultation with local

communities

A3 Site preparation and road strengthening/widening

Loss of top soil and increase in soil erosion potential Alternation in onsite drainage pattern

Minimizing felling of trees and removal of vegetation through proper and careful selection of site.

Site preparation and road strengthening/widening activities to be restricted within defined boundaries.

Avoidance of construction activities during monsoon season. Top soil stockpiles to be stabilized and stored in designated areas Provision of onsite drainage.

A4 Sourcing and transportation of raw materials

Generation of fugitive emission Community health and safety concerns

Contractor to source raw materials from approved/licensed quarries. Proper covering of raw material during transportation to be ensured Periodic water sprinkling along haulage routes near sensitive

receptors Project vehicular movement will be restricted to defined access

routes to be identified in consultation with locals and concerned authorities.

Proper signage will be displayed at important traffic junctions along predefined access routes.

Night time movement of vehicles will be restricted



S.N Activity Potential Impact Mitigation A5 Operation of construction

machineries/equipment’s Fugitive emissions and high noise generation Occupational health and safety concerns

Selection of low noise generating equipment Installation of engineering controls viz. silencers, mufflers Rotation of workers operating in high noise generating areas Use of proper PPEs viz. ear plugs, ear muffs. Periodic preventive maintenance of machineries/equipment’s

A6 Transportation of drilling rig and ancillaries

Disruption of public utilities Community health and safety concerns

The public utilities viz. telephone and electrical wire to be restored to its original condition at the earliest.

Movement of rig and heavy equipment’s to be carried out in accordance with the Road Safety and Traffic Management Plan formulated.

A7 Discharge of surface run-off Increase in sediment load contributing to turbidity of receiving water bodies

Provision of onsite sediment control measures viz. silt traps Construction work close to the streams or water bodies will be

avoided during monsoon Run-off discharges to natural drainage channels/water bodies will

conform to CPCB Inland Water Discharge Standards.

Drilling and Testing

B1 Physical presence of drilling rig and ancillaries

Temporary change in visual characteristics of the area

Restoration of site to its original condition following decommissioning/site closure

B2 Operation of DG sets and machineries and exploratory drilling

Air emissions and high noise generation Occupational health and safety concerns Community discomfort

Siting of drilling rig and facilities away from sensitive receptors Installing acoustic enclosures and muffler on engine exhaust of DG

sets Setting up effective noise barrier at the fence-line of the site; Exhausts of engines on the drilling rig diesel generators will be

positioned at a sufficient height Preventive maintenance of DG sets to be undertaken as per

manufacturer’s schedule. B3 Casing and cementing of

exploratory well Damage to subsurface aquifer

Use of low toxicity chemicals Periodic monitoring of groundwater quality will be carried out for

village wells located outside the project boundary to assess level of groundwater contamination, if any

B4 Storage and disposal of drill cuttings , mud and process waste water

Soil and ground/surface water contamination

Use of water based mud as the drilling fluid. Use of low toxicity chemicals for the preparation of drilling fluid. Recycling of drilling mud to be ensured to the maximum extent



S.N Activity Potential Impact Mitigation possible.

Use of HDPE lined pit for disposal of drill cuttings, process wastewater

Disposal of drill cuttings in accordance with CPCB and MoEF guidelines on management of drilling wastes

B5 Discharge of surface run-off Soil and surface water contamination Run-off from vehicular wash and chemical storage areas will be channeled through closed drainage system provided with an oil-water separator.

Drip trays will be used during preventive maintenance of vehicles and machineries.

Hazardous chemicals and fuel drum will be stored in bunded and lined area equipped with proper spill control equipment.

Drill cuttings and mud pit will be bunded and kept covered during monsoon.

B7 Sewage treatment Occupational health problems of operational workforce

Sewage will be treated using a combination of septic and soak pits The sewage treatment system (septic tank and soak pit) will be

regularly monitored for any possible overflows, leakages etc

B8 Flaring during production testing and process upset

Air emission leading to discomfort to nearby communities

Siting of flare stack considering nearest habitation and sensitive receptor.

Elevated flaring to be undertaken as per guidelines issued by CPCB for Oil and Gas Extraction Industry.

Duration of flaring to be minimized by careful planning;


C1 Dismantling of rig and associated facilities

High noise generation and fugitive emissions causing discomfort to locals

Same as in A5

C2 Transportation of drilling rig and ancillaries

Same as in A6 Same as in A6



7.3 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN

Objective The objective of an EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN is to ensure a quick, effective and appropriate response to emergencies in order to protect the public, company and contract personnel from fatalities and irreversible health effects and the environment from damage. The specific objectives are : Actions to be taken in the event of an emergency including when and how the said action

is to be taken. Actions to be taken by those in and outside GAIL to mobilize their resources in an

orderly way and react in time and effectively to handle emergency. Alarm and communication system including the system of notifying the concerned

authorities. Duties and responsibility of each key personnel including measures to be adopted to

avert or minimize the consequences of the emergency. Plan for competence of personnel and for mock drills. The plan addresses worst case emergency situations, potential hazards to the public,

personnel working at site, environment and the systems required for adequate response.

Scope The plan has been developed taking into consideration the emergency in and around GAIL operations for drilling of exploratory wells in block CB-ONN-2010/11 in the districts of Ahmedabad and Anand in Gujarat, INDIA. The plan covers the emergencies arising out of acts such as:

Well kick

Blowout

Fire

Evacuation

Medical evacuation

Accidents

Natural Disasters

Pollution

H2S release.

The plan covers in detail the actions to be initiated while responding to emergency situations. It is mandatory for all key personnel to familiarize themselves with the procedures so that the reaction time is reduced and the response actions are carried out in a professional manner.

Responsibilities The Project Manager of the Block CB-ONN-2010/11 has ultimate responsibility for ensuring that effective measures are in place to fulfill the spirit and intent of Emergency Response Plan and GAIL HSE Policy. The Company Man has line responsibility for the safe and effective execution of operations as per Drilling Plan. HSE manager will ensure effectiveness



of Emergency Response Plan through regular mock drills and update any changes in the ERP and shall also assist Company Man along with GAIL’S representative in HSE related matters.

Emergencies In the event that emergency escalates and cannot be contained by the location team, the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) will be activated. The ERP is designed to minimize the impact of the incident.

Emergency Classification Due consideration is given to the severity of potential emergency situation that may arise as a result of Blowouts leading to pool fires/jet fires and oil spills, Process leaks and fires as well as during Non-process fires / explosions as discussed in the Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) study. Not all emergency situations call for mobilization of same resources or emergency actions and therefore, the emergencies are classified into three levels depending on their severity and potential impact, so that appropriate emergency response procedures can be effectively implemented by the GAIL Emergency Management Team. The Emergency situations have been classified as below:

Operational Accidents

Fire/ Explosion Blowout Injury/Fatality

Environmental incidents

Oil spill Chemical spill

Transportation emergencies

Shift vehicle accident Heavy vehicle accident

Medical emergencies

Medical evacuation Epidemic

Security threats

Social conflict Terrorist attack

EMERGENCY LEVEL

All incidents are classified as Emergency Level 1, 2 or 3. Incidents that can be handled on site through normal operating procedures are typically defined as Level 1 emergency, while those with a more complex resolution are usually defined as Level 2 and 3 emergencies.



Level 1 – Potential Emergency There is no immediate danger to public or environment Released hazard substance is contained to the working area Creates little or no media interest. Low potential for it to escalate Handled by site personnel No immediate threat to workers

Action Plan Notify Company man along with GAIL’S representative/ Tool Pusher. All well site personnel Evaluate problem and initiate appropriate remedial measures. Unnecessary personnel to evacuate the site. Alert mobile emergency equipment to be in readiness. In case it is a thickly populated area, alert the nearby residents so that they are ready

for evacuation in case the Alert situation escalates

Level 2 – Emergencies In the event that emergency escalates and cannot be contained by the location team, the Emergency Response Plan will be activated. The ERP is designed to minimize the impact of the incident.

Action Plan Ensure all level 1 actions are taking place. Initiate evacuation of nearby residents. Restrict entry to the incident zone by

roadblocks. Mobilize emergency control equipment. Establish communication links with Delhi/ Noida office of GAIL about the incident

and with local administration

Level 3 – Emergencies There exists an immediate danger to the public or environment Control of situation has been lost Creates state or national media interest Emergency extends beyond drill site operations

Action Plan Ensure all 1 and 2 level actions are taking place Mobilize all emergency control equipment’s. Call for specialist team for control of the particular emergency Inform local/state administration about the state of emergency



Organization, Roles and Responsibilities

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROCESS

A. SITE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (SERT) Roles and Responsibilities :

a. SERT is the first responder in the case of any emergency at site. b. Team will be responsible for :

First Aid and fire fighting Search and Rescue operations Rig shut down, if required Respond as enumerated in procedures of different emergency scenario’s

Composition of SERT: Site Emergency Response Team (SERT) is composed of : Company man, who will be the On Scene Coordinator& Head of SERT. He shall

supervise and monitor on-site emergency response along with GAIL’S representative and will also coordinate communications with GAIL‘S resources / teams.

GAIL’s HSE Manager/Engineer, who will assist the company man along with GAIL’S representative in on-site emergency response and assist in coordinating with contractor‘s supervisors as well as GAIL’s base support resources /team.



