BANDHA COAL MINE

Capacity: 5.0 MTPA (Opencast)

Area: 1850.94 Ha
in Singrauli Coalfields (Main Basin)
Singrauli Forest Division,
Singrauli district, M.P.

SITE SPECIFIC
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PLAN

November, 2021

Project Proponent Consultant

VARDAN ENVIRONET
M/s EMIL Mines and Minerals Resources Ltd. (EMMRL) Accredited EIA Consultant Organization by
QCI-NABET ACCREDITATION NO.:
Industry House, 18th Floor, NABET/EIA/1922/RA0166
10, Camac Street, Plot No. 82A, Sector-5, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon
Kolkata, West Bengal - 700017 www.vardan.co.in
E-Mail: [email protected]
[email protected] Contact: 0124-4343750, +91 9953147268, 09810355569
 BANDHA COAL MINE
Capacity: 5.0 MTPA (Opencast)
Area: 1850.94 Ha
in Singrauli Coalfields (Main Basin)
Singrauli Forest Division,
Singrauli district, M.P.

SITE SPECIFIC
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PLAN
 Wildlife Conservation Plan for Bandha Coal Mine in Singrauli Forest Division, Madhya Pradesh of M/s EMMRL

CONTENTS
Chapter No. Title Page Nos.
Executive Summary
Chapter - 1 Introduction and Methodology 01 - 77
1.1 Introduction 01
1.2 Lease Area 02
1.3 Location 04
1.4 Forest Jurisdiction 06
1.5 Land Use Pattern 06
1.6 Demographic Pattern 08
1.7 Cropping Pattern Adopted by Villagers 13
1.8 Extent of Biotic Pressure of the villagers on the study 13
area
1.9 Number of Families depending upon the NTFP 13
Collection
1.10 Method of NTFP Collection 14
1.11 Topography 14
1.12 Natural Drainage Lines 14
1.13 Climate 14
1.14 Details of the Linear Infrastructures 15
1.15 Biodiversity of Study Area 15
1.15.1 Objective of Biological Study 16
1.16.2 Methodology for Biodiversity Assessment 18
1.15.3 Forest Types of Study Area 19
1.15.4 Biodiversity within the Core Zone 22
1.15.5 Biodiversity within the Buffer Zone 32
1.15.6 Aquatic Ecology 45
1.15.7 Details of Endemic, Threatened and Scheduled Species 49
1.16 Status of Schedule-I Fauna present in the study area 50
1.16.1 Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) 50
1.16.2 Elephant (Elephas Maximus indicus) 54
1.16.3 Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) 59
1.16.4 Leopard (Panthera pardus) 60
1.16.5 Indian Wolf (Canis lupas callipes) 61
1.16.6 Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis) 63
1.16.7 Four Horned Antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis) 64
1.16.8 Chinkara (Gazella bennettii) 65
1.16.9 Mouse Deer (Tragulus meminna) 66
1.16.10 Bengal Monitor Lizard (Varanus bengalensis) 66
1.16.11 Indian Python (Python molursus) 67
1.16.12 Mugger (Crocodylus palustris) 68
1.16.13 Conservation plan for Schedule-I Bird Species 68
1.17 Movement of Mega Wildlife 70
1.18 Man-Animal Conflict 70
1.19 Poaching / Killing of animals 72
1.20 Working Plan Prescriptions 72
1.21 Bio-diversity Conservation Management Circle 73

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Chapter No. Title Page Nos.

1.22 Wildlife Conservation 74
1.22.1 Methodology 75
1.22.2 Data Referred 76
1.22.3 Data Source 76
Chapter - 2 The Perceived Impacts Of The Project On The 78-90
Environment
2.1 Impact on the Environment in General 78
2.1.1 Impact on Soil 80
2.1.2 Geomorphic Changes 80
2.1.3 Loss of Forest Cover (Habitat) 81
2.1.4 Soil Erosion 81
2.1.5 Moisture Loss 82
2.1.6 Forest Fire 82
2.1.7 Accident Fall 82
2.1.8 Air pollution and Rise in Ambient local temperature 83
2.1.9 Noise Pollution 83
2.1.10 Dust Pollution 83
2.1.11 Light Pollution 84
2.1.12 Invasive Weeds 84
2.1.13 Disturbance due to vehicular traffic 84
2.1.14 Garbage 85
2.2 Impact in the zone of Influence (10 km radius) 85
2.2.1 Depletion of Forest Growth 85
2.2.2 Fragmentation of Habitat 85
2.2.3 Forest Fire 86
2.2.4 Soil Erosion 87
2.2.5 Loss of Biodiversity 87
2.2.6 Loss of Natural Water Resources 87
2.2.7 Animal Depredation 88
2.2.8 Poaching 88
2.2.9 Displacement Dilemma 89
2.9.10 Grazing by Livestock 89
2.9.11 Heavy Vehicular Traffic 89
2.9.12 Disturbance due to noise and light 89
2.2.13 Conflict over Resources 90
2.2.14 Artifacts within the Landscape 90
Chapter - 3 Objectives Of Management And Mitigation Strategies 91-109
3.1 Objective of Management 91
3.2 Strategies to Mitigate and Minimize adverse Impacts 92
3.3 Strategies for mining lease area 92
3.3.1 Protection of Virgin Forest 92
3.3.2 Reclamation of Mine Pits & Plantation 92
3.3.3 Soil Erosion Control 95
3.3.4 Grass seeding 95
3.3.5 Water Pollution Control 96
3.3.6 Dust Control 97
3.3.7 Noise and Light Control 97

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Chapter No. Title Page Nos.

3.3.8 Garbage Management 98
3.3.9 Fall of Animals in Mining Pits 99
3.3.10 Awareness Programme 100
3.3.11 Free Distribution of Seedlings 100
3.3.12 Fire Line 101
3.4 Conservation Plan for Zone of Influence 101
3.4.1 Studies on Elephant Habitat Utilization 101
3.4.2 Measures for Man-Elephant/Animal Conflict 101
3.4.3 Wildlife Census 107
3.4.4 Meadow Development 107
3.4.5 Soil and Moisture Conservation 107
3.4.6 Salt Licks 108
3.4.7 Corpus Fund 108
3.4.8 Inoculation of Livestock 108
3.4.9 Monitoring Committee 109
3.4.10 Safeguards along Roadside 109
Chapter - 4 Management Strategies Within The Project Area With 110-113
Financial Forecast

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LIST OF TABLES
Tables Title
Table 1.1 Lease hold area
Table 1.2 Land Use Pattern of Bandha Coal Block
Table 1.3 Land Use Plan during and Post Mining
Table 1.4 Summarized Demographic profile of the study area
Table 1.5 Details of village-wise demographic pattern
Table 1.6 Occupational Structure of the Study Area (RURAL)
Table 1.7 Mode of data collection and parameters considered during the Survey
Table 1.8 Floral Diversity within Core Zone
Table 1.9 Faunal Diversity within Core Zone
Table 1.10 Floral Diversity within buffer zone of Proposed coal mine
Table 1.11 Faunal Diversity from Study Area (Buffer Zone)
Table 1.12 Phytoplankton and Zooplanktons Recorded in the Study Area
Table 1.13 Common fish species recorded in Buffer Zone
Table 1.14 Wetland/Marshland Diversity of Study area
Table 1.15 List of Scheduled species from study area
Table 1.16 List of Food Plants for Elephant
Table 1.17 List of Scheduled Bird species from study area
Table 2.1 Configuration of HEMM
Table 3.1 Selected species for plantation
Table 4.1 Financial Forecast

LIST OF FIGURES

Figures Description
Figure 1.1 Fuel-wise contribution in India Installed power generation capacity
Figure 1.2 Location Map of Bandha Coal Block
Figure 1.3 10 km study area around Bandha Coal Block
Figure 1.4 Mine Development Plan of the Bandha Coal Mine
Figure 1.5 Diverted wildlife corridor due to coal mines

LIST OF ANNEXURES:

Annexure Title
No.
Annexure I Approved ToR (J-11015/49/2021-IA-II(M) dated 3.08.2021)
Annexure
"Elephant corridor map" by forest Department, Singrauli Forest Division
II

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
 Executive Summary for Bandha Coal Mine in Singrauli Forest Division, Madhya Pradesh of M/s EMMRL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
I Bandha Coal Block is located in Singrauli Coalfield (Main Basin), village(s) Bandha,
Tenduha, Pidarwah, Deori and Pachaur, Tehsil: Sarai, Singrauli district of Madhya
Pradesh. The Bandha Coal block spread over a total 18.5094 sq.km area between
latitudes 24° 04' 17" N-24° 06' 51" N and longitudes 82° 21' 39" E - 82° 24' 57" E, is
covered by Survey of India Toposheet no. 63 L/08.
II The total area involved in this project is 1850.94 ha, out of which 785.49 ha is forest
land. The block is located at about 60 km west of Singrauli township via Bargawan. The
nearest big township is Waidhan located at a distance of 50 km from the block which is
also the District Headquarter. Block is traversed by number of fair weathered and forest
roads.
III The important villages in and around the block are Bandha, Pidarwah, Tenduha, Deori
and Pachaur villages located within the block.
IV In the core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the project area) there is only two
Reserve Forest detailed below:-

Sr. No. RF/PF Direction Distance (KM)

1. Mohanban RF All Directions Within Mine lease also
2. Pidarwah P.F. East Direction Within Mine lease also

V In the buffer zone (10 km radius of the project area) there are following water bodies are
present as detailed below:-
Bandha Nala -Within ML area Sukhra Nala-8.1 km, SSE
Rampa River – 5.8 km, S Mahan Nadi – 2.5 km, W
Kanchanmuda Nala-adjacent to ML area Kanchan Nala- 6.7 km, NE
Laua Nala – 7.2 km, ESE

Bandha Coal Block is located in Singrauli Coalfield (Main Basin), Village Tenduha,
Pidarwah, Deori, Bandha & Pachaur, Tehsil: Sarai, Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh.
The Bandha Coal Mine Area is connected through both Ranchi – Renukut – Singrauli –
Bargawan – Sidhi – Rewa national highway and Waidhen-Bargawan-Sidhi state

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highway. From both national highway and state highway, network of forest roads and
few pakka jeepable roads are available connecting the surrounding villages.
Singrauli Railway station is 27 km from Waidhan. The distances of important places
from Waidhan are - Varanasi (nearest Airport) 250 km, Renukoot, an industrial township
and important railway station on Chopan-Garhwa Road Section of Eastern Railway is at a
distance of 70 km.
VI Block is traversed by number of fair weathered and forest roads. The important villages
in and around the block are Tenduha, Pidarwah, Deori, Bandha & Pachaur villages
located within the block and adjacent to the mine lease area.
VII About 43% part of the Bandha block area is covered by forest land. The remaining 57%
(approx.) part of the block area is used either as agriculture land or village land (as in
habitat). The surface exhibits a moderately undulating topography with reddish soil and
sporadic occurrences of sandstone exposures. The general ground elevation of the block
varies between 405.00 m in the north western part to 475.00 m above M.S.L. towards
southern part of the block.
VIII As per Socio-economic status of this coal block, there are 5 villages (Tenduha,
Pidarwah, Deori, Bandha & Pachaur) within the core zone and total 29 villages in the
study area. Summary of demographic pattern of the study area is given below:
Demographic profile of the study area
Sr.No. Parameter Study Area
RURAL
1. No. of Villages 29
2. Household 8783
3. Household Ratio 4.8
4. Total Population 42397
5. Male Population % 21752(51.30%)
6. Female Population % 20645(48.69%)
7. Population (0-6 Years)% 8074(19.04%)
8. Sex Ratio 949
9. Child Sex Ratio 910
10. Scheduled Caste % 6119(14.43%)
11. Scheduled Tribes % 14754(34.99%)
12. Literates % 19797(46.69%)
13. Main Workers % 13477(31.78%)
I. Cultivators 6654(49.37%)
II. Agriculture Labourers 5040(37.39%)
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III. Household Workers 89(0.66%)

IV. Other Workers 1694(12.56%)
14. Marginal Workers % 6400(15.09%)
15. Non-Workers % 22520(53.10)
Source: * PCA Census 2011, Madhya Pradesh State

IX According to the ‘India State of Forest Report -2019’ (latest) the total forest area of the
Singrauli district is 2,180.13 Km2 which is 38.42% of the geographical area. The forest
area included, 394.41 Km2 (39441 Ha) of very dense forest, 1002.52 Km2 (100252 Ha) of
medium dense forest and 783.20 Km2 (78320 Ha) of open forest.
The present Working Plan of Singrauli forest division is valid from 2009-10 to 2018-19.
According to revised Forest Types (Champian and Seth 1968) the study area has been
classified as Dry Peninsular Sal Forest (5B/C1c), Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest
(5B/C2), and Dry Bamboo Brakes (5/E9). In this Working Circle Sal occurs either pure
or in mixture with (Shorea robusta), Saja (Terminalia tomentosa), Dhaora (Anogesissus
latifolia), Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium), Sena (Lagerstroemia parviflora), Salia
(Boswellia serrata), Tinsa (Ougeinia oojeinensis), Sagaun (Tectona grandis) , Kari
(Saccopetalum tomentosum) etc.
X The flora existing in the core and buffer zone are Sal (Shorea robusta), Teak (Tectona
grandis), Haldu (Adina cordifolia), Dhaora (Anogeissus latifolia), Kardhai (Anogeissus
pendula), Saliha (Boswellis serrata) ,Char (Buchnania lanzan), Dhobin (Dalbergia
paniculata), Tendu (Dyospyros melanoxylon), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Lendia
(Lagerstoremia parviflora), Gunja (Lannea coromandelica), Mahua (Madhuca indica),
Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium), Kusum (Schleichera oleosa), Bhelwa (Semecarpus
anacardium), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Harra (Terminalia chebula), Bahara (Terminalia
belerica), Saja (Terminalia tomentosa) etc. Grasses noticed are Aristida (Aristida
funiculate), Chloris (Chloris barbata), Digitaria (Digitaria radicosa), Dimeria,
Dactyloctenium (Dactyloctenium aegyptium), Setaria (Setaria glauca), Cenchrus
(Cenchrus biflorus), Cyperus etc. Weeds noticed are Ageratum conyzoides, Alysicarous
and Euphorbia sps.
Sal (Shorea robusta) is another important timber species in Madhya Pradesh. It is a large
evergreen tree belonging to the family Dipterocarpaceae. Sal forests of Madhya Pradesh
are ecologically very important as they mark the termination of the great Sal zone of the
Central Indian peninsula. Sal forests are located in the eastern part of the state while teak

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forests are localized in the western part. In between, there is a transition belt of mixed
miscellaneous forests.
Fauna noticed are –
mammals- Hare (Lepus nigricollis), Palm Squirrel (Funambulus pennati), Spotted deer
(Axix axix), Bat (Pteropus giganteus), Mangoose (Herpestes edwardi), Red faced
Monkey (Macaca mulata), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus), Barking Deer(Muntiacus
muntjak), Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes), Black faced Langur (Semnopithecus entellus),
Hyena (Hyaenea hyaena), Fox (Vulpes bengalensis), Porcupine (Histrix indica), Jackal
(Canis aureus), Wild Boar (Sus scrofa cristetus).

Birds- Brown fish Owl (Bubo zeylonensis), Blue Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), Asian
Koel (Eudynamys scolopacea), Rufous Wood Pecker (Micropternus brachyurus), Pied
Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), Painted Partridge (Galloperdix lunulata), Bengal Vulture
(Galloperdix lunulata), Indian Great horned Owl (Bubo bengalensis), Common Parakeet
(Psittacula eupatria), Grey Jungle Fowl (Gallus sonneratti), Jungle Myna (Acridotheres
tristis), Indian Cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus), Indian Roller (Coracias behghalensis),
Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis), Bush Quail (Perdicula asiatica), Chestnut bellied
Sand Grouse (Pterocies exustus), Peacock (Pavo cristatus), Cattle Egret (Bubulus ibis),
Green Imperial Pigeon (Ducula aenea).

Reptiles- Indian Rock Python (Python molurus), Indian Chameleon (Chameleon

zeylanicus), Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor), Rat Snake (Elephe radiata), Indian
Cobra (Naja naja) Fishes- Catla catla (Katla), Cirrhinus mrigala (Mrigal), Tor tor
(Mahaseer), Mastooembelus armatus (Bam), Labeo rohita (Rohu), Labeo bata.

XI The anticipated degradation due to this project are Air pollution, Noise pollution,
Accidental death of wildlife (Rarely), Litter generation, Habitat degradation, forest fire,
and Fragmentation of habitat etc. In view of these, mitigation measures like Improvement
and Protection to Habitat, fire protection, awareness promotion, cattle immunization and
incentive to villagers are provided in the core area of this project. Where as in the buffer
area mitigation measures like Wildlife Habitat Improvement, Fire protection Measures,
anti-depredation squad, Compassionate grant and creation of water hole have been
proposed. The total cost of this plan is Rs.8.80 Crores for a period of 10 years.
XII A monitoring committee will be formed with the Chairmanship of Conservator of forest
Waidhan circle where DFO, Waidhan Division will be the Member Secretary and other

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members will be Range Officer, Forester and Forest Guard. Apart from this the village
head of surrounding villages will participate in the half yearly meeting where progress
and impact of the prescriptions of this plan will be discussed in detail. Any addition or
modification to the prescriptions approved by Chief Wildlife Warden will be undertaken.
M/s Vardan EnviroNet wishes to place on record its deep appreciation for the trust
reposed in Vardan EnviroNet by EMIL Mines and Minerals Resources Limited
(EMMRL) and for the active interest and help extended by concerned EMMRL officials.
Cooperation extended to M/ s Vardan EnviroNet by the officials of State Forest
department is also acknowledged.

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 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION AND
METHODOLOGY
 Wildlife Conservation Plan for Bandha Coal Mine in Singrauli Forest Division, Madhya Pradesh of M/s EMMRL

1.0 INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY

1.1 Introduction:
The mineral wealth of a nation is an important feature in its economic progress, and mining
in India has a vital role in the development. Madhya Pradesh has a glorious heritage in the
field of natural resources, mines and minerals. The state is geologically so endowed that it
has become a veritable repository of minerals.
Electricity is the key factor for development of a nation. All sectors viz. industrial,
agriculture and social require electric power for their growth and availability of electricity
in the nation. Coal based power plants are probably the most economically viable and time
tested solution towards the solution of this problem. These thermal power plants obviously
need constant supply of coal. In fact, about 67% of the power plants in India are coal
based.
Coal Mining
Coal Coal plays a crucial role in the production of electricity in India. As per the CEA data
with regard to installed capacity in India (as of Oct’20), coal based installed capacity is
about 53%, followed by Renewable Energy Sources (RES) at 24%, while hydro power
(12%), gas (7%), nuclear (2%) and lignite (2%) round up the rest. The graph representing
the fuel wise contribution to the country’s installed power generation capacity is shown in
the figure 1.1 below.

Source: https://powermin.nic.in/en/content/power-sector-glance-all-india
Figure 1.1: Fuel-wise contribution in India installed power generation capacity

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Mining is one of the major contributors towards the growth and sustenance of human
civilization. In this context, coal mining has played a special role since ancient times, as
coal is a major source of energy for the development of a society. However, coal mining
has its own downside i.e. coal mines lead to degradation of land and especially for an
opencast mine, where large tracts of land are used. During production of coal from mines
and subsequent transportation of coal, significant pollution is generated. The pollution
includes land degradation, air pollution, and water pollution, noise pollution, besides
having impact on socio-economic status of the area and flora & fauna.
Coal deposits in Madhya Pradesh
Coal has been one of the key sources of primary energy for the world, contributing to
roughly half of the total primary energy consumption. However, the significance of coal
varies across the world with Asia leading the consumption, both in absolute terms and as a
proportion of total primary energy consumption. The total coal production in India in
2019-20 surpassed 730 MT and is likely to increase to about 1000 MT by 2022-23. Power
generation remains the key consumer of coal in India.
Important deposits of coal occur in Shahdol, Umaria, Singrauli, Betul, Chindwara and
Narsingpur districts. Coal is the primary source of energy supply in India. About 55% of
the current commercial energy use is met by coal. Rising demand for energy and coal as
the primary energy source make it a significant resource in the country. Opening of Bandha
coal mine will have the following benefits:
• Increase supply of coal for India’s power programme.
• Reduces power shortages hindering growth, foreign investment and productivity.
• Generate additional employment, both direct and indirect which will lead to economic
growth of the industrial sector as well as country.
• Quality of life of local populace in villages shall improve due to company’s
community development programmes.
1.2 Lease Area:
The Singrauli Coalfield which forms the northern most part of Son- Mahanadi Master
basin occupies a prominent position on power map of India due to its vast Quarriable coal
resources. Singrauli Coalfield covering an area of about 2200 sq km is located mainly in

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Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh with a small portion falling in Sonbhadra District of
Uttar Pradesh. Singrauli coalfield is structurally composed of two techno-sedimentary
domain viz. the Moher sub basin in north east and the Main Basin in the west. The large
part of the coalfield known as Main Basin covering nearly 1900 sq km has been partly
explored while the Moher sub basin having an area of around 300 sq km has been
extensively explored in detail. These two basins of Singrauli Coalfield are separated by a
concealed basement high. The Bandha Coal block spread over a total 18.5094 sq.km area
between latitudes 24° 04' 17" N-24° 06' 51" N and longitudes 82° 21' 39" E - 82° 24' 57" E,
is located about 60 km west of Singrauli township via Bargawan. Bargawan is located at a
distance of about 25 km from the block. The block is connected with Rajmelan by metalled
road and the distance is about 25 km. the nearest railway station for Bandha Block is
Deoragram (between Bargawan & Sarai stations), on Chopan-Singrauli-Katni-Jabalpur
section of East Central Railway at a distance of 6 km from the block. The nearest big
township is Waidhan located at a distance of 50 km from the block which is also the
District Headquarter. This area is a part of Survey of India Topo sheet No.63 L/08 (on
R.F.1:50000).
Singrauli Railway station is 27 km from Waidhan. The distances of important places from
Waidhan are - Varanasi (nearest Airport) 250 km, Renukoot, an industrial township and
important railway station on Chopan-Garhwa Road Section of Eastern Railway is at a
distance of 70 km.
There are twenty eight coal blocks identified by Ministry of Coal, Government of India,
New Delhi. They are Amelia (North), Amelia, Chatarsal, Mahan, Mara Mahan, Suliyari,
Patpahari, Dhirauli, Bandha, Bandha North, Gondbahera Ujheni, Gondbahera Ujheni East,
Pachaur, Makri Barka East, Makri Barka, Makri Barka West Phase-I, Gurbara South,
Gurbara Central, Gurbara North, Purail, Saratola, Borka, Bari Mahuli, Hattadudhmania,
Sarai East, Sarai West, Dongri Tal-I and Dongri Tal-II.
Bandha Coal Block is located in Singrauli Coalfield (Main Basin), Village Bandha,
Pidarwah, Tenduha, Deori and Pachaur, Tehsil: Sarai, Singrauli district of Madhya
Pradesh. The Bandha Coal Block in Singrauli Coalfield, in the State of Madhya Pradesh
has been allocated to M/s EMIL Mines and Mineral Resources Limited (EMMRL) vide

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Letter No. NA-104/5/2020-NA dated 03.03.2021 by MoC, GoI. The project area consist
785.49 Ha. (781.94 Ha Protected and Reserved Forest Area + 3.55 Ha Govt. Revenue
Forest Area and Application for Forest Clearance has been submitted vide Proposal No.
FP/MP/MIN/144129/2021.
1.3 Location:
Total area of the Bandha Coal mine of EMMRL is 1850.94 ha between latitudes 24° 04'
17" N-24° 06' 51" N and longitudes 82° 21' 39" E - 82° 24' 57" E, is located in village-
Tenduha, Pidarwah, Deori, Bandha & Pachaur, Tehsil-Sarai, District-Singrauli, Madhya
Pradesh, which is located about 60 km west of Singrauli township via Bargawan.
The Bandha Coal Mine Area is connected through both Ranchi – Renukut – Singrauli –
Bargawan – Sidhi – Rewa national highway and Waidhen-Bargawan-Sidhi state highway.
From both national highway and state highway, network of forest roads and few pakka
jeepable roads are available connecting the surrounding villages.

