DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT.

Existing Physical Environment.

Study area:
The present EIA study area for Exploration activity within 4-5 km radius will be
considered adequate from the Exploration site for keeping in view meteorological,
physical, and biological factors and the nature of emissions from the plant.

Land:
As the applied for area is a part of region consisting of low-lying hills
Geologically speaking the Rock salt is found in the Salt Range where other minerals
also being explored such as Coal, Silica Sand, Iron Ore etc. are available in older
formations like Nammal and Patala Shale Formation and will have to be drilled or
mined.
There is very low agricultural activity in the area.

Water
The area is criss-crossed with a number of small water channels which are
seasonal and become active only during the monsoons.
The company has its own water supply system in the form of tube-wells. Ground
water is available at a depth of about 350-400 feet and is fit for drinking.
Water requirement for the proposed Exploration project will be fulfilled by
underground water by tube well and will be used during exploration activity for the
purpose of sprinkling on road, for domestic and for drilling. About 400 m3/day of
water shall be used in the soda ash plant which will be arranged through deep
hole drilling.

Major Impacts
In order to identify all the activities associated with the project during
exploration activity with potential to cause adverse environmental impacts and
harm a thorough review has been conducted. The subject project lies in hilly &
barren area. In case of impact arises from the project activity then possible
necessary measures will be adopted to control them. Overall the project has positive
impacts on the local population and country as a whole but also has some negative

3
impacts which will be controlled through proper safety measures, mitigation
measures and SOPs for Exploration activity. Moreover, clearing of the vegetation will
be done for the Exploration activity but also restoration & reclamation will be done
by the native species of plant. If proper implementation of EMP and suggested
mitigation measures will be adopted by Aqba Qayyum Khan , then any further or
residual impacts can be minimized.

4
 Summary of Major ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Pollutant Impacts

During Exploration activity following impacts may arise:

Particulate Matters (PM) pollution, degrading of aesthetic beauty of

the land due to drilling, blasting and extraction/excavation.
Clearing of the vegetation
Land Use & Soil Undulated patches
Scarring of the landscape and aesthetic beauty.
Clearing of native plants will disturb the complexity of the
ecosystem of the proposed area.
Dust emissions will generate during the quarrying of clay and Rock salt.
Flue gases will be generated due to the involvement of generators
and other machinery.

Quarry of rock salt deposits will cause major impacts on air quality.
The operation of the quarry cause dust emissions, in the quarry area,
rock salt quarrying involved blasting that will be source of dust and
different gases.
Particulate
The area which is mined is stripped of vegetation and left barren
Matter and
this can be significant source of fugitive dust in the vicinity.
fugitive dust
The transportation of the quarried material to the crusher also may
Emissions cause dust.
Air Pollution as the quarry roads are un-metaled and the trucks are
not covered may cause dust.
Dust due to proposed Exploration/extraction activity.
Dust raised on dirt tracks by project-related vehicles.
Dust from drilling of deep holes.
Dust due to drilling and blasting of the rocks.
Combustion products from vehicles used for project-related activities.

Gaseous Air pollution due to site visiting vehicles/ transported trucks,

emissions hauled trucks , machinery & generator (if any)

5
 The major sources of the noise at proposed Exploration site are
blasting, drilling,
Extraction/excavation activity, vehicular and project related machinery.
The other source of noise will be operation of the proposed Rock Salt
plant project.
Blasting operation at the quarry site is the main source of vibrations.
A significant impact will be interpreted by the drilling, blasting and
excavation on workers, nearby community, fauna of the area.
Vibration due to the blasting and other heavy machinery may cause
Noise &
structural problems to the building and vary with the building age
Vibration
constructional material used and vibrational level.
High noise level may cause hearing loss, deafness, high blood pressure,
headache, depression and mentally disturbance.
Noise level will not exceed 75 dB(A) at the distance of 2-3 km radius,
activity site is located at a safe distance from the nearest human
settlement
Fauna of the study area will also disturb due to the blasting and
extensive vehicular noise.
Solid waste generation may cause Land & soil contamination,
aesthetic degradation, foul smell etc.
Solid Waste Solid waste may generate from the Exploration activity, domestic and
project process sources.
Solid waste may generate from the Exploration activity as loose rocks,
stones, mines residues etc.
Soil Soil may be contaminated due to oil and other chemicals storage,
Contamination transportation
Soil contamination due to waste water generated from municipal sources

Minor generation of waste water from Exploration activity.