Contractor’s Tool Pusher: The Contractor’s Tool Pusher will be nodal coordinator for coordination with company man on emergency response of the drilling unit including supervision of the emergency teams made up of rig personnel.

Contractor’s personnel: To complete formation of SERT, rig crew (including representatives of other service providers) shall be selected based on position and competency and will be directly responsible for execution of emergency plan.

B. CHIEF EMERGENCY COORDINATOR Project manager GAIL will be the chief emergency coordinator. Roles and Responsibilities :

Overall command and control of the entire operations. Establishing control room in case of emergency. Activating Emergency Management Support Team (EMST). Communication with Top Management. Liaison and coordination with other oil companies, domain experts like loss control/oil spill control/Blow out control teams as the case may be. Constant communication with company man along with GAIL¡¦s representative at site through Emergency control room providing guidance, resource support and advice on emergency response. Liaison with statutory authorities for incidents requiring notification and / or external investigation. Liaison with appropriate local authorities and government agencies. Protecting the legal liability of the company. Arranging resources (material, equipment and services) to handle the emergency,

including procurement and placing service contracts. Dealing with financial and insurance issues. Ensuring that the GAIL¡¦s other day to day activities continue.

C. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SUPPORT TEAM (EMST) Roles and Responsibilities Of EMST Prepare and Revise emergency plans and provide domain expertise in emergency

management. Contact with crisis management team and arrange their visit to drill site. Establishing and manning Emergency Control Room. Constant communication with

site control room to keep track of latest developments. Arrange necessary resource support including procurement. Assisting CEC in preparation of statements for press release. Liaison and coordination with external agencies as directed by CEC.

Composition of EMST: This team shall be operating from GAIL office at Noida and shall compose of the following members, Head of E&P department: Project Manager Head of HSE department Head of C&P department.



Head of Finance department. Head of HR department. Head of Corporate Communication department. Head of Medical department. Head of drilling department. Head of operations department Head of Geosciences department.

SITE CONTROL ROOM (SCR) AT RIG In case of emergency at site, a Site Control Room (SCR) will be set up at a safe distance near the site by Tool Pusher of Drilling Rig. The site control room will be managed on round the clock basis by defined Rig team of Drilling Contractor.

Function Communicate requirements for mobilization of equipment, resources etc. To keep records of all material received at site during emergency. To communicate with Emergency Control Room (ECR) on the latest position. To keep records of all decisions and messages sent/received.

EMERGENCY CONTROL ROOM (ECR) AT NEW DELHI/ NOIDA An Emergency Control Room (ECR) is the place, where the operations to be handled in emergency are directed and coordinated .The emergency control room should be equipped with good communication facilities like telephones, computers with internet, wall charts showing location of site, fire stations, copy of Emergency Response Plan (ERP) for the field, list of key personnel, their addresses and telephone/mobile numbers, note pads, telephone directories etc. Emergency control room will function from GAIL Delhi/ Noida office; Project Manager will depute suitable Duty Officers on round the clock basis in the emergency control room.

Functions Inform to all key personnel about incident and further happenings at site Maintain all records of events and actions taken. Round the clock monitoring and flow of information to and from the site of

emergency. Coordinate with SCR on resource requirements. Coordinate with other oil companies and domain experts. Coordinate with key personnel for guidance and assistance required at drill site. Casualty list and information to next of kin. Preparation of management reports on the situation at every 12 hours interval. Coordination with local authorities such as police, civil administration, hospitals, fire

department etc. Coordinate sanction & procurement of the items required during emergency. Arrangements for food, water, shelter medicines, logistics etc.

RESOURCES FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT The emergency control room should be equipped with good communication facilities like telephones, computers with internet, wall charts showing location of site, fire stations, copy



of Emergency Response Plan (ERP) for the field, list of key personnel, their addresses and telephone/mobile numbers, note pads, telephone directories etc.

INFORMATION SYSTEM Information flow to GAIL BOARD Delhi is for major emergency only. Other emergency cases are to be reported in daily/monthly reports. Reporting of incidence/emergency to regulatory authorities shall be immediately for major emergency and for others incidences, as per guidelines.

Communication chart

ACTION PLANS FOR DIFFERENT SCENARIOS

7.3.1 Well Kick:

Unexpected entry of formation fluids like oil, gas or water in the wellbore during drilling is called kick. If not controlled, it may turn into blowout, which is uncontrolled release of oil, gas or water from a gas/oil well after pressure control systems have failed. Company man will be the on- scene coordinator.



Duties And Responsibilities

The Tool Pusher will; Take immediate action to control the kick Coordinates well killing operations following well control procedures. Take all possible action to minimize damage to the rig, equipment and environment. Take immediate action to ensure the safety of all personnel. Coordinate medical emergency actions for any injuries. Make initial report and periodic updates to Company man along with GAIL’

representative.

7.3.2 Fire Or Explosion

Anticipated during : Spillage/leak of oil/gas or presence of hydrocarbon vapors. Electrical short circuit. Fire in combustible material.

The Tool Pusher is to be informed immediately of any fire. Minor fire is to be dealt by using rig fire- fighting equipment. Any fire that threatens property/life must be notified to the nearest Fire Brigade Station.

7.3.3 Flooding in the Field

The Project Manager will be the ON scene coordinator. The person who notices flood situation should raise an alarm and inform the Company man and Tool pusher about the location and extent of flood. The Company man along with GAIL representative will determine details of flood situation and will inform Emergency control room and further as per communication chart.

7.3.4 Oil or Chemical Spill Management

At the drilling site, diesel oil and chemicals are stored in significant amount, which is a major cause of concern. Very often, leakages from these oil storage areas may take place, which can result in hazardous accidents. Sometimes uncontrolled spillage from these storage areas may lead to storm-water run-off contamination unless managed properly. Additionally, during well testing phase, there is a likelihood of generation of some amount of crude oil. The crude oil generated during well testing will be stored separately in a large container and sent offsite for further refining. However, there are chances of spills during crude oil handling and transportation. In order to control such incidents, a proper spill response and management plan will be adopted. These measures are essential to prevent such spills and related accidents from happening, and in case they take place, the spill will be controlled to a limited area and GAIL will take necessary mitigation actions immediately.

In order to address spill related contamination issues, measures will be taken at the very initial stage of designing of drill site. Adequate bunding is provided around all chemical storages and handling areas and such places will be duly covered by a shed to prevent rainwater to infiltrate such areas, thereby preventing generation of contaminated runoff.



Similar arrangement will be made at the Warehouse. Additionally, all such storages and handling/transfer of chemicals will be made over paved land and/or HDPE liner will be used so that no chemicals directly come in touch with soil causing contamination through spillages. Additionally, following measures will be adopted as preventive measures on site:

Fuelling will take place in a designated area:

Personnel at the site will be provided with Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPE);

No oil change will be carried out without ensuring adequate protection;

Hazardous wastes causing accidents will be immediately transferred to hazardous waste disposal site;

Adequate arrangements will be made for storage and transportation of produce oil (if any) with provision of proper spill control measures

The rig will always be so positioned or located as to prevent spilled oil from reaching water in so far as it is possible and practicable, and in all other instances the company will do what is necessary to minimize the risk of any such spillage.

The area around the substructure and tanks of the rig will be ditched and all said ditches and pits will be dug deep and large enough to accommodate the anticipated volumes of liquids encountered during drilling operations, as well as the capacity of the tanks, should a leak or rupture occur. In wet or marshy areas, dikes or levees will be constructed around the rig, tanks and pits to prevent any such oil from entering the water. The rig will normally operate continuously. All systems will be constantly monitored. Lighting is to be sufficient and adequate to conduct operations and to observe systems, which might prevent pollution.

Oil or oily effluent from secondary containment will be transported by trucks to a suitable disposal site.

Contingency Plan in the Event of an Oil / Chemical Spill Immediately extinguish any heater or fire that may ignite the spill.

No smoking during spill control operations.

Close valves if dealing with a fuel line rupture.

Direct spillage to rig ditches or drains that will carry the oil to a safe holding sump or reserve pit.

Distribute hulls, fibertex, gel, barite and any other absorptive material on hand as required to contain oil, which cannot be directed to ditch.

Inspect area to ensure that all oil is contained in ditches, cellar, sumps, or reserve pit. Add ditches levees, dams, pits and sumps as required to contain spill.

Start jets or sump pumps and transfer spilled oil from sumps to reserve pit or holding tank.

After spill is stopped, collect all used hulls, fibertex, and similar materials for disposal as given prior inspection from the Tool Pusher. Insure that no oil is left in ditches, cellar, pit, or sump, which might become a fire hazard.



If the oil has escaped from rig site, use the chemicals and equipment provided to emulsify, blot up, and recover oil spilled.

Notify Company man of the spill, which will in turn inform the Project Manager.

After discussing with SERT, Company man along with GAIL’S representative and

Tool Pusher will set up Site control room at a safe place.

Company man along with GAIL’S representative will take guidance from Project

Manager for hiring services of experts to control oil/ chemical spill.

After the special team has controlled the oil spill necessary cleaning operations are to be followed.

An investigation of the spill will be conducted by Tool Pusher and GAIL’S representative to determine the cause of the spill.