Figure-1.2: Location Map of Bandha Coal Block

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Figure-1.3: 10 km Study area around Bandha Coal Block

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1.4 Forest Jurisdiction:

The administrative jurisdiction of proposed Bandha coal mine comes under Singrauli
Forest Division. Out of the lease hold area of 1850.94 ha only 785.49 ha is forest land.
Table-1.1: Lease Hold Area
Type of Land Area (ha)
Forest Land
Protected/Reserved Forest 781.94
Government Revenue Forest 3.55
Total Forest Area 785.49
Non-Forest Land 1065.45
Total 1850.94
1.5 Land Use Pattern:
The project area comprises of total 1850.94 ha, out of which, 785.49 ha land is forest land,
1065.49 ha Non Forest land. The existing land utilization in the project area is given in
Table 1.2 and Mine development plan represented in Figure 1.4.
Table-1.2: Land Use Pattern of Bandha Coal Block
Bandha Coal Mine Summary of the Land inside the Coal Mine
District Tehsil Village Govt. Private Revenue Total
Name Land (Ha) Land (Ha) Forest (Ha) Land (Ha)

Tenduha 31.64 108.23 0.00 139.87

Pidarwah 43.42 119.03 2.01 164.46
Singrauli Sarai Deori 13.33 35.67 0.00 49.00
Bandha 199.06 511.31 1.54 711.91
Pachaur 1.92 1.85 0.00 3.76
Total revenue Area (A) 289.37 776.09 3.55 1069.00
Protected Forest 95.90
Reserved Forest 686.04
Protected and Reserved Forest Compartment Area (B) 781.94
Total Area (A+B) 1850.94

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Figure-1.4 Mine Development Plan of the Bandha Coal Mine

The purpose-wise break-up of the total leasehold area along with the Forest Land required for
diversion is furnished in the Table: 1.3:

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Table-1.3: Land Use Plan during and Post Mining

Land Use (Post Closure)
Land Use
Land use Water Public/ Forest
Type (End of Agricul- Plant- Undist-
(Proposed) Body Company Land Total
Life) tural land ation urbed
Use (Returned)
Excavation Area 1315
Backfilled Area 1200 295 905 1200.00
Excavated Void 115 115 115.00
Without plantation
Top Soil Dump
External Dump 350 350 350 350.00
Safety Zone 15 15 15 15.00
Haul Road between quarries
Road diversion
Diversion/ below
River/Nala/canal
Settling pond 15 15 15 15.00
Road & Infrastructure area 85 85 85 85.00
Rationalization area 25.94 25.94 25.94 25.94
Garland drains 10 10 10 10.00
Embankment
Green Belt 15 15 15 15.00
Water Reservoir near pit
UG entry 10 10 10 10.00
Undisturbed/ Mining right
10 10 10 10.00
for UG
Total 1850.94 1850.94 295.00 1295.94 15.00 220.00 25.00 1850.94

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1.6 Demographic Pattern:

The basic unit for rural areas is the revenue village which has definite surveyed boundaries.
The revenue village may comprise of one or more hamlet but the entire village is treated as
one unit for presentation of data.
The study area was defined as an area within 10 km radius around the proposed mining
project site of covers 29 villages of Singrauli and Deosar tehsil of Singrauli District of
Madhya Pradesh State.
Table-1.4: Summarized Demographic profile of the study area

Sr.No. Parameter Study Area

RURAL
1. No. of Villages 29
2. Household 8783
3. Household Ratio 4.8
4. Total Population 42397
5. Male Population % 21752(51.30%)
6. Female Population % 20645(48.69%)
7. Population (0-6 Years)% 8074(19.04%)
8. Sex Ratio 949
9. Child Sex Ratio 910
10.Scheduled Caste % 6119(14.43%)
11.Scheduled Tribes % 14754(34.99%)
12.Literates % 19797(46.69%)
13.Main Workers % 13477(31.78%)
I. Cultivators 6654(49.37%)
II. Agriculture Labourers 5040(37.39%)
III. Household Workers 89(0.66%)
IV. Other Workers 1694(12.56%)
14. Marginal Workers % 6400(15.09%)
15. Non-Workers % 22520(53.10)

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Table-1.5: Details of Village-Wise Demographic Pattern

Sr. House Total Male Female Population Scheduled Scheduled
Villages Literates
No. holds Population Population Population (0-6 Years) Caste Tribes
Madhya Pradesh State
Singrauli District
Singrauli Tehsil
1. Lamidah 177 860 450 410 180 369 487 413
2. Deori 182 861 407 454 177 20 528 395
3. Bandha 499 2377 1200 1177 462 312 984 1102
4. Tenduha 239 1405 693 712 325 14 975 531
5. Karmatola 3 10 5 5 0 0 0 0
6. Pidarwah 258 1397 690 707 277 80 884 570
7. Amiliya 657 3171 1592 1579 605 431 821 1397
8. Suhira 879 4201 2177 2024 756 1163 969 1913
9. Khokhari 287 1457 787 670 226 261 229 758
10. Bodaratola 37 194 93 101 30 0 97 88
11. GajaraBahara 580 2766 1415 1351 550 351 1523 1190
12. Khanua Khas 173 849 433 416 166 129 465 353
13. Jamgadi 343 1607 816 791 319 93 1001 716
14. Bhalyatola 214 1098 583 515 210 0 382 553
Budher
15. 40 165 82 83 32 0 93 71
(Bugher)
16. Suggo 10 39 21 18 3 0 39 16
Chitarwai
17. 146 646 352 294 129 111 75 312
Khurd
Chitarwai
18. 647 2805 1435 1370 546 155 727 1292
Kalan
19. Gadariya 387 1723 884 839 313 194 124 815
20. Gadsa 187 871 458 413 173 430 16 401
Total 5945 28502 14573 13929 5479 4113 10419 12886
Deosar Tehsil
21. Daga 745 3329 1685 1644 641 983 137 1809
22. Majhauli 277 1519 855 664 230 41 245 945
23. Kunda 46 290 152 138 52 0 14 146

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24. Manihari 344 1930 985 945 345 65 842 885

25. Makari 294 1381 702 679 289 173 876 579
26. Pachaur 355 1823 951 872 364 80 724 841
27. Talwa 175 886 445 441 205 71 564 406
28. Ujjaini 575 2543 1311 1232 439 593 836 1212
29. Bodaratola 37 194 93 101 30 0 97 88
Total 2848 13895 7179 6716 2595 2006 4335 6911
Grand Total 8793 42397 21752 20645 8074 6119 14754 19797

Table-1.6: Occupational Structure of the Study Area (RURAL)

Total Main Workers

Marginal Non-
Sr.No. Villages Main Agricultural Household Other
Cultivators Workers Workers
Workers Laborers Laborers Workers
Madhya Pradesh State
Singrauli District
Singrauli Tehsil
1. Lamidah 331 151 155 0 25 52 477
2. Deori 395 154 226 0 15 30 436
3. Bandha 954 93 824 5 32 383 1040
4. Tenduha 518 66 446 0 6 148 739
5. Karmatola 3 2 1 0 0 0 7
6. Pidarwah 461 58 390 0 13 9 927
7. Amiliya 715 356 236 0 123 784 1672
8. Suhira 1240 1008 136 15 81 916 2045
9. Khokhari 518 325 20 2 171 281 658
10. Bodaratola 64 64 0 0 0 0 130
11. GajaraBahara 526 288 81 3 154 695 1545
12. Khanua Khas 452 238 201 0 13 1 396
13. Jamgadi 796 230 527 0 39 6 805
14. Bhalyatola 166 153 8 1 4 407 525
15. Budher(Bugher) 72 64 7 0 1 0 93
16. Suggo 20 14 5 0 1 1 18

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Chitarwai
17. 103 86 3 0 14 218 325
Khurd
Chitarwai
18. 843 694 97 0 52 572 1390
Kalan
19. Gadariya 325 44 237 3 41 483 915
20. Gadsa 143 90 0 2 51 84 644
Total 8645 4178 3600 31 836 5070 14787
Deosar Tehsil
21. Daga 1076 380 259 21 416 344 1909
22. Majhauli 398 181 8 0 209 131 990
23. Kunda 73 68 4 0 1 10 207
24. Manihari 660 524 127 0 9 180 1090
25. Makari 706 642 37 25 2 2 673
26. Pachaur 463 116 246 0 101 336 1024
27. Talwa 280 268 3 1 8 138 468
28. Ujjaini 1112 233 756 11 112 189 1242
29. Bodaratola 64 64 0 0 0 0 130
Total 4832 2476 1440 58 858 1330 7733
Grand Total 13477 6654 5040 89 1694 6400 22520

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1.7 Cropping Pattern Adopted by Villagers:

Two seasonal crops mainly Kharif (summer crop) and Rabi (winter crop) are well
developed in this region. The crops grown are Paddy, Jawar, Maize and Kodo. Mustard
and Til are also grown along with the pulses like Arhar, Mung etc. The main Kharif crop is
also paddy which is cultivated with a short rotation and this type of crop is grown only
where irrigation facilities are available during winter. In addition Alsi, Mustard, etc. are
also grown during Rabi. A very significant matter is use of fertilizers and pesticides in this
region are very much limited as most of the agricultural practitioners are traditional and
support use of green manure.
1.8 Extent of Biotic Pressure of the villagers on the study area:
At present agriculture is not imposing any biotic pressure on the natural ecosystem
particularly of this region. The population growth is a common phenomenon all over which
is not restricted to only the study area. The population growth has its impact on the natural
ecosystem, common to everywhere. The energy consumption by the villagers for cooking
food items entirely depends on adjoining forest areas i.e. collection of fuel wood.
1.9 Number of Families depending upon the NTFP Collection:
A majority of families in the impact area belong to SC and ST, who are involved in
collection of NTFP. The main NTFP (non-timber forest produce) product is mouha
(Madhuca indica) flower. Aapart from mouha they also collect Amla (Emblica officinalis),
Baheda (Terminalia bellirica), Harra (Terminalia chebula) and Aam (Mangifera indica)
fruits. Honey and Jhuna (raal) (resin from Sal tree) collection is infrequent in the study
area. Tendu leaf collection is also practised here. However, during our survey we did not
found any family entirely dependent on NTFP collection. The left over family members of
the main work force (old age people, women and children) are mostly engaged in NTFP
collection. All family members’ joins for collection of NTFP during the lean period when
no other engagement for earning their lively hood is available. Apart from NTFP, fire
wood (locally called Jhati) collection from forest is a traditional and common practice in
the study area. Villagers cut the tree for small timber and firewood for their own
consumption. They collect their fencing materials and materials required for agricultural
tools from the surrounding forests. On an average per standard family (Father+ mother+
one child) consumes 10 kg of firewood per day.
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1.10 Method of NTFP Collection:

Handpicking from the ground is the main system of collection of mohua. For collecting
from the ground villagers clean the forest floor by igniting fire, which destroy the ground
vegetation, as well as restrict the regeneration of tree species. Repeated use of this method
adversely impact herbivore population. Due to the impact of this cleaning process of
underground forest growth, the ground becomes completely barren at places to check the
rainwater flow, resulting in to soil erosion.
1.11 Topography:
About 43% part of the Bandha block area is covered by forest land. The remaining 57%
(approx.) part of the block area is used either as agriculture land or village land (as in
habitat). The surface exhibits a moderately undulating topography with reddish soil and
sporadic occurrences of sandstone exposures. The general ground elevation of the block
varies between 405.00 m in the north western part to 475.00 m above M.S.L. towards
southern part of the block.
1.12 Natural Drainage Lines:
The Singrauli Coalfield is located in the drainage area of Son & Rihand Rivers. The
drainages of the block are controlled by Bandha Nala and Kachanmuda Nala.
Bandha Nala flows from south to north inside the block and then east to west near Ujheni
village north of the block. Finally, Bandha nala discharges into Mahan River near Tingudi
village north-west of the block.
Kachanmuda nala flows south to north inside the block and meet Kachan Dam in the north-
east of the block. Bandha Nala and Kachanmuda Nala drains the entire area surrounding
the exploration block. The drainage pattern exhibited in the area is mainly dendritic to sub-
dendritic.
1.13 Climate:
Climate of the area is characterized by hot dry summer as well distributed rainfall in the
monsoon season. The summer season begins from March and extends up to May with
maximum temperature rising up to 48°C during the peak period. The monsoon period
extends from June to September with an average rainfall of 1132.7 mm. The winter season
commences in early November up to February with the mean daily temperature of 8.1°C.

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1.14 Details of the Linear Infrastructures:

The Bandha Coal Mine Area is connected through both Ranchi – Renukut – Singrauli –
Bargawan – Sidhi – Rewa national highway and Waidhen-Bargawan-Sidhi state highway.
From both national highway and state highway, network of forest roads and few pakka
jeepable roads are available connecting the surrounding villages.
The Bandha Coal block spread over a total 18.5094 sq.km area, is located about 60 km
west of Singrauli township via Bargawan. Bargawan is located at a distance of about 25
km from the block. The block is connected wit Rajmelan by metalled road and the distance
is about 25 km. the nearest railway station for Bandha Block is Deoragram (between
Bargawan & Sarai stations), on Chopan-Singrauli-Katni-Jabalpur section of East Central
Railway at a distance of 6 km from the block. The nearest big township is Waidhan located
at a distance of 50 km from the block which is also the District Headquarter.
1.15 Biodiversity of Study Area:
Generally, biological communities are the good indicators of climatic and edaphic factors.
Studies on biological aspects of ecosystems are important in Biodiversity Assessment for
safety of natural flora and fauna. Information on the impact of environmental stress on the
community structure serves as an inexpensive and efficient early warning system to check
the damage to a particular ecosystem. The biological environment includes mainly
terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
A change in the composition of biotic communities is reflected by a change in the
distribution pattern of natural species of flora and fauna existing in the ecosystem. The
sensitivity of animal and plant species to the changes occurring in their existing ecosystem
can, therefore, be used for monitoring of Impact Assessment studies of any project.
Biological communities are the indicator environmental condition and resource of its
distribution and survival. Biotic component comprises of both plants (Flora) and animal
(Fauna) communities, which interact not only within and between them but also with the
Abiotic components, viz. physical and chemical components of the environment. The
changes in biotic community are studied in the pattern of distribution, abundance and
diversity.
Any project has some impact on the flora and fauna in the project area. Plant and animal
communities are indicators of the environment. They respond not only to one
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environmental factor, but also to an interacting group of factors. These communities

influence and react sensitively to change in the balance of environmental stresses.
Therefore, a detailed knowledge of the diversity of the area definitely helps in managing
the area properly following suitable practices. The study was conducted in the project area
to assess all possible consequences on the biological environment.
Floral and faunal surveys conducted for assessing the biological diversity and its status
over a period of time that forms an integral part of Impact Assessment Techniques. The
present study is highlighting the various issues pertaining to floristic diversity and the
faunal wealth including Ethno-botany and silvicultural issues in the submergence area and
also the area beyond the limit of the submergence. Accordingly, for the Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) studies, the total area has been sub-divided into the following
areas;

Core Zone: i.e. Project Site of Bandha Coal Block (1850.94 Ha)

10 km radius buffer zone

Natural vegetation in the study area (Core & Buffer Zone).

Forest area (Protected/Reserved)

Rivers and Ponds in vicinity
1.15.1. Objectives of Biological Study:
The biological study of the area has been conducted in order to understand the ecological
status of the existing flora and fauna to generate baseline information and evaluate the
probable impacts on the biological environment. The main objectives of biological study
were:
Terrestrial Ecology:
The study was undertaken with a view:
 To assess nature and distribution of the vegetation in the area.
 To evaluate the dominant species of plant and animal. To list the endangered species
of flora and fauna.
 To mark the wetlands and other ecologically sensitive areas such as national parks/
sanctuaries.
 To assess the effect of construction and operation of the project on existing ecology.

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 To Asses the spawning and feeding habitats of aquatic species with respect to time
and location.
Aquatic Ecology:
The study was carried out in the project site aiming at:
 Inventorization of different aquatic species (plankton (phyto & zoo), benthos, fishes).
 To identify the feeding and breeding grounds of economically important fishes.
 To assess the existing status of endangered species.
Table: 1.7: Mode of data collection and parameters considered during the Survey
Sr. Aspect Data Mode of Data Parameters Remarks
No. collection monitored
1. Terrestrial Primary By field survey Floral and Faunal For Floral Diversity:
Biodiversity data diversity Random survey, sapling
collection survey/forest inventory,
walking transect,
collection and
identification with the
help of relevant
literature.
For Faunal Diversity:
direct and indirect
sampling, walking
transect, point sampling
and nest sampling etc.
2. Secondary From authentic Floral and Faunal Data collected from the
data sources like Forests diversity and study working plan of the
collection department and of vegetation, forest region, forest types from
available published type, importance the authentic literature
literatures from etc. of Champion & Seth.
ZSI, BSI etc.
3. Aquatic Primary By field survey Floral and Faunal For Plankton Study-
Biodiversity data diversity Lackey’s drops method
and light microscope
For other aquatic-
Random survey,
opportunistic
observations
4. Secondary From authentic Floral and Faunal Desktop literature
data sources like Forests diversity and study review to indentify the
collection department. of vegetation, forest representative spectrum
type, importance of threatened species,
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etc. population and

ecological communities.

1.15.2. Methodology for Biodiversity Assessment:

I. Floral Diversity:
The present study on the floral assessment for the project activity is based on field survey
of the area. Inventory Methodology was adapted to the baseline data of floral diversity in a
corridor of 10km radius from the project site of the proposed project using the relevant
toposheets of scale 1:50000.
A forest inventory is “an attempt to describe the quantity and quality of forest trees
and many of the characteristics of the land area upon which the trees are grown.” The
objective this floral inventory of the study area, is to provide complete checklist of floristic
structure along the entire stretch of the proposed project for formulating effective
management and conservation measures. The tree species, shrubs, herbs and climbers
observed in the study area (Core zone, Buffer Zone and Protected Areas NP/WLS/PF/RF)
are represented in the Table 1.8.
II. Faunal Diversity:
A linear transect of 1.0 km each was chosen for sampling at each site. Each transect was
trekked for 1.5 hr for the sampling of faunal diversity through following methods for
different categories. For the sampling of butterflies, the standard ‘Pollard Walk’ method
was employed and all the species recorded daily. Voucher specimens of the species that
could not be identified in the field were collected using a butterfly net besides
photographing them.
For bird’s sampling, ‘Point Sampling’ along the fixed transect (Foot trails) was carried out.
All the species of birds were observed through a binocular and identified with the help of
field guide book and photographs.
For the sampling of mammals, direct count on open width (20m) transect was used. In
addition, information on recent sightings/records of mammals by the villagers/locals was
also collected. For carnivores, indirect sampling was carried out and the mammals were
identified by foot marks, faeces and other marks/sign created by them. In case of reptiles
mainly lizards were sampled by direct count on open width transects.

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The study of fauna takes substantial amount of time to understand the specific faunal
characteristic of area. The assessment of fauna has been done by extensive field survey of
the area. During survey, the presence of wildlife was also inhabitants depending on animal
sightings and the frequency of their visits in the project area which was later confirmed
from forest department, Wildlife Department etc.
III. Aquatic Diversity:
a) Zooplankton:
For zooplankton analysis, 20L of subsurface water was strained through 53µ Nytex
plankton net and the concentrate was transferred to labeled plankton bottle after rinsing the
net with distilled water. The planktons were immediately preserved in 4% neutral
formaldehyde solution for subsequent examination and quantification.
Zooplankton samples were observed in a sedimentation chamber under an inverted
plankton microscope. Planktons were identified with the help of standard keys and
references.
b) Phytoplankton:
Similarly, for phytoplankton analysis, water sample were taken directly from the sites in
100 ml sampling bottles and preserved with Lugol’s solution immediately. Then the
samples were centrifuged in the laboratory followed by removal of desired amount of
supernatant from the centrifuge tube to make the required concentration.
c) Fishes:
Fisheries data has been collected through consultation with local fishermen and throwing
nets.
1.15.3. Forest Types of Study Area:
Madhya Pradesh is a forest rich State and is ranked first among the States in terms of the
RFA. The State has a sizeable tribal and rural population which is dependent on the forests
for their livelihood and basic needs. As per the Champion & Seth Classification of Forest
Types (1968), the forests in Madhya Pradesh belong to five Forest Type Groups, which are
further divided into 21 Forest Types. Madhya Pradesh is a pioneering State in the
implementation of the Joint Forest Management (JFM) movement in the country. The State
has a strong JFM network through 15,228 JFMC/VSS/EDCs covering an area of 66,874 sq
km.
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Recorded Forest Area (RFA) in the State is 94,689 sq km of which 61,886 sq km is

Reserved Forests, 31,098 sq km is Protected Forests and 1,705 sq km is Unclassed Forests.
In Madhya Pradesh, during the period 1st January 2015 to 5th February 2019, a total of
12,785.98 hectares of forest land was diverted for nonforestry purposes under the Forest
Conservation Act, 1980 (MoEF & CC, 2019).
Ten National Parks and 25 Wildlife Sanctuaries constitute the Protected Area network of
the State covering 3.51% of its geographical area. There are 6 Tiger Reserves in the State
covering an area of 6117.26 sq km. Eco-sensitive zones have been declared for 19
protected areas. The State with a population of 526 Tigers, is recognized as Tiger State of
India, as per the 'All India Tiger Estimation 2018' released recently.
Based on the interpretation of IRS Resourcesat-2 LISS III satellite data of the period Oct
2017 to January 2018, the Forest Cover in the State is 77,482.49 sq km which is 25.14 %
of the State's geographical area. In terms of forest canopy density classes, the State has
6,676.02 sq km under Very Dense Forest (VDF), 34,341.40 sq km under Moderately
Dense Forest (MDF) and 36,465.07 sq km under Open Forest (OF). Forest Cover in the
State has increased by 68.49 sq km as compared to the previous assessment reported in
ISFR 2017 (ISFR, 2019).
According to revised Forest Types (Champion & Seth, 1968) the forest type of the lease
area along with the 10 km Radius buffer area, confirms to following forest types:-
i. Dry Peninsular Sal Forest (5B/C1c)
ii. Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest (5B/C2)
iii. Dry Deciduous Scrub (5/DS1)
iv. Dry Bamboo Brakes (5/E9)

i. Dry Peninsular Sal Forest (5B/C1c): Sal occurs either pure or in mixture with
Terminalia tomentosa, Terminalia bellerica, Pterocarpus marsupium, Anogeissus
latifolia, Lagerstroemia parviflora, Madhuca latifolia, Diospyros melanoxylon,
Buchanania lanzan, Ougeinia dalbergiodes etc. Under storey consists of Combretum
decandrum, Flacourtia cataphracta, Randia dumetorum, Zizyphus mauritiana, Gardenia
gummifera, Holarrhena Spp., Lantana Camara, Eupatorium odoratum etc.

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ii. Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest (5B/C2): The upper canopy in this forest type
is usually light, open and irregular, the trees having relatively short bole and poor form
and a height rarely over 10 m. The canopy is formed entirely of deciduous trees. The
main species found are Cassia fistula, Diospyros tomentosa, Acacia catechu, Anogeissus
latifolia, Bombax ceiba, Albizzia lebbeck, Albizzia procera, Melia azadirachta, Acacia
nilotica, Acacia modesta, Bauhinia variegate, Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia racemosa,
Cassaria eliptica, Syzygium cumini, Mangifera indica, Ehrilia laevis, Phoenix sylvestris,
Morus alba, Morus Australia, Terminalia tomentosa, Boswellia serrata, Aegle marmelos,
Erythrina suberosa, Ficus glomerata, Grewia elastica, Mallotus philippensis and Shorea
robusta (Rarely).

The under growth is mainly Zizyphus mauritiana, Carissa apaca, Holarrhena

antidysenterica, Diospyros cordifolia, Capparis deciduas, Adhatoda vasica, Murraya
koenigii, Agave Americana, Capparis sepiaria, Cordia dichotoma, Cassia tora, Zizyphus
nummularia, Zizyphus oenopolia, Woodfordia fruticosa, Vitex negundo, Dodonea
viscosa.

Climbers found are Bauhinia vahlii, Militia extensa, Mucuna Spp., Tinospora cordifolia,
Pueraria tuberose, Vallaris solanacea. Grasses are Panicum antidotate, Aristida
depressa, Bothrichloa intermedia, Cynodon dactylon, Bothrichloa pertusa, Cymbopogon
marini, Dendrophtoe falcate and Eriophorim comosum.

iii. Dry Deciduous Scrub (5/DS1): This forest type represents a degradation stage of the
Dry Deciduous Forest and has been brought into existence by adverse biotic factors like
excessive grazing, lopping, felling and fires. In spite of sufficient rains, moisture
retention is poor and the type has now become a stable edaphic climax. The crop is open
with less tree cover. The main tree species found are Diospyros tomentosa, Acacia
leucopholea, Butea monosperma, Premna barbata, Cassia fistula, Anogeissus latifolia and
Lannea grandis. The undergrowth is mainly Carissa apaca, Woodfordia fruticosa,
Nyctanthes arbor-tristis and Flacourtia indica.

iv. Dry Bamboo Breaks (5/E9): In this forest type, only one species Dendrocalamus strictus
ocuurs and forms low but often dense bamboo breaks. This forest type occurs mainly on
dry hillsides of the study area.
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Bamboosetum in Buffer Zone

1.15.4. Biodiversity within the Core Zone:
1.15.4.1. Flora:

The core zone, i.e. Bandha Coal Block, in Singrauli Coalfield, in the State of Madhya
Pradesh has been allocated to M/s EMIL Mines and Minerals Resources Limited
(EMMRL) vide Letter No. NA-104/5/2020-NA dated 03.03.2021 by MoC, GoI.

The lease is located in Singrauli Coalfields (Main Basin), Village: Bandha, Tenduha,
Pidarwah, Deori, and Pachaur, Tehsil: Sarai, Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh. The
details of floral diversity of Bandha coal block (core zone) is given in Table-1.8.