Waste water Waste water will be generated from domestic sources,
Waste water may cause Spread of diseases & underground water
contamination
Odor Nil

6
 Health & safety issues of workers and nearby community
Health and Health and safety issues will be arose during Exploration activity, by
safety issues release of flue gases and heat, handling of explosive material, machinery
and improper practices of work
Socioeconomic impacts may arise due to:
Socioeconomic
Resettlement issues

Change in cultural language

Change in social behavior and economic gains
Social performance of the individuals in the area
Change in culture by the influx of nomadic people
Gender inequality
Overall, Positive impact due to generation of Employment
opportunity & improvement of living standards

7
 Recommendation for Mitigation measures
Pollutants Recommendations

To restore the natural landscape of the area Restoration and

reclamation plan should be developed.
Plant nursery, garden will be developed to rehabilitate the native plants
of the area.
Land Use & Soil
Exploration site should be fenced properly to avoid any damage
Technique of controlled and time specific blasting should be ensured
for “safe habitat of the animals”.
Project proponent should make any possible efforts to limit the impact
on flora and fauna.

Sprinkling of water must be done to control the dust or PM

Vehicle emissions inspection should be done on regular basis
Sprinkling should be done on the unpaved area to avoid dust
pollution/
particulate matter.
PPEs should be provided to workers in case of particulate matter/dust
Particulate
Vehicles/ trucks should be serviced regularly
Matter and
The proposed site should be located at least minimum nearby
fugitive dust
settlement is at the distance of 400-500 meters.
Emissions
In the quarry area, concerted efforts should be made to keep the
fugitive dust levels to a minimum
Vehicle speed should be reduced on track passing through or close to
settlements.
Imposing speed limits and encouraging more efficient journey
management may reduce the dust emissions produced by vehicular
traffic.
Ambient Air quality monitoring was conducted by EPA certified lab
and results are incorporated within this report
Monitoring should be conducted as per EPA NEQS Rules 2001

8
 scrubbing system should be installed at the stack of generators if
Gaseous required
emissions All project vehicles should be checked regularly to ensure that
engines are in sound working condition and are not emitting smoke.
PPEs should be provided to workers.
Machinery and generators should be maintained properly
Monitoring should be conducted as per EPA NEQS Rules 2001.

PPEs as Ear plugs/muffs should be provided to workers in case of

high noise
during working hours
Appropriate Exploration technique should be adopted. The
controlled blasting method ensures the noise less than 75 dB (A) at
Noise & day time at the radius of 2 km distance.
Vibration Proper maintenance and tuning of the vehicles should be done.
Sound proof room should be built for generator (if any) to control the
noise.
Trainings for safe driving practices & HSE trainings of the
employees and workers is recommended.
Noise level monitoring was conducted at different location and
results are incorporated within the report
Monitoring should be conducted as per EPA NEQS Rules 2001

SOPs should be developed for the storage of oil and other hazardous
substance handling and transportations

Soil contamination should be controlled by adopting mitigation

measures such as storage of oil, fuels etc. under paved area, by
Soil maintaining leakage record of construction vehicles, and by regular
Contamination inspection (admitted by proponent).

Tarpaulin sheets should be placed under generators and other

leaching substances

Injection into the sub soil is illegal and it should not be done site.

Treated water should be used for plantation

Fuel Storage License from concerned department/authority is

recommended in case of large/prescribed quantity

9
 A solid waste management division should be formulated to deal
with the proper disposal of solid waste, supervised by HSE Manager,
SW Manager, and other related personnel.
Solid waste generated from the Exploration activity as loose rocks,
Solid Waste stones, mines residues etc. that cannot be used for Rock Salt
production should be utilized in restoration of the quarry area and
during the construction of check dams whereas solid waste from
the domestic sources should be disposed of properly
Constructional waste should be utilized for road filling or
maintenance purposes
It is recommended to ensure Proper SWMS.

Domestic Waste water generated from the Exploration activity

should be used as
Waste water
Sprinkling on the quarry area, on road or for restoration of the land.
Monitoring should be conducted as per EPA NEQS Rules 2001

odor Nil

10
 Training of workers should be conducted regarding health
safety &
Environment.
Use of PPEs should be implemented at workplace.
First a i d measures/medical facility should be provided to
project related employees.

Safe drinking water must be provided to workers, staff, poor people of

the area.
Health and safety
issues Water consumption records should be maintained

Safety signs & boards should be placed at during Exploration activity.

Exploration site should be fenced properly to avoid any
damage to nearby settlements

smoking or any drugs should be prohibited during working hours or

performing work

Do not place any flammable or hazardous substance near the explosive

material

At the time of Exploration, fencing will be ensured for the

area under the exploration

At the time of extraction activity proper SOPs will be followed

like pre- announce Rock Salt in the loud speaker and others
Community wellbeing should be considered and anticipated
measures are
Socioeconomic
recommended to preserve the local culture and ecosystem
Local people should be preferred for the employment

The project proponent will initiate an educational

awareness program with the coordinator of the local
people.