7.3.5 Blow Out

Is another hazard which includes uncontrolled release of well fluid (primarily hydrocarbons viz. oil and/or gas and may also include drilling mud, completion fluid, water etc.) from an exploratory or producing well. Blow out results from failure to control a kick and regain pressure control and are typically caused by equipment failure or human error. Company man will be the ON scene coordinator.

The Tool Pusher will: Carry out the same duties and responsibilities as enumerated in the well kick

procedures. Coordinates well control activities with Operator and outside specialists. Ensure that

local population is warned and actions taken to ensure their safety. Mitigation Measures to be undertaken:

Necessary active barriers (For eg. well-designed blowout preventors) be installed to control or contain a potential blowout event.

Weekly blow out drills be carried out to test reliability of BOP and preparedness of drilling team.

Close monitoring of drilling activity be done to check for signs of increasing pressure, like shallow gas formations.

Installation of hydrocarbon detectors. Periodic monitoring and preventive maintenance be undertaken for primary and

secondary barriers installed for blow out prevention, including third party inspection and testing

An appropriate Emergency Response Plan to be implemented by GAIL. Training and capacity building exercises/programs be carried out for onsite

drilling crew on potential risks associated with exploratory drilling and their possible mitigation measures.

Installation of mass communication and public address equipment.



Good layout of well site and escape routes.

7.3.6 Casualty Evacuation

The site doctor in consultation with Tool Pusher, Company man and GAIL HSE Manager along with GAIL’S representative will decide about casualty evacuation. For evacuation ambulance will be available round the clock at drill site. After evacuation to local facilities as patience care and/or transfer will be made by doctor and/or hospital personnel.

7.3.7 Security Breach

The unauthorized presence of an individual on site is to be treated as Security Breach. Oil field operations, being hazardous, all field personnel are required to be very vigilant about unauthorized entry of persons in the field. The Emergency Response Plan prepared by GAIL discusses in detail the procedures involved during security breach.

7.3.8 Accidents

In case of accidental emergency it is duty and responsibility of each individual to report the accident including near misses to shift in charge. Shift in charge in turn must report the same to Tool Pusher.

7.3.9 Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)

Hydrogen Sulfide also known as “sour gas” is a flammable and poisonous gas in nature. While drilling, this gas may be encountered. To handle the emergency due to this gas the special preparations are required in the form of special equipment and H2S special training. There are many types of drilling equipment that may give rise to hydrogen sulfide emissions during E&P activities (particularly the exploration drilling process with reference to the present stage). Hydrogen sulfide presents grave health risks. Even at relatively low levels, exposure to hydrogen sulfide can have detrimental effects on human health. The adverse health effects resulting from hydrogen sulfide range from mild irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat at lower levels of exposure to loss of consciousness and death at increased levels of exposure. Typical exposure symptoms include:



Prolonged exposure at lower levels can lead to bronchitis, Pneumonia migraine headaches, pulmonary edema, and loss of motor coordination. Although Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) is dangerous, deadly gas, its effects are controllable and generally reversible, provided appropriate action is taken on time. Danger of exposure to H2S cannot be eliminated altogether but the potential of danger can be minimized by: Providing adequate safety equipment’s on location Proper training to personnel before posting Establishing strict operating and emergency procedures Creating general awareness of potential Hazards of H2S. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations for each location will be determined by the well

operator. Detection will be available for determining level of H2S present in gas. The Tool pusher or Production engineer be contacted prior to rigging up or releasing

pressure at a location that is suspected of having hydrogen sulfide (H2S)

First Aid for H2S:

Move the victim into fresh air at once (upwind from the source). Never attempt to rescue a victim without first donning appropriate breathing apparatus.

If the victim is unconscious and not breathing, immediately apply mouth-to-mouth artificial resuscitation and continue until normal breathings is restored. If available, oxygen should be given through an inhaling apparatus by an employee trained in the use and operation of such equipment.

Summon emergency help as quickly as possible and transport the victim if necessary.

General Safety Precautions for H2S:

Air must be tested for presence and concentration of H2S by a qualified person. Using air monitoring equipment, such as Hydrogen Sulfide detector or a multi gas meter that detects gas. Testing should also determine if fire/explosion precautions are necessary.

If the gas is present, the space/are must be ventilated to continuously remove the gas. The personnel entering the area/space must use appropriate respiratory protection and

other necessary personnel protective equipment, rescue and communication equipment. All employees are to be trained before rig up begins. Wind direction indicators will be installed at strategic locations at the well site. Protective breathing apparatus will be maintained at the well site as required Employees with facial hair in the form of breads, long side burns, etc. that could interfere

with the seal of a facemask will not be allowed to work in exposed sites. A method for igniting the gas will be provided in the event of an uncontrollable

emergency. Automatic hydrogen sulfide detection and alarm equipment that will warn the crew of

the presence of H2S will be installed on the rig. Portable detection equipment will also be made available.

Poison gas signs will be provided and properly placed.



Safe briefing areas will be established prior to the beginning of the work. All employees will be informed to report to the briefing area in case of a hydrogen sulfide emergency. Briefing areas will be established upwind from the well.

Training

Comprehensive training will be provided for workers in H2S operations in the topics: Identification of characteristics, sources, and hazards of H2S. Recognition off and proper response H2S warning at the work place. Proper use of H2S detection methods used in site. Symptoms of H2S exposure. Proper rescue techniques and first aid procedures to be used in a H2S exposure. Confined space and enclosed facility entry procedures. Location and use of safety equipment. Location of safe briefing areas. Proper use and maintenance of personal protective equipment. Demonstrate proficiency in using will be required. Workers awareness and understanding of workplace and maintenance

Roles and Responsibilities H2S Engineer and HSE supervisor of contractor are the main ON scene coordinator. When H2S level is more than 5ppm, the shift in charge and the Tool pusher will be informed. The Company man and SERT to look for any person affected by H2S and taking him for first aid /medical attention

Disaster Management Measures The Emergency Management Support Team at New Delhi/ Noida will prepare a detailed report on the management of disaster and submit the same to Project Manager. After reviewing the report Project Manager will submit the report to GAIL Board.

Emergency and Disaster Management Measures The onsite ERT will be adopting and implementing the following mitigation measures to prevent and mitigate any possible emergency situation that may arise during the course of exploratory operations in CB-ONN-2010/11 block.

An approved Emergency Response Manual as detailed above detailing out roles and responsibilities of concerned personnel and procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency.

Periodic training exercises and capacity building programs will be organized by ERT to enhance awareness onsite drilling crew and personnel on emergency response procedures.

Adequate safety signs and caution notification will be displayed at all identified potential risk areas onsite.



Radio or telephone communication facilities will be maintained at each operational location in connection to well drilling or servicing activities. All such communication equipment will be maintained in good working condition.

Personnel involved in drilling and related activities viz. mud preparation, chemical handling will be equipped with proper personnel protective equipment (PPEs).

Drilling rig and related equipment’s to be used for exploratory drilling will be conforms of international standards specified for such equipment.

Design and placement of casing strings will take into account known or predicted formation strength, known or predicted formation pore fluid pressures, programmed drilling fluid densities and maximum performance properties used in design of casing strings.

Casing strings will be run and cemented at approximate setting depths specified in the drilling program and significant variations to the prescribed setting depths will be notified to the Drilling Superintendent prior to running casing.

Blow-out preventers and related well control equipment will be installed, operated, maintained and tested, generally in accordance with internationally recognized standards.

Adequate fire-fighting equipment will be provided at each drilling site and any other location where there is a potential risk of occurrence of fire, or substantial risk of serious damage in the event of a fire. All such equipment will be maintained in good working and onsite crew will be trained in effective usage of the same.

Appropriate gas and leak detection system will be made available at each of the drilling location.

Periodic monitoring and preventive maintenance will be undertaken for safety equipment’s involved in drilling operation viz. safety valves, flanges, BOPs, pumps and compressors.

First aid kit and adequately equipped medical team will be made available at the exploratory well site. The medical team will have properly trained personnel for treatment of those requiring medical attention during an emergency.

7.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

Monitoring is one of the most important components of a successful management system. Continuous monitoring needs to be carried out for regulatory permit requirements related to environmental effects and to assess performance of EMP implementation. Monitoring indicators have been developed for each of the activity considering mitigation measures proposed. Indicators have been developed for ascertaining performance of the EMP implementation which focuses not only on quantifying or indexing activity-environment interactions that may potentially impact the environment but also will help in comparing different components of environmental quality against previously established baseline values. Monitoring results will be documented, analyzed and reported internally to Drilling Supervisor and HSE Coordinator.



Monitoring requirements along with frequency of monitoring and responsibility of carrying out the monitoring have been described in the following Table 7.5. Table also categorizes each indicator presented according to the project phase in which they have to be monitored under the following categories:

Disturbance to Local Environment

Disturbance to Local Communities

Global Environmental Problems

Resource Consumption

Waste Generation

Benefits to the Local Population

Each indicator has been tagged with an EI number in order to establish the linkage between suggested mitigation measures and the proposed monitoring framework.



TABLE 7-5 PROPOSED MONITORING REQUIREMENTS OF THE PROJECT

EI No.