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Table-1.8: Floral Diversity within Core Zone

S.N. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit
TREES
1. Acacia catechu Khair Fabaceae Tree
2. Acacia leucophloea Reunjha Fabaceae Tree
3. Acacia nilotica Babul Fabaceae Tree
4. Aegle marmelos Bel Rutaceae Tree
5. Ailanthus excels Maharukh Simaroubaceae Tree
6. Albizia lebbeck Kala Siris Fabaceae Tree
7. Artocarpus heterophyllus Kathal Moraceae Tree
8. Azadirachta indica Neem Rutaceae Tree
9. Bauhinia purpurea Kachnar Caesalpiniaceae Tree
10. Bauhinia racemosa Kathmahula Caesalpiniaceae Tree
11. Bombax ceiba Semal Malvaceae Tree
12. Boswellia serrata Salai Burseraceae Tree
13. Buchanania lanzan Chironji Anacardiaceae Tree
14. Butea monosperma Palash Fabaceae Tree
15. Careya arborea kumbhi Lecythidaceae Tree
16. Cassia fistula Amaltas Caesalpiniaceae Tree
17. Cassine glauca Jamrashi Celastraceae Tree
18. Cordia dichotoma Lasora Boraginaceae Tree
19. Corymbia citriodora Safeda Myrtaceae Tree
20. Dalbergia latifolia Shisham Fabaceae Tree
21. Dillenia indica Bhavya Dilleniaceae Tree
22. Diospyros melanoxylon Tendu Ebenaceae Tree
23. Diospyros montana Patvan Ebenaceae Tree
24. Dodonaea angustifolia Khareta Sapindaceae Tree
25. Erythrina suberosa Haduwa Fabaceae Tree
26. Ficus benghalensis Bargad Moraceae Tree
27. Ficus hispida Kathmur Maoraceae Tree
28. Ficus racemosa Gular Moraceae Tree
29. Ficus religiosa Papal Moraceae Tree
30. Ficus virens Pakar Moraceae Tree
31. Flacourtia indica Kaakai Salicaceae Tree
32. Gardenia gummifera Kaapar Rubiaceae Tree
33. Gardenia latifolia Papra Rubiaceae Tree
34. Garuga pinnata Kharpat Burseraceae Tree
35. Gmelina arborea Khamer Verbenaceae Tree
36. Grewia tiliifolia Dhankat Tiliaceae Tree
37. Haldina cordifolia Haldu Rubiaceae Tree
38. Holarrhena pubescens Kutki Apocynaceae Tree
39. Holoptelea integrifolia Chilbil Ulmaceae Tree
40. Kydia calycina Barunga Malvaceae Tree
41. Lagerstroemia parviflora Sendha Lythraceae Tree
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S.N. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

42. Lannea coromandelica Gunja Anacardiaceae Tree
43. Madhuca longifolia Mahua Sapotaceae Tree
44. Mallotus philippensis Sindoor Euphorbiaceae Tree
45. Mangifera indica Aam Anacardiaceae Tree
46. Manilkara hexandra Khirni Sapotaceae Tree
47. Melia azedarach Bakain Meliaceae Tree
48. Mitragyna parvifolia Kaima Rubiaceae Tree
49. Moringa oleifera Sainjna Moringaceae Tree
50. Morus alba Sehtut Moraceae Tree
51. Phoenix sylvestris Khajur Arecaceae Tree
52. Phyllanthus emblica Aaonla Euphorbiaceae Tree
53. Polyalthia longifolia Ashok Annonaceae Small Tree
54. Pongamia pinnata Karanj Fabaceae Tree
55. Pterocarpus marsupium Bijasal Fabaceae Tree
56. Salix tetrasperma Bansa Salicaceae Tree
57. Schleichera oleosa Kusum Sapindaceae Tree
58. Semecarpus anacardium Bhilma Anacardiaceae Tree
59. Shorea robusta Sal Dipterocarpaceae Tree
60. Sterculia urens Kullu Sterculiaceae Tree
61. Sterculia villosa Udaal Sterculiaceae Tree
62. Strychnos nux-vomica Kochila Loganiaceae Tree
63. Syzygium cumini Jamun Myrtaceae Tree
64. Tamarindus indica Imli Caesalpiniaceae Tree
65. Tectona grandis Sagaun Verbenaceae Tree
66. Terminalia alata Sanja Combretaceae Tree
67. Terminalia arjuna Arjun Combretaceae Tree
68. Terminalia bellirica Bahera Combretaceae Tree
69. Terminalia catappa Badam Combretaceae
70. Terminalia chebula Harra Combretaceae Tree
71. Wrightia tinctoria Dudhi Apocynaceae Tree
SHRUBS
1. Abutilon indicum Kanghi Malvaceae Shrub
2. Adhatoda zeylanica Adusa Acanthaceae Shrub
3. Alangium salvifolium Ankola Cornaceae Shrub
4. Annona squamosa Sitaphal Annonaceae Shrub
5. Calotropis gigantea Safed Aak Asclepiadaceae Shrub
6. Calotropis procera Gulabi Aak Asclepiadaceae Shrub
7. Carica papaya Papita Caricaceae Shrub
8. Carissa opaca Karaunda Apocynaceae Shrub
9. Carissa spinarum Jangali Karaunda Apocynaceae Shrub
10. Cassia occidentalis Kasaundhi Caesalpiniaceae Shrub
11. Catunaregam nilotica Kharhar Rubiaceae Shrub
12. Citrus limon Neebu Rutaceae Shrub
13. Clerodendrum multiflorum Bharangi Verbenaceae Shrub
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S.N. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

14. Combretum nanum Bilaura, Medila Combretaceae Shrub
15. Euphorbia nivulia Sehund Euphorbiaceae Shrub
16. Flemingia chappar Galphula Fabaceae Shrub
17. Flemingia nana Gursankari Tiliaceae Shrub
18. Flemingia paniculata Ramdant Fabaceae Shrub
19. Helicteres isora Marodfali Sterculiaceae Shrub
20. Holarrhena pubescens Kurriya Apocynaceae Shrub
21. Indigofera tinctoria Neel Fabaceae Shrub
22. Ipomoea carnea Behaya Convonvulaceae Shrub
23. Ixora pavetta Khujja Rubiaceae Shrub
24. Jatropha curcas Ratanjyot Euphorbiaceae Shrub
25. Lawsonia inermis Mehndi Lythraceae Shrub
26. Murraya paniculata Aathil Rutaceae Shrub
27. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Harsingar Oleaceae Shrub
28. Phoenix acaulis Bhui Khajur Arecaceae Shrub
29. Phyllanthus reticulatus Panjoli Euphorbiaceae Shrub
30. Ricinus communis Rendi Euphorbiaceae Shrub
31. Thespesia lampas Chaumukhia, Malvaceae Shrub
32. Vitex negundo Nirgundi Verbenaceae Shrub
33. Woodfordia fruticosa Dhavai Lythraceae Shrub
34. Ziziphus mauritiana Ber Rhamnaceae Shrub
35. Ziziphus oenoplia Barari Rhamnaceae Shrub
HERBS
1. Achyranthes aspera Apamarg Amaranthaceae Herb
2. Acorus calamus Buch Araceae Herb
3. Aerva lanata Gorakhganja Amaranthaceae Herb
4. Ageratum conyzoides. Agreatum Asteraceae Herb
5. Allium leptophyllum Van Lehsun Liliaceae Herb
6. Alternanthera sessilis Gudari sag Amaranthaceae Herb
7. Alysicarpus monilifer Alisicarpus Fabaceae Herb
8. Andrographis paniculata Kalmegh Acanthaceae Herb
9. Anisomeles indica Jangali Tulsi Lamiaceae Herb
10. Argemone Mexicana Swarnchhiri Papaveraceae Herb
11. Bacopa monnieri Brahmi Scrophulariaceae Herb
12. Bacopa procumbens Jal-Neem Scrophulariaceae Herb
13. Boerhavia diffusa. Raktpunarwa Nyctaginaceae Herb
14. Bulbostylis barbata Cyperaceae Sedges
15. Cassia tora Chakramard Caesalpiniaceae Herb
16. Catharanthus roseus Sadabahar Apocynaceae Herb
17. Centella asiatica Mandukparni Apiaceae Herb
18. Chlorophytum tuberosum Safed Musli Liliaceae Herb
19. Cleome gynandra Hurhur Capparaceae Herb
20. Commelina benghalensis Kanchara Commelinaceae Herb
21. Commelina diffusa Burm Kanshura Commelinaceae Herb
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S.N. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

22. Convolvulus prostratus Shankhpushpi Convolvulaceae Herb
23. Crotalaria prostrate Kartik Jhumka Fabaceae Herb
24. Curcuma angustifolia Tikhur Zingiberaceae Herb
25. Curculigo orchioides Kali Musli Hypoxidaceae Herb
26. Curcuma aromatica Van Haldi Zingiberaceae Herb
27. Cyperus rotundus Motha Cyperaceae Sedges
28. Dentella repens Parpat Rubiaceae herb
29. Desmodium triflorum Desmodium Fabaceae Herb
30. Eclipta prostrata Bhringraj Asteraceae Herb
31. Elytraria acaulis Sahasramuniya Acanthaceae herb
32. Euphorbia hirta Doodhi Euphorbiaceae Herb
33. Evolvulus alsinoides Sakhpushpi Convolvulaceae Herb
34. Fimbristylis dipsacea NA Cyperaceae Sedges
35. Fimbristylis falcata Hathi Paw Cyperaceae Sedges
36. Fumaria indica Pitpapra Papaveraceae Herb
37. Heliotropium indicum Hastimundi Boraginaceae Herb
38. Ipomoea eriocarpa Besharam Convonvulaceae Herb
39. Justicia quinqueangularis Justicia Acanthaceae Herb
40. Leucas aspera Bhondaki Lamiaceae Herb
41. Melilotus indica Van Maithi Fabaceae herb
42. Ocimum basilicum Ban Tulsi Lamiaceae Herb
43. Oxalis corniculata Teenpati Oxalidaceae Herb
44. Oxalis corniculata Teen Patti Oxalidaceae Herb
45. Oxalis richardiana Teenpatti Oxalidaceae Herb
46. Phyllanthus amarus Bhuin Anwla Euphorbiaceae Herb
47. Physalis minima Chirponta Solanaceae Herb
48. Polygonum barbatum Polygonum Polygonaceae Herb
49. Rauvolfia serpentina Sarpandha Apocynaceae Herb
50. Rungia pectinata Rungia Acanthaceae Herb
51. Sida acuta Burm. Mahabala Malvaceae Herb
52. Sida cordifolia Kharenti Malvaceae Herb
53. Sida rhombifolia Atibala Malvaceae Herb
54. Solanum nigrum makoya Solanaceae Herb
55. Solanum virginianum Katai Solanaceae Herb
56. Tridax procumbens Khal Muriya Asteraceae Herb
57. Triumfetta pentandra Chipki Tiliaceae Herb
58. Triumfetta rhomboidea Chipki Tiliaceae Herb
59. Xanthium strumarium Gokharu Asteraceae Herb
GRASSES
1. Aristida adscensionis. Aristida Poaceae Grasses
2. Bambusa bambos Bamboo Poaceae Grasses
3. Bothriochloa pertusa Bothricloa Poaceae Grasses
4. Cenchrus ciliaris Cenchurus Poaceae Grasses
5. Chrysopogon serrulatus Chrysopogan Poaceae Grasses
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S.N. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

6. Cynodon dactylon Doob Poaceae Grasses
7. Dichanthium annulatum Dichanthium Poaceae Grasses
8. Digitaria stricta Digitaria Poaceae Grasses
9. Eragrostis amabilis Erogrostis Poaceae Grasses
10. Heteropogon contortus hetropogan Poaceae Grasses
11. Imperata cylindrica Imperata Poaceae Grasses
12. Oryza minuta J.Presl Jangali Dhan Poaceae Grasses
13. Saccharum spontaneum Kans Poaceae Grasses
14. Dendrocalamus strictus Bans Poaceae Grasses
CLIMBERS
1. Abrus precatorius Kali Ghughchi Fabaceae Climber
2. Asparagus racemosus Shatawar Liliaceae Climber
3. Butea superba Palas Bel Fabaceae Climber
4. Cissus quadrangularis Hadjood Vitaceae Climber
5. Coccinia grandis Kunduru Cucurbitaceae Climber
6. Combretum roxburghii Bilora, Medila Combretaceae Climber
7. Gymnema sylvestre Gudmar Asclepiadaceae Climber
8. Tinospora cordifolia Giloya Menispermaceae Climber
EPIPHYTES
1. Cuscuta reflexa. Amarbel Convolvulaceae Epiphyte
2. Vanda tessellata Vanda Orchidaceae Epiphyte
(Source: Primary Survey Data)
1.15.4.2. Fauna:

The Fauna of a particular region indicates environmental conditions and the well being of
the population residing in the region. Faunal studies help to understand the well being of
the natural systems and indicate functioning of ecosystem. It helps to monitor pollution
levels, biological richness or heritage quality, habitat change quantifying threatened
species. The faunal components such as Arthropods, Molluscs, Pisces, Birds and Mammals
are very sensitive to any change in the ecosystem, therefore are very good indicators of the
health of an ecosystem. The details of faunal diversity of Bandha coal block (Core Zone) is
given in Table-1.9.
Table-1.9: Faunal Diversity within Core Zone
Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation
as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
Mammals
1 Spotted Deer Axis axis III LC #
2 Bandicoot Rat Bandicota bengalensis V LC #
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Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation

as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
3 Jackal Canis aureus II LC #
4 Short Nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx V LC #
5 Wild Cat Felis chaus II LC #
6 Five striped Palm squirrel Funambulus pennanti IV LC #
7 Mongoose Herpestres edwardsii IV LC #
8 Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena III NT #
9 Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica IV LC #
10 Hare Lepas nigricollis IV LC #
11 Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta II LC #
12 Indian Pangolin Manis crassicaudata I EN #
13 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis I LC #
14 Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus I Vu #
15 Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak III LC #
16 Indian Field Mouse Mus booduga V LC #
17 Hedgehog Paraechinus micropus IV LC #
18 Indian Pipistrelle Pipistrellus mimus IV LC #
19 Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak III LC #
20 Flying Fox Pteropus giganteus V LC #
21 Common house Rat Rattus rattus V LC #
22 Hanuman Langur Semnopithecus entellus II LC #
23 Musk Shrew Suncus murinus - LC #
24 Wild Pig Sus scrofa III LC #
25 Common Fox Vulpes bengalensis II LC #
26 Indian Civet Viverricula indica II LC#
Birds
1 Shikra Accipter badius IV LC #
2 Jungle Mynah Acridotheres fuscus IV LC #
3 Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis IV LC #
4 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia IV LC #
5 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis IV LC #
6 Quaker Babbler Alcippe poioicephala IV LC #
7 Rufous-tailed Finch-lark Ammomanes phoenicurus IV LC #
8 Open Billed Stork Anastomus oscitans IV LC #
9 House swift Apus affinis IV LC #
10 Pond Heron Ardeola grayii IV LC #
11 Ashy Swallow Shrike Artamus fuscus - LC #
12 Eagle Owl Bubo bubo IV LC #
13 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis IV LC #
14 Common Indian Nightjar Caprimulgus asiaticus IV LC #
15 Crow Pheasant Centropus sinensis IV LC #
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Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation

as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
16 Golden-fronted Leaf-bird Chloropsis aurifrons IV LC #
17 Gold-mantled Leafbird Chloropsis chochinchinensis IV LC #
18 Pied Crested Cuckoo Clamator jacobiuns IV LC #
19 Blue Rock Pegion Columba livia IV LC #
20 White Rumped Shama Copsychus malabaricus IV LC #
21 Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis IV LC #
22 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis IV LC #
23 Large Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae - LC #
24 Jungle Crow Corvus marorhynchos IV LC #
25 Common Crow Corvus splendens V LC #
26 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix IV LC #
27 Brain-fever bird Cuculus varius IV LC #
28 Indian Tree Pie Dendrocitta vagabunda IV LC #
29 Tickell’s Flower Pecker Dicaeum erythrarthynchos IV LC #
30 Fire-breasted Flower Pecker Dicaeum ignipectus IV LC #
31 Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis IV LC #
32 White-bellied Drongo Dicrurus caerulescens IV LC #
33 Racket-tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus IV LC #
34 Golden Backed Woodpecker Dinopium benghalense IV LC #
35 Black Winged Kite Elanus caeruleus IV LC #
36 Ashy-crowned Finch-lark Eremopterix grisea IV LC #
37 Red Munia Estrilda amandava IV LC #
38 Koel Eudynamis scolopacea IV LC #
39 Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni IV LC #
40 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus IV LC #
41 Black Partridge Francolinus francolinus IV LC #
42 Painted Partridge Francolinus pictus IV LC #
43 Grey Partridge Francolinus pondicerianus IV LC #
44 Red Spurfowl Galloperdix spadicea IV LC #
45 Red Jungle Fowl Gallus gallus IV LC #
46 Jungle Owlet Glaucidium radiatum IV LC #
47 White Breasted Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis IV LC #
48 Heartspotted Woodpecker Hemicircus canente IV LC #
49 Indian Cliff Swallow Hirundo fluvicola - LC #
50 Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii - LC #
51 Rufous Backed Shrike Lanius schach - LC #
52 Black-headed Munia Lonchura malacca IV LC #
53 Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala IV LC #
54 Crested Bunting Melophus lathami IV LC #
55 Small Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis IV LC #
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Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation

as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
56 Blue tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus IV LC #
57 Blue cheeked Bee-eater Merops superciliosus IV LC #
58 Pariah Kite Milvus migrans IV LC #
59 Blacknaped Flycatcher Monarcha azurea IV LC #
60 Blue headed Rock Thrush Monticola cinclorhynchus IV LC #
61 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba - LC #
62 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea - LC #
63 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava - LC #
64 Large Pied Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis - LC #
65 Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher Muscicapa tickelliae IV LC #
66 Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica IV LC #
67 Crested Hawk Eagle Nisaetus cirrhatus I LC #
68 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus IV LC #
69 Black Headed Oriole Oriolus xanthornus IV LC #
70 Tailor Bird Orthotomus sutorius IV LC #
71 Grey Tit Parus major IV LC #
72 Yellow-cheeked Tit Parus xanthogenys IV LC #
73 House Sparrow Passer domesticus IV LC #
74 Pea-fowl Pavo cristatus I LC #
75 Jungle Bush Quail Perdicula asiatica IV LC #
76 Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus IV LC #
77 Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammmeus IV LC #
78 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros IV LC #
79 Yellow-fronted Pied Picoides mahrattensis IV LC #
Woodpecker
80 Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura IV LC #
81 Weaver Bird Ploceus philippinus IV LC #
82 Slaty-headed Scimitar Pomatorhinus horsfieldi IV LC #
Babbler schisticeps
83 Ashy Wren-warbler Prinia socialis IV LC #
84 Blossom headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala IV LC #
85 Large Indian Parakeet Psittacula eupatria IV NT #
86 Rose Ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri IV LC #
87 Red Vent Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer IV LC #
88 Red Whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus IV LC #
89 White-throated Fantail Rhipidura albicolis IV LC #
Flycatcher
90 White-browed Fantail Rhipidura aureola IV LC #
Flycatcher
91 Pied Bush-chat Saxicola caprata IV LC #

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Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation

as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
92 Collared Bush-chat Saxicola torquata IV LC #
93 Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata IV LC #
94 Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch Sitta castanea - LC #
95 Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis - LC #
96 Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela - LC #
97 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis IV LC #
98 Indian Ring Dove Streptopelia decaocto IV LC #
99 Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica IV LC #
100 Pied Mynah Sturnus contra IV LC #
101 Grey-Headed Mynah Sturnus malabaricus IV LC #
102 Black-headed Mynah Sturnus pagodarum IV LC #
103 Rosy Pastor Sturnus roseus IV LC #
104 Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi IV LC #
105 Black Headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus IV NT#
106 Indian Grey Hornbill Tokus birostris - LC #
107 Yellow-footed Green Pigeon Treron phoenicoptera IV LC #
108 Jungle Babbler Turdoides striatus IV LC #
109 Hoopoe Upupa epops IV LC #
110 Red Wattled Lapwing Vannelus indicus IV LC #
Reptiles
1 Green Vine Snake Ahaetulla nasuta IV LC #
2 Garden Lizard Calotes versicolor - -
3 Russel’s Viper Daboia russelii IV LC #
4 Geckos Hemidactylus sps. IV -
5 Common Skink Mabuya carinata - LC #
6 Indian Cobra Naja naja IV LC #
7 Yellow Rat Snake Ptyas mucosa II -
8 Indian Python Python morulus I Vu #
9 Bengal Monitor Lizard Varanus bengalensis I LC #
Fishes
1 Chela Chela sp. NA NA
2 Magur Clarias batrachus NA NA
3 Punti Barbus sp. NA NA
4 Snakehead Ophiocephalus punctatus NA NA
Butterflies
1. Common Emigrant Catopsilia pomona NA NA
2. Stripped Tiger Danaus genutia NA NA
3. Common crow Euploea core NA NA
4. Common Grass Yellow Eurema hecabe NA NA
5. White orange tip Ixias marianne NA NA
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Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation

as per Status as per
WPA, 1972 IUCN
# LC – Least Concern; NT – Near Threatened; Vu – Vulnerable; EN – Endangered; CR – Critically
Endangered

1.15.5. Biodiversity within the Buffer Zone:

1.15.5.1. Flora:
The block area has highly undulating and rugged topography. The study area best
represents as moist region. The vegetation is fairly dense and occurs on crystalline rocks
and yellow loam soils. Soil and topography vary together. It can be helpful to differentiate
three subtypes of topography; hilltops and plateaus, lower hill slopes and valley bottom.
There is light shrub and weed growth under the forest canopy. The vegetation mainly
consists of tall tress of Shorea robusta, Tectona grandis, Terminalia tomentosa, Madhuca
indica. The vegetation can be described as moist peninsular Sal forest.
The total species of plants are indicating the floristic richness of the area. However, these
species are not uniform in their distribution. The most dominant genera were Shorea,
Tectona, Bahuinia, Cassia, Ficus, Euphorbia followed by Acacia, Anogessus,
Lagerstromia, Bamboo, Jatropha and Madhuca. The most dominant family was Fabaceae,
followed by Poaceae (22 species), Euphorbiaceae (17 species), Mimosaceae (11 species),
Caesalpinaceae (13 species), Asteraceae (15 species) and Amaranthaceae (10 species).
There is predominance of herbs and trees followed by shrubs, climbers, epiphytes, grasses
and sedges. The common climbers are Butea superba, Combretum decandrum, and
Bauhinia vahli. Only two Gymnosperms were noticed which are cultivated in gardens. The
Pteridophytes represented reasonably good number (7) along with 6 Bryophytes. They are
very much sensitive to humidity and moisture. List of plant species as reported according
to the Working Plans of Singrauli Forest Division has been studied out of which the main
associates of Sal as observed in the field are furnished below in Table No. 1.10.
Table-1.10: Floral Diversity within buffer zone of Proposed coal mine
SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit
TREES
1. Acacia catechu Khair Fabaceae Tree
2. Acacia leucophloea Reunjha Fabaceae Tree
3. Acacia nilotica Babul Fabaceae Tree
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

4. Aegle marmelos Bel Rutaceae Tree
5. Ailanthus excelsa Maharukh Simaroubaceae Tree
6. Alangium salvifolium Ankol Cornaceae Tree
7. Albizia lebbeck Kala Siris Fabaceae Tree
8. Albizia odoratissima Chichwa Fabaceae Tree
9. Albizia procera Safed Siris Fabaceae Tree
10. Anogeissus latifolia Dhawda Combretaceae Tree
11. Artocarpus heterophyllus Kathal Moraceae Tree
12. Azadirachta indica Neem Rutaceae Tree
13. Bauhinia malabarica Aasta Caesalpiniaceae Tree
14. Bauhinia purpurea Kachnar Caesalpiniaceae Tree
15. Bauhinia racemosa Kathmahula Caesalpiniaceae Tree
16. Bombax ceiba Semal Malvaceae Tree
17. Boswellia serrata Salai Burseraceae Tree
18. Bridelia retusa Kasai Euphorbiaceae Tree
19. Buchanania lanzan Chironji Anacardiaceae Tree
20. Butea monosperma Palash Fabaceae Tree
21. Careya arborea kumbhi Lecythidaceae Tree
22. Cassia fistula Amaltas Caesalpiniaceae Tree
23. Cassine glauca Jamrashi Celastraceae Tree
24. Catunaregam nilotica Kharhar Rubiaceae Tree
25. Chloroxylon swietenia Bhirra Rutaceae Tree
26. Cordia dichotoma Lasora Boraginaceae Tree
27. Cordia obliqua Lasora Boraginaceae Tree
28. Corymbia citriodora Safeda Myrtaceae Tree
29. Dalbergia latifolia Shisham Fabaceae Tree
30. Dillenia indica Bhavya Dilleniaceae Tree
31. Dillenia pentagyna Karkat Dilleniaceae Tree
32. Diospyros melanoxylon Tendu Ebenaceae Tree
33. Diospyros montana Patvan Ebenaceae Tree
34. Dodonaea angustifolia Khareta Sapindaceae Tree
35. Ehretia laevis Charmor Boraginaceae Tree
36. Erythrina suberosa Haduwa Fabaceae Tree
37. Ficus benghalensis Bargad Moraceae Tree
38. Ficus hispida Kathmur Maoraceae Tree
39. Ficus mollis Baril Moraceae Tree
40. Ficus racemosa Gular Moraceae Tree
41. Ficus religiosa Papal Moraceae Tree
42. Ficus tinctoria Paakar Moraceae Tree
43. Ficus virens Pakar Moraceae Tree
44. Flacourtia indica Kaakai Salicaceae Tree
45. Gardenia gummifera Kaapar Rubiaceae Tree
46. Gardenia latifolia Papra Rubiaceae Tree
47. Garuga pinnata Kharpat Burseraceae Tree
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

48. Gmelina arborea Khamer Verbenaceae Tree
49. Grewia tiliifolia Dhankat Tiliaceae Tree
50. Haldina cordifolia Haldu Rubiaceae Tree
51. Holarrhena pubescens Kutki Apocynaceae Tree
52. Holoptelea integrifolia Chilbil Ulmaceae Tree
53. Kydia calycina Barunga Malvaceae Tree
54. Lagerstroemia parviflora Sendha Lythraceae Tree
55. Lannea coromandelica Gunja Anacardiaceae Tree
56. Litsea glutinosa Maida Lauraceae Tree
57. Madhuca longifolia Mahua Sapotaceae Tree
58. Mallotus philippensis Sindoor Euphorbiaceae Tree
59. Mangifera indica Aam Anacardiaceae Tree
60. Manilkara hexandra Khirni Sapotaceae Tree
61. Melia azedarach Bakain Meliaceae Tree
62. Miliusa tomentosa Kaari Annonaceae Tree
63. Mitragyna parvifolia Kaima Rubiaceae Tree
64. Moringa oleifera Sainjna Moringaceae Tree
65. Morus alba Sehtut Moraceae Tree
66. Oroxylum indicum Sonpatha Bignoniaceae Tree
67. Ougeinia oojeinensis. Tinsa Fabaceae Tree
68. Phoenix sylvestris Khajur Arecaceae Tree
69. Phyllanthus emblica Aaonla Euphorbiaceae Tree
70. Polyalthia longifolia Ashok Annonaceae Tree
71. Pongamia pinnata Karanj Fabaceae Tree
72. Pterocarpus marsupium Bijasal Fabaceae Tree
73. Salix tetrasperma Bansa Salicaceae Tree
74. Schleichera oleosa Kusum Sapindaceae Tree
75. Schrebera swietenioides Ghainta Oleaceae Tree
76. Semecarpus anacardium Bhilma Anacardiaceae Tree
77. Shorea robusta Sal Dipterocarpaceae Tree
78. Sterculia urens Kullu Sterculiaceae Tree
79. Sterculia villosa Udaal Sterculiaceae Tree
80. Stereospermum colais Chota Padar Binoniaceae Tree
81. Strychnos nux-vomica Kochila Loganiaceae Tree
82. Symplocos racemosa Lodra Symplocaceae Tree
83. Syzygium cumini Jamun Myrtaceae Tree
84. Tamarindus indica Imli Caesalpiniaceae Tree
85. Tectona grandis Sagaun Verbenaceae Tree
86. Terminalia alata Sanja Combretaceae Tree
87. Terminalia arjuna Arjun Combretaceae Tree
88. Terminalia bellirica Bahera Combretaceae Tree
89. Terminalia catappa Badam Combretaceae
90. Terminalia chebula Harra Combretaceae Tree
91. Trema orientalis Jibhi Ulmaceae Tree
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