The project proponent will assist the local impacted

community for the improvement of health services

Subject project will uplift the economic status of the nearest

human settlements.

11
 METHODOLOGY

The subject proposed Exploration project lies in the village Nali District Khushab.
The environment description of the study area is described.

Methodology
The methodology adopted to carry out the single stage EIA study of the proposed
Exploration project was as follow;

A) Orientation
B) Planning of Data Collection
C) Data Collection
a. Site Reconnaissance
b. Analysis of Maps and
Plots c. Literature
Review
d. Desk Top Research
e. Discussions & meetings with
stakeholder’s
f. Public Consultations
g. Field Studies

Approach Adopted to Conduct the Study

To conduct this study primary & secondary data was collected; a detailed review
of the project Layout Plan was carried out to truly understand the Project and
extent of the developmental activities. Also meetings were held with the
stakeholders to get the information for the project. Also checklist was developed
and interviews were conducted with local residents to know their point of view
regarding the project.
Review of Layout Plan

A detailed review of the project Layout Plan was carried out to truly understand
the Project and extent of the developmental activities. To review layout plan, a
detail meetings were held with the client to ensure the consistency of the proposed
project. The review of Layout Plan helped to visualize nature and extent of the
negative impacts related with implementation and

12
 Operation of the purposed project on physical, biological and social environment of
the locality.
Environmental Baseline Survey of the Project
To conduct the environmental base line study of the project, a multidisciplinary
team was involved comprising engineers, environmentalist, ecologist and
sociologist. Prior to start of the base line environmental survey, a checklist was
developed. The major components which were considered for physical, ecological
and social environment are discussed in the subsequent paragraphs.

A) Physical Environment

For c o l l e c t i n g t h e i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h e p h y s i c a l
e n v i r o n m e n t , f o l l o w i n g m a i n parameters were considered:

a) Land
Resources b)
Water
Resources
c) Climate, Air and Noise
Quality d) O t h e r
Infrastructure
B) Biological Environment

e) For biological environment study, the following parameters were

covered:
f) Flora
g) Fauna
h) Endangered Species (both flora & fauna)
C) Social and Cultural Study

i) To collect the social base line study of the project area, social
survey was conducted to accomplish the following specific
objectives:
j) To identify the potential project affected persons (if any) in
the project demarcated area
k) To identify poor and vulnerable groups and strategies to ensure
that such groups will get benefit from the project

13
 l) To identify the effects on available common resources of the
community due to implementation of the project
Analysis of Data
After collection of environmental and social data from both primary and
secondary sources a critical analysis was made to assess the existing base line
conditions and potential impacts.

Table: Baseline status

ATTRIBUTE BASELINE STATUS

Meteorology The meteorological data of the proposed study area was collected
from the Pakistan Department of Meteorology (PMD) for the last
15 years. The climate of the area can be classified as true semi-
arid, sub-tropical with long winter and sub-humid. The general
feature are high June- July temperature with occasional hot, dry
wind and dust storms, cold nights in winter and two rainy seasons.
Unseasonal rain fall is also occur in the start of the winter. The
wind mostly flow from the north to the south in the study are
region. Mean annual maximum temperature of the study area
reach 29°C and minimum is about 14°C. Humidity of the area is
high at night except of the month of the May and Jun when it is
about 58% at midnight and 46% at 0300 hrs. During the other
month the humidity rage is about 70% to 80% while the midday
humidity is low and range is
23%-26%

Rain fall pattern of the study area are as;

1. Mid Jun to mid September

2. December to March

Ambient Air Ambient air quality of the proposed study is monitored for the
Quality assessment of the pollutants in the existing environment. The
values were found within the prescribe limit given by NEQs. Lab
results are incorporated within this report.

14
Noise Levels Noise level was monitored at different locations of the proposed
site and found within NEQs limits at all locations surveyed. Lab
results are incorporated within this report

Water Quality Ground water samples from two villages, spring & lake water
samples were collected from the nearby areas of the proposed
project and were analyzed for various desirable characteristics.
Results were within NEQs limits. Lab results are incorporated
within this report

Soil quality Soil samples were examined for various physical and
chemical parameters. Proposed study area is present in the salt
range. Mostly area is covered by the mountains. Fertile land is rare
in the study area. Small patches of the soil are present that are used
by the house hold for the vegetable harvesting. Hard rocks are
present all over the upper layer. Clay is also present at about 1-3
km distance from the proposed Exploration site. The soils are
medium textured with considerable amount of clay materials. Soil
formation of that area is occurred through the mechanical weather
of the old alluvial deposit and loess due to the wind and water of
the rains.