Environmental Indicator (EI) Monitoring Parameter Period & Frequency

A Design and Planning

A.1

Nearest habitation to drill site Distance between the drill site and nearest village settlement within the block

Once in project lifecycle

A.2 Location and size of land leased Number of land owners affected Total area leased for the drill sites (Ha)


A.3

Present Crop Cultivation Pattern Cropping period (in months) Before the commencement of drill sites & after the completion of drilling

A.4 Land use Land use type Once in project lifecycle

A.5

Approval / Authorization of quarries

Validity of the Approval / Authorization of particular quarries

Before the commencement of drill sites preparation

A.6

Haul Routes Distance of quarry / borrow area from project site Condition of haul road & connecting road to the acquired block

Before the commencement of drill sites preparation

A.7 Terrestrial Habitat/Ground Vegetation Cover

Intensity of removal of ground vegetation Distance of borrow areas from the acquired block Species Diversity Index

Before the commencement of drill sites preparation During identification of borrow areas During identification of borrow areas

A.8 Compliance of Air standards Percentage of machinery and equipment use, which meets source emission standards

Before the deployment of machineries and equipment’s at drill sites

A.9 Compliance of Noise standards Percentage of machinery and equipment use, which meets source emission standards

Before the deployment of machineries and equipment’s at drill sites

A.14 Hazardous / Toxic Drilling Chemicals

List of Hazardous / Toxic Drilling Chemicals to be used in drilling project

In time of selection of materials to be used before the starting of drilling

A.15 Chemical and fuel storage Area of chemical and fuel storage Maintenance of such storage area Height of chemical and fuel storage area

During the drilling process



EI No.


A.16 Emissions during flaring Height of flare stack Location of flare stack with respect to camp site and habitations


A.17 Consultation with villagers Number of consultations with villagers regarding selection of route, access to agricultural fields etc.

At the initial planning phase

B Approach Road & Site Development

B.1 Topsoil Area occupied for topsoil storage/ Area planned for topsoil storage Height of topsoil stockpile

Weekly during site preparation

B.2 Fugitive emission of dust during site preparation

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness Daily during site preparation

B.3 Fugitive emission of dust during material transport

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness

Daily during site preparation

B.4 Fugitive emission of dust during material handling and storage

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness Daily during the entire project life-cycle

B.5 Air emissions from vehicles and machineries

SPM, NOx, SOx, CO, HC based on emission factors Visual observation of emissions Percentage of vehicles, which possess valid PUCC Certificates

Once in project lifecycle Daily Contractor selection on Case-to-case basis - if considerable emissions observed during operations

B.6

Ambient Air Quality Visual observation Odour/smell (NOx) Measurement of PM10, SOx, NOx, CO, using HVS

Daily during site development and road works (if any) Monthly during site development and road works (if any)

B.7 Night time operations of vehicles & machinery

Hours of operation during night time


B.8 Noise emissions from vehicles and Noise pressure level in dB(A) near noise sources Daily during site preparation



EI No.


machineries

B.9 Ambient noise quality Hearing / perception Measurement of Noise Pressure Level in dB(A)

Daily at site and during road works (if any) Monthly at site and during access road up gradation works (if any)

B.10 Subsoil Compaction from vehicular movement

Visual observation of compacted area / trampled vegetation / crops


B.11 Servicing schedule for vehicles Percentage of vehicles not complying with the servicing schedule

Monthly during site preparation

B.12 Supervision of movement of heavy vehicles within site

Number of vehicles reported with movement outside platform area and along access road


B.13 Soil Fertility Fertility parameters like pH, NPK ratio etc. Once before site preparation

B.14 Quality of water

Visual observation Analysis of Parameters as per CPCB Use-class

Daily during site preparation Monthly during site works

B.15 Condition of Natural Habitats (forests etc.)

Visual observation of signs of visible pollution / degradation

Monthly during site development

B.16 Local labour force Number of temporary land losers (or their family members) employed in project activities


C Drilling & Testing Activity

C.1 Gaseous pollutant emissions from DG Set

Maintenance parameters (air, fuel filters & air-fuel ratio) of DG sets influencing air emissions Visual observation of exhaust smoke characteristics Emission rates of PM10, NOx, SOx, CO, HC based on emission factors

Monthly during drilling & testing Daily during drilling & testing For the entire project life-cycle period

C.2 Noise emission from DG Sets Noise pressure level in dB(A) Daily during the entire project life-cycle (day &

night)



EI No.


C.3 Noise emission from drilling rig

Noise pressure level in dB(A) Number of workers affected for not using PPE

Daily during the entire project life-cycle (day & night) Case specific (if required at all)

C.4 Noise emissions from vehicles Noise pressure level in dB(A) Very much case specific, if in case high noise is

noticed

C.5 Ground water usage Daily withdrawal rate Daily

C.6 Waste from Spillage containment Quantity of generated waste Storage & disposal details

Daily during entire life-cycle of project Daily during entire life-cycle of project

C.7 Spilled Chemicals/Oil

Area of Spill / Quantity Spilled / Severity of Spill / Characterization of Spilled Substances for Contaminants (Heavy Metals, Toxics etc.) Storage & Disposal Details (Qty, Method)

As and when spills occur

C8 Fugitive emission of cement dust during handling and storage

Visual observation of cement dust in air by haziness Daily during the entire project life-cycle

C9 Runoff from temporary storage areas

Supervision of functioning of conduits / drains channelising runoff into the waste pit Maintenance of temporary storage area allocated for hazardous waste & waste oil etc

Fortnightly during drilling phase

C.10 Engineering control at the disposal site

Supervision of waste disposal point within the drill site or at the final disposal site


C.11 Runoff from final disposal site Supervision of slope and angle of the waste disposal site and functioning of garland drains


C.12 Waste Oil and Lubricants Volume of waste generated Details of storage & disposal method

Daily during entire life-cycle of project

C.13 Spent batteries Numbers, size, Storage & disposal details Authorization of waste recyclers of spent batteries


C.14 Metallic, packing, scrap waste Quantity of waste generated Daily during entire life-cycle of project



EI No.


Details of storage & disposal

C.15 Emissions from Flaring Total CO, Non-Methane Hydrocarbons, NOx emission estimates based on emission factors

Once during well testing

C.16 Domestic Solid Waste Quantity of waste generated Storage & disposal details and frequency of disposal


C.17 Sewage (Black, grey water) quantity & quality

Volume estimate Basic pollutant parameters (pH, solids, COD)

Daily during the project life-cycle For every batch of wastewater discharge

C.18 Quantity & quality of process waste water from rig operation

Volume estimate Basic pollutant parameters (pH, solids, COD)

Daily during the project life-cycle For every batch of wastewater discharge

C.19 Air emissions from vehicles

SPM, NOx, SOx, CO, HC based on emission factors Visual observation of pollutant emissions in the air Percentage of vehicles possessing valid PUCC Certificates

Once in project lifecycle Daily Contractor Selection, as it is very much case specific (only if considerable emissions observed during operations)

C.20 Fugitive emission of dust during material transport

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness Daily during the entire project life-cycle

C21 Servicing schedule for vehicles Percentage of vehicles not complying with the servicing schedule

Monthly during drilling phase

C.22 Evacuation Procedures Arrangements for safe shelters, evacuation routes and vehicles Once during drilling phase

C.23 Emergency response during blow out prevention

Number and availability of trained personnel Availability of contingency plan for blow out, oil spill & other emergency

Well before the commencement of drilling

C.24 Total Discharge in to the stream Discharge volume

Daily during drilling & testing Monthly during drilling & testing

D Decommissioning / Closure

D.1 Noise pressure level in dB(A) Near noise emission sources Daily during decommissioning



EI No.


Hearing / perception Measurement of Noise Pressure Level in dB(A)

Daily during decommissioning Monthly during decommissioning

D.2 Decommissioning waste Quantity of waste generated Detailed methods of storage & disposal

Once the decommissioning will start

D.3 Air emissions from vehicles SPM, NOx, SOx, CO, HC based on emission factors Visual observation of emissions from truck movement during decommissioning of equipment’s & machineries from site. Percentage of vehicles possessing valid PUCC Certificates

During decommissioning phase Daily Contractor selection in case considerable emissions observed during operations

D.4 Fugitive emission of dust during transport demobilization of drilling facilities

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness Daily during the entire demobilization period

D.5 Fugitive emission of dust during excavation of raised platform

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness Daily during the entire demobilization period

D.6 Site restoration Visual observation of : Clearing of decommissioning waste Leveling of site Relaying of top soil Regeneration of top soil

Daily during decommissioning period

D.7 Quality of water

Visual observation Analysis of Parameters as per CPCB Use-class


D.8 Ambient Air Quality Visual observation Odour/smell (NOx) Measurement of SPM, RPM, SOx, NOx, CO by using HVS


D.9 Soil Fertility Fertility parameters like pH, NPK ratio etc. Once after completion of site restoration

D.10 Consultation with villagers Number of consultations with villagers regarding site restoration

Before starting of demobilization & restoration of site to its original condition



B) Environmental Quality Monitoring

EQI No

Environmental Quality Indicator (EQI)

Monitoring Parameter Location Period and Frequency Responsibility

A Approach Road and Site Development A1 Soil Fertility Fertility parameters like pH, NPK ratio,

Total Carbon, etc. Site and adjacent areas Once before site

preparation HSE Supervisor

A2 Quality of water Analysis of Parameters as per CPCB Use-class

Natural drainage channel /water bodies receiving run-off discharges

Monthly during site and road works

HSE Supervisor

A4 Ambient Air Quality Measurement of SPM, RPM, SOx, NOx, CO, using HVS

At Surrounding receptor points

Monthly during site and road works

HSE Supervisor

A5 Ambient noise quality Hearing / perception Measurement of Noise Pressure Level in dB(A)

At surrounding receptor points

Daily site and road works Monthly site and road works

HSE Supervisor

A6 Soil Contamination Analysis for suite of contaminants (heavy metals, TPH, organics, pesticides).