92. Trema politoria Trema Ulmaceae Tree
93. Trewia polycarpa Surahi Euphorbiaceae Tree
94. Wrightia tinctoria Dudhi Apocynaceae Tree
95. Ziziphus mauritiana Ber Rhamnaceae Small
Tree
SHRUBS
1. Abelmoschus manihot Jangali Bhindi Malvaceae Shrub
2. Abutilon indicum Kanghi Malvaceae Shrub
3. Adhatoda zeylanica Adusa Acanthaceae Shrub
4. Alangium salvifolium Ankola Cornaceae Shrub
5. Annona squamosa Sitaphal Annonaceae Shrub
6. Barleria prionitis Katsaraiya Acanthaceae Shrub
7. Boehmeria macrophylla Sohkhara Urticaceae Shrub
8. Calotropis gigantea Safed Aak Asclepiadaceae Shrub
9. Calotropis procera Gulabi Aak Asclepiadaceae Shrub
10. Carica papaya Papita Caricaceae Shrub
11. Carissa opaca Karaunda Apocynaceae Shrub
12. Carissa spinarum Jangali Apocynaceae Shrub
Karaunda
13. Cassia occidentalis Kasaundhi Caesalpiniaceae Shrub
14. Catunaregam nilotica Kharhar Rubiaceae Shrub
15. Citrus limon Neebu Rutaceae Shrub
16. Clerodendrum multiflorum Bharangi Verbenaceae Shrub
17. Colebrookea oppositifolia Ameda Lamiaceae Shrub
18. Combretum nanum Bilaura, Combretaceae Shrub
Medila
19. Euphorbia neriifolia Sehud Euphorbiaceae Shrub
20. Euphorbia nivulia katthuar Euphorbiaceae Shrub
21. Flemingia chappar Galphula Fabaceae Shrub
22. Flemingia nana Gursankari Tiliaceae Shrub
23. Flemingia paniculata Ramdant Fabaceae Shrub
24. Grewia helicterifolia Vansuli Tiliaceae Shrub
25. Grewia hirsuta Gursankari Tiliaceae Shrub
26. Helicteres isora Marodfali Sterculiaceae Shrub
27. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Gudhal Malvaceae Shrub
28. Holarrhena pubescens Kutki, Kurriya Apocynaceae Shrub
29. Indigofera tinctoria Neel Fabaceae Shrub
30. Ixora pavetta Khujja Rubiaceae Shrub
31. Jasminum humile Pili Chameli Oleaceae Shrub
32. Jatropha curcas Ratanjyot Euphorbiaceae Shrub
33. Lawsonia inermis Mehndi Lythraceae Shrub
34. Leea macrophylla Hatfun Leeaceae Shrub
35. Murraya paniculata Aathil Rutaceae Shrub
36. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Harsingar Oleaceae Shrub
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

37. Ochna obtusata Kanak Ochnaceae Shrub
Champa
38. Phoenix acaulis Bhui Khajur Arecaceae Shrub
39. Phyllanthus reticulates Panjoli Euphorbiaceae Shrub
40. Plumbago zeylanica Chitrak Plumbaginaceae Shrub
41. Premna barbata Aradi Verbenaceae Shrub
42. Ricinus communis Rendi Euphorbiaceae Shrub
43. Tamarix ericoides Jhau Tamaricaceae Shrub
44. Thespesia lampas Chaumukhia, Malvaceae Shrub
45. Vitex negundo Nirgundi Verbenaceae Shrub
46. Woodfordia fruticosa Dhavai Lythraceae Shrub
47. Ziziphus mauritiana Ber Rhamnaceae Shrub
48. Ziziphus oenoplia Barari Rhamnaceae Shrub
HERBS
1. Acalypha ciliata Chipki Asteraceae Herb
2. Achyranthes aspera Apamarg Amaranthaceae Herb
3. Acorus calamus Buch Araceae Herb
4. Aerva lanata Gorakhganja Amaranthaceae Herb
5. Aerva sanguinolenta Gorakh Ganja Amaranthaceae Herb
6. Ageratum conyzoides Agreatum Asteraceae Herb
7. Allium leptophyllum Van Lehsun Liliaceae Herb
8. Alternanthera sessilis Gudari sag Amaranthaceae Herb
9. Alysicarpus monilifer Alisicarpus Fabaceae Herb
10. Ammannia baccifera Dadmari Lythraceae Herb
11. Andrographis paniculata Kalmegh Acanthaceae Herb
12. Anisomeles indica Jangali Tulsi Lamiaceae Herb
13. Aponogeton crispum Aponogeton Aponogetonaceae Herb
14. Argemone mexicana Swarnchhiri Papaveraceae Herb
15. Asphodelus tenuifolius Bokat Linaceae Herb
16. Atylosia scarabaeoides Lotar Fabaceae Herb
17. Bacopa monnieri Brahmi Scrophulariaceae Herb
18. Bacopa procumbens. Jal-Neem Scrophulariaceae Herb
19. Barleria cristata Katsaraiya Acanthaceae Herb
20. Boerhavia diffusa Raktpunarwa Nyctaginaceae Herb
21. Bulbostylis barbata Cyperaceae Sedges
22. Cassia tora Chakramard Caesalpiniaceae Herb
23. Catharanthus roseus Sadabahar Apocynaceae Herb
24. Centella asiatica Mandukparni Apiaceae Herb
25. Chlorophytum tuberosum Safed Musli Liliaceae Herb
26. Cleome gynandra Hurhur Capparaceae Herb
27. Cleome viscose Hurhur Capparaceae Herb
28. Commelina benghalensis Kanchara Commelinaceae Herb
29. Commelina diffusa Kanshura Commelinaceae Herb
30. Convolvulus prostratus Shankhpushpi Convolvulaceae Herb
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

31. Crotalaria prostrata Kartik Jhumka Fabaceae Herb
32. Curcuma angustifolia Tikhur Zingiberaceae Herb
33. Curculigo orchioides Kali Musli Hypoxidaceae Herb
34. Curcuma aromatica Van Haldi Zingiberaceae Herb
35. Cyperus rotundus Motha Cyperaceae Sedges
36. Dentella repens Parpat Rubiaceae herb
37. Desmodium heterocarpon Salparni Fabaceae Herb
38. Desmodium triflorum Desmodium Fabaceae Herb
39. Dipteracanthus suffruticosus Chowlai Acanthaceae Herb
40. Echinops echinatus Utkatara Asteraceae Herb
41. Eclipta prostrata Bhringraj Asteraceae Herb
42. Elytraria acaulis Sahasramuniya Acanthaceae herb
43. Euphorbia hirta Doodhi Euphorbiaceae Herb
44. Evolvulus alsinoides Sakhpushpi Convolvulaceae Herb
45. Fimbristylis dipsacea NA Cyperaceae Sedges
46. Fimbristylis falcata Hathi Paw Cyperaceae Sedges
47. Fumaria indica Pitpapra Papaveraceae Herb
48. Heliotropium indicum Hastimundi Boraginaceae Herb
49. Hygrophila salicifolia Talamkhana Acanthaceae Herb
50. Ipomoea eriocarpa Besharam Convonvulaceae Herb
51. Justicia quinqueangularis Justicia Acanthaceae Herb
52. Leucas aspera Bhondaki Lamiaceae Herb
53. Melilotus indica Van Maithi Fabaceae herb
54. Ocimum basilicum Ban Tulsi Lamiaceae Herb
55. Oxalis corniculata Teenpati Oxalidaceae Herb
56. Oxalis corniculata Teen Patti Oxalidaceae Herb
57. Oxalis richardiana Teenpatti Oxalidaceae Herb
58. Phyllanthus amarus Bhuin Anwla Euphorbiaceae Herb
59. Physalis minima Chirponta Solanaceae Herb
60. Polygonum barbatum Polygonum Polygonaceae Herb
61. Polygonum glabrum Polygonum Polygonaceae Herb
62. Rauvolfia serpentina Sarpandha Apocynaceae Herb
63. Rungia pectinata Rungia Acanthaceae Herb
64. Scleria levis Retz. Scleria Cyperaceae Sedges
65. Sesbania bispinosa Sirmili Fabaceae Herb
66. Sida acuta Mahabala Malvaceae Herb
67. Sida cordifolia Kharenti Malvaceae Herb
68. Sida rhombifolia Atibala Malvaceae Herb
69. Solanum nigrum makoya Solanaceae Herb
70. Solanum virginianum Bhatkataiya Solanaceae Herb
71. Tridax procumbens Khal Muriya Asteraceae Herb
72. Triumfetta pentandra Chipki Tiliaceae Herb
73. Triumfetta rhomboidea Chipki Tiliaceae Herb
74. Xanthium strumarium Gokharu Asteraceae Herb
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

GRASSES
1. Apluda mutica Apluda Poaceae Grasses
2. Apocopis vaginata Apocopis Poaceae Grasses
3. Aristida adscensionis Aristida Poaceae Grasses
4. Bambusa bambos Bamboo Poaceae Grasses
5. Bothriochloa glabra Bothriochloa Poaceae Grasses
6. Bothriochloa intermedia Bothriochloa Poaceae Grasses
7. Bothriochloa pertusa Bothricloa Poaceae Grasses
8. Brachiaria eruciformis Brachiaria Poaceae Grasses
9. Brachiaria ramosa Brachiaria Poaceae Grasses
10. Brachiaria reptans Brachiaria Poaceae Grasses
11. Cenchrus ciliaris Cenchurus Poaceae Grasses
12. Chloris dolichostachya Chloris Poaceae Grasses
13. Chloris virgata Chloris Poaceae Grasses
14. Chrysopogon fulvus Chrysopogan Poaceae Grasses
15. Chrysopogon serrulatus Chrysopogan Poaceae Grasses
16. Cymbopogon martinii Musail Poaceae Grasses
17. Cynodon dactylon Doob Poaceae Grasses
18. Dichanthium annulatum Dichanthium Poaceae Grasses
19. Digitaria stricta Digitaria Poaceae Grasses
20. Eragrostis amabilis Erogrostis Poaceae Grasses
21. Eragrostis atrovirens Erogrostis Poaceae Grasses
22. Eragrostis cilianensis Erogrostis Poaceae Grasses
23. Eragrostis ciliaris Erogrostis Poaceae Grasses
24. Heteropogon contortus hetropogan Poaceae Grasses
25. Imperata cylindrica Imperata Poaceae Grasses
26. Oplismenus compositus Oplismenus Poaceae Grasses
27. Oropetium thomaeum Oplismenus Poaceae Grasses
28. Oryza minuta Jangali Dhan Poaceae Grasses
29. Panicum psilopodium Panicum Poaceae Grasses
30. Panicum sumatrense Panicum Poaceae Grasses
31. Paspalidium flavidum Paspalum Poaceae Grasses
32. Paspalidium punctatum Paspalum Poaceae Grasses
33. Pennisetum pedicellatum Pennisetum Poaceae Grasses
34. Pennisetum polystachyon Pennisetum Poaceae Grasses
35. Perotis indica Perotis Poaceae Grasses
36. Saccharum spontaneum Kans Poaceae Grasses
37. Dendrocalamus strictus Bans Poaceae Grasses
CLIMBERS
1. Abrus precatorius Kali Ghughchi Fabaceae Climber
2. Asparagus racemosus Shatawar Liliaceae Climber
3. Butea superba Palas Bel Fabaceae Climber
4. Cissus quadrangularis Hadjood Vitaceae Climber
5. Coccinia grandis Kunduru Cucurbitaceae Climber
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SN. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

6. Combretum roxburghii Bilora, Medila Combretaceae Climber
7. Cryptolepis buchanani Nagbel Asclepiadaceae Climber
8. Gymnema sylvestre Gudmar Asclepiadaceae Climber
9. Tinospora cordifolia Giloya Menispermaceae Climber
EPIPHYTES
1. Cuscuta reflexa Amarbel Convolvulaceae Epiphyte
2. Vanda tessellata Vanda Orchidaceae Epiphyte

Mohanban R.F.
1.15.5.2. Fauna:
The study of fauna takes substantial amount of time to understand the specific faunal
characteristic of area. The assessments of fauna were done by extensive field survey of the
area. During survey, the presence of wildlife has been confirmed by direct field survey and
by the oral information by local inhabitants and data procured from the concerned forest
department has been made and given in below (Table-1.11).

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Table-1.11: Faunal Diversity from Study Area (Buffer Zone)

Sl. Common Name Scientific Name Schedule Conservation
No. of WPA, Status as per
1972 IUCN
Mammals
1 Spotted Deer Axis axis III LC #
2 Bandicoot Rat Bandicota bengalensis V LC #
3 Nilgai Boselaphus tragocamelus III LC #
4 Jackal Canis aureus II LC #
5 Indian Wolf Canis lupus callipes I LC #
6 Sambhar Cervus unicolor III LC #
7 Dhole Cuon alpinus II EN #
8 Short Nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx V LC #
9 Indian Elephant Elephas maximus I EN #
11 Wild Cat Felis chaus II LC #
12 Five striped Palm Funambulus pennanti IV LC #
squirrel
13 Chinkara Gazella bennettii I LC #
14 Mongoose Herpestres edwardsii IV LC #
15 Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena III NT #
16 Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica IV LC #
17 Hare Lepas nigricollis IV LC #
18 Otter / Odha Luthra luthra II NT#
19 Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta II LC #
20 Indian Pangolin Manis crassicaudata I EN #
21 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis I LC #
22 Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus I Vu #
23 Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak III LC #
24 Indian Field Mouse Mus booduga V LC #
25 Leopard Panthera pardus I Vu #
27 Hedgehog Paraechinus micropus IV LC #
28 Indian Pipistrelle Pipistrellus mimus IV LC #
29 Flying Fox Pteropus giganteus V LC #
30 Common house Rat Rattus rattus V LC #
31 Hanuman Langur Semnopithecus entellus II LC #
32 Musk Shrew Suncus murinus - LC #
33 Wild Pig Sus scrofa III LC #
34 Four-horned antelope Tetracerus quadricornis I Vu #
35 Mouse Deer Tragulus meminna I LC #
36 Indian Civet Viverricula indica II LC#
37 Indian Fox Vulpes bengalensis II LC #
Birds
1 Shikra Accipter badius IV LC #
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2 Jungle Mynah Acridotheres fuscus IV LC #

3 Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis IV LC #
4 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia IV LC #
5 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis IV LC #
6 Quaker Babbler Alcippe poioicephala IV LC #
7 Rufous-tailed Finch-lark Ammomanes phoenicurus IV LC #
8 Common Teal Anas crecca IV LC #
9 Open Billed Stork Anastomus oscitans IV LC #
10 Pied Hornbill Anthracoceres coronatus I NT #
11 House swift Apus affinis IV LC #
12 Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax I VU #
13 Grey Heron Ardea cineara IV LC #
14 Pond Heron Ardeola grayii IV LC #
15 Ashy Swallow Shrike Artamus fuscus - LC #
16 Eagle Owl Bubo bubo IV LC #
17 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis IV LC #
18 Common Indian Nightjar Caprimulgus asiaticus IV LC #
19 Crow Pheasant Centropus sinensis IV LC #
20 Crow Pheasant Centropus sinensis IV LC #
21 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida - LC #
22 Golden-fronted Leaf- Chloropsis aurifrons IV LC #
bird
23 Gold-mantled Leafbird Chloropsis chochinchinensis IV LC #
24 White Necked Stork Ciconia episcopus IV VU #
25 White stork Ciconia episcopus I LC #
26 Pied Crested Cuckoo Clamator jacobiuns IV LC #
27 Blue Rock Pegion Columba livia IV LC #
28 White Rumped Shama Copsychus malabaricus IV LC #
29 Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis IV LC #
30 Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis IV LC #
31 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis IV LC #
32 Large Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae - LC #
33 Jungle Crow Corvus marorhynchos IV LC #
34 Common Crow Corvus splendens V LC #
35 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix IV LC #
36 Brain-fever bird Cuculus varius IV LC #
37 Indian Tree Pie Dendrocitta vagabunda IV LC #
38 Lesser Whistling Teal Dendrocygna javanica IV LC #
39 Tickell’s Flower Pecker Dicaeum erythrarthynchos IV LC #
40 Fire-breasted Flower Dicaeum ignipectus IV LC #
Pecker
41 Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis IV LC #
42 White-bellied Drongo Dicrurus caerulescens IV LC #
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43 Greater Racket-tailed Dicrurus paradiseus IV LC #

Drongo
44 Lesser Golden Backed Dinopium benghalense IV LC #
Woodpecker
45 Little Egret Egretta garzetta IV LC #
46 Black Winged Kite Elanus caeruleus IV LC #
47 Ashy-crowned Finch- Eremopterix grisea IV LC #
lark
48 Red Munia Estrilda amandava IV LC #
49 Koel Eudynamis scolopacea IV LC #
50 Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni IV LC #
51 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus IV LC #
52 Black Partridge Francolinus francolinus IV LC #
53 Painted Partridge Francolinus pictus IV LC #
54 Grey Partridge Francolinus pondicerianus IV LC #
55 Fantail Snipe Gallinago gallinago IV LC #
56 Moorhen Gallinula chloropus IV LC #
57 Red Spurfowl Galloperdix spadicea IV LC #
58 Red Jungle Fowl Gallus gallus IV LC #
59 Jungle Owlet Glaucidium radiatum IV LC #
60 White Rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis I CR #
61 White Breasted Halcyon smyrnensis IV LC #
Kingfisher
62 Heartspotted Hemicircus canente IV LC #
Woodpecker
63 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus IV LC #
64 Indian Cliff Swallow Hirundo fluvicola - LC #
65 Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii - LC #
66 Pheasant Tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus IV LC #
67 Rufous Backed Shrike Lanius schach - LC #
68 Black-headed Munia Lonchura malacca IV LC #
69 Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala IV LC #
70 Crested Bunting Melophus lathami IV LC #
71 Small Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis IV LC #
72 Blue tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus IV LC #
73 Blue cheeked Bee-eater Merops superciliosus IV LC #
74 Bronze Winged Jacana Metopidius indicus IV LC #
75 Pariah Kite Milvus migrans IV LC #
76 Blacknaped Flycatcher Monarcha azurea IV LC #
77 Blue headed Rock Monticola cinclorhynchus IV LC #
Thrush
78 Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba - LC #
79 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea - LC #

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80 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava - LC #

81 Large Pied Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis - LC #
82 Tickell’s Blue Muscicapa tickelliae IV LC #
Flycatcher
83 Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica IV LC #
84 Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus IV LC #
85 Black Headed Oriole Oriolus xanthornus IV LC #
86 Tailor Bird Orthotomus sutorius IV LC #
87 Grey Tit Parus major IV LC #
88 Yellow-cheeked Tit Parus xanthogenys IV LC #
89 House Sparrow Passer domesticus IV LC #
90 Pea-fowl Pavo cristatus I LC #
91 Jungle Bush Quail Perdicula asiatica IV LC #
92 Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus IV LC #
93 Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammmeus IV LC #
94 Small Indian Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger IV LC #
95 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros IV LC #
96 Yellow-fronted Pied Picoides mahrattensis IV LC #
Woodpecker
97 Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura IV LC #
98 Weaver Bird Ploceus philippinus IV LC #
99 Eastern Golden Plover Pluvialia dominica IV LC #
100 Slaty-headed Scimitar Pomatorhinus horsfieldi IV LC #
Babbler schisticeps
101 Purple Moorhen Porphyrio porphyrio IV LC #
102 Ashy Wren-warbler Prinia socialis IV LC #
103 Blossom headed Psittacula cyanocephala IV LC #
Parakeet
104 Large Indian Parakeet Psittacula eupatria IV NT #
105 Rose Ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri IV LC #
106 Red Vent Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer IV LC #
107 Red Whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus IV LC #
108 White-throated Fantail Rhipidura albicolis IV LC #
Flycatcher
109 White-browed Fantail Rhipidura aureola IV LC #
Flycatcher
110 Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis IV LC #
111 Pied Bush-chat Saxicola caprata IV LC #
112 Collared Bush-chat Saxicola torquata IV LC #
113 Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata IV LC #
114 Chestnut-bellied Sitta castanea - LC #
Nuthatch
115 Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis - LC #
116 Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela - LC #
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117 Crested Hawk Eagle Nisaetus cirrhatus I LC #

118 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis IV LC #
119 Indian Ring Dove Streptopelia decaocto IV LC #
120 Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica IV LC #
121 Pied Mynah Sturnus contra IV LC #
122 Grey-Headed Mynah Sturnus malabaricus IV LC #
123 Black-headed Mynah Sturnus pagodarum IV LC #
124 Rosy Pastor Sturnus roseus IV LC #
125 Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi IV LC #
126 Black Headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus IV NT#
127 Indian Grey Hornbill Tokus birostris - LC #
128 King Vulture Sarcogyps calvus I CR #
129 Yellow-footed Green Treron phoenicoptera IV LC #
Pigeon
130 Redshank Tringa totanus IV LC #
131 Jungle Babbler Turdoides striatus IV LC #
132 Hoopoe Upupa epops IV LC #
133 Red Wattled Lapwing Vannelus indicus IV LC #
134 Red Wattled Lapwing Vannelus indicus IV LC #
Reptiles
1 Garden Lizard Calotes versicolor - -
2 Russel’s Viper Daboia russelii IV LC #
3 Common Skink Mabuya carinata - LC #
4 Indian Cobra Naja naja IV LC #
5 Yellow Rat Snake Ptyas mucosa II -
6 Indian Python Python morulus I Vu #
7 Bengal Monitor Lizard Varanus bengalensis I LC #
8 Russel’s Viper Vipera russelii II NA
9 Checkered Keelback Xenochrophis piscator IV -
Fishes
1. Chelluah Aspidoparia morar NA NA
2. Barna Baril Barilius barna NA NA
3. Katla Catla catla NA NA
4. Chaguni Chagunius chagunio NA NA
5. Great Snakehead Channa maruliuss NA NA
6. Reba Carp Cirrhinus reba NA NA
7. Singi Clarias batrachus NA NA
8. Common Carp Cyprinus carpio NA NA
9. Calbasu Labeo calbasu NA NA
10. Kali, Boalla Labeo dyocheilus NA NA
11. Rohu Labeo rohita NA NA
12. Cat fish Mystus cavasius NA NA
13. Bronze Feather Back Notopterus notopterus NA NA
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14. Swamp Barb Puntius chola NA NA

15. Hilsa Tenualosa ilisha NA NA
Butterflies
1. Common Emigrant Catopsilia pomona NA NA
2. Common map Cyrestis thyodamas NA NA
3. Stripped Tiger Danaus genutia NA NA
4. Plain Tiger Danaus chrysippus NA NA
5. Stripped Tiger Danaus genutia NA NA
6. Common crow Euploea core NA NA
7. Common Grass Yellow Eurema hecabe NA NA
8. western blue sapphir Heliophorus sp. NA NA
9. Danaid Egg Fly Hypolimanas misippus NA NA
10. White orange tip Ixias marianne NA NA
11. Blue pancy Junonia orithya NA NA
12. Common evening Brown Melanitis leda NA NA
13. Common Bush Brown Mycalesis perseus NA NA
14. Lime butterfly Papilio demoleus NA NA
# LC – Least Concern; NT – Near Threatened; Vu – Vulnerable; EN – Endangered;
CR – Critically Endangered
(Source: Primary Survey Data) Note:- NA= Not assessed yet,
1.15.6. Aquatic Ecology:
The biological species are the best indicators of environmental quality. This includes
different species, such as, phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos, fishes etc. Studies on
biological aspects of certain ecosystems are an important part of any environmental impact
assessment in view of the need for conservation of environmental quality and safety of
aquatic life.
From the baseline survey on existing aquatic environmental conditions in and around the
proposed Project on the Hurdul Nala and Jhana Nala within the mine lease area and Mahan
River, Rampa River, Sukhra Nadi, Hariya Nadi, Bandha nala, & Kachanmuda nala and
other drainages/ponds the following data’s were generated:

Biological characteristics of river water

Inventorization of phytoplankton and Zooplankton

Present status of riverine fish fauna: Identification of fish species

Migratory pattern, feeding and breeding grounds of the fish fauna

Assessment of local catches during the field trips to assess the fish fauna

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1.15.6.1. Assessment of Aquatic diversity:

The samples for qualitative and quantitative analysis of planktons were collected from the
sub surface layer at knee depth. Water samples were filtered through plankton net of 20µ
mesh size (APHA, 1971). The filtered samples were concentrated by using the centrifuge.
By using Lackey’s drops method and light microscope (Lackey, 1938), the qualitative
analysis was carried out for phytoplankton and zooplankton (Table 1.12). The standard
flora and other literature were followed for the qualitative evaluation of Plankton.

Table 1.12: Phytoplankton and Zooplanktons Recorded in the Study Area

Phytoplankton Species Zooplankton Species

1. Navicula sp. (Diatom) Daphnia sp.

2. Cyclotella sp. (Diatom) Moina sp.
3. Synedra sp. (Diatom) Paramecium sp.
4. Pinnularia sp. (Diatom) Euglena sp.
5. Oscillatoria sp. Ranatra sp.
6. Nostoc sp. Larvae of culex sp.
7. Anabaena sp. (Diatom) Larvae of Dytiscus sp.
8. Spirogyra sp. Cyclops sp.
9. Pediastrum.sp. Diaptomus sp.
10. Microspora sp.

1.15.6.2. Fish:
Fish occurrences were determined by collecting samples using different fishing gears like
cast net, scoop net, hand net, hook-line, pot and open local devices methods. Also visual
observations in different habitats were made. Fishes were identified up to the species level
with the help of keys of Jayaram (1981), Menon (1987) and Talwar and Jhingran (1997).
IUCN red data list (2006) was compared to assess threatened, endangered and vulnerable
species in the study area.