Biological Land required for the proposed Exploration project is surrounded

Environment by hilly area. The subject project study area has scattered
species of flora. Mainly shrubs and grasses were present on land
and about 5-10 big plants were there; mostly the land is barren so
the project will not cause any major adverse impacts on the
surrounding. Also the study area had few species of fauna those
were now disappeared due to population. The project proponent
has ensured to take all the necessary mitigation measures to
control any impact arise from the subject project and to restore the
land with maximum plantation.

15
Socio-economy Area is mainly located at Village Nali District Khushab, express way
and villages are present at specific distance of the proposed project
site and so not come under the radius of study area. Also there are
educational institutes, private and public health care centers
available in the area. Overall economy of the area is satisfactory
and good.

Water Quality Ground water samples from two villages, spring & lake water
samples were collected from the nearby areas of the proposed
project and were analyzed for various desirable characteristics.
Results were within NEQs limits. Lab results are incorporated
within this report

Soil quality Soil samples were examined for various physical and
chemical parameters. Proposed study area is present in the salt
range. Mostly area is covered by the mountains. Fertile land is rare
in the study area. Small patches of the soil are present that are used
by the house hold for the vegetable harvesting. Hard rocks are
present all over the upper layer. Clay is also present at about 1-3
km distance from the proposed Exploration site. The soils are
medium textured with considerable amount of clay materials. Soil
formation of that area is occurred through the mechanical weather
of the old alluvial deposit and loess due to the wind and water of
the rains.

Biological Land required for the proposed Exploration project is surrounded

Environment by hilly area. The subject project study area has scattered
species of flora. Mainly shrubs and grasses were present on land
and about 5-10 big plants were there; mostly the land is barren so
the project will not cause any major adverse impacts on the
surrounding. Also the study area had few species of fauna those
were now disappeared due to population. The project proponent
has ensured to take all the necessary mitigation measures to
control any impact arise from the subject project and to restore the
land with maximum plantation.

16
Socio-economy Area is mainly located at Village Nali District Khushab , express
way and villages are present at specific distance of the proposed
project site and so not come under the radius of study area. Also
there are educational institutes, private and public health care
centers available in the area. Overall economy of the area is
satisfactory and good.

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS.

Exploration activities which may include quarrying, drilling bore-holes,

excavating and transporting the material to the appropriate sites will definitely create

some environmental impacts of varying intensity. These processes and impacts were

identified. On the basis of the guidelines provided by various provincial and national

Environmental agencies, the present project of the applied for area falls in the low

category in terms of Environmental impacts. Views of the stakeholders were also taken

and their suggestions will be considered at the appropriate stage of the project.

Some of the impacts are discussed below:

(i) Topographic and Land Impact:

During the quarrying of Rock Salt Exploration activities, land is

cleared off any vegetation and other overburden. Heavy machinery is deployed to

construct approach roads and to remove the un-wanted material. Any changes in the

topography will render the local soil vulnerable to erosion or a possible increase in the

salinity. All these operations, if continued without monitoring or proper management,

are liable to create an awful scene which would not be pleasant for the human aesthetics.

Because of removal of overburden and rock salt the area will be

exposed to wind and water action.

Land and Slope Stability:

Excessive and un-planned Exploration activities may weaken the original rock structure.

If the structure becomes hollow, it will threaten the stability and gradient.
17
Impact on Water:

(a) Drainage and Groundwater:

During the Exploration activity, extra waste is generated and is

dumped in the nearby ravines and nalas which may cause blockage of these water

channels. Some of the material may choke the rocks thus adversely affecting the

groundwater in terms of groundwater quality and water table.

The quarrying operations and other activities to explore rock salt is

not going to affect the flow of water into the water bodies located in the area, therefore,

there will not be any adverse impact on the level of Jhelum river water and its quality.

The projected impacts on the quality and level of groundwater are

also nil.

(b) Impact on Climate.

(i) Dust Generation and Air Pollution:

The removal of overburden and excavation activities are bound to

generate some dust. Air pollution due to gaseous waste emission is also likely to happen

and cause bad effects on local population and everything living around the place.

Noise Impact:

Noise is one of the basic factors which affect physical environment

and consequently the human comfort. Operation of heavy machinery and the use of

explosives will produce noise pollution.