Site, adjacent areas and Waste disposal site

In event of spills HSE Supervisor

B Drilling and Testing B1 Ambient Air Quality Measurement of SPM, RPM, SOx, NOx,

CO, using HVS At Surrounding receptor points

Monthly during drilling and testing

HSE Supervisor

B2 Ambient noise quality Hearing / perception Measurement of Noise Pressure Level in dB(A)


Daily during drilling and testing Monthly during drilling and testing

HSE Supervisor

B3 Groundwater Quality

Analysis of Parameters as per IS10500 Nearby wells Monthly during drilling and testing

HSE Supervisor

B4 Soil Contamination Analysis for suite of contaminants (heavy metals, TPH, organics, pesticides).

Site, adjacent areas and Waste disposal site

In event of spills HSE Supervisor

B5

Quality of water Analysis of Parameters as per CPCB Use-class

Natural drainage channel receiving run-off discharges

Monthly during drilling and testing

HSE Supervisor

C Decommissioning / Closure



EQI No

Environmental Quality Indicator (EQI)

Monitoring Parameter Location Period and Frequency Responsibility

C1 Ambient noise quality Hearing / perception Measurement of Noise Pressure Level in dB(A)



HSE Supervisor

C2

Quality of water

Analysis of Parameters as per CPCB Use-class

Natural drainage channel receiving run-off discharges


HSE Supervisor

C3 Ambient Air Quality Measurement of SPM, RPM, SOx, NOx, CO, using HVS

At Surrounding receptor points

Monthly during decommissioning

HSE Supervisor

C4 Soil Fertility Fertility parameters like pH, NPK ratio, Total Carbon, etc.

Site and adjacent areas Once after site restoration HSE Supervisor



8.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

As per the EIA Notification 2006, proposed exploratory drilling operation of oil and gas project comes under Schedule 1(b) of Category ‘A’ projects and requires environmental clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). In this regard MoEF has issued Terms of Reference (ToR) vide F. No. J-II0011/233/2013-IA II (I) dated 29th November, 2013 for conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study for the proposed project. According to above mentioned ToR and EIA notification, public hearing needs to be carried out in the project area. As the proposed onshore exploratory block is located in Ahmedabad and Anand districts of Gujarat, separate public hearing are organized in both districts according to the EIA notification dated 14th September, 2006. The draft EIA report, along with executive summaries in English and Gujarati are submitted to Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) for conducting public hearings in Anand and Ahmedabad districts. Public Hearings were conducted on 21st Jan’15 and 30th Jan’15 at Dugari village, Tarapur (Taluka), Anand district and in Vataman village, Dholka (Taluka), Ahmedabad district respectively. Advertisements to communicate public hearing details were published in local Sandesh (Gujarati Newspaper) and The Times of India (English Newspaper) on 20th Dec’14 and 27thDec’14 for Anand and Ahmedabad districts respectively. Additional District Magistrate (A.D.M) for respective districts supervised and presided over entire public hearing proceedings. A total of 122 participants were present in Dugari village of Tarapur taluka, Anand district, while 74 participants attended the public hearing in Vataman village of Dholka taluka (Ahmedabad district). A written representation was also received from Mr. R.A Chavda, Sarpanch, Dholi Gram Panchayat falling in Dholka taluka during public hearing at Vataman village in Ahmedabad district. The Sarpanch addressed the ADM regarding the GAIL’s previous seismic survey activities which lead to losses/damages to the local people property viz. unfilled holes drilled, unrestored farm embankments etc. and hence asked for a compensation for the losses/damages incurred due to such activities. Comments have also been received from Sh. Pravinbhai Sheth, Ankleshwar and Sh. Maheshbhai Pandya, Paryavaran Mitra, Ahmedabad. During public hearing, project proponent described details of proposed exploratory drilling project including block details, drilling activities, ecologically sensitive areas located in and around the block area, project resource requirement, EIA findings, environmental impacts and mitigation measures etc. Subsequent to this, locals were invited to express their views/concerns. Most of the concerns raised by locals during both public hearings were related to land and crop compensation, pollution due to drilling required for shot-hole blasting during seismic survey operations, soil contamination, land restoration, damage to houses/structures, impact on ground water, local employment etc. Public hearing concerns are assessed and addressed in relevant sections of the Final EIA report and details of issues and discussion held during both the public hearings are provided in Annexure (separately uploaded on MoEF website. However, commitments made against key concerns raised during both the public consultation process are summarized in Table 8.1 below.



TABLE 8-1 KEY COMMITMENTS MADE DURING PUBLIC HEARINGS HELD IN JANUARY 2015

S.N Key concerns raised by local people and NGO’s

Commitments made by GAIL Financial budget for complying with the commitments made.

1 Pending compensation related concerns for damages (such as structural damage due to shot blasting, crop related damages, and damage of farm embankments during seismic survey activities) incurred during seismic surveys undertaken by GAIL, and rates for compensation of land lease / water sourcing that GAIL will be requiring for the upcoming drilling activities

GAIL committed to take all the required measures for amicable resolution of any compensation related disputes with the local farmers, and undertake future work with prior agreement with the villagers and with adequate dispute resolution mechanism. As per the commitment, GAIL has initiated the required action for early settlement of pending compensation to remaining affected farmers.

Budget provision exists for compensation in survey budget. Land lease and water sourcing related expenses during drilling are part of the budget for the proposed project.

2 Concerns on compensation criteria for damage to nearby landowners due to drilling and associated activities. Post project monitoring of environmental damages to be undertaken

In case surrounding agricultural land is affected, compensation will be decided after a thorough assessment and in consultation with the affected people and local administration. Post project monitoring will be undertaken as per the EC conditions

All such compensations are budgeted as part of the proposed project, and post project monitoring is included in EMP

3 Socio-economic development activities planned and budgeted

GAIL has a CSR policy defining key thrust areas for socio-economic development of the area that GAIL operates in.

GAIL, as a PSU, allocates 2% of its Profit after tas, for CSR activities as per the Govt. rules. Extent of CSR activities and the budget for the same in the Joint Venture budget for the block will be decided after assessment of requirements for different CSR activities in the block.

4 Possibility of contamination of ground water, subsidence due to proposed drilling activities

Proper casing and cementing of exploratory wells will be done to prevent contamination of sub-

Casing and cementing is part of the Drilling budget in the proposed project



S.N Key concerns raised by local people and NGO’s

Commitments made by GAIL Financial budget for complying with the commitments made.

surface aquifers. Water based mud will be used as a drilling fluid for the proposed project. Periodic monitoring of groundwater quality will be carried out for village wells located outside project boundary to assess the level of ground water contamination, if any. No subsidence is anticipated due to drilling of wells.

5 Emergency preparedness of GAIL for alerting the workers and nearby resident population

Specific Emergency Plan prepared for the project will be shared with the District Administration and will include the emergency contacts, as well as mode of alerts

Emergency Management is part of the drilling budget for the project

6 Survey numbers of land where drilling will be undertaken

Prospective drilling locations with co-ordinates on land have been identified. The detailed cadastral survey is expected to be completed shortly.

Site survey budget has been provided within drilling budget.

7 Whether waste water generated from drilling activities will be drained out into canal, pond or farm land

Wastewater will not be drained out. It will be adequately treated and reused

Waste Management is part of the drilling budget

8 Verification and compliance with ToR point with regard to:

Site details within 1 km of each proposed well Use of met data for predicting air quality impacts

TSDF to be used

Latest available documentation with regard to accreditation of EIA consultant

Inconsistencies in domestic water requirements

Disclosure to stakeholders

Dates of monitoring / survey photographs included in the report

Noise monitoring locations

GAIL has ensured through the EIA consultant, that all these requirements were verified and corrected (as required) in the Final Report

Not Applicable



9.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The exploration block CB-ONN-2010/11, which is located in the districts of Ahmedabad and Anand, is awarded to GAIL through Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for carrying out onshore exploration. The initial phase is 3D seismic survey of the whole block of 131 sq.km area. On the basis of the interpretation of the seismic survey, drilling of eight wells will be carried out to the depth of 2000m – 2500m. As discussed in legal chapter, required regulatory approval for petroleum exploration is already received in the form of Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) and Production Sharing Contract (PSC) from Government of Gujarat and Government of India respectively.

As per provisions of PSC, GAIL is carrying out exploration based on 3D seismic survey program for entire block of 131 sq.km and drilling of eight exploration wells to the depth of 2000m – 2500m. Seismic survey is exempted from Environmental Clearance, whereas the exploratory drilling of wells demands Environmental Clearance after carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment Study.