List of Fishes in the Study Area:

Fishes are the integral component of stream and rivers which are not only the best sources
of food and animal protein for the human population but provides a source of income for
the local inhabitants. People capture fishes for their consumption and in some cases to sell

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in local markets as an alternative means for procurement of foods and other requirement of
daily needs.
Table: 1.13 Common fish species recorded in Buffer Zone
No. Common name Scientific name
1. Catla Catla catla
2. Rohu Labeo rohita
3. Maral Channa punctata
4. Dokh Channa gachua
5. Mangur Clarias batrachus
6. Dandvan Garra mulllya
7. Malya Oreochromis mosambicus
8. Darai Puntius sarana
9. Khavli Puntius sophore
10. Dara Rasbora daniconius
11. Chikli Indoreonectes evezardi
12. Chikani Lepidocephalichthys thermalis

1.15.6.3. Aquatic Floral Diversity:

Wetlands are very useful to us. By producing resources, enabling recreational activities and
controlling flood and pollution, they contribute to the national and local economies and
environmental consequences. Wetlands provide important and incredible services to
society, these services can neither be sold nor do they have the market value and tried to
give wetlands an economic value.
Table 1.14: Wetland/Marshland Diversity of Study area
Family Botanical Name Local Name
Salviniaceae Azolla pinnata Mosquito Fern
Commelinaceae Commelina benghalensis Kana
Cyperaceae Cyperus alternifolius Umbrella Sedge
Poaceae Echinochloa colona Shama
Pontederiaceae Eichhornia crassipes Jal Kumbhi
Lemnaceae Lemna minor Duck Weed
Onagraceae Ludwigia adscendens Water Primrose
Marsileaceae Marsilea quadrifolia Four Leaf Clover
Oxalidaceae Oxalis corniculata Amrul
Ranunculaceae Ranunculus sceleratus Aglaon
Typhaceae Typha angustifolia Patera

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Bandha Nala

Eichhornia crassipes near local pons

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1.15.7. Details of Endemic, Threatened and Scheduled Species:

As per list of The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Fauna coming under the
schedule - I is treated as endangered species. The schedule - I fauna as per reconnaissance
survey are listed in Table-1.15. Although these are very common species and found in
every locality, even in villages, certain steps should be taken to conserve the critical wild
life:
I. Programs for the conservation of wildlife will be formulated and implemented outside the
protected areas by educating the local communities with help of local public agencies,
and other stakeholders including the environment division officers of our company, in
order to reduce the scope of man-animal conflict.
II. It will be ensured that human activities on the fringe of the protected areas do not degrade
the habitat.
Over all, the status of wildlife in a region is an accurate index of the state of ecological
resources, and thus, of the natural resources base of human well-being. This indicates the
interdependent nature of ecological entities (the web of life), in which wild life is a vital
link and a base of eco-tourism. Thus, the importance of conserving and protecting wildlife
will be spread among the local people.
Table-1.15 List of Scheduled species from study area
Sr. No. Scientific name Common Name Schedule
Mammals
1. Melursus ursinus Sloth bear Schedule-I
2. Elephas maximus indicus Elephant Schedule-I
3. Manis crassicaudata Pangolin Schedule-I
4. Canis lupus callipes Indian Wolf Schedule-I
5. Mellivora capensis Honey Badger Schedule-I
6. Panthera pardus Leopard Schedule-I
7. Tetracerus quadricornis Four-horned antelope Schedule-I
8. Gazella bennettii Chinkara Schedule-I
9. Tragulus meminna Mouse Deer Schedule-I
Reptiles
10. Crocodylus palustris Mugger, Crocodile Schedule-I
11. Varanus bengalensis Bengal Monitor Lizard Schedule-I
12. Python molurus Python Schedule-I
Birds

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13. Pavo cristatus Indian Peafowl Schedule-I

14. Aquila rapax Tawny Eagle Schedule-I
15. White Rumped
Gyps bengalensis Schedule-I
Vulture
16. Nisaetus cirrhatus Crested Hawk Eagle Schedule-I
17. Anthracoceres coronatus Pied Hornbill Schedule-I
18. Ciconia episcopus White stork Schedule-I
19. White Scavenger
Neophron percnopterus Schedule-I
Vulture
20. Sarcogyps calvus King Vulture Schedule-I

So far, according to our study and from the available literature, there is no endemic plant or
animal species present in this area. A brief note on facts on these animals is as follows:
1.16 Status of Schedule-I Fauna present in the study area:
1.16.1. Sloth Bear (Melursus urnsinus):
The allotted coal block area has both degraded forest, & Reserved forest as well as
cultivated area. Bear is a nocturnal animal. Generally it remains within the forest area, but
ocassionally it intrudes within the village area. This is mainly due to the Mahua flower,
because Mahua trees are most common around the village areas. Therefore approach of the
bear near to the village area is more during the months of Mahua flowering: the Months of
March and April. Approach of the animal near the village areas in other months is
extremely rare. Their density is also very low. A good study on bear has been made in the
central India by Bargali et. al., (2004).
Habitat: Sloth bears, in the area, occupy a wide range of habitats including forests,
scrublands, and grasslands where boulders and scattered shrubs and trees provide shelter.
The most common shelter is a den, a cavern like structure generally in rocks.
Home Range: To date, there is no definitive research detailing the exact nature of the
home range of the sloth bear. The size of the home range of an individual sloth bear will
vary with the concentration of high energy food sources. Thus, the more concentrated the
food sources, the smaller the range necessary to maintain an animal.
Habit: The sloth bear is more inclined to attack man unprovoked than almost any other
animal. Sloth bears avoid areas where human disturbance is high, however, the bear raid
peanut, maize, and fruit crops. Sloth bears like to escape from the heat of the day and

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forage for food at night. They will start to become active as the sun starts to set. This is
also the time when many insects such as termites are more active.
They are generally nocturnal, occasionally approaching near to the village area even during
the day time. Locally they prefer isolated shelters below rocks and caverns to spend their
day time hours. Occasionally, near to the village area, after consuming large amount of
mahua (Madhuca latifolia) flower they remain sleeping below the tree late after sun rise.
Food: Sloth bears subsist primarily on termites, ants, and fruits. This is the only species of
bear adapted specifically for myrmecophagy (ant and termite-eating). The ratio of insects
to fruits in the diet varies seasonally and geographically. Most bears are opportunistic
omnivores. As such, their activities are governed by the availability of food items and
dietary components within their habitat. When trees are in fruit, usually during the
monsoon season, sloth bears dine on mango, fig, ebony, and other fruits, and also on some
flowers. However, ground dwelling ants and termites, dug out of their cement-hard nest
mounds, are a year-round staple. They have special liking for the honey for which the
animal can climb trees and knock down honeycombs, later collecting the sweet bounty on
the forest floor. Beetles, grubs, ants, and other insects round out their diet. During food
shortages, sloth bears will eat carrion. In March and April, they will eat the fallen petals of
mahua trees and are partial to mangoes, sugar cane, and the pods of the Amaltas and the
fruit of the jacktree. Sloth bears are extremely fond of honey. Sloth bears will also climb
and shake fruit trees to obtain food. They will also eat leafy plants, sugar- rich fruits, nuts,
root, tubers, berries, vegetables, honey, eggs and small vertebrates like rodents, will also
eat virtually any carrion which they may discover. Seasonal availability and geographic
location are the biggest factors determining the primary food sources of sloth bears.
Food items of bear are documented with the help of scat analysis and direct observation.
However, percent occurrence of a particular food in scats may differ from actual
consumption. It is possible that most easily digestible food may be observed less in the scat
while less digested food may be more.
A study on the scat of bear, in the central India has revealed following to be present in the
scat and hence forming the food item of the bear. Months of their local availability has
been added with each of the food item.

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i. Black ant and their egg: Available all round the year but more during winter and
summer season.
ii. Red ant and their eggs: Available all round the year but more during winter and
summer season.
iii. Termite and their egg: Available all round the year.
iv. Honey Bees: Available all round the year but more during late winter and summer
season
v. Ficus benghalensis (Bargad), Ficus religiosa (Pipal): Summer season
vi. Ficus virens: Winter, Summer
vii. Ficus racemosa: Winter summer
viii. Ficus glomerata (Gular): Summer
ix. Ziziphus mauritiana (Ber), Ziziphus oenoplia (beri) and Ziziphus nummularia
(Jharberi): Winter
x. Aegle marmelos (Bel): summer
xi. Briedelia squamosa (Kasihi): Late winter to early summer
xii. Diospyros melanoxylon (tendu): Summer
xiii. Buchanania lanzan (Achar): Summer
xiv. Schleichera oleosa (Kusum): Summer
xv. Syzygium cumini (Jamun): Summer
xvi. Cassia fistula( Amaltas) fruit: Rainy
xvii. Madhuca indica (Mahua) (flower): March-April, Madhuca indica (fruit): June-
July
xviii. Arachis hypogeal (Groundnut): Late rainy season
xix. Zea mays (Corn): rainy
xx. Amarood (Psidium guajava): Winter
xxi. Aam (Mangifera indica): Summer
xxii. Kathal (Artocarpus heterophyllus): Summer
xxiii. Bones, hair and animal tissue
Many of the non-timber forest produce, forming the food of the bear are collected like
flowers and fruits of mahuwa (Madhuca indica) and fruits of bel (Aegle marmelos), char
(Buchanania lanzan), jamun (Syzygium cumini), and tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon). Such
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collection may limit their availability for bears. Ficus spp are not used by local people, so
are readily available to the bears. Thus Ficus spp play important roles by providing supply
of food for most of the part of the year. This is particularly important during summer when
there are no crops in fields to raid and fewer fruiting species, and bears find it difficult to
dig for termite and ants.
Threats: Major threats to this species are habitat loss, poaching and conflict killings.
Habitat loss is mainly due to overharvest of forest products, monoculture plantations (e.g.,
teak, eucalyptus), expansion of agricultural areas, human settlements, and roads. Poaching
is mainly for the commercial trade in bear parts. Encounters resulting in conflicts between
people and sloth bears occur mainly where the habitat has become severely degraded but
still being used by both. The only natural threats to sloth bears are tigers (Panthera tigris)
and possibly leopards (P. pardus). Dhole packs may also attack sloth bears. Asian
elephants are reported not to tolerate sloth bears in their vicinity. The reason for this is
unknown. Bear parts are valuable commodities in the trade for Asian medicines. Incentives
for killing bears are therefore high. Although, bear is protected to varying degrees by
national laws, however, they can be killed to protect life or property.
Conflicts: The sloth bear is more inclined to attack man unprovoked than almost any other
animal. Major man-bear conflicts result during the mawha flowering season. Persons
going early to collect the flower encounter the animal, frequently, sometimes the bear
remain sleeping below the tree after consuming large amount of mahua flower and is one
of the mjor causes of man-bear conflicts. Persons going to the forest for the collection of
wood or other forest produce encounter the bear, inadvertently resulting in conflicts.
Conservation Status: CITES APPENDIX: I: Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act (1972) (As
amended up to 2002): Scheduled I; Part I; Indian Red Data Book (IUCN 1994): Not Listed;
IUCN (1998) (Proposed; Vulnerable (National) and Data Deficient (Global); IUCN
(2002) (Proposed): Vulnerable (Global) based on Version 2.3 1994 (IUCN, 2003).
According to Alfred et al considering the nature and degree of threats and treads reported,
it is strongly recommended to include sloth bear in one of the endangered categories of
IUCN. They are particularly vulnerable to loss of habitat because of their reliance on
lowland areas, which tend to be the places most readily used by people. Poaching and trade
in sloth bears or their parts is also common in many parts of their range.
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Conservation Measures:
i. Education will help to reduce bear-human conflicts and enhance a conservation
ethic among locals.
ii. Habitat improvements (government or community-based reforestation) would be
helpful in alleviating conflicts.
iii. Planting of fruit trees more particularly the spp. of Ficus, because Ficus spp are not
collected by man but form an important diet to the animal.
iv. Promoting honey bee in the area will not only serve as food to the bear but will help
also in warding off the elephant.
v. Red ant (Oecophylla smaragdina) can be promoted easily to form colonies in the
trees. This will serve as important source of insect diet and may compensate for the
termite.
vi. Artificial method to promote termite colonies should be developed.
vii. Den like structures should be developed in the area if such structures are lacking or
less in number in the area.
viii. It is unfortunate that the conservation of Elephant and Bear go contradictory to each
other.
ix. Villagers should avoid growing crops of liking to bear like ground nut and corn etc.
particularly near their den sites.
x. Translocation of bears from isolated habitat patches to more suitable areas should
be carried out.
1.16.2. Elephant (Elephas Maximus indicus):
Elephants have not been reported from the mining lease area as well as from the impact
area. However, there are reports of the movement of elephants, far beyond the lease area in
the district of Korba and Sarguja of Chhattisgarh State. The According to the ministry of
Environment, Forest & Climate Change, there are 2,865 elephants in Odisha, Jharkhand
and Chattisgarh, of which Odisha has close to 70% (1,930 elephants) followed by
Jharkhand (688 elephants), Chattisgarh (247 elephants) as of 2012. Jharkhand state is more
famous for the residence as well as movement of elephants, but the boundary of the state is
much farther away from the lease area. The movement of elephants also reported in the
eastern part of the Renukoot Dam. But the dam is a huge barrier for the elephants to reach
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anywhere near to the presently Bandha coal mine lease area. The movement of elephants
and other mega wildlife in Singrauli Forest Division is shown in Figure-1.5 i.e. a map
showing "Diverted wildlife corridor due to coal mines" obtained from forest department,
Singrauli Forest Division.
Habitat: Elephants are generalists, but use mainly scrub forest. They can be found in the
jungle, but generally on the edge where open, grassy areas are accessible. They prefer areas
that combine grass, low woody plants, and forest. Elephants rarely forage in one area for
more than a few days in a row. In general, food, water and shade are the three basic
resources that can be expected to influence the movement of the elephant (Sukumar et al,
2003). Their Home range ranges from 30-600 km2.
Food: Elephants eat a wide variety of species of vegetation. They are herbivore, folivore
and lignivore. More than 100-130 different species of plants may be eaten They prefer
grasses, but they also consume bark, roots, leaves, wood, stems and leaves of trees, vines,
shrubs, tubers, bamboo and barn, An average day's intake is 150-200kg of wet vegetation.
The proportions of the different plant types in their diet vary depending upon the habitat
and season. Annual diet has been found to be dominated by grass. Maximum straying
distance covered by the raiding elephant has been recorded up to 5.5km.
Time activity budget of elephants: Generally they are active almost throughout the day
during rainy and winter months, but during summer months they are active only in the
morning and evening hours. They become active well before dawn and start their morning
activities in the vicinity of the area where they spent night. Evening hour is the time for
drinking and bathing especially during summers. In summer season percentage of
movement is more due to lack of fodder species and shrinkage of natural water sources.
Food Plants: Following is a list of plants reported as food by different workers.
However, only the names of plants, local to the area, have been taken and the local names
have been changed. Part of the plant eaten may be different for the different species.
Threats: The pre-eminent threats to the Asian elephant today are habitat loss,
degradation, agriculture and farming, grazing, mining, human interference, trade, pollution,
hunting for ivory, insurgency, corridor loss, anthropogenic pressures on the habitat, man-
elephant conflict, forest fires, illegal captures of live animals etc. Poisoning and disease are
some other threats to the animal.
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Figure-1.5: Diverted wildlife corridor due to coal mines

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Table-1.16: List of Food Plants for Elephant

Sr. No. Botanical Name Local Name
1 Acacia catechu Khair
2 Acacia nilotica Babool
3 Aegle marmelos Bel
4 Albizzia lebbek Kala siris
5 Bambusa arundinacea Bans
6 Albizzia procera Safed siris
7 Bauhinia variegata Kachnar
8 Bauhinia vahlii Mahul
9 Bauhinia malabarica Khatua
10 Bombax ceiba Semal
11 Brachiaria sp. Ghas
12 Bridelia retusa Kasai
13 Careya arborea Kumhi
14 Cordia myxa Lassora
15 Cymbopogon flexuosus Ghas
16 Cynodon dactylon Doob Grass
17 Dalbergia sissoo Shisham
18 Dendrocalamus strictus Bans / Bamboo
19 Desmostachya bipinnata Urai/Khus
20 Eleusine sp. Ghas
21 Emblica officinalis Amla
22 Eucalyptus spp Nilgiri
23 Eulaliopsis binata Bagai Ghas
24 Feronia elephantum Kaith
25 Ficus bengalensis Bargad/Bar
26 Ficus glomerata Dumar/Gular
27 Ficus religiosa Pipal
28 Ficus rumphii Duranga-hesa
29 Ficus infectoria Pakar
30 Flacourtia indica Kandai
31 Garuga pinnata Kekad
32 Grewia elastica Dhaman
33 Helicteres isora Ainthi
34 Holarrhena antidysenterica Korea
35 Ipomoea spp. Karmata
36 Imperata arundinacea Ulu
37 Kydia calycina Baranga/Pula
38 Lagerstroemia parviflora Senha/Sidha
39 Limonia acidissima Kaith
40 Mallotus philippinensis Sinduri/Rohini
41 Mimosa pudica Lajwanti
42 Mitragyna parvifolia Mudhi
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Sr. No. Botanical Name Local Name

43 Musa paradisiaca Banana
44 Neyraudia arundinacea Bichhloo
45 Oryza sativa Dhan
46 Ougeinia oojeinensis Tinsa
47 Phoenix humilis Buta Chhind
48 Pithecellobium dulce Jangal Jalebi
49 Randia dumetorium Mainphal
50 Saccharum munja Kandi-khar
51 Saccharum officinarum Ganna
52 Saccharum spontaneum Kans
53 Sansevieria sp. Sisal
54 Schleichera oleosa Kosam/Kusum
55 Shorea robusta Sarai/Sal
56 Syzygium cumini Jamun
57 Tamarindus indica Amli / Imli
58 Terminalia tomentosa Saja
59 Tectona grandis Sagaun / Teak
60 Tinospora cordifolia Giloe / Gurch
61 Thysanolaena agrostis Hathi ghas / Pirlu
62 Zizyphus mauritiana Bhander
63 Zizyphus xylopyra Ghont

Conservation Issues:
i. Raid in the village and agricultural field for food leads to man-animal conflicts.
ii. Loss of habitat for food and water.
iii. Particular attention should be paid to identifying ways to reduce human conflict by
promoting methods that ensure to keep the Elephant away from humans.
iv. Awareness programme to reduce conflicts.

Elephant Corridor: There is no notified elephant corridor within the 15 km radius of

project site. However, as reported by the Forest Divisions, elephants move from one
important forest block to another within their habitat. Revenue forestlands, Demarcated
Protected Forests (DPF), and village forest areas interlink these isolated forest blocks.
They form the movement track for the elephants between the Reserve Forest blocks.
The central Indian elephant habitats are one of the most fragmented and degraded
because of encroachment, shifting cultivation and mining activities.

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1.16.3. Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata):

Manis Crassicaudata are insectivorous mammals understood to occur in various types of
tropical forests as well as open land, grasslands and degraded habitats, including in close
proximity to villages. It is a medium-sized mammal, with a streamline elongated body and
tail covered with large overlapping scales rather than fur. Indian Pangolin is widely
distributed in India, except the arid region, high Himalayas and the North-East. It can be
found at elevation up to 2500m. The species also occurs in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal
and Sri Lanka.
Habitat: Manis crassicaudata occupy a variety of habitats. They have been found in
tropical rainforests, subtropical thorn forests, plains and the lower slopes of mountains. The
Indian pangolin is solitary, mostly nocturnal, and terrestrial.
Ecology and Behavior: These pangolins dig their own burrows in the ground, at depths of
1.5-6 m; these are frequently under large rocks and the entrance is often hidden with soil.
When in danger, they roll up into balls, with their large tails pressed tightly against face
and belly to help protect them. Longevity of this animal in captivity can exceed 19 years.
These pangolins are not often observed in the wild due to their solitary, secretive, and
nocturnal nature. A loud emission of a hissing sound has been reported when they are
frightened or angry.
Food: The Indian pangolin is almost entirely insectivorous and more specifically a
myrmecophage (ant/termite specialist). Its diet includes beetles, cockroaches, termites, and
possibly worms, but mainly ants and termites. It feeds on the eggs, larvae, and adults of its
prey, but eggs are the preferred choice. The Indian pangolin is nocturnal and uses its well-
developed sense of smell to locate ant nests or termite mounds and other food sources.
Pangolins tear apart and dig into mounds by using the three centre claws on their forefeet,
throwing loose soil backwards with their hind feet. When feeding, the rostral part of the
pangolin’s tongue is quickly inserted and withdrawn to capture prey. This movement is
also used for drinking.
Conservation Status: The species is therefore listed as endangered in the IUCN Red List
of Threatened Species; under the Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 of India
and included in Appendix II of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
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1.16.4. Leopard (Panthera pardus):

Habitat: Indian leopard has high capability to adopt any type of habitat where it can get
sufficient food and covers. Leopards avoid overlapping their territory or the home range
with the tigers. Therefore they try to occupy the fringe areas of the forests, as well as dare
more to enter the human inhabited areas.
Behavior: leopards are highly territorial. Leopards are not only the widest ranging of all
Big Cats but are actually one of the most adaptable and are found in a variety of different
habitats. The Leopard can be found inhabiting numerous different areas providing that
there is a good source of cover and an ample supply of food including tropical rainforests,
tree-lined savannah, barren deserts and mountain highlands.
Food Habits: The diet of these big cats is surprisingly varied which includes: wildebeest,
impalas, reed-bucks, Thomson's gazelles, jackals, monkeys, fish and storks. However, at
times they seem to show a preference for canines, even attempting to snatch dogs right
from the feet of their masters. They can also eat fish and domestic stock such as goats and
cows. They will even eat carrion.
Status: The species has been assigned almost all the categories of IUCN Red List
Categories including: Near threatened, Threatened, Endangered, Critically endangered to
Vulnerable, by different workers and agencies. However these categories have been
assigned mostly on regional basis. On global basis the species has been assigned Lower
Risk Status. The species has been included in Shedule I in The Wildlife (Protection) Act,
1972 of our country.
Conservation Status: CITES APPENDIX: I; Indian wildlife (Protection) Act (1972) (As
amended up to 2002); Sheduled-1; Part-1; Indian Red Data Book (IUCN, 1994);
Vulnerable; (IUCN 1998) (Proposed); Vulnerable (National) and Data Deficient (Global).
Man-leopard Conflicts: Major conflicts arise when leopards start preying on livestock.
These conflicts have increased in recent years due to population growth among humans.
The conflict becomes more severe when some leopards become man-eaters. They can prey
on children and even enter homes at night to attack humans.
Threats: The Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) is facing the crisis of adaptation. The
species could soon qualify for Vulnerable under criterion A4 (30% decline over a period of
30 years = three generations, including both past and future). Despite being the most
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widespread cat, the Indian leopard faces several types of threat. The animal shares its
habitat with other animals, which include tigers, bears, wolves, Asian elephants, hyenas,
and wild dogs. These animals may kill leopard cubs if given a chance. Apart from its
natural enemies, the leopard's main threat is people. For years, it has been threatened, due
to loss of habitat and poaching. A rapidly increasing threat to Leopards is the poisoning of
carcasses targeting carnivores as a form of retaliation as well as a means of predator
control. An estimated 50% of the population lives outside Protected Areas and so it is
vulnerable to habitat destruction.
Conservation: Capture and translocation to protected areas has been practiced more as a
means of conservation. However, investigations have shown that the animal is highly
territorial. Shifting causes inter and intra specific fighting to establish a territory in the
translocated area. They are so much particular about their territory that they may make all
the efforts to reach back to their original territory. However, Leopards are somewhat
tolerant of habitat conversion, and may persist close to large human populations provided
they have suitable cover and prey. The MoEF&CC has issued guidelines:
Guidelines for Dealing with Man-leopard Conflict, Press Note, Ministry of Environment
and Forests, Govt. of India, moef.nic.in/downloads/public-informat. Accessed on, 01-08-
2011.
The guidelines suggest a three pronged strategy to deal with man-leopard conflict as a
means to their conservation:
i. Awareness generation among local communities, media and officials of
various departments.
ii. Establish trained teams at two levels; the primary response team and the
emergency response team, and
iii. Use of latest technology and scientific know-how to improve efficacy of
capture, handling, care and translocation of the animal.
1.16.5. Indian wolf (Canis lupas callipes):
The Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a subspecies of grey wolf that ranges from Israel
to the Indian Subcontinent. It is intermediate in size between the Tibetan and Arabian wolf,
and lacks the former's luxuriant winter coat. The Indian wolf is similar in structure to the

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European wolf, but is smaller, more slightly built, and has shorter fur with little to no under
fur.
Habitat: Its habits are similar to those of other grey wolf subspecies, though the Indian
wolf generally lives in smaller packs rarely exceeding 6-8 individuals, and are relatively
less vocal, having rarely been known to howl. It tends to breed from mid-October to late
December, and whelp in holes or ravines. It typically preys on antelopes, rodents, and
hares.
Ecology and Behavior: The Indian wolf, although somewhat gregarious, is not known to
associate in large packs. It is also rather a silent animal, but sometimes, it barks like a
pariah dog. It is rarely, if ever, heard to howl. Indian wolves prey on all mammals or birds
they can kill, but especially on sheep, goats, and antelopes. They course and run down
hares and foxes, and occasionally attack cattle. They not infrequently kill dogs.
Food: Wolves are carnivores (meat eaters) but they will eat other foods as well. Their diet
ranges from big game, such as elk and moose, to earthworms, berries and grasshoppers. To
avoid using too much energy catching their food, wolves prey on weaker members of a
herd, such as old, young or sick animals. In summer, when the herds migrate, wolves eat
mice, birds and even fish. Wolves eat their food very quickly, probably to protect it from
being stolen, and to decrease the chance of attack from other predators. They eat the best
parts first, and come back later for the remainder, as they can't afford to be wasteful. They
will hide food in the snow, or icy soil, which helps to preserve it, and protect it from
scavengers. Wolves can eat every 5-6 hours when there is plenty of food available, or they
can fast and live on scraps for 2 weeks when there is less food around.
Threats: Despite the highest level of protection accorded to the wolves in India, hunting
remains rampant and is a major cause of concern. Killing of adult wolves and pups by local
sheepherders is common throughout the range of the wolf. Conflict with humans for
livestock depredation, depletion of prey species (like blackbuck, hare) due to livestock,
exaggerated public fear regarding their danger, and fragmented habitats that are too small
for populations with long-term viability are threatening their survival today.
Conservation Status: The Indian Wolf (Canis lupus), is an endangered species in
Schedule I of Indian wildlife according to the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. IUCN Red

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List, Least Concern species (IUCN 3.1). It is also in appendix 1 of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
1.16.6. Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis):

The honeys badger (Mellivora capensis), also called ratel, and are an interesting animal as
there are many myths surrounding its nature and behaviour. It is well known as a fearless
creature that can be quite aggressive when threatened.