(ii) Human Health Impact:

The use of explosives, heavy machinery and the resulting dust and

noise may pose a serious risk to the workers and the people living in the neighborhood

of the quarrying/Exploration site.

18
IMPACT ON BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT.

The project area is devoid of any forest cover. However, the area serves as

sanctuary for some wildlife including birds, bees and reptiles due to the presence of wild

grass, bushes and shrubs. Exploration activities is quite common in the whole region

because it has been going on since long in the past. A natural balance has already been

created despite the gradual decline of food sources. The existing vegetation will also be

affected due to quarrying and Exploration activities and due to construction of

infrastructure. The biodiversity impact cannot be ignored but such impact is considered

to be of low intensity.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT.

The Exploration activity of Rock salt and Clay, will result in more developmental

work. Job opportunities for the local population will increase bringing a better life style.

The value of land will also appreciate and more land will be available which Rock Salting

factors are for the communities with positive impact on the social cohesion and collective

attitude. The workers at the Exploration site may undergo some negative health effects.

With the increase in the income and because of other developmental activities,

the education will attract more attention resulting in more educational facilities.

REHABILITATION/MITIGATION AND REMEDIAL MEASURES.

The nature and extent of negative impacts of Rock salt excavation, probable bore-

holing and other exploratory activities for the exploration of Rock salt, Argillaceous,

Gypsum and Silica Sand were duly studied and identified. These impacts are categorized

as physical, biological and socio-economic. To control these negative aspects certain

measures are proposed, the ultimate aim of which is to conserve the local environment

19
in the light of guidelines provided by the National Environmental Quality Standards

(NEQS), Pakistan pertaining to quarrying Exploration.

Topographic and Land Impact:

The Exploration/quarrying activities are going to be restricted only

to a small area and, therefore, is not going to alter the overall topography or the

landscape. However, after the culmination of activity, the temporary “ugliness” can be

removed and the land will be reclaimed by resuming agricultural activity: re-plantation,

constructing a park, water storage and supply reservoir or by using the land for wildlife.

Conservation and Education:

Land and Slope Stability:

There will also be no threat to land and slope stability because the

excavation/Exploration activity will be carried out in a well-planned manner. The slopes

of the Exploration area are already very gentle and pose no threat to the land stability.

However, limited dumping of waste material will further reduce the gradient and make it

safe. Besides, the applicant company is known for conducting such Exploration operation

under the supervision of experts and this will further safeguard the original compactness

and stability.

Impact on Water:

Properly designed plant drainage system will be provided to avoid flooding and to

prevent escape of large amounts of polluted material. This would include land cleaning

according to levelling and grading of the plant. Monsoon season brings on some torrential

rains and the steep gradient of some of local channels cause flash floods. Even if some of

the waste material is dumped in such channels and nalas, it will not be harmful. Rather,

it will lower the stream gradient and will cause hindrance to the flash floods.

20
 The present quarrying techniques do not employ large water

quantities or any chemicals, therefore, the possibility of contamination is ruled out. The

quality of surface as well as groundwater will remain unchanged.

Air Pollution and Dust Impacts:

The present air pollution level at various location in the area and all other

parameters are within the allowable limits. Explosives will be used to the minimum level

and will be handled by properly trained and qualified staff. All the international safety

criteria and guidelines will be strictly followed. The dust generated is estimated to be

low and localized. The area is rocky and is covered by bush, the dust will disperse and

resettle in the vicinity without causing significant pollution. If at all, the problem

aggravates, the dust can be collected by filters and fed back into the system. Workers at

site will be required to wear dust masks for protection. Further steps are also suggested

to control negative impacts of dust generation which include: to minimize working during

windy/thunder storms; to reduce speed of vehicles plying in the area.

Noise Pollution:

The machinery used for Exploration operations generates noise in the range from

70-90 db. (A) Though, this negative effect in minor, use of appropriate machinery and

equipment, mufflers/plugs and gadgets will be done to reduce the noise further. If

necessary, noise can also be diluted by effective echo system.

Effects on Human Health:

All the negative effects of dust, noise and other nature can be mitigated

substantially through use of personal protective equipments/clothing and by timely

medical case. The applicant company is an experienced and responsible organization and

is well aware of its obligations towards its workers. The company is already running an

elaborate health programme and facilities to ensure rest and relief for its workers. They

21
have taken adequate precautions to protect its workers from any accidents by providing

dust masks, helmets, long bodes, first aid kits and other facilities for their workers.

IMPACT ON BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT.