EIA report is prepared for this exploratory drilling project based on existing baseline environmental quality data collected (for post monsoon season) for the entire block, identification and prediction of significant environmental impacts due to proposed exploratory drilling process followed by delineation of necessary control measures are suggested to meet with statutory requirements. The proposed exploratory drilling project will contribute to economic growth in indirect way and may help in meeting the increasing demands of oil and gas, if proved economically beneficial for future production.

The proposed project of exploratory drilling intends to make sure whether the allotted oil & gas license area has the potential for future production of oil and gas in sufficient quantity. The drilling and associated activities, required to be carried out, will be done in an environmentally sound manner to the extent possible and will not have any adverse effect on natural environment of the surrounding area. The analysis indicates all the impacts and risks predicted from the proposed development to be low to medium magnitude and can be mitigated with the measures in the formulated management plans.



9.1 SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

The salient features of the project are discussed below:

TABLE 9-1 SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

Well Locations : Yet to identify, however strictly confined within the Block CB-ONN-2010/11

Depth of well : 2000m – 2500m Commencement of drilling : September 2015 Activities Involved : Temporary land leasing, Site and access road

preparation, drilling of well, well testing, decommissioning and closure of well

Area required : 120m x 100m Total estimated drilling period including site preparation

: 120-150 days/ well

Total Estimated Testing Period : 30 -45 days/ well Proposed Drilling Fluid : Water Based Mud Estimated truck load : Approximately 100-125 Manpower Requirement : During site preparation: 30-35

During drilling: 40 Water Requirement : During site preparation- 10-12 KLD

During drilling: approx. 40 KLD Rig Capacity : Min. 1000 HP DG Set back up : 2 DG sets of 370 KVA of which one will be

standby purpose. HSD Requirement : 4-5 KLD Waste from drilling process : 200 MT of drill cuttings per well Domestic waste from labour camp : 10-20 kg/day

9.2 OVERALL JUSTIFICATION FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT

The exploratory drilling of well is a process of evaluating the potential of the area in terms of oil and gas production. Additionally, historical background of the area also shows that, the area is a significant source of oil and gas exploration. Implementation of this drilling activity will further ensure accuracy of the same.


SENES/D-20484/ March’15 232 GAIL

10.0 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS

SENES Consultants India Private Limited (SENES India) is a professionally managed, fast growing, wholly owned subsidiary of SENES Consultants Limited (SENES), Canada. SENES specializes in the fields of energy, nuclear, environmental and social sciences with offices spread across in Canada, United States, South America and India. SENES has been operational in India for more than seven years having its head office in New Delhi with branch offices in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai with all supporting infrastructure necessary for project implementation.

SENES India has accumulated a wide body of knowledge from its National and International Oil and Gas experience worldwide, including the EIAs for upstream oil & gas projects for Ensearch Petroleum in Jordan, Premier Oil in Assam, Geopetrol in Andhra Pradesh, Eni India in Andaman Sea, ONGC in Mizoram, Cairn Energy in Rajasthan and Gujarat, British Petroleum in West Bengal, GAIL in Gujarat etc.

SENES India was responsible for carrying out the EIA study for GAIL’s onshore oil & gas exploratory drilling project in Cambay basin Block CB-ONN-2010/11. The roles and responsibilities of the multidisciplinary team deployed for the proposed project is provided in declaration statement present in the beginning of this report.

The EIA report preparation have been undertaken in compliance with the approved MoEF ToR and the information and content provided in the report is factually correct for the purpose and objective for such study undertaken.

As on date, SENES has been granted accreditation by the Quality Council of India / National

Accreditation Board for Education & Training (QCI / NABET) in 12 sectors vide Certificate

No. NABET/EIA/RA016/040 valid up to March 5, 2017.

UNISTAR was engaged as a sub-contractor to carry out environment monitoring in the block.

UNISTAR is a NABL accredited and MoEF (Govt. of India) Recognized Environmental

Laboratory under The Environment (Protection) Act-1986. The status of NABL accreditation

and MoEF approval is provided in Annexure 13.



ANNEXURE 1 TOR LETTER



ANNEXURE 2 GAIL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY



ANNEXURE 3 DISTRICT RAINFALL SUMMARY FOR AHMEDABAD AND ANAND DISTRICT (2008-2012)

District Rainfall for Ahmedabad district 2008-2012

Month 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

January 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0

February 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

March 0.0 0.0 - 0.0 0.0

April 0.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3

May 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

June 26.7 4.7 46.7 3.1 25.8

July 221.9 265.5 335.9 254.2 66.1

August 233.6 103.2 421.0 295.0 133.1

September 273.5 8.8 241.7 62.9 181.4

October 8.4 4.9 0.9 0.0 0.0

November 0.0 0.0 50.7 0.0 0.0

December 2.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0

Mean value 63.9 32. 3 99.8 51.3 33.9

Source: India Meteorological Dept., Hydromet Division District rainfall (mm.) for last five years of Anand district (2008-2012)

Month

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

January 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

February 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

March 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

April 0.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2

May 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

June 38.4 0.6 35.3 0.1 11..1

July 151.0 246.9 192.1 205.4 171.6

August 276.8 95.3 433.7 431.9 210.1

September 292.1 10.0 170.0 93.1 178.1

October 1.4 3.0 0.2 0.0 0.0

November 0.1 1.3 32.2 0.0 0.0

December 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Mean Value 63.35 29.7 71.9 60.8 50.9

Source: India Meteorological Dept., Hydromet Division



ANNEXURE 4 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING RESULTS

Parameters PM10 SO2 NO2 NMHC HC TVOC

Monitoring Station

Locations Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean

AQ1 Vataman 117 89.1 60 18.6 13.5 10.8 13.2 11.54 10 15 12.6 10 785 451 626.1 0.4 0.3 0.2

AQ2 Dholi 76 58.4 35 14.7 12.6 8.5 13.2 12.0 10.3 13 11.9 11 812 451 668.4 0 0.0 0

AQ3 Raypur 82 56 38 13.8 11.9 9.5 13.5 11.6 10.2 14 11.3 10 714 416 562.7 0 0.0 0

AQ4 Varna 110 93.7 65 17.8 14.3 10.2 15.8 13.4 11 16 13.7 11 895 430 713.8 0.3 0.21 0.1

AQ5 Rinjha 70 54.9 39 13.7 11.3 9.3 15.2 12.7 11.5 14 11.7 10 662 377 377.0 0 0.0 0

AQ6 Fatepura 68 53.1 37 13 11.2 9.2 13.4 11.5 10.2 14 12.0 10 620 318 474.2 0 0.0 0

AQ7 Ganol 66 51.4 35 12.4 11.0 9.5 13.4 12.1 10.8 13 10.8 10 654 347 489 0 0.0 0

AQ8 Haidarpura 82 61.7 45 13.5 11.7 9.8 13.4 12.0 10.6 14 11.2 10 680 410 526.6 0 0.0 0

CPCB Std. 100 80 80 - -

*PM10 :Particulate Matter ; SO2: Sulphur Dioxide; NO2: Nitrogen dioxide; NHMC: Non methane hydrocarbon; HC: methane hydrocarbon; TVOC: total volatile organic carbon



ANNEXURE 5 GROUND WATER QUALITY MONITORING RESULTS

Test Method IS 10500 Standard Limits

for Drinking Water Ground Water Quality

S N Parameters Unit Desirable

Limit Permissible

Limit GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5 GW6 GW71 Colour IS 3025(Part 4)1983 Hazen 5 25 1(<5) 1(10) 1(40) 1(10) 1(20) 1(10) 1(20)

2 Odour IS 3025(Part 5)1983 - Unobjectionable (*) -- * * * * * * *

3 Temperature °C IS 3025(Part 9)1984 - Agreeable -- 31 31 31 31 31 30 31

4 Turbidity IS 3025(Part 10)1984 NTU 5 10 BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

5 pH Value APHA 22ndEd.,2012, IS 3025(Part 11)1983 6.5 – 8.5 -- 7.25 7.3 7.47 7.79 7.56 7.39 7.36

6 Total Hardness as CaCO3 [IS 3025(Part 21)2009,Amd.1] mg/l 300 600 325.5 367.5 535.5 567 451.5 462 409.5

7 Sodium APHA 22ndEd.,2012,3500 Na,B mg/l 76.2 86.3 176.6 2670 2420 490 580

8 Chloride as Cl IS 3025(Part 32)1988 (APHA22ndEd.,2012,4500-Cl) mg/l 250 1000 180.5 209 741 1178.1 1178.1 370.5 380.0

9 Potassium APHA 22ndEd.,2012,3500 K,B mg/l 0.2 0.2 3.2 4.1 22.3 22.3 22.0 20.7 22.8

10 Fluoride as F (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,4500 F,D) mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.53 0.72 0.62 0.94 0.81 0.54 0.59

11 Total Dissolved Solids

(APHA 22ndEd.,2012,2540- C), IS 3025(Part 16)1984 mg/l 500 2000 542 646 2640 3740 3208 1140 1176

12 Calcium as Ca (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,3500 Ca.B) mg/l 75 200 80 88.4 63.2 63.2 58.9 110 67.3