Species Identification: Honey badgers stand around 250mm tall at their shoulders and
weigh approximately 12kg. Their fur is course, with a strip of gray or brown hair running
laterally down their dorsal side running from the base of the skull to the base of the tail.
They have a stocky build, with short legs and long claws. Honey badgers are primarily
terrestrial, but possess the ability to climb. They can run quick and for extended periods of
time when chasing prey.

Breeding: Reproduction is considered asynchronous with an estimated gestation period of

50-70 days. Most commonly only one cub was produced, rarely two. Cubs stay in the den
until three months of age, and then they begin foraging with their mother. Cubs are almost
completely hairless until 3-5 weeks. They do not become independent until 12-16 months
old. Parental care is provided by the female while the male completes his involvement after
copulation.

Habitat: Honey badger habitat is described as open woodlands, desert, high mountains and
coastal shrubs. In Assam, India badgers have been observed to inhabit scrub jungle and tall
elephant grass. Honey badgers are burrowing mustelids; because of this they need specific
habitat to create their burrows. In India, honey badger burrows are found on the banks of
streams, rock cavities, and thick brush and in the spaces naturally formed by tree roots.

Diet: Their diet consists of scorpions, Hottentotta rugiscutis, Heterometrus swammerdami,

Hottentotta tamulus, and Lychas tricarinatus; small rodents: lesser bandicoot rat (Bandicota
bengalensis), Indian bush rat (Golunda ellioti), soft-furred rat (Millardia meltada), little
Indian field mouse (Mus booduga), house mouse (Mus musculus), Sahyadris forest rat
(Rattus satarae), Nilgiri long-tailed tree mouse (Vandeleuria nilagirica), jungle palm
squirrel (Funambulus tristriatus), Malabar spiny dormouse (Platacanthomys lasiurus),
Etruscan shrew (Suncus etruscus), and the Asian house shrew (Suncus murinus); and
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herpetofauna, Brook’s gecko (Hemidactylus brookii), bark gecko (Hemidactylus

leschenaultia), brahminy skink (Mabuya carinata), Indian rat snake (Ptyas mucosa), and the
banded racer (Argyrogena fasciolatus).

Conservation Status: The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 (No. 53 of 1972),
gives the honey badger an extremely high level of protection in India as a Schedule 1
organism.
1.16.7. Four Horned Antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis):

The four horned antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis) also known as “Chausingha or

Chauka” is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. According to IUCN redlist this is
vulnerable species with decreasing population trend. The Four-horned Antelope has a wide
distribution, occurring in scattered populations from the Himalayan foothills to peninsular
India.

Four horned antelope is non-migratory, probably a sedentary and territorial species

occupying restricted home ranges. It is generally a solitary but sometimes can be seen in a
small group of three to five animals. It is elusive and difficult to observe in wild. It has
peculiar anti-predatory behaviour where it prefers to hide than run, making it obscure. It is
herbivorous with a ruminal digestive system.

Habitat: The four-horned antelope inhabits areas with significant cover from grasses or
heavy undergrowth, and close to water bodies. It generally keeps away from human-
inhabited areas. Though they are habitat generalists, four-horned antelopes mostly occur in
open, dry, deciduous forests in hilly terrain.

Conservation Status: The four-horned antelope is threatened by the loss of its natural
habitat due to agricultural expansion and mining activities in forest areas. Moreover, the
unusual four-horned skull and the horns have been a popular target for trophy hunters. In
India, the species is protected under Schedule I the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the
Nepalese population is listed in CITES Appendix III. The four-horned antelope is
classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and
Natural Resources (IUCN).

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1.16.8. Chinkara (Gazella bennettii):

Indian gazelle or Chinkara (Gazella bennettii), a globally threatened ungulate, once widely
distributed antelope in India, now facing threat due to increasing human population,
mechanised agriculture, mining activities and hunting by locals.

Habitat: Chinkara live in arid plains and hills, deserts, dry scrub and light forests. They
inhabit more than 80 protected areas in India. Indian gazelles can thrive in a variety of
habitats. They have been observed in dry deciduous forests, open woodlands, and dry areas
such as sand dunes, semi-arid deserts, and arid valleys that have an annual rainfall of 150
to 750 mm. Indian gazelles are facultative drinkers and can withstand relatively long
intervals between visits to water points by conserving metabolic water and taking
advantage of water found in vegetation.

FOOD HABITS: Indian gazelles are better adapted to browsing than grazing, but they can
consume legumes and grasses in large quantities. Their diet typically consists of grasses,
various leaves, crops and fruits such as pumpkins and melons. A majority of their
metabolic water intake comes from the vegetation they consume. The brush and trees that
make up their diet are found in mountain ranges and deciduous forests, while grasses and
other herbaceous plants are found in valleys and agricultural fields.

CONSERVATION STATUS: Gazella bennettii is considered a species of least concern

by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Indian gazelles were
considered threatened in the 1950's due to habitat loss and anthropogenic activities such as
hunting and poaching. Agricultural practices along with the general increase in human
population has led to extirpation in certain areas.

In 1994 the species was considered vulnerable, and in 1996 Gazella bennettii was
considered a species of lower risk. The species has since recovered and is now considered
a species of least concern by the IUCN.

Gazella bennettii was considered a Schedule 1 species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act
of India in 1972. Indian law fully protects Indian gazelles, reserving 80% of India as
protected land, 5% of Pakistan and 9% of Iran.

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1.16.9. Mouse Deer (Tragulus meminna):

The Indian spotted chevrotain (Tragulus meminna) is a species of even-toed ungulate in the
family Tragulidae found in India and possibly Nepal. It has a body length of 23 in (57.5
cm), with a tail length of 1 in (2.5 cm); it weighs around 7 lb (3 kg). It lives in rainforests
and is nocturnal.

Habitat: Mouse-deer (tragulids) in general occupy a range of habitats from evergreen

forests to plantations. They are an ancient group of frugivorous ungulates, small-bodied
and active both day and night. Moschiola meminna are only active at night, and are often
found in evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous forests, as well as in grassland and
commercial plantations.

Food Habits: T. meminna are primarily frugivores, consuming easily digestible items
which provide relatively high protein and less fibrous materials. Indian chevrotains usually
browse the understory vegetation and eat mainly fallen fruits. Other food items include
young leaves, shrubs, shoots, and sometimes animal materials found on the forest floor.

T. meminna are ruminants with a three-chambered simple stomach. The selection of a very
digestible diet allows rapid fermentation and swift passage through the gut, which in turn
aids in rapid and efficient digestion.
Conservation Status: Tragulus meminna populations are listed as ‘Least Concern’ by
IUCN. The main threat for the species is from hunting by local communities,
Industrial/Mining Activities and forest fire as they are sensitive to habitat loss, alteration
and degradation.
1.16.10. Bengal Monitor Lizard (Varanus bengalensis):
Habit: They are often found in agricultural areas. Bengal monitors shelter in burrows that
they dig or crevices in rocks and abandoned termite mounds. It is mostly diurnal in habit.
Habitat: It is found in a wide range of habitats, viz. forest, river banks, by the side of
nullah, and agricultural land. It occupies burrows, dense vegetation, hollows of trees, rock
cracks and crevices.
Behavior: Mainly ground dweller, but is a very good climber as well. Bengal Monitors are
usually solitary and usually found on the ground although the young are often seen on
trees. They shelter and spend nights in burrows or crevices in rocks, make use also of
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abandoned termite mounds. In the night their body temperature drops below ambient. In
the morning they raise their body temperatures by basking before commencing activity and
for this reason they are rarely active early in the morning and most active in the afternoons
when temperatures are highest.
Food: Their normal prey consists of beetles, grubs, orthopterans, scorpions, crabs, snails,
ants and other invertebrates. Vertebrate prey is comparatively rare and includes frogs, fish,
other lizards, snakes birds and their eggs and rodents. They sometimes capture roosting
bats.
Threat: Monitor lizards are hunted for skin and their body fat. Its eggs are considered a
delicacy and the entire animal is also eaten. Unani, the Greco-Arabian system of medicine,
recommends the use of various body parts of monitors to cure numerous ailments. The
population of the Common Indian Monitor, Varanus bengalensis has alarmingly dwindled
throughout the Indian sub-continent mainly due to excessive exploitation of the adults for
their commercially valuable skins, as food and in traditional medicines. Habitat loss due to
large-scale deforestation, urbanization, dams and hydroelecture projects and other biotic
factors are also responsible for the population decline of the species.
Conservation Status: Status: Not Listed (IUCN 2000); Endangered (ESA). Schedule I
Indian Wildlife (Conservation) Act, 1972.
1.16.11. Indian Python (Python molursus):
Habitat: It is a non-poisonous, lethargic and slow moving snake, exhibiting little if any
timidity and rarely rousing itself seriously to escape, even when attacked. Diurnal and/or
nocturnal habit depends upon the degree of disturbance from man in their environment.
The snake hibernates in cold season, in any convenient retreat. There are very few records
of attack on human beings are also there in the area.
Food: Feeds on mammals, birds and reptiles, but prefers mammals. Stomach content has
shown frogs, toads, monitor lizard, wild duck, peafowl, poultry, rat, hare, porcupine,
langur, jackal, mousedeer, and hogdeer, chital, smabar fawn, barking deer, chinkara and
leopard. Thus has a very wide range of food items.
Threats: It is killed for flesh and skin. However, in the presently applied lease area it is not
eaten. Killing for skin is also not reported in the area. However, it is killed only because it
is a snake.
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Conservation: The snake, although occurs in the area but is rare. Reports of its conflicts
with human being are extremely rare. Public awareness is the most important method for
its conservation.
Conservation Status: This species is classified as Lower Risk/Near Threatened (LR/NT)
on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (v2.3, 1994). This means that it has been
evaluated, but does not satisfy the criteria for any of the categories Critically Endangered,
Endangered or Vulnerable. However, it is considered Near Threatened (NT), meaning that
it does not qualify for Conservation Dependent, but is close to qualifying for Vulnerable.
Year assessed: 1996.
1.16.12. MUGGER (Crocodylus palustris):
Habitat: The mugger crocodile occurs in southern Iran, Pakistan, Nepal, India and Sri
Lanka. It inhabits freshwater lakes, rivers and marshes, and prefers slow-moving, shallow
water bodies. It is also known to thrive in artificial reservoirs and irrigation canals.
Food: The mugger crocodile preys on fis, snakes, turtles, birds and mammals including
monkeys, squirrels, rodents, otters and dogs. It also scavenges on dead animals. During dry
seasons, muggers walk many kilometers over land in search of water and prey. Hatchlings
feed mainly on insects such as beetles, but also on crabs and shrimp and on vertebrates
later on. Sub adult and adult muggers favour fish, but also prey on small to medium-sized
ungulates up to the size of chital deer (Axis axis).
Threats: The mugger crocodile is threatened by habitat destruction because of conversion
of natural habitats for agricultural and industrial use. As humans encroach into their habitat
the incidents of conflict increase. Muggers are entangled in fishing equipment and drown,
and are killed in areas where fishermen perceive them as competition.
Conservation: The mugger crocodile is listed in CITES Appendix I, hence export of wild-
caught specimens is banned. The mugger is protected under Indian law vide the Wildlife
Protection Act, 1972 of India, which lists the mugger in Schedule I (as serial 1D of Part II
Amphibians and Reptiles).
1.16.13. Conservation plan for Schedule-I Bird Species:

Birds, occupying higher trophic levels in the ecosystems, respond quickly to the changes in
the habitats and therefore serve as one of the best indicators for evaluating the ecological
status and functioning of ecosystems of the area. Therefore, we created baseline data on
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birds by systematically collected data on occurrence in the core and buffer areas separately.
For creating baseline data on birds, we carried out bird surveys in different habitats as
differential habitat preferences are seen in birds. Based on our extensive field visits,
literature survey, and consultation local people, we found 8 bird species of high
conservation significance as they belong to Schedule-I of Indian Wildlife Protection Act
1972 (Table-1.17).

Table-1.17 List of Scheduled Bird species from study area

Birds
1. Pavo cristatus Indian Peafowl Schedule-I
2. Aquila rapax Tawny Eagle Schedule-I
3. Gyps bengalensis White Rumped Vulture Schedule-I
4. Nisaetus cirrhatus Crested Hawk Eagle Schedule-I
5. Anthracoceres coronatus Pied Hornbill Schedule-I
6. Ciconia episcopus White stork Schedule-I
7. White Scavenger
Neophron percnopterus Schedule-I
Vulture
8. Sarcogyps calvus King Vulture Schedule-I
Occurrences of birds in the study area are mainly due to the overall ecological condition
which provides them suitable habitats where they obtain their food and safety for their
breeding or wintering in the region. Therefore, any changes or degradation of air, soil and
water quality would lead to degradation of vegetation and habitats of birds. Increased noise
levels and disturbance levels would result in their displacement form the core area and its
immediate surroundings. Direct disturbance by presence of people, vehicle, their noise,
vibrations, lights etc. can potentially displace most of the birds‟ species from core area.

Therefore, it is recommended that project proponent shall take utmost care in controlling
dust, fugitive emissions and put in place all pollution control measures during construction
phase which would not result in degradation of air, soil, water qualities that affect the
surrounding forest areas and vegetation. It is also recommended that workers shall be
strictly instructed so that they don't engage in poaching of birds. It is further recommended
that project proponent shall monitor the ecological status of the study area including
species of birds and their habitats as part of their periodic comprehensive biodiversity
monitoring programme.

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1.17 Movement of Mega Wildlife:

According to the book “Right of Passage”, Elephant Corridors of India-2017 the elephant
habitats in central India extend over 21,000 sq km in the states of Odisha, Jharkhand,
Chhattisgarh and southern West Bengal, at times extending to Madhya Pradesh and Bihar,
and hold a population of about 3128 elephants (MoEFCC, 2017). There have been recent
reports of elephants straying into Madhya Pradesh’s eastern districts of Singrauli and
Anuppur from bordering northern Chhattisgarh, causing concern among the locals and forest
officials. The deterioration in habitat quality has forced elephants to undertake long-range
disoriented movements by using smaller forest patches to move to larger forest areas. This is
one of the major causes for the migration of elephants into Chhattisgarh and at times
extending to Madhya Pradesh.

The forest area of the project site of the concerned Forest Division is not a part of the already
identified 14 corridors in India (The Right of Passage, Wildlife Trust of India). The area does
not have any resident population but occasional visitors. Apart from this, no other scientific
study has been made to identify the corridor of wild animals like elephants in the project
area. However, the official records showing the payment of compensation for human life and
crop damage and site-specific survey confirm the elephants' movement in the proposed site's
buffer area.
Elephant is the flagship species of this area and the only mega herbivore (wildlife) with long
ranging movement behaviour, present in the Singrauli Forest Division. Elephants have not
been reported from the mining lease area as well as from the impact area. However, there are
reports of the movement of elephants, far beyond the lease area in the district of Korba and
Sarguja of Chhattisgarh State. Elephants follow streams and move in valleys and unless hard
pressed try to avoid hilly terrain to conserve energy. This behaviour exposes them close to
human habitation. The movement of elephants also reported in the eastern part of the
Renukoot Dam. The movement of mega wilodlife in Singrauli Forest Division is shown in
Figure 1.5.
1.18 Man-Elephant/Animal Conflict:
Man animal conflict refers to negative interaction between wild animals and human beings
such as crop raiding, human death and injury caused by wildlife and in retaliation (or

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otherwise) human beings killing the animals. Wildlife conservation efforts raise conflict
issues not only through crop raiding , cattle lifting , property and life damage but also,
generally when conservation comes into conflict with development. Both wildlife and
people are in conflict and the goal is to enable coexistence and sharing of resources on
sustainable scale. This is best achieved by addressing both sides of the equation.
The bear population is quite high in this area and the surrounding forests. A peculiar
phenomenon is prevalent in this area. The sloth bear usually remains inside the forest
during the winter months but comes out of its cover in search of Mahua flowers which is a
delicacy for it. Normally in the winter mornings the environment remains full of fog and
the bear has long fur on its eyebrows, which obstruct its vision. On the other hand the
villagers are also engaged in Mahua collection during the early hours and are usually also
not able to see the approaching Bear early enough due to fog. As a result, the Bear and the
Mahua collectors invariably find themselves face to face and then the Bear usually attacks
the Mahua collectors on instinct.
The elephant is one of the major Schedule –I species. There is no resident population, but
due to the size and nature of crop raiding by elephants, special care and planning are
needed to mitigate the impact. Besides, the fertile land and properties are getting destroyed
by the infringement of the elephants, leading the state to a financial loss. In order to drive
away the elephants, the local people are seen taking extreme steps that cause death to the
animals or human beings. Mitigation measures, training, and awareness among residents
are needed to reduce the impact of man and animal conflict.
Of late, another phenomenon has also troubled the local populace. Elephant herds have
been reported to have occasionally crossed the area while moving from the Odisha Forests
to the Elephant habitats down south. The local populaces have had their houses brought
down and suffered a lot on account of these elephant movements. The Madhya Pradesh
Government has however taken a commendable stand on this account. While the aggrieved
villagers have been provided adequate compensation, the Elephant movement has not been
discouraged and the wildlife wing of the Madhya Pradesh forest department is actually
working on a very elaborate plan in this direction.

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1.19 Poaching / Killing of animals:

While forest fires are usually unintentional and are inadvertently due to carelessness,
poaching is intentional and a crime of a very serious nature. Poaching is usually organized
crime and there are tiers of different level of criminals involved in the racket. At the lowest
level are usually the local people. There are certain tribes that are known to have been
poachers for generations. They are usually the least benefited in terms of money that a
serious poaching can accrue but without them usually poaching is not possible. The reason
is simple, it’s they who know the jungles well and its they who can walk long distances
inside the forest and its they who use ingenious and usually difficult to trace methods like
electrocution (by using a connection from overhead H.T. electrical transmission lines),
poisoning (sometimes even large poisoning of water sources which shrink during the pinch
period and a large number of animals can come to drink water from one water hole and get
poisoned) and traps. The traps are sometimes very ingenious and entirely home made using
small iron pieces and iron springs. These are usually so smartly hidden that they can be
completely overlooked even by the people. The forest staff may have a real tough time in
weeding out such traps.
Apart from the local people there is a whole chain that goes upright to the International
level. This well-oiled system makes wildlife crimes very lucrative and International data
suggest that wildlife related crimes are only third after arms drugs related crimes in terms
of money exchanged (WPSI-Wildlife Protection Society of Indian publication).
Nevertheless, poaching can be thwarted and the poachers brought to book but there is no
short cut. It requires 24 hr monitoring of forest areas, particularly those that have relatively
high biodiversity and where the number of animals is high.
1.20 Working Plan Prescriptions:
The present Working Plan of Singrauli Forest Division, valid from 2009-10 to 2018-19
consists of nine Working Circles as detailed below:-

Selection cum Improvement Management Working Circle

Improvement Working Circle

Protection Management Working Circle

Soil and Water Conservation Working Circle

Rehabilitation Working Circle
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Plantation Working Circle

Plantation Maintenance overlapping Working Circle

Rehabilitation of degraded Bamboo Forest Working Circle

Wildlife Working Circle
The demand of the day is to manage the forest by active participation of local people (Joint
Forest Management) on sharing basis. In the end for any felling takes place the stake
holders will have a 50% share. Only in Protection Management Working Circle this
procedure has not been adopted as no felling is permitted. Therefore thrust has been more
on eco-development through strategies aimed at uplifting the local economy and also at
increasing the general awareness of the local community about the importance of
biodiversity and wildlife. When we plan for conservation of Wildlife in a forest area (and
its neighbouring Impact Area) that has to be diverted for a non-forest activity like coal
mining, the task becomes rather peculiar because the question of usufruct sharing in case of
Participatory Forest Management can only be addressed by the forest department and can
certainly not go beyond the provisions of the Working Plans in force. What can be done
though is a whole-hearted effort towards eco-development through uplifting of the local
economy and also through enhancing the awareness level of the local community about the
need of biodiversity and wildlife conservation. The Conservation Plan would then focus
towards awareness building of local people and also uplifting of local economy through
capacity building and monetary support. While previously the whole emphasis used to be
on exploitation of forests produce for economic gain, now a day the emphasis is more on
protection, improvement and rehabilitation of the forests by treating the forests more as an
ecosystem rather than as a timber factory. For our case we would discuss the Bio-diversity
and Wildlife Conservation Management Circle in some detail in the paragraphs below.
1.21 Bio-diversity Conservation Management Circle:
The main objectives of this Biodiversity Conservation Management Circle as listed
in the two Working Plans are outlined briefly below:

Conservation and propagation of Biodiversity

Increase density of Forest Crop

Soil & water conservation

Improve habitat for wildlife
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Conservation and propagation of endangered species

Provide special protection to plants of medicinal value

Involve fringe villagers for active cooperation in eco-development
To meet these objectives the following treatments are proposed in general:

Wildlife Habitat Improvement by Enrichment Plantation which will include
species suitable for wildlife in general and Elephant in particular.

Priority would be given to engineering structures (Soil Moisture Conservation
measures) for preventing soil erosion.

Special Fire protection measures including fire lines and use of fire blowers.

Provisions for salt licks and water holes.

Creation of Grass lands and meadows especially for herbivores.

Studies on elephant habitat utilisation by engaging Research Scholars.

Bio-diversity assessment and monitoring by engaging Scientist and Research
assistant.

To create a Bio-diversity Park for nature lovers and student having Biology as a
subject in their reading to identify the species, their phenology and area of
distribution.
1.22 Wildlife Conservation:
Objectives of Wildlife Management:
• To improve the habitat of wildlife by reducing biotic interference caused in the
form of illicit felling, poaching, grazing, shifting cultivation, encroachment,
over exploitation of timber and bamboos and forest fire etc.
• Food, water, cover and space are the most important components of wildlife
habitats
• To conserve and preserve the diversity and integrity of flora and fauna within
natural ecosystem.
• To carry out extensive as well as intensive research concerning to the
improvement and development of wild habitat and wildlife.
• To educate the local inhabitants about the importance of wild fauna in the
forest ecosystem.

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• To conserve the existing prime wildlife habitats like the areas which are
frequently visited by wild animals and birds for shelter, food, water, cover, etc.
By providing adequate protection and by taking various developmental
measures.
• Food is an essential prerequisite for wildlife habitat. Food availability in a
habitat changes with the season. Herbivores depend on plant materials for their
sustenance and normally selective feeders as their food preference are related
to palatability.
Herbivores prefer the leaves, barks, twigs, flowers, fruits and seeds of their selective
species. Wild elephants feed on barks and leaves of especially of Moraceae family. Deer,
monkey, langur, hares feed on wild fruits. Among the plant materials, grass constitutes a
major portion of the herbivores’ foods.
Dead trees (snags) and stag headed trees are to be preserved for avi-fauna (wood picker)
and reptiles like snakes and lizards to live and breed. Similarly rookeries are to be
preserved for mongoos to live and breed. Earthen mounts inside the forests are to be
retained for bear and ratel that mainly depend on white ants.
Wildlife are basically divided into two broad groups i.e. Carnivores and herbivores.
Carnivores prey on herbivores. The population growth of herbivores will increase the
population of carnivores. Therefore, protection to forest is primefacily required. Besides,
anti-depredation squad has to be deployed at vulnerable places in order to depredate
elephant intervening to human habitats and herbivores soling near the villages to quench
their thirst during summer.
1.22.1. Methodology:
This conservation plan will follow the methods regularly used by foresters (starting from
forest guard to DFO, Waidhan Division). The objectives of this plan are necessarily,
prescriptions of approved Working Plan need to be followed by the foresters for
management of both forest and wildlife of the ZoI of this coal block area. The prescriptions
are applicable to the Core area (mining project) and Buffer area i.e. 10 km from the
periphery of mining lease boundary.
Biogeographically, the state falls in Deccan bio-region comprising representative fauna of
central India like Leopard (Panthera pardus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Sambhar (Cervus
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unicolor), Chital (Axix axis), Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) and Wild Boar (Sus
scrofa). The wild buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and Hill myna (Gracula religiosa) are also
present which have been declared as rare and endangered (IUCN Red Data Book).
1.22.2. Data Referred:
The following Data has been referred;

Project Details including impact of mining.

Locality factors including Climate, Geology, Hydrology and Ecology.

Demography

Forest and Wildlife related Chapters of Working Plan.

Bio-diversity scenario.

Survey of India Toposheets, Maps indicating mining area, surface map, forest
maps of Singrauli district.

Information about Plant species of medicinal and economic importance.

Information about rare and endangered plants and animals.

Information about Wildlife census and Poaching.

Information about Compensation paid to victims due to Wildlife- Human
interface.

Present forest management practices and Working Plan prescriptions.

Present Wildlife management in the area as depicted in the Working Plan
(Wildlife overlapping Working Circle).
1.22.3. Data Source:
• Working Plans of Singrauli Forest Division were the primary source of Data for
preparation of this Plan.
• Range Officer, Bandha, Tehsil-Sarai, furnished data about poaching, compensation to
Wildlife Victims apart from data on wildlife census, presence and movement of wild
animals and indirect evidence about them in the impact area of this Coal mine.
• On our approach to Chief Conservator of Wildlife regarding census figure of Wildlife
in the State, he replied that no such detailed census has been carried out nor recorded.
• Topo Sheets, Mining Plan with maps were provided by the User Agency.
• Forest Maps of Singrauli district particularly coridor area was collected from
Divisional Forest Office, Singrauli and studied.
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• The local Forest Staff and villagers were also interviewed by displaying a pictorial
Book on Wildlife according to Schedule as depicted in the Wildlife Protection Act,
1972 to collect data about wildlife available in the area.
The Project area and Impact area was visited by the author to conceptualize the flora and
fauna available in the area from 10.08.2021 to 15.08.2021.
The following informations were collected from Mining Plan:
• Although the life of this mine is considering 36 years (excluding 4 years of
construction period).
• The gross geological reserve of Bandha Coal Mine is 610.61 MT
(Proved+indicated) and 207.35 MT minable reserve and 197.00 MT Extrable
Reserve.
• Green belt development, progressive afforestation since inception of the project
and concurrent backfilling from 10th year of mining will facilitate at least
ground nesting birds and reptile and small herbivores to take shelter in and
under the reclaimed land/ green cover.