The proposed Exploration activities are on a small scale and would be only a

fraction of the existing stone and clay excavation and crushing. It is, therefore, confirmed

that the proposed Exploration activities will not significantly alter any wildlife habitat or

change the existing vegetation to a large extent. The applicant company undertakes to

protect all vegetation of the area and plans tree plantation with the cooperation of

Wildlife Department and Forest Department. This will not only ensure preservation of

existing trees and bushes but will add to this natural asset. The lessee company is

committed to conduct all quarrying and Exploration operations in a prudent manner and

follow all instructions issued from time to time by the Directorate General of Mines &

Minerals, Punjab and other concerned Departments to prevent pollution and damage to

the environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL ENHAN ROCK SALT REHABILITATION MEASURES

Before applying for a lease over the present area, the company has conducted a

preliminary survey to assess its mineral potential. Since the area will be granted on long

term Large Scale Exploration leases of Rock salt and Argillaceous Clay, the company is

fully satisfied that minerals like Rock salt, Argillaceous Clay, Silica Sand and Gypsum can

be easily explored and exploited with the minimum disturbance of the environment.

While doing research, I have come to the conclusion that overall the Exploration activities

in the area will have the minimum negative impact on the environment. Land

morphology and agricultural productivity may show improvement in addition to the

22
uplift of the socio-economic conditions of the people presently living in the vicinity. With

proper management of enhan Rock Salt measures, the conditions can further be

improved for the benefits of all. Some of the measures are listed below:-

i) Drainage can be improved by proper levelling of the recovered land. This

will help in up-grading cultivation in the area.

ii) The recovered land may be consolidated for optimum utilization.

iii) The workers can be trained to shake off non-friendly traditional practices

and adopt environmentally agreeable working style.

iv) Trees and crops with lesser water requirement should be planted.

v) There should be advance planning and a change in the mine designing for

the maximum output and minimum disturbance to the environment.

vi) Local participation in the working of the project may be encouraged

through education and training of the nearby localities.

vii) For effective environmental surveillance of the quarry/Exploration site

the applicant lessee company may establish a section in its organogram;

with staff duly qualified and trained by suitable institutions.

viii) There should be an Environmental Management Plan and the application

company should undertake to follow all instructions concerning

compensation for lost environmental resources and to mitigate all

negative impacts by using environment friendly goods/equipments and

products.

ix) As a rehabilitation measures the quarry should be levelled after

completion of work. The land should be restored to conditions capable

of supporting agriculture, forestry or other uses. The overburden may be

recycled if possible to be used to fill the low lying areas and construction

of paths/tracks.

23
x) Soil erosion and runoff will be controlled by suitable management of

slopes and plantation. The natural local environment will be maintained

as far as possible by using only the most necessary part of the land for

quarrying. Compliance with the National Environmental Quality

Standard (NEQS) Pakistan pertaining to quarrying sites will be strictly

observed regarding generation of emissions effluents and water.

SURFACE INFRASTRUCTURE
Roads, railways power lines and access routes to and within the plant
The main road named Khushab-Sargodha and link road Nali is used to access
the Exploration site but Aqba Qayyum Khan will built its own paved road to
join the Exploration site to plant. It will improve the road infrastructure of
the area.
There are no railway power lines in the area.

Solid waste management facilities

Solid waste generation from the Exploration activity, domestic and project process

sources will be disposed off properly. A solid waste management division will be

formulated to deal with the proper disposal of solid waste, supervised by HSE Manager,

SW Manager, and other related personnel.

Solid waste generated from the Exploration/extraction activity as loose rocks, stones,

mines residues, as waste clay etc. that cannot be used for Rock Salt production will be

utilized as road filling purpose, in restoration of the quarry/extracted area and during the

construction of check dams. As such there will be no process waste during clay extraction

but there would be

20% reserve loss as solid wastage from clay such as if any human settlement or habitat

comes under the vicinity of the clay extraction area will be counted as reserved loss of

20%.

24
Solid waste from the domestic and plant process sources will be disposed of if agreement

is made with the contractors.

To keep the plant site neat and tidy, a contract will be awarded to a contractor who will

employ a work force of 20 sweepers to do the needful. Another contract will be awarded

by Aqba Qayyum Khan for gardening purposes and a work force of 25 gardeners will be

employed to maintain the lawns, grow flowers and plant trees.

The detail final extent of the dumps cannot be described at this stage, for this proper solid

waste management plan will be formulated with detailed study if this project got

approval.

Water supply & treatment for proposed Exploration project

Five tube wells will be installed to fulfill the water demand for both Exploration activities

for the purpose of sprinkling on road and for drilling & for Rock Salt Plant with 30m3/h

capacity for each tube well. But for Exploration activity no separate tube well will be

installed. Water requirement for Exploration activity will be fulfilled by the tube well

install d for Rock Salt plant.