13 Magnesium as Mg

(APHA 22ndEd.,2012,, 3500 Mg.B) mg/l 30 100 30.6 35.7 91.9 99.5 74 51 58.7

14 Dissolved Oxygen

IS 3025(Part 38)1989, (APHA 22St Ed.,2012,4500-O,B), mg/l 5.7 5.3 5.3 7.4 6.2 6.3 6.9

15 Sulphate as SO4 IS 3025(Part 24)1986 mg/l 200 400 78.5 95.2 749 1155.5 833 111.8 162.8

16 Nitrate as NO3 (APHA22ndEd.,2012,4500 NO3-B) mg/l 45 45 1.2 1.6 20 1.1 1.1 0.2 2.1



Test Method IS 10500 Standard Limits


S N Parameters Unit Desirable

Limit Permissible

Limit GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5 GW6 GW7

17

Phenolic Compound as C6H5OH APHA 22ndEd.,2012,5530-C, mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

18 Bio-chemical demand IS 3025(Part 44)1993Amd.01 mg/l BDL BDL 18 42 22 BDL BDL

19 Cadmium as Cd IS 3025(Part 41)1992, (APHA22ndEd.,2012,3111-B) mg/l 0.003 BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

20

Chemical oxygen demand(COD

IS 3025(Part 58)2006, (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,5220-B), mg/l BDL BDL 59 137.8 70.8 11.8 11.8

21 Arsenic as As APHA 22ndEd.,2012,3114-C mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

22 Lead as Pb IS 3025(Part 47)1994Amd.02, (APHA22ndEd.,2012,3111-B) mg/l 0.01 BDL

BDL BDL 0.16 0.23 0.37 0.16

23 Phosphorus (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,4500-P,D) mg/l 0.2 1.0 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.03 0.03

24 Total Nitrogen APHA 22ndEd.,2012,4500 NH3 - B - - - BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

25 Alkalinity as CaCO3 [IS 3025(Part 23)1986, Amd.2] mg/l 200 600 256.5 278.8 535.2 368 345.7 501.8 434.9

26 Salinity mg/l - - 0.33 0.38 1.34 2.13 2.13 0.67 0.69

27 Total Coliform APHA 22nd Ed.2012,9222-B CFU/100ml 0 10 46 58 120 45 110 90 120

28 E.Coli IS :15185:2002 CFU/100ml Absent Absent Absent Absent 68 30 25 35 69



DISTANCE OF JAY POLYCHEM GROUND WATER LOCATIONS FROM THE CURRENT GAIL BLOCK

S.N Ground water monitoring locations Distance (km) from northern boundary of GAIL block

1 Kauka village W1 2.6km

2 Ingoli village W-2 2.9km (specifically from Khada village)

3 Ganesar village W-3 1.48km from Ganol village

4 Dholi village W-4 Existing GW location in GAIL block

GROUND WATER MONITORING ANALYSIS CONDUCTED IN OCT, 2011 BY JAY POLYCHEM

IS 10500 Standard Limits


S N Parameters Desirable

Limit Permissible

Limit W1 W2 W3 W4 1 Cadmium 0.01 - <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

2 Chromium 0.05 - <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

3 Copper 0.05 1.5 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003

4 Cyanide 0.05 - <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003

5 Iron 0.3 1 0.002 3.962 <0.006 <0.006

6 Mercury 0.001 - <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008



ANNEXURE 6 SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING RESULTS

S. N Parameters Test Method SW-1 SW-2 SW-3 SW-4 SW-5 SW-6

1 Colour IS 3025(Part 4)1983 20(300)

Slightly yellow 20(300)

Light yellow 20(300)

Light yellow 5 (80)

Light yellow 5 (60)

Slightly yellow 1(20)

Colourless

2 Odour IS 3025(Part 5)1983 Unobjectionable Unobjectionable Unobjectionable Unobjectionable Unobjectionable Unobjectionable

3 Turbidity IS 3025(Part 10)1984 BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL

4 pH at 25°C APHA 22ndEd.,2012, IS 3025(Part 11)1983 7.43 7.46 7.54 8.01 7.54 8.54

5 Electrical Conductivity IS 3025(Part 14)1984 1865 1836 2016 1656 492 3024

6 Chloride IS 3025(Part 32)1988 (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,4500-Cl) 370.5 361 446.5 57 28.5 902.6

7 Sodium Absorption Ratio By Calculation √millimole/lt 100.8 96.6 113.0 32.2 11.67 181.9

8 Calcium (APHA 22ndEd.,2012,3500 Ca.B) 67.3 67.3 67.3 21 21 63.1

9 Magnesium (APHA 22ndEd.,2012, 3500 Mg.B) 35.7 30.6 35.7 23 15.3 58.7

10 Free Ammonia IS 3025(Part 34)1988, APHA 22nd Ed.2012, 4500 NH3 B & C 7.15 6.55 8.65 5.24 N.D. N.D.

11 Dissolved Oxygen IS 3025(Part 38)1989, (APHA 22St Ed.,2012,4500-O,B), 0.6 BDL(<0.5) 3.0 5.9 7.0 7.1

12 BOD IS 3025(Part 44)1993Amd.01 41 23 48 8 6 91

13 Boron -- 0.05 0.12 0.08 0.05 N.D. 0.5

14 Pesticides GC Method N.D N.D. N.D. N.D. N.D. N.D.

15 Total Coliform APHA 22nd Ed.2012,9222-B 160 198 92 18 56 92

16 Faecal Coliform APHA 22nd Ed.2012,9222-D 100 143 Absent Absent Absent Absent

Note: Colour = 1(20) = 20 ; 5(60) = 60 ; 5(80) =80 ; 20(300) = 300 APHA, BDL = Bellow Detection Limit, N.D. = Not Detected



DISTANCE OF JAY POLYCHEM SURFACE WATER LOCATIONS FROM THE CURRENT GAIL BLOCK

S.N Surface water monitoring locations

Source Distance (km) from northern boundary of GAIL block

1 Kharenti village A-1 Pond 5.0km

2 Kauka village A-2 Pond 2.6km

3 Ingoli village A-3 Pond 2.9km (specifically from Khada village)

4 Ganesar village A-4 Pond 1.48km from Ganol village

5 Dholi village A-5 Pond Existing GW location in GAIL block

6 Simaj village A-6 Pond 4kms (away from Ganol-existing village in block)

7 Sabarmati river A-7 River

2kms flowing upstream to Khada village and over 5kms away from GAIL current Sabarmati upstream monitoring location

SURFACE WATER MONITORING CONDUCTED BY JAY POLYCHEM IN OCT, 2011

SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING

S N Parameters A-1 A-2 A-3 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7 1 Arsenic <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03

2 Cadmium <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

3 Chromium <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

4 Copper <0.012 <0.09 <0.10 <0.14 <0.003 0.12 <0.003

5 Cyanide <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003

6 Iron 0.15 0.52 0.14 0.64 <0.006 0.40 <0.006

7 Lead <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02

8 Mercury <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008 <0.0008



ANNEXURE 7 TRAFFIC ANALYSIS AT ALL SIX LOCATIONS

Location Time Two Wheeler Three Wheeler LMV HMV

Vataman T1

9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 150 82 121 52

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 94 51 118 40

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 146 48 163 56

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 113 33 152 66

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 28 16 94 24

5:00 AM-- 8:00 AM (Early morning) 52 29 54 40

Dholi –T2

9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 51 8 20 29

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 30 5 10 19

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 53 9 17 26

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 26 4 10 12

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 18 3 5 1


Raypur-T3 9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 49 17 17 26

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 24 22 18 14

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 61 34 23 37

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 28 12 8 11

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 8 5 5 4


Varna-T4 9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 153 93 295 147

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 104 78 129 88

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 135 48 272 133

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 92 37 414 146

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 45 18 318 146


Fatepura T5 9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 118 44 76 34

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 68 31 56 30

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 134 65 71 33

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 50 28 50 17



Location Time Two Wheeler Three Wheeler LMV HMV

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 33 12 20 7


Khada T6 9:00AM -- 12:00 PM (Morning) 62 15 20 34

1:00 PM -- 4:00 PM (Noon) 69 16 38 24

5:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (Evening) 50 19 30 31

9:00 PM -- 12:00 PM (Night) 22 10 15 23

1:00AM -- 4:00 AM (Mid night) 21 10 15 12




ANNEXURE 8 FLORAL DIVERSITY OF THE STUDY AREA

S.N Scientific Name Local Name

Trees 1 Acacia catechu Khair 2 Acacia auriculiformis Bengali Baval 3 Acacia senegal Gorad, Kumto 4 Ailanthas excelsa Ardusa 5 Azadirachta indica Neem 6 Carica papaya Papaya 7 Dalbergia latifolia Sisam (Mota) 8 Dalbergia sissoo Sissoo 9 Delonix regia Gulmohar 10 Emblica officinalis Amla 11 Ficus bengalensis Vad 12 Ficus glomerata Umero 13 Ficus religiosa Pipdo 14 Madhuca indica Mahudo 15 Mangifera indica Mango 16 Moringa oleifera Saragvo 17 Prosopis juliflora Gando Baval 18 Prosopis cineraria Khyigdo 19 Pithecellobium dulce Mithi Amti (Goras -Amli) 20 Salvadorao leoides Piludi 21 Syzygium cumuni Jamun 22 Tamarindus indica Imli 23 Tectona grandis Sag 24 Zizyphus jujube Bor