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 CHAPTER-2
THE PERCEIVED IMPACTS
OF THE PROJECT ON THE
ENVIRONMENT
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2.0. THE PERCEIVED IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT

2.1. Impact on the Environment in General:
Any mining project has its impacts on the biotic, physical and socio-economic
environment. Some are beneficial to the society some are not. Evaluating these impacts, all
projects are implemented. The Bandha Coal Block is not left untouched in these aspects.
When certain impacts are disasters, it necessitates mitigating such problem with
established technology and scientific study. Such negative impacts are discussed here to
help in implementing mitigative measures. This mining lease when in operation will
certainly displace wild animals and flora and restrict the use of habitat within the lease. All
the species from the area of mine will be displaced to the adjoining Protected Forest.
Mining have long term adverse impacts on wildlife, including impairment of its habitat or
native environment. Many animal species cannot adjust to the changes brought on by the
land disturbances due to mining. Important habitats such as primary breeding ground may
lead to elimination of species. The unique habitat of old forest growths may be impossible
to restore even after proper reclamation of the mined out areas. The exodus of animals
from the lease area will force them to move into safer habitats, putting extra pressure there
on existing resources and also they may move into human habitation, leading to more
conflict with human.
The surface exhibits a moderately undulating topography with reddish soil and sporadic
occurrences of sandstone exposures. The general ground elevation of the Mine varies
between 405.00 m in the north western part to 475.00m above M.S.L. towards southern
part of the Mine. The drainages of the Mine are controlled by seasonal nala namely Bandha
Nala and Kachanmuda Nala. Bandha Nala flows from south to north inside the Mine and
then east to west near Ujjaini village north of the Mine. Finally, Bandha Nala discharges
into Mahan River near Tingudi village north-west of the Mine. Kachanmuda Nala flows
south to north inside the Mine. The drainage pattern exhibited in the area is mainly
dendritic to sub-dendritic.
The structure of the Mine is simple. The Mine is traversed by only one fault i.e. F1-F1. F1
– F1 fault is entering from northwestern boundary of the Mine with throw amount of 30m
and as the fault moves easterly the throw gradually reduce to 0m. Roof of Seam VII and

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parting above is faulted, on the basis of that fault is marked. Positions of fault on the floor
of seams are shown in floor contour plans and seam folio plans. Thickness of the coal seam
in the block area is varying from 0.47 m to 15.05 m.
Geological coal reserves have been estimated Category-wise (proved & indicated), Grade-
wise (G4 to G17 for proved reserve), Depth wise and Thickness wise. A total of 560.3814
MT of total reserves (Net Proved+ Indicated) has been estimated, out of this total reserves
452.0587 MT comes under proved category and 108.3227MT in indicated category.
Proposed coal block is virgin lease area, However requisite infrastructure will be
developed for mining operation & allied activities such as Rest shelters, Blasting shelters,
First-aid center, drinking water supply, Site-offices, Stores, CHP, Railway Siding,
Workshop for HEMM, Explosive magazine, STP, ETP, WTP and toilets within the mining
lease as per requirement.
During the mine development, requisite infrastructure will be developed as per requirement
for mining operation & allied activities such as Rest shelters, Blasting shelters, First-aid
center, drinking water supply, Site-offices, Stores, CHP, Railway sidings, Workshop for
HEMM, Explosive magazine, Sewage Treatment Plant, Effluent Treatment Plant for
HEMM Work-shop and Water Treatment Plant for treatment of Mine Water and toilets,
within the mining lease.
Table-2.1: Configuration of HEMM
Sl No Particulars Capacity No. of equipment
HEMM
OBR
1. Diesel Hydraulic shovel 10-12 m3 18
2. Rear Dumper 100 T 168
3. Diesel Drill 250 mm 23
4. Dozer 410 HP 18
COAL WINNING
1. Surface Miner 50 T Class (2200 mm) 1
2. Surface Miner 100 T Class (3800 mm) 1
3. Front End Loader 3.8 m3 5
4. Rear Dumper 35 T 19
5. Dozer with Ripper 410 HP 2
6. Diesel Drill 160 mm 2

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Sl No Particulars Capacity No. of equipment

HEMM
COMMON
1. Grader 550 HP 2
2. Crane 75 T 2
3. Crane 40-50 T 2
4. Crane 9-11 T 2
5. Front End Loader 5.74/6.4 m3 1
6. Hydraulic Shovel/Back Hoe 3.2/3.8 m3 2
7. Dozer 410 HP 2
8. Wheel Dozer 460 HP 2
RECLAMATION
1. Hydraulic Shovel/Back Hoe 3.2/3.8 m3 1
2. Dozer 410 HP 2
3. Grader 280 HP 3
4. Tipping Trucks 8 m3 5
5. Water Sprinklers 70 KL 5
6. Scrapper 2
7. Road Sweeping Machine 2
8. Mist Spray Gun 2

Before any attempt is made to reduce various stressors and to avoid / minimize or mitigate
their adverse impacts, it is necessary to identify various factors that have negative
influence on the bio-diversity (flora and fauna). These are specified below considering the
terms of reference for the preparation of Site Specific Wildlife Conservation Plan:
2.1.1. Impact on Soil:
Land degradation is the main impact of the mining. As mentioned above, the existing
topography of the core zone (Bandha Coal Block) shall be altered due to the mining
project. The mining has been proposed to be done by horizontal slicing and as per field
position commonly it has been noticed that the top soil is very thin. The Overburden
generated may impact the productivity of the adjacent land, if not properly reclaimed. The
soil is ferruginous sandy soil, typical of the area.
2.1.2. Geomorphic Changes:
This is a long term impact in which the original surface is disturbed, removed and
redistributed. Origin of nalas or nala heads is obliterated. Top of the hill is sliced and
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altitude will be altered. The soil of underground layers is piled up on the surface. These
changes are so severe, quick and systematically drastic that it usually leads to destruction
or extinction of species in areas of excavation and soil piling. Large ungulates and those
having large home ranges leave the area. Reptiles, burrowing rodents and small mammals
like porcupine and hare may be totally destroyed.
2.1.3. Loss of Forest Cover (Habitat):
Out of the total forest area of 785.49 Ha, except, the safety zone of 18.0 Ha (10.5 Ha along
the lease area and 7.5 Ha along the nala), all forest growth will be cleared within the lease
period i.e. 36 years (excluding 4 years construction phase) in phases according to approved
by Mining Plan by MoC. All such activities will seriously affect the wildlife habitat.
Besides, anthropogenic pressure from the migrant work force will also contribute to habitat
degradation. All wild animals, arboreal, terrestrial & underground will be affected. Effect
on wildlife will be direct or indirect, both short term and long term. The impact on wildlife
is due to disturbing, removing and redistributing the land surface. A species may either be
destroyed or more commonly displaced in areas of excavation and spoil piling. Geo-
morphological changes reduce or eliminate living space. Where a critical habitat like
primary breeding area is lost, a species may be dislocated.
2.1.4. Soil Erosion:
Although provision has been made in the proposed land use Plan for storage of top soil
over 28.75 Ha, part of it will get washed away unless assiduously protected by biological
method. The general slope being south east, during rains, there is danger of soil erosion
from the surface of the overburden dumps. Soil disturbance and compaction, movement of
heavy earth moving machineries (HEMM) & tippers on haul roads, scouring of banks of
garland drains also lead to soil erosion. Unless erosion is firmly arrested, regeneration of
reclaimed areas will be slow and ineffective. Productivity of an eroded area will be poor
due to loss of soil structure and aggregate break down. Loss of productivity will delay or
exclude the possibility of colonization by displaced animals. Sediment load will clog the
nala and affect the feeding and breeding of amphibians and fish fauna.

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2.1.5. Moisture Loss:

Mine area bereft of forest cover will mean less of percolation and more run off of rain
water. This will affect the hydrology of Bandha Nala, which discharges into Mahan River.
The sediment load will render it unfit for use by animals.
2.1.6. Forest Fire:
The importance to address forest fire is felt on a priority basis owing to its effects on most
eco-systems’ flora and fauna. Forest Fires can be Characterized in terms of the cause of
ignition, their physical properties, the combustible material present and the effect of the
weather on fire. They can cause damage to property and human life, except in those areas
where it may induce growth and development of grass and meadow for wider benefit for
wildlife. Forest fires mostly occur during the dry summer months (February to June) when
most of the state’s deciduous forest shed their leaves. It is the mandatory task of a Forester
to address this vital issue by checking fire occurrence through preventive measures like
creating awareness programme, involvement of VSS and EDCS, fire line creation etc. and
protective measures like extinguishing forest fire. Recent technological interventions on
location of forest, fire occurrences received through satellite data from Forest Survey of
India and hence to plan and address mitigation programmes within a time frame. One of
the easiest and effective ways of glowing leaf litter and creating fire lines to control further
spread of forest fire – is the use of air blowers.
Intensive use of the area by labour force and machines is a potential hazard as a source of
fire. Accidental fire in coal stock piles in summer may spread to forest and create large
scale damage to ground flora, shrub layer and trees. Ground nesting birds, slow moving
reptiles or mammals and young ones will perish in such an eventuality. Accidental fires
that sweep over forest degrade the habitat and recovery is a slow process either through
root stock or seed fall. Plantation may be damaged outright.
2.1.7. Accidental fall:
By the end of 5th year and 10th year of mining, it may lead to accidental fall of large
animals like sloth bear, deer or even elephant inside the pit, which will either be fatal or
result in permanent disability/ casualty.

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2.1.8. Air pollution and Rise in Ambient local temperature:

Combustion of coal occurs due to exothermic reaction between coal and air in extreme hot
and arid scenario. Coal seam fires may also happen occasionally. Burning of coal results in
the production of CO2, SO2, N2O and in many other toxic substances. Coal bed methane
(CBM), though not substantial in the ML area, it is generally lost to atmosphere through
exposed seams or from piles or through boreholes or fissures or cracks in the ground
surface. Methane is 24 times more potent as green house gas than CO2. Nitrous oxide ranks
at the top of green house gas. As the coal of Singrauli coalfields is having dual characters
of both low and high rank also the ambient temperature in the locality goes up to 45oC in
summer. Therefore, combustion of coal has to be guarded against.
2.1.9. Noise Pollution:
Drilling, blasting, movement of HEMMs, surface miner etc. will create substantial noise.
Similar noise will be produced in adjacent coal blocks, which will be felt in this area also.
Such noise may result in emigration of animals. Other adverse effects of noise pollution
are:

Hearing loss, resulting from noise levels of 85 db or more

Marking, which is the inability to hear important environmental cues and animal signals
like mating call, alarm call etc essential for survival

Physiological effects due to stress, i.e. increased heart rate or respiration, weakened
immune response etc.

Behavioral effects depending on noise levels may result in loss in reproductive fitness,
neglect in parental care.

Constant rumble of tippers and excavators, pay loaders may mask the sound of down
chorus of birds, particularly males to attract females. Upsetting this vital part of breeding
process and this could decline the bird population.

Drowning noise made by approaching predators and blockade of alarm calls.
2.1.10. Dust Pollution:
Barring rainy days and those during which ground remains wet, dust pollution is
considerable in summer. Huge clouds of dust disrupt normal living conditions. It may
cause inflammation of lungs and breathing problems leading to overly aggressive

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responses in animals. Dust is a stressor, as it alters heart rate. Dust contains bacteria, fungi
and virus and can cause disease in stressed animals. In plants, dust may bring down
photosynthesis due to reduced light penetration. In the long run, due to reduced seeding,
regeneration is affected. Dust deposits increases the incidences of plant pests and diseases
by acting as a medium for the growth of fungi and reducing natural predators of insect
pests of plants.
2.1.11. Light Pollution:
The coal yard, office, garage space, workshop, staff quarters, coal-washery, all of these
will remain lighted from dusk to dawn. Horizontal dispersion of chronically increased
illumination is disadvantageous to all wild animals. They are disoriented, their normal
movement and behavior patterns namely, light sensitive cycles are altered.
2.1.12. Invasive weeds:
Weeds like Xanthium strummarium, (Cocklebur), Parthenium hysterophorus (Carrot
grass), Chromolaena odorata (Poksunga), Ocimum gratissimum (Bantulasi) etc may strike
a strong hold invading the area. Weeds are invasive in nature because their seeding
potential is higher and seeds are produced round the year. Such weeds are able to
disseminate their seeds through air currents or through water. They thrive and multiply
well, where the vigour of natural vegetation is weakened through clearings; weeds have
low water and nutritional requirement and multiply well in altered landscape, where the
soil is new. However, weeds are strong light demanders. Weeds like Lantana camara
(Naga Airi) is propagated by birds of field and scrub level vegetation. Uprooting of weeds
is expensive, difficult to accomplish, it robs nutrients and makes establishment of
plantation difficult. Weeds serve no purpose as food for animals.
2.1.13. Disturbance due to vehicular traffic:
Coal extraction has been proposed to be carried out by deploying surface miners. Surface
miners will cut the coal and leave the cut coal behind it as windrows. The mine is proposed
to be worked by shovel-dumper combination for OB excavation and Surface Miner for coal
winning and loading by FE Loader (3.5-4.0 m3) in conjunction with 40 T & 100 T Rear
Dumper. The mining operation will be carried out as per the approved Mining Plan.

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2.1.14. Garbage:
Much garbage is likely to be generated by labor force carrying their eatables, in canteen,
staff quarters, office etc. The garbage is not only offending to the environment; it attracts
stray dogs, jackals, Hyena, crows and kites. Ingestion of polythene wrappers may spell
disaster for mammalian species by blocking their alimentary canal leading to death.
2.2. Impact in the zone of Influence (10 km radius):
2.2.1. Depletion of Forest Growth:
Of the total study area of 1850.94 Ha, 785.49 Ha is forest area present in mining lease area.
The forests are more or less well conserved. However, influx of migratory population in
search of work in coal mine will require small poles for hutments and other bonfire use.
Several service providers like grocery shops, eateries, Kiosks etc will come up in the area
which will also need construction material. Several mine blocks in series, adjacent to one
another, when operate in full swing, it is likely that forest habitat will get depleted and
degraded further. Degradation of forest shall result in loss of food and shelter availability
for several species of animals. Consequently, a sub-optimal habitat will no longer be able
to hold and support wild animals for long, which will force emigration to less disturbed
and better habitats.
2.2.2. Fragmentation of Habitat:
This is emergence of discontinuity in animal habitat. Habitat fragmentation occurs due
forest degradation and change in land use pattern. Habitats once become divided into
separate fragments, the animals will suffer for food, water etc. Due to fragmentation of
habitat, smaller forest areas tend to be smaller islands isolated from each other and loose
habitat qualities of a unified massive landscape. The process involves 6 discrete
phenomena, viz.
I. Reduction in total area of habitat
II. Increase in the amount of edge
III. Decrease in the amount of interior habitat
IV. Isolation of one habitat fragment from other areas of habitats.
V. Breaking up of one patch of habitat into several smaller patches.
VI. Decrease in average size of each patch of habitat.

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Habitat fragments are rarely representative samples of the initial landscape. By direct
reduction of space for both plants & animals, biodiversity is affected. Species like
elephants, which have long home range, move from one habitat fragment to the other.
Those that do not have this faculty, e.g. porcupine, hare, python etc are constrained to
remain in a smaller fragment. Smaller fragments mean smaller number of species and
lesser population of a species. Smaller populations are vulnerable to extinction with
reduced viability due to inbreeding and/or climatic catastrophe or diseases. Habitat
fragmentation leads to ‘edge effects’. Micro climates differ significantly between the
interior habitat and the edge habitat. Smaller fragments are likely to be more vulnerable by
fire damage. Species adapted to interior habitats are less likely to survive in an edge habitat
of smaller fragments are less likely to survive in an edge habitat of smaller fragments.
Invasive weeds take a faster stronghold in an edge habitat to the gradual exclusion and
elimination of native species. In nutshell, habitat fragmentation lowers the viability of the
habitat, critical to the survival of several species.
2.2.3. Forest Fire:
Fire is lit in the forest for several purposes viz. for ease of collection of Sal seeds, Mahua
flower, Tendu leaves, grazing, and facilitating shikar, to get nutrient wash from forest floor
to fields and so on. However, coal mining will introduce yet another threat from accidental
coal fires from stacks and its spread to forests far and wide. Large work force is a threat as
a causative agent. True, fire leads to short term increases in animal food and temporary
increase in breeding potential but subsequently, these increases are upset by animals’
inability to thrive in an altered, simplified plant structure, which has a reduced shelter
value. Fire severity, frequency size etc change the species composition of plant community
and the dependent animal species. Responses of fauna to fire may include injury to larger
mammalian species and death of python, ground nesting birds like partridges, jungle fowl
and pea fowl etc. Although fire creates snags, they can also destroy snags, down wood and
important nurseries of animals under bushes. Fires increase dead wood; there is an eruption
of wood borers and consequently insect eating birds. Raptors increase due to increased
visibility. Fire alters chemical, physical and biological properties of the soil, annihilates
soil microbes, reduce soil fertility and makes reforestation problematic due to lack of

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nutrients in soil. Fires also alter infiltration rates of rain water by clogging fine pores in soil
by splash effect of rain drops. Over all, fire is deleterious to wild animals in the long run.
2.2.4. Soil Erosion:
When ground cover is destroyed and mineral soil is exposed due to mining, soil loss is
accelerated during peak flow. Run off increases in steep inclines devoid of vegetation and
carries silt loads with it. Soil erodability is enhanced due to unstable soil and rapid change
in geo morphology. As a consequence, natural regeneration is hampered and afforestation
becomes problematic due to slow growth. As soil type is reflected in the nature of
vegetation and the nature of vegetation is prime determinant of wild animal species, eroded
soil means poor animal community.
2.2.5. Loss of Biodiversity:
Biodiversity is variability within life entities such as species, individuals (genes),
populations, communities and ecosystems. This allows adaptation of life forms to change
and thus the generation of new biodiversity. Protecting the process of evolution is of
central interest. Maintenance of biodiversity sustains the adaptive capacity of life, its loss is
non adaptive. The latter threatens the very existence of the life support system and shelters
inter and intra specific relationships and dependence. The loss of biodiversity means loss
of resilience in ecosystem. Direct drivers of biodiversity loss are land cover change,
fragmentation, habitat loss, pollution and increase in ambient temperature of a locality. The
crux of the problem is once lost, biodiversity and the resultant ecosystem functions cannot
be recreated. Decrease in genetic variation in a small and isolated population, not open to
migration results in genetic drift and disadvantageous genes get fixed in a population.
Decreased variation or heterozygosity leads to increase in inbreeding resulting in
inbreeding depression in a population.
2.2.6. Loss of Natural Water Resources:
There are 2 nala and one River is located in the study area of Bandha Coal Block. The
drainages of the block are controlled by Bandha Nala and Kachanmuda Nala. Bandha Nala
flows from south to north inside the block and then east to west near Ujheni village north
of the block. Finally, Bandha nala discharges into Mahan River near Tingudi village
northwest of the block.

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Bandha Nalla is to be strengthened by making embankment, etc. for safe operation of mine
and may be utilized for discharge of rainy season water and treated water from the
minefield.
These nalas have more or less perennial water in summer months, getting dry with isolated
water pools in drought years. But with increased mining activities and diversion of nala,
increased silt load in water courses, it is feared that periodicity of stream flow will get
seasonal and pools of water less. This may pose really serious problem to mega herbivore
like elephant. Consequently, elephant habitats of today may not be supportive of any
elephant population, although smaller animals may cling on to the habitat.
2.2.7. Animal Depredation:
The habitations and cultivation are all in low lying nala banks on foot hills. Forest
boundaries being very zigzag, elephant groups, while moving from one forest to other due
to fragmentation, essentially have to pass through intervening cultivation. Even otherwise,
during migration, elephants keep to water courses and level grounds for conserving their
energy. The intensive mining activities in the region are feared to affect the normal
movement pattern and consequently, the quantum of depredation will not only increase but
may surface in hitherto unknown areas.
Aggression in elephants in this area is not known but may manifest due to stress syndrome
thrust due to loss of habitats and accustomed travel routes. Stress alters the delicate balance
of body metabolism, which the animal tries to avoid through either escape or determined
approach to obliterate the stressor. Such deliberate movement is conditioned by secretion
of hormones. Past favorable and/or unfavorable experience determine the course of action
and approach to human beings.
2.2.8. Poaching:
Poaching is not a problem in the locality now. Given the good access of interstate road, rail
link close by, interstate border, cases of poaching may surface anytime, when large number
of mine laborers and transporters will congregate in the mine area. Interstate poacher gangs
may enter the villages in guise of persons connected with mine survey and working. Lure
of cash and gifts may motivate simple tribals not only to host the poacher but to cooperate
and lead him as well. Poacher will always exploit the depredation scenario and

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vulnerability of the people to his advantage. Poaching for elephant tusks, bear bile,
mongoose hair, and pangolin scales, trapping of live birds and even capture of snakes may
occur. Such activities will make a dent on biodiversity status & plant and animal
communities.
2.2.9. Displacement Dilemma:
Animals displaced from mine areas or natural home ranges may be forced to use adjacent
areas in buffer zone, which may be stocked to its carrying capacity. Overcrowding of
displaced animals in remaining habitats of buffer zone results in their degradation and
hence lower is the carrying capacity. This gives rise to reduced reproductive success,
increased inter species and intra species competition and theoretically greater losses to
animal numbers.
2.2.10. Grazing by Livestock:
Domestic cattle and buffaloes are usually taken to nearby forests for grazing. As mining
will reduce the area available to livestock, the incidences of grazing in some patches will
increase, as rotational facilities may not exist. This will have an impact on vegetation, the
common food resources of wild animals. Competition for food may be intense and health
of domestic/wild animals may be negatively affected. Coupled with inbreeding depression
in a fragmented scenario, wild animals may be more vulnerable to cattle borne diseases.
2.2.11. Heavy Vehicular Traffic:
Mining activities will mean enhanced vehicular traffic in the buffer zone. The traffic will
not only be on the main road alone but on the interior approach roads as well. Shortcut
roads may develop to railway siding, coal washery and main road. Network of road and
traffic will add to fragmentation, pollution levels and surface as a barrier to movement of
animals across roads.
2.2.12. Disturbance due to Noise and Light:
The combined effect of noise of machineries and lights will be stressors enough to affect
the physiology, behaviour and movement patterns. Faced with the option of limited habitat
use, depredation intensity and frequency may be on the rise. The sky glow is known to
alter activity pattern of birds by disturbing their innate behaviour.

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2.2.13. Conflict over Resources:

Mining involves appropriation and loss of resources, which people rely on for their
livelihood e.g. agricultural land, forests, drinking water resources (streams), grazing
grounds, NTFP producing areas and even loss of homes. Unless the lost livelihood is
adequately addressed and if the people do not benefit from the mine, a conflict will ensue.
2.2.14. Artifacts within the Landscape:
a) Road Link:
The Bandha Coal Mine Area is connected through both Ranchi – Renukut – Singrauli –
Bargawan – Sidhi – Rewa national highway and Waidhen-Bargawan-Sidhi state highway.
From both national highway and state highway, network of forest roads and few pakka
jeepable roads are available connecting the surrounding villages. The block is connected
with Rajmelan by metalled road and the distance is about 25 km. The nearest big township
is Waidhan located at a distance of 50 km from the block.
b) Rail Link:
The nearest railway station for Bandha Block is Deoragram (between Bargawan & Sarai
stations), on Chopan-Singrauli-Katni-Jabalpur section of East Central Railway at a distance
of 6 km from the block. Singrauli Railway station is 27 km from Waidhan. The distances
of important places from Waidhan are - Varanasi (nearest Airport) 250 km, Renukoot, an
industrial township and important railway station on Chopan-Garhwa Road Section of
Eastern Railway is at a distance of 70 km. Chopan - Singrauli – Katni Rail line passes
through North Western Corner of the Block.
c) Electric Transmission Lines:
High Voltage Transmission Power line (400KV) passes almost centrally throughout the
block. The power line has to be shifted suitably away from the Bandha Coal Block
boundary as per statutory norms for operation of Bandha OCP.
d) Boundary wall and other civil Constructions:
Boundary wall of residential complex and other civil constructions like, houses, culverts
and bridges are a deterrent for free movement of animals next to mining pits and O.B.
dumps. This is worrisome for free movement and continuance of animal populations in this
belt.

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 CHAPTER-3
OBJECTIVES OF
MANAGEMENT AND
MITIGATION STRATEGIES
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3.0. OBJECTIVES OF MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES

3.1. Objective of Management:
The main objective of the plan is to reduce various stress begin due to the working of the
mine in this particular locality touching wildlife. The Site Specific Wildlife Conservation
Plan will suggest measures to minimise or mitigate such stress, if possible how to avoid
certain activities which could reduce the negative influence of the mining activity.
Wildlife management consists of promoting welfare factors, arresting or reducing the
impacts of decimating factors and neutralizing harmful effects of limiting factors that
keep the animal population lower than the carrying capacity of the area. It also aims at
management of human dimensions relating to regulation of habitat use, sufferance from
animal damages, livelihood issues and taking people as partners in conservation
management. Such concerns are reflected in the prescriptions. The management of the
ML area will aim for maintenance of habitat for smaller animals that used to live and
share habitat with mining activity. At the same time, the virgin area will nurture as a part
of the larger habitat for wild animals that may come over. The management of Buffer
Zone will target optimization and maintenance of wildlife habitat and biodiversity,
involving local people as far as practicable and aim to avoid / minimise or mitigate the
adverse impacts of the mining activity. The ML area has full of forest growth. Tall trees
stand in virgin area. Besides small animals larger ones like deer and elephants make use
of the area regularly, as the area is undisturbed. Large animals will be displaced form the
area once the mining commences with full vigour. The displaced animals should not be
left as refugee. Their rehabilitation would be the major objective of the plan. To fulfil all
these requirements, the plan focused on improving forage and browse volume by
increasing food plant diversity with vertical and horizontal cover. These will arrest
habitat destruction and fragmentations also prevent soil erosion and loss of bio-diversity.
Keeping natural water resource free from negative impact of the mining activity will also
be targeted.
Objective of management to mitigate the threats to the wildlife is covering the following
aspects.