Water supply & treatment for proposed Rock Salt plant

About 400 m3/day of water shall be used in the plant which will be arranged through

deep hole drilling. As the dry process is employed to produce Rock Salt, the major water

use in the plant is for cooling purpose. Since all the cooling water is recycled, only small

amount of water to replenish the losses is required every day. Most of the water is

consumed for domestic, cleaning, washing and gardening purposes.

Waste water from domestic and plant process (from cooling) sources will be treated in

septic tanks and waste water treatment plant before being subjected for different uses,

which will be installed in the plant after approval the subject project that will be

supervised by HSE Manager, Treatment plant In-charge, Chemist and other related

personnel. The portion of water will be utilized for domestic purposes will be chlorinated

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with sodium hypochlorite before use. The portion will be used for the makeup of cooling

water is subject to addition of chemicals for the treatment of scaling and to arrest

bacterial and algal growth. The treated water from the domestic use will be stored in a

clear water tank. Domestic Supply will then be drawn from the tank and continuously

pumped into the distribution system. For plant cooling, the water after treatment shall be

stored in a separate tank from where it is pumped into the recirculation system.

The sewage plant location, its design capacity and process cannot be described at this

single stage EIA study, a detailed separate study will be conducted for this at the time of

full stage EIA study for proposed Rock Salt Plant if this project got approval.

Disturbances of water courses

There are no proper water channels within the radius of our study area or proposed

Exploration site and there will be as such no waste water production from the quarries

so there is no chance to mix up the quarry water with any water channel. Rain water in

the area flows down the hills or evaporate. There is no storm water or rain water storage

facility in the area. The subject project will construct check dams to harvest the rain water

or storm water in the area that will be used for vegetation or for agricultural purposes

and that will be of persistent use to recharge the water table and also local people will be

benefited from this.

Check Dams may be temporary structure constructed with locally available material. The

various types are brush wood dam, loose rock dam and woven wire dam. The main

function of the check dams is to impede the soil, water removed from watershed, to store

the water for the use of drinking and agricultural purpose, control the flow velocity and

to recharge the groundwater through seepage. This structure is cheap but lasts for 2-5

years. Also permanent check dams can be constructed using stones bricks. Small earth

works is also needed on both sides in which water is stored above the ground and also

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recharges the ground water through seepage. Aqba Qayyum Khan will construct

permanent check dams by constructing check walls according to the specification of

natural contour of the catchment area, dam check wall height can vary from 6-20 ft in

height and 4- 12 ft in width, complete study of the check dams can be provided after the

work permit from the Mines and Mineral Department and that will be issued after the

EPA Punjab approval. Check dams will be constructed to retain the rain water in the

catchment area for recharge of the ground water table through natural seepage. This

project will be initiated in the area at large scale and Aqba Qayyum Khan will install RO

Plant in the nearby villages to provide the clean drinking water to the locals.

Air Pollution and control

Air pollution from the proposed Exploration activity will be dust or particulate matter

generation and vibration. In the quarry area, concerted efforts will be made to keep the

fugitive dust levels to a minimum. To achieve the objective, Sprinkling of water will be

done, controlled blasting using millisecond delay electic detonators (blasting material)

will be employed and as a result big piles of rocks and fragments will be pulled down in a

single action preventing the formation of dust clouds, also by installing the dust collectors

on drill rigs and by sufficient dust sprays to suppress the harmful dust arising from the

Exploration operations during loading and transportation of rock salt and clay also SOPs

for safe blasting will be followed.

In proposed Rock Salt plant, emissions of dust and harmful gases are possible from

numerous locations. To preserve the environment and to safeguard the health of workers

and nearby residents, such emissions must be controlled.

Inside the factory even at a minor dust generation points elaborate arrangements to trap

the dust will be made to keep the environment clean. In particular, instead of multi

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cyclones on the Rock Salt cooler, which are usually a source of dust, a heat exchanger and

a bag collection system, will be installed.

At proposed Rock Salt plant of Aqba Qayyum Khan , the bag filters will be employed to

arrest the dust particles in the exhaust emissions. Bag filters are well known for their high

removal efficiency under all operating conditions provided the filters are maintained

properly.

Two types of dust collectors namely 7500 glass bag filters and plenum pulse fabric filters

will be employed in the plant. The two high temperature glass bag filters will be installed

to filter the dust in the exhaust gases from the kiln and pre-heater system. Glass bag filters

are independent of any operational parameter and ensure perfect dust collection to a

level of nil opacity. Unlike electrostatic precipitator these do not have to be switched off

under certain unfavorable conditions. In the case of any break down, repairs can be easily

made without shutting down the plant.