Shrubs 1 Calotropis procera - 2 C. gigantea Akado



S.N Scientific Name Local Name 3 Prosopis juliflora Gando baval 4 Ipomoea fistulosa Nasarmo 5 Lawsonia inermis Mendhi 6 Lantana camara Ganthai

Climbers and Twinners 1 Coccinia grandis Ghiloda 2 Luffa cylindrica Galku 3 L. acutangula Jungli turia 4 Mucuna prurita Kavach 5 Oxystelma secamone Jal dudhi 6 Pentatropis spiralis Shingroti



ANNEXURE 9 FAUNAL DIVERSITY OF THE STUDY AREA

S.N Scientific Name Common Name Wildlife Schedule

IUCN List

MAMMALS 1 Rattus sp. Rat V 2 Presbytis entellus Common Langur II 3 Funambulus pennanti Striped Squirrel IV 4 Mus booduga Field Mouse 5 Boselaphus tragocamelus Nilgai III LC

REPTILES 1 Ptyas mucosus Common rat snake II 2 Calotes versicolor Garden lizard 3 Hemidactylus fluviviridis House gecko 4. Naja naja Indian cobra II LC

BIRDS 1. Acredotheres tristis Common Myna IV

2. Acredotheres ginginianus Bank Myna IV

3. Actitis hypoleucos Common sandpiper IV LC

4. Anastomus oscitans Asian Openbill IV LC

5. Anthus rufulus Paddy field pipit IV LC

6. Ardea cinerea Grey Heron IV LC 7. Ardea alba Large Egret IV LC 8. Ardeola grayii Pond Heron IV LC 9. Bulbulcus ibis Cattle Egret IV 10. Ceryle rudis Pied Kingfisher IV LC 11. Ciconia nigra Black stork IV LC 12. Columba livia Blue Rock Pigeon IV LC

13. Corvus splendens Common Crow V LC




IUCN List

14. Copsychus saularis Oriental Magpie Robin LC 15. Coracias benghalensis Indian Roller IV LC 16. Dendrocitta vagabunda Rufous Tree Pie LC 17. Dicrurus adsimilis Black Drongo IV LC

18. Elanus caerulus Blackwinged Kite LC

19. Eudynamys scolopaceus Asian Koel IV LC 20. Gallinago gallinago Common snipe IV LC 21. Grus antigone Sarus Crane IV VU 22. Halcyon smyrensis White Breasted Kingfisher IV 23. Himantopus himantopus Blackwinged Stilt IV LC

24. Lanius excubitor Grey shrike IV LC 25. Megalaima haemacephala Coppersmith Barbet LC 26. Metopidius indicus Bronze winged Jacana IV LC 27. Merops orientalis Green Bee Eater LC 28. Mesophoyx intermedia Intermediate Egret IV LC 29. Motacilla alba White wagtail IV LC 30. Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail IV LC 31. Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail IV LC 32. Nectarinia asiatica Purple Sunbird IV LC 33. Passer domesticus House Sparrow LC 34. Pavo cristatus Common Pea fowl I LC

35. Phalacrocorax niger Little cormorant IV LC

36. Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill LC

37. Pseudibis papillosa Red naped Ibis LC

38. Psittacula krameri Roseringed Parakeet IV LC 39. Pycnonotus cafer Red vented Bulbul IV LC 40. Rhipidura aureola Fantail Flycatcher IV LC




IUCN List

41. Saxicoloides fulicata Indian Robin IV LC 42. Sterna aurantia River Tern IV NT 43. Threskiornis melanocephalus Black headed Ibis NT 44. Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Dove LC 45. Turdoides caudatus Common Babbler IV LC

46. Vanellus malabaricus Red wattled lapwing IV LC 47. Vanellus indicus Yellow wattled lapwing IV LC



ANNEXURE 10 PLANKTONIC DIVERSITY IN VILLAGE PONDS

Sl. No. Species Vataman Pond Dholi Pond Rampura Pond Pachegam Pond Fatehpur pond

A. Phytoplankton (nos/litre) 1 Anabaena sp. 270 300

2 Ceratium sp. 340 100

3 Chlorella sp. 750 450 750 450 265

4 Chlorococum sp. 130 140 400 345

5 Cymbella sp. 240 250

6 Microcystis sp. 300 250

7 Oscillatoria sp. 340 270 175 430

8 Phormidium sp. 140

9 Spirogyra sp. 230 230 240

10 Synedra sp. 90 240

11 Ulothrix sp. 40 456 240 355

Total 2600 1590 1716 1805 1495 B. Zooplankton (nos/litre) a. Cladocera

1 Bosmina longirostris 25 40 45 120

2 Ceriodaphnia cornuta 45 190 240

3 Diaphanosoma excisum 340

4 Diaphanosoma sarsi 240 75

5 Moina micrura 75 140 130 65 40

6 Moina brachiata 40 80

b. Copepoda 1 Heliodiaptomus sp. 25 45 10

2 Mesocyclops hyalinus 45 40 15 35 20

3 Phyllodiaptomus sp. 25 10

c. Rotifera 1 Brachionus angularis 76 55 70

2 Brachionus calyciflorus 65 35 30 10 50



3 Brachionus urceolaris 125 45 55 78 80

4 Filinia terminalis 34 10

5 Keratella cochlearis 33 140 80

6 Keratella tropica 40 45 30 35

d. Ostracoda 1 Cyclocypris sp. 20 45 34

2 Stenocypris sp. 34

Total 574 863 755 623 739



ANNEXURE 11 RECEIPTS OF COMPENSATION GIVEN BY GAIL



CROP COMPENSATION (CB-ONN-2010/11) Amount paid on 09/02/2015 (Compensation for 7 villagers from Raypur and Varana are paid by Alphageo India Limited)

S. N App. No Name of Claimant Village Amount Paid (in Rupees) Encl. 1 3485 Rjau Kailashben Varana 800 I

2 4726 Patel Sheevaji Bhai Raypur 750 II

3 4933 Patel Narashi Bhai Raypur 480 III

4 5175 Patel Himubhai Raypur 600 IV

5 5838 Parmar Marashibhai Raypur 120 V

6 3251 Mukumar Suresh Bhai Varana 980 VI

7 4721 Patel Sheevaji Bhai Raypur 720 VII

Amount paid on 25/02/2015 (Compensation for 36 villagers from Dholi are paid by Alphageo India Limited

SN App. No Name of Claimant Village Amount Paid (in Rupees)

Encl.

1 18 Chavda Navinsinh Pratapsinh Dholi 600 VIII

2 5146 Chavda Jashubhai Haribhai Dholi 1560 3 5147 Chavda Jashubhai Haribhai Dholi 2800 4 5157 Thakar Natubhai Dalapatbhai Dholi 600 5 5159 Thakar Rameshbhai Natubhai Dholi 600 6 5161 Chavda Bhagsvatsinh Dhirubhai Dholi 600 7 5162 Chavda Ranchhodbhai

Adesangbhai Dholi 1200

8 5171 Chadva Dilipsinh Laxmansinh Dholi 600 9 5172 Chavda Bhagavatsinh Laxmansinh Dholi 690 10 5173 Chavda Balavantsinh Laxmansinh Dholi 690 11 5174 Chavda Bhupatsinh Laxmansinh Dholi 600 12 5177 Chavda Bhagavatbhai Dhirubhai Dholi 690 13 5178 Neya Pochabhai Bababhai Dholi 480 14 5179 Neya Jivanbhai Bababhai Dholi 360 15 5182 Chavda Hamalbhai Karshanbhai Dholi 510 16 5183 Chavda Dasharathbhai Madhubhai Dholi 360 17 5184 Bharvad Chhelabhai Bhalabhai Dholi 360 18 5251 Bharvad Shardulbhai Lunabhai Dholi 600 19 5252 Bharvad Chhelabhai Khengarbhai Dholi 450 20 5294 Chavda Rajubhai Mohanbhai Dholi 690 21 5295 Chavda Jashavantsang Bhurubhai

Dholi 630

22 5296 Chavda DilipBhai Harubhai Dholi 690



23 5347 Chavda Bharatsinh Madhubhai Dholi 4800 IX

24 5349 Chavada Bharatsinh Madhubhai Dholi 4500 25 5379 Chavda Fulabhai Karashanbhai Dholi 450 26 5383 Parmar Kalubhai Dayabhai Dholi 450 27 5386 Chavada Merubhai Haribhai Dholi 1350 28 5674 Bharvad Khodabhai Bhujabhai Dholi 450 29 5680 Bharvad Khodubhai Bhujabhai Dholi 600 30 5684 Chavda Hiraben Kevubhai Dholi 495 31 5707 Chavada Bhagvatsinh Dhirubhai Dholi 1560 32 5750 Prajapati Prabhubhai Ramabhai Dholi 300 33 5815 Chavda Dhirubhai Halubhai Dholi 1200 34 5816 Chavda Jashubhai Haribhai Dholi 2400 35 5817 Chavda Merubhai Haribhai Dholi 510 36 5818 Gadhavin Ajitbhai Fulabhai Dholi 1600



ANNEXURE 12 LABORATORY ACCREDITATION