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i. Undertake appropriate attentive measures in mine working so as to avoid/minimise

or mitigate the adverse impacts on wildlife in and around the mine.
ii. Maintain/enhance food and cover values in buffer habitats while counterbalancing
decimating factors.
iii. Initiate studies on habitat utilization pattern of the Umbrella Species ‘elephant’ and
other wildlife with a view to strengthen and secure the critical habitat.
iv. Control depredation by wild animals to generate public support in conservation
management and build up synergy in conjunction with regular protection set up.
3.2. Strategies to Mitigate and Minimize adverse Impacts:
Keeping the above objectives in view, following strategies are suggested to mitigate and
minimize the adverse impacts.
3.3. Strategies for mining lease area:

3.3.1. Protection of Virgin Forest:

Total 08 Nos. of Van Sahayaks will be engaged for protection of 785.49 ha of virgin
forests. They will be selected from local villages on the recommendation of Forest Range
Officer, and Gram Head. The youth shall have working knowledge to read and write but
the prime requirement will be knowledge of the forest area and movement path of
animals. They will take orders from the Manager of the mine and report to him on day to
day happenings and animals seen. Each one will maintain a log book of area visited and
events/activities seen. They will have a bag with pencil, note book, a sharp knife,
measuring tape and water bottle. Uniform will be supplied to them. Rigid protection will
facilitate colonisation of plants in blank areas through wild air borne seeds and through
birds (Birds are litmus of nature). These forest patches will also provide shelter small to
animals.

3.3.2. Reclamation of Mine Pits & Plantation:

This is a virgin mine. As the mine is to be top sliced, reclamation of mine pits is not
possible instantaneously. However, after 10 years onwards, reclamation followed by
biological afforestation can be done. For this, the mining has to be systematic and
directional. Indigenous species preferred for elephant food and associate cover values will

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be planted. Besides, plantings over safety zone of 39.5 ha of ML area and other suitable
vacant area will be planted.
Table-3.1: Land Use during Mining and Post Closure (Ha)
Land use (Post Closure)

use

Land Use ((End

Land
Company Use

Undisturbed
Water Body
(Proposed)

Agriculture
Type

(Returned)
Plantation
of Life)

Public/
Land

Forest

Total
land
Excavation Area 1315 0.0 - - - - - - 0.00
Backfilled Area 0.0 1200 295 905 - - - - 1200.00
Excavated Void 0 115 - - - 115 - - 115.00
Without Plantation 0 0 - - - - - - 0.00
External Dump 350 350 - 350 - - - - 350.00
Safety Zone 15 15 - - - - - 15 15.00
Road & 85 85 - - - 85 - - 85.00
Infrastructure Area
Settling Pond 15 15 - - 15 - - - 15.00
Garland Drains 10 10 - - - 10 - - 10.00
Rationalization Area 25.94 25.94 - 25.94 - - - - 25.94
Greenbelt 15 15 - 15 - - - - 15.00
UG Entry 10 10 - - - 10 - - 10.00
Undisturbed/Mining 10 10 - - - - - 10 10.00
Right for UG
Total 1850.94 1850.94 295 1295.94 15.00 220.00 - 25.00 1850.94

Within the project area restoration of habitat will be taken up in a gradual process simultaneously
with the mining activity. By the time of mine closure a major portion of the project area will be
developed in to a suitable habitat. During the conceptual period it is proposed to take up the
1200.00 ha backfilled area which will be used under green belt development programme and

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plantation will be done on 35.00 ha safety zone area and 20.00 Ha separate for greenbelt from
the base year.
Basing on the standard plantation norm i.e. 1200 seedling/ha, the total number of seedlings
proposed to be planted within the conceptual period will be 15,06,000 seedlings.
The safety zone area is situated around the mine pits. This area will be taken up for plantation
and will create a green belt around the mining area and will control spreading of dust and coal
powder. This belt will also act as a buffer zone between the mine and the Wild-life habitat. These
plantations have been prescribed in the mining plan, hence no additional funds are proposed for
this.

Table-3.2: Selected Species for Plantation

Browse plants
1 Dhaman Grewia tiliafolia
2 Bana Kapasia Kydia calycina
3 Bija Pterocarpus marsupium
4 Sisoo Dalbergia latifolia
5 Safed siris Albizzia procera
6 Kala Siris Albizzia adoratissima
7 Ber Ficus bengalensis
8 Hill Bamboo Dendrocalamus strictus
Cover plants
1 Mango Mangifera indica
2 Jamun Syzygium cumini
3 Chhatian Alstonia scholaris
4 Karanj Pongamia pinnata
5 Kusum Scheichera oleosa
6 Tamarind Tamarindus indica
7 Mundi Mitragyna parviflora
8 Kasai Bridelia restusa
9 Neem Azadirachta indica
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10 Jari Ficus retusa

3.3.3. Soil Erosion Control:

The opencast mine is planned upto 99.40 m to 501.13 m maximum depth on the floor of
seam-VII with overall average stripping ratio of 9.76 m3/ton. With due consideration to
geo-mining characteristics of the deposit, the mine is proposed to be worked by shovel-
dumper combination for OB excavation and Surface Miner for coal winning and loading
by FE Loader (3.5 — 4.0 m3) in conjunction with 40 T & 100 T Rear Dumpers. The
mining operation will be carried out as per the Approved Mining Plan which is approved
by Ministry of Coal, Govt. of India. Mining will be carried out 330 days / year, in 3
shifts/day, 8 hours/shift basis.
Due to the mining activities involving digging of large pits there will be substantial loss
of moisture. There will also be large scale soil erosion due to mining activity. Most of the
area will be covered for mining activity and mining pit will be dug excluding the safety
Zone. It is not practicable to take up any Soil and Water conservation activity within the
mining area. However in the safety zone the rain water will be diverted in easy gradient
channels to the settling tanks to cause minimum soil erosion. This provision has been
made in the Mining Plan as well as Environment Management Plan. Hence no separate
provision is made for this.
The OB dumps where soil erosion rate is anticipated to be very high will be stabilized by
planting of trees and grass. Such provision is made in the Mining plan; hence no separate
provision is made in this plan.

3.3.4. Grass Seeding:

The OB dumps, will be further stabilized by seeding of grass pellets all over. Such pellets
can be made by mixing powdered clay with organic manure in 6:1 ratio, needed to make
dough in which grass seeds are thoroughly mixed. Such dough is then rolled into balls of
1cm. dia and sun dried. Per hectare requirement of seeds will be 3 kg. Pellets will be put
at spacing of 1.5x1m and 7000 such pellets will be needed per ha. Species of grass to be
used are Imperata cylindrica, Chrysopogon zizanioides and Themeda triandra.

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3.3.5. Water Pollution Control:

The system of garland drains will be connected to settling tanks where turbid water is
allowed to move slowly. Alum is also added to the water facilitate sedimentation of silt
and colloid. The clean water will be allowed to be discharged in the natural streams. Here
also series of check dams will be made to facilitate deposition of silt. Grass cover over
blanks will also reduce silt load in water.
Water pollution is the most important factor in coal mining. Huge quantities of water will
be generated every day along with slurry which is to be removed from the mining pits. In
addition, large quantities of contaminated water due to cleaning of vehicles and
machineries, dumping of Garbage etc. will also be generated. The water pollution will be
controlled by treatment of water before releasing the same in to the natural drainage
system.
The discharged water will be collected in sump pits and channeled to sedimentation pond
and effluent treatment plant. Treated water will be used for dust suppression on haul
roads, washing of dumpers and dozers etc. The following steps are taken to control water
pollution:

Waste water generated in the work-shop and vehicle servicing/machinery servicing
units is channeled through oil & grease tap and settling tanks.

Provision of septic tanks, soak pits and Sewage Treatment plant installed for
domestic effluents.

Mine discharge water is treated and re-used.

Garland drains provided around OB dumps and the water channeled through settling
tanks.

Regular monitoring is done and corrective steps taken when required.

Oil and Grease recovered manually will be stored in drums and auctioned.
Surface runoff will be channeled through sedimentation ponds to settle the suspended
materials, garland drains and the overflow will be diverted to the natural drainage system.
All these measures have been proposed in the Environment Management Plan and
therefore special provision is not made for this.

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3.3.6. Dust Control:

Spreading of huge amounts of dust causes air pollution which affects more to the human
beings and the workers engaged in the mining activity, besides creating problems for the
wild animals. Therefore dust control is a major activity in the mining process. Dust
generation cannot be completely eliminated, but attempt is made to reduce the quantum
of dust in the mining process. The steps taken for control of dust are:

The drills are provided with well designed dust extraction/suppression system.
Wherever necessary, wet drilling will be taken up.

Blasting operation designed to produce minimum dust;

Use of optimum amount of explosive so as to produce minimum dust.

Use of sprinklers and dust suppression units at the time of loading, transportation and
handling of coal and over burden. Mobile water sprinklers and mobile Tankers will be
deployed in the project area wherever necessary particularly in the coal storage yard.

Dust extraction/suppression system installed in coal handling plant through mist
formation system and sprinklers at all transfer points as well as surrounding areas.

Black topping of haul roads and regular maintenance is done.

Regular maintenance of HEMMs and P&M.

Deployment of Surface Miners where, dust generation is controlled by water
sprinkling and the process of drilling, blasting and crushing are eliminated.

Green belt provided around the quarry, workshop complex and avenue plantation
taken up along haul roads and other roads.

Provision of adequate fire fighting arrangements.
Dust control measures have been proposed as compliance to Environmental Impact
Assessment and therefore special provision is not made for this.

3.3.7. Noise and Light Control:

The following measures will be taken to keep the noise at the minimum possible level:

Proper designing of plant & machinery by providing in-built mechanisms like
silencers, mufflers and enclosures for noise generating parts and shock absorbing
pads at the foundation of vibrating equipments.

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Silencers provided where necessary

Routine maintenance of equipments,

Enclosures for crusher house, etc.

Rational deployment of noise generating plant and machinery.

Greenbelts are created around the quarry, infrastructure sites, service building area
and avenue plantation along the haul roads to absorb Noise.

HEMMs are installed/ kept with sound proof cabins.

Chute linings in Coal Handling Plant.

Provision of isolation for vibrating equipments (both fixed and mobile).

Major portion of coal production is achieved by deployment of ecofriendly surface
miners, which eliminates the process of drilling, blasting and crushing, and reduces
noise & dust generation.

Wherever blasting is required the same is restricted to a particular time during the day
(preferably shift change time) so as to cause minimum panic to wild animals. Night
blasting if avoided.

Regular monitoring of noise levels at various points.
The core area of the mining activity is sufficiently illuminated. Such illumination detracts
the animals from the core mining area, which would otherwise be dangerous to their
lives.
The use of vehicular Headlights which disturb the animals is restricted and only dippers
are allowed within the mining area. These activities have been included in the mining
process and hence no special funds are required.

3.3.8. Garbage Management:

Since Garbage not only creates problems for the wild life but also creates problems for
mining activity. Particularly non-degradable materials like polythene bags etc. pose a lot
of problem for the machineries as well as Wild animals. Hence proper garbage
management is also an important activity in mining process. Some of the steps to be
taken within the mining area have been indicated under water pollution. The additional
steps which are to be taken for Garbage management are as follows.

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1) Entry of non-biodegradable materials which are likely to produce garbage such as

polythene bags, aluminum foils, tin foils etc. are restricted in to the Mining area.
2) Un-avoidable generation of hazardous materials such as used batteries, used oils,
parts of machineries and equipments are promptly collected and kept at secluded
places for disposal.
i. There will be generation of large number of used batteries. These batteries will be
kept in store and put to Auction sale every year.
ii. Similarly large quantities of used oil will be generated. This oil will be stored in
drums and auctioned annually.
iii. There will also be generation of huge quantities of Oily sludge from oil & grease
trap as well as substantial quantities of filter materials. These materials will be
disposed in pits lined with impervious layers.
3) The Garbage generated in the Mining area is regularly collected and segregated in-to
Bio-degradable and non-degradable materials.
4) The non-degradable materials if any are sent for recycling.
5) The Bio-degradable substances are put in the Compost pits for conversion in-to
manure. The Manure obtained from these pits will be utilized for plantation purpose.
6) Garbage management is an important activity as per provisions of Environmental
Management Plan. Hence no separate provision is made for this.

3.3.9. Fall of Animals in the Mining Pits:

In order to prevent accidental fall of animals in the mine pits the following steps shall be
taken.

The Executives and the Supervising staff will be educated and motivated to collect
information regarding presence of wild animals in the mining area. In case any such
animal is noticed it will be driven away to the nearest forest.

There will be large scale activities within the mining area and it will be sufficiently
illuminated with bright light so that the wild animals will avoid the area.

It is also proposed to install Solar Electric fencing over 10 km to prevent animals
from entering the project area. The cost involved in this will be Rs.50.00 lakh @5.00
lakh per km.
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In-spite of the precautions taken, in case of accidental fall of any wild animal in the
mining pit, the workers will be educated to inform the local Forest authorities and act as
per their advice.

3.3.10. Awareness Programme:

Strong awareness will be built up among mine workers about working ethics in a forest
area. They will be told to keep the noise levels to the barest minimum, take all precaution
against fire, damage to trees etc. Drivers carrying Coal from the mine will be appraised to
control speed of vehicle so as not to run over slow moving reptiles. Behavioural change
will be expected from each worker on the above points and use of garbage bins. Any sick
and injured animal will have to be rescued and given first-aid and water. Such animal is
to be subsequently handed over to the nearest forest official. No worker shall get
involved in crime against animals & forests. Such ethics can be installed through popular
lectures, through film shows and announcement/award of prizes to best eco friendly
worker.
The user agency will take steps to create awareness in the villages around the mining
area. The following activities will be undertaken.

Distribution of Leaflets.

Essay, Debate & Drawing competition in Schools & Colleges.

Street plays/Dance Drama. The provision of Rs. 40.00 Lakhs has been made in this
conservation plan for this activity at the rate of Rs. 4.00 Lakhs per annum.

3.3.11. Free distribution of Seedlings:

In order to improve forest cover around the project area certain seedlings are to be
supplied to the people in the villages around the project area. Teak seedlings and grafted
seedlings of fruit bearing plants in equal proportion will be distributed. It is proposed to
distribute 20,000 such seedlings per year. The estimated cost on this account will be
Rs.2.00 lakhs annually. Total cost Rs.20.00 lakhs for which provision has been made in
the conservation plan.

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3.3.12. Fire Line:

A fire line along with the boundary of the adjoin P.F./R.F. forest area and mine area will
be maintained. Workers engaged for fire tracing in the beginning of February in the
morning hours, when the wind is not high and ground wet, there after every fortnight till
the end of fire season. Every 100 m in the line, brush wood piles will be made in 2m
height and 1.5m dia to provide artificial shelter to small animals and gallinaceous birds.
Surrounds of such piles, however, will have to be periodically control burned of leaf litter
and brushwood. Trees above 30cm in girth will not be felled. Fire line will be maintained
in 4 to 5 m width. This line will be maintained for the rest period of the Mine.

3.4. Conservation Plan for Zone of Influence:

3.4.1. Studies on Elephant Habitat Utilization:

Habitat utilization by animals changed over time to time depending on habitat factors.
New areas may be used and favoured sites may be relinquished. As precise data is not
available, it is of utmost importance to initiate studies on elephant habitat use.
Provision of certain equipments such as Computers (Rs.2.00 lakhs), Camera traps
(Rs.5.00 lakhs), Night vision equipments (Rs.8.00 lakhs), GPS/DGPS (Rs.5.00 lakhs) etc.
totaling of Rs. 20.00 Lakhs has been kept in this conservation plan. Based on the
requirement the Forest Department can purchase the equipments from the fund allotted in
this conservation.

3.4.2. Measures for Man-Elephant/Animal conflict:

There will be regular movement of Forest officials, ADS, frontline staff, monitoring team,
Etc., for monitoring, supervision, and to combat man-animal conflict, especially during
elephant movement.
It is important for the forest team to quickly respond in case of any such information so
that they reach the impact site immediately and take control of the situation.
For doing so it is essential to equip them with sufficient vehicles, equipment required for
fire-fighting, controlling man-animal conflict, Anti-depredation Squad (ADS), etc. Hence,

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provisions of all such things have been proposed in the conservation plan the details of
which are given in this wildlife conservation plan.
It is also necessary to make people aware of the arrival of elephants in the area and
continuously monitor their movements until they leave the area. Hence, a monitoring cell
shall be stablished at the division level which should include Anti-depredation Squad
(ADS), Fire Watchers, JFMC members, and other frontline staff. The monitoring team will
raise alarm among the villagers to minimize damage and look for sagging overhead wires
to save elephants from electrocution. Following interventions can be planned by the
monitoring cell:
1) Anti-depredation Squad (ADS) to reach the conflict/impact sites immediately.
2) Hospitalization/Treatment of injured Wildlife.
3) Distribution of the prize money to the villagers and staff doing good work in the field
of Wild Life Conservation. The prize money should also be provided to villagers for
timely information regarding the Wild Life movement and conflict.
4) Immediate necessary help and compensation to victims.
5) Supervision and monitoring to combat man-animal conflict.
6) Implementation of site-specific Elephant Mitigation Measures
7) Wildlife Handling/Rescue of animals
8) Awareness and training programmes among locals and other stakeholders.
9) Provide Logistic support to the field staff.
10) To plan extensively to increase food base, water requirement, and shade in the
available forest area. In addition, an attempt should be made to retain wildlife in their
natural habitat to avoid conflict.
11) Use modern biological techniques to drive wild animals back to the forest without
causing harm or irritating them.
Following steps can be taken by the forest department/cell for restricting elephant in their
natural habitat:
1) Installation of barrier – Elephant Proof Trenches (EPTs), Hanging Fence, Bio-
fence, Chilly fence as per requirement, etc. The provision of Rs. 25.00 Lakhs has

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been made for Creation of various physical barriers like elephant proof trench (EPT),
removable barriers, spike walls, etc.
2) Use of Chilli: Chilli is known to have an irritating effect on the olfactory nerves of
elephants. Hence chili-based methods are found to be effective against elephants.
However, it may also act as a psychological barrier. Chilly as a repellent can be used
as chili smoke, chili rope, chili curtain, and chili bricks. Chili ropes were found to be
more effective against elephant family groups than bulls and in drier regions as
compared to high rainfall regions (Chelliah et al., 2010, Current Science); thus, it is
more appropriate to use this deterrent for only a few weeks prior to harvest of cereal
crops to minimize the chances of elephants being conditioned to recognize this as
harmless.
3) Beehive fences: Elephants are known to be afraid of bees. In Africa, bee hive fences
have been found to be effective in deterring elephants. A series of bee hives are
created at short intervals around the most affected village. The villagers can be
encouraged to start apiculture. When elephants try to enter the village, the bees get
disturbed and start buzzing around the elephant, thus driving away the elephants. It
is also said that if elephants encounter bees, they will alert other herd members
through low-frequency sounds (inaudible to humans). Farmers get an additional
benefit of income from honey and better pollination.
4) ANIDER in elephant prone area: Installation of Advance Device with GSM
facilities.
5) Smart Stick Forester: For self-defence when encountering with elephant.
6) Guiding elephant back into their natural habitat: Repellents like Dragon
Torches, Bee Sound (Plan Bee), Loud Speakers, Siren, Chilli Smoke, etc., can be
used. a. Chilli smoke is one of the effective methods as elephants are known to
sneeze and cough while inhaling the smoke. In addition, elephants change their paths
if they come across chili smoke. Chilli smoke can be generated in many ways,
limited only by human ingenuity. For example, it can be generated by incorporating
chili in slow-burning grass bundles or dung cake, sprinkling it on slow-burning
embers and campfires.

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7) Other methods, such as kerosene torch (Marshal) and swinging fireball, may be
used.
8) Playback calls of predators such as the tiger or even smaller carnivores such as
leopards may evoke negative responses in elephants and keep them from entering
agricultural areas. A loudspeaker can be used for this.
9) Involvement of local volunteers as Gajbandhu/Gajmitra.
10) Cash reward to villagers as Gajabandhu/ Gajmitra for information & their support
related to Elephant/Wildlife-Human conflict.
11) Awareness and training to JFMC, in Schools, and Village level volunteers for
Elephant Conservation & Protection.
12) Immediate help to victims due to elephant conflict in crop damage, injuries, house
damage, human & animal death, etc. In case of injuries to human beings, the affected
person should be provided treatment by the Forest Department free of charge.
13) One Software development and its maintenance/ upgradation for monitoring of
Elephant movement.
14) Construction of Watch Tower with rest room for ADS team, frontline staff, villagers,
etc. for monitoring and safe place during elephant raid.
15) Signage/Hoarding in frequently elephant affected villages.
16) Night Guarding: Community guarding is one of the most effective ways of
protecting crops. Farmers should sleep on watch towers or machans (platforms
constructed on trees). It needs to be done only when elephants are known to be
active in the area for crop raiding. It should be a community-based activity. Farmers
will encourage their participation.
17) Alternate cropping: Alternate cropping with non-edible crops like chili and citrus
not consumed by elephants could be grown on forest fringes, and areas near
settlements in forest fringes may deter elephants from reaching and raiding the crop
fields. Some forms of vegetative barriers may be effective.
18) Bulk SMS alerts: Whatsapp group for Bulk SMS alerts to monitoring team, JFMC
members, etc. In Valparai Plateau in Tamilnadu, SMS alerts help inform people of
elephant presence in the area. This system has helped to reduce accidental

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encounters between elephants and people and has reduced the mortalities of people
in the area. The SMS alert system is helpful in specific locations where there is a
problem of regular encounters with elephants.
19) Also, SMS alert requires investment in technology. Therefore, the farmers depend on
either the Forest Department or an NGO. SMS alerts have also been used
successfully in west Bengal to alert railway authorities about the presence of
elephants on railway tracks to minimize the death of elephants due to train hits
20) Dissemination: Training workshops should be conducted for the Forest Department
frontline staff in community crop guarding techniques. The frontline staff, in turn,
should train the community in these crop guarding techniques. In addition, literature
and training manuals should be made available on community crop guarding
techniques to the frontline staff and community.
21) Overall, coordination is essential between Forest Department, administration, and
local police to control local mobs, creating chaos during animal raids and hindering
the ADS team. So, crowd management becomes the most significant challenge and
may lead to injury to people. Therefore, managing the crowd with the local
administration's support is crucial.
Provision of creating awareness among community and forest officials for dealing such
situations and bringing it under control has also been proposed in the plan. Mitigative
measures to prevent elephants from entering into villages have also been suggested. The
provision of Rs. 40.00 Lakhs has been made for Awareness programme, training,
constitution of Hathi-Mitra dal in affected villages, hiring of vehicles, labour and other
expert services.
A “Nature Interpretation Centre cum Auditorium" propose for the Forest Division to
conduct awareness and training programmes. The centre will be equipped with all the latest
facilities required for imparting trainings to forest officials on Biodiversity
Awareness/Conservation/trainings to promote/conserve local art/craft/cultural heritage in
an around the forest division. The centre can also be used for conducting special safety
wildlife awareness programmes for locals, villagers and project officials in consultation

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with the Forest Department. The provision of Rs. 20.00 Lakhs has been made for the
construction of “Nature Interpretation Centre cum Auditorium".
The common people are unaware of the importance of wildlife in daily life, so they remain
unconcern about its importance. Apart from this, there are many general misconceptions
and beliefs about wildlife. The peoples kill them due to ignorance and apathy. There is a
need to educate local people about wildlife through a conservation awareness programme.
Education and awareness are vital for the conservation of wildlife. Some of the essential
awareness measures or steps could be:
1) Organizing wildlife awareness cum training programme regularly to deal with wildlife
conservation issues in the impacted areas.
2) Involvement of JFMC and local villagers in such awareness programmes.
3) Training Forest staff and JFMC to deal with local wildlife issues related to poaching and
man-animal conflicts with Elephant, Pangolins, Reptiles like Snakes, Monitor lizard,
Skink, etc. and the importance of birds, etc.
4) Special awareness programme for snake identification, snake bites, and first aid.
5) Bird Watching workshop and awareness programme in schools and colleges.
6) Signage/Hoarding in villages for awareness with photographs of wild animals reported in
the area and method of reporting to forest officials in case of any emergency.
7) Toll-free/phone number on signage for information regarding any wildlife mortality on
the road and other places.
It is a fact that the conservation of wildlife or forest cannot be dealt with in isolation. The
need of the people who are traditionally dependent on the forest for their livelihood should
be understood and their support should be sought on wildlife conservation measures.
Furthermore, eco-development measures can help in winning the confidence of local
people. The provision of Rs. 40.00 Lakhs has been made for the Developmental activities
in JFM areas for socio-economic development and Rs. 40.00 for Various eco-tourism
promotion activities.
Awareness programmes should also be conducted on specific issues which lead to the
human-animal conflict such as:
1) Cattle Grazing

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2) Collection of firewood from forest

3) Encroachment over forest land

3.4.3. Wildlife Census:

Annual game census will be organized, that involves taking stock of existing populations
of Leopard, Elephant, and other herbivores, Aves & reptiles. Combination of methods
will be used to obtain reasonable estimates of species populations. The methods include
24-hour Camera Trap method or PPP (Pug Impression Pad) method for leopards and
other mega wildlife near waterholes, spoor counts, walking strip counts, daily forest
guard observations and hunting reports. An analysis of the census data will provide
essential information on the present status of the mega wildlife species populations and
facilitate prediction of trends in composition and structure of these populations.
Studies of the characteristics of various species including mating habits, sex/age ratios,
breeding age, number of young at birth, feeding and roosting ranges, mobility, migration,
saturation point, carrying capacity, habitat requirements, food preferences, water
requirements and diseases.
This census will give an indication of increase or decrease in wildlife population growth
and basing on that, remedial measures for vegetative growth has to be adjudged.

3.4.4. Meadow Development:

This can be taken up in adjoining PF/RF in the Zone of Inflence where permanent gaps
are available and weeds have overgrown over 20 ha. First, the weeds will be uprooted
and grass seeds mixed with leguminoceae seeds will be sown broadcast before monsoons.
When such areas are not available, canopy pepper pot openings will be created and
undergrowth thinned to encourage grass growth. This will not be overdone to attract
weeds. Needless to say, cattle will have to be kept out of this area or regulated grazing
will be enforced. From Wildlife point of view these meadows serve the purpose of
grazing ground for herbivores.

3.4.5. Soil and Moisture Conservation:

With a view to neutralise effect of the limiting factor i.e. water and to conserve Soil &
Moisture content, one water body will be created in each P.F. at the periphery of mine
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lease area (As per Singrauli