Land Disturbance

Land in the study area for proposed Exploration activity is plain and barren and with little

amount of flora. After the proposed Exploration activity the land in the study area will be

restored and native plants will be planted there. Moreover, upper strata of land where

clay is to be extracted is not fertile and after extracting the clay at depth of about 60-70

ft, fresh layer of clay is present and beneath it rock salt or rocky surface get start, that soil

is fertile and good for harvesting purposes. So it will be good contribution for harvesting

in that fresh clay or soil after removing the upper layer of clay for clay excavation.

Impacts on flora and fauna

The proposed study area is barren and has little amount of scattered flora with

vegetation. It is about 5-10 trees or big plants present in the area that will be cut off during

the proposed Exploration activity and will be restored with native plants.

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Rare species of Fauna were present in the study area; some of them have migrated to

other areas due to population increase and some species have been vanished due to over

hunting, so there is no such species or rare species of fauna exist in the area that can be

impacted by this proposed Exploration project.

Noise pollution

Currently, average noise level at the proposed site ranges from 41-53 dB (A). During the

operation of the project due to controlled blasting the noise level will not exceed 65 dB

(A) at the distance of 2 km radius, activity site is located at a safe distance from the nearest

human settlement.

Aqba Qayyum Khan is already involved in Exploration activities and running their Rock

Salt plants in different districts of Pakistan and other countries. The controlled blasting

method ensures that noise less than 65 dB (A) at day time at the radius of 2 km distance.

Man power involved during blasting activities will be provide safety equipment’s and

PPEs as Ear Muffs and ear plugs and OSHA standards will be followed.

Housing, recreation and other employee facilities

Labor colony, recreational area and other employee security and facilities will be

providing to workers and staff of the proposed Rock Salt plant.

MAN POWER REQUIREMENT

The man power requirement for the proposed rock salt & clay Exploration project will be

more than 100-120 persons while for the proposed Rock Salt plant it would be about 800-

1500 permanent employees will be hired.

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HEALTH, SAFETY & HYGIENE
Health, Safety & Hygiene includes the following:

First Aid facility

At workplace workers and employers should have enough information, knowledge and

training regarding first aid treatment in case of any emergency. The subject project will

provide proper medical facilities to workers and staff to cope with any incidental

accidents and proper training about first aid will be provided to workers and staff.

Safety Trainings

Workers and all the staff will be provided with proper training about the work and safety

practices.

Use of Drugs and Narcotics

Drugs and narcotics are strictly prohibited during working hours in working area.

Smoking will be only allowed in rest timings at properly isolated places.

Security:

The Exploration site will be fenced properly to avoid any damage to nearby settlements.

Safety signs & boards should be placed at during Exploration activity. At the time of

extraction activity proper SOPs will be followed like pre-announ Rock Salt in the loud

speaker and others.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs)

Workers will be provided with PPEs as Masks, Gloves, Helmets, Safety shoes, Ear plugs,

Ear muffs & other personal protective equipment during the working hours and blasting

to insure personnel health & safety. Implementation of PPEs will be ensured by the

proponent for the proposed project.

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Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan

Risk Assessment study for the proposed subject project was carried out. According to the

studies and local people of the area the subject area is not natural disaster prone. Project

proponent will develop Disaster Management Plan (DMP) in place for onsite emergency.

Occupational Exposure Mitigation Planning

To control any occupational health and safety impact a detailed planning for mitigation

measures has been done in the design stage of the project. Apart from the occupational

exposure mitigation plans for various activities and work areas of hazards, following

existing administrative control measures will be extended to and followed. All employees

will be trained for EHS policies and practices.

The management will develop environmental management plan to implement the

mitigation measures further. The plan will include institutional measures such as

occupational health & safety planning and environmental compliance monitoring for

environmental parameters.

CONCLUSIONS:

Development of mineral resources provides an economic base and use of national

resources improves the quality of human life. But any Exploration activity is bound to

disrupt the environment. In the present case, the applied for area falls in the arid zone

where rainfall is scanty and erratic. The project has more advantages and the

environmental cost is negligible. The foreseeable negative impacts are not many but

some may crop up or revealed during or after the operations. The dominant operation is

quarrying and the most severe environmental impact after the end of the operation

would be a large pit with piles of waste rock around it.

As a whole, it is stated that the project is environmentally sustainable

and will go a long way in the development of mineral resources of the Provinces and also

to ameliorate the socio-economic conditions of the area and its residents.

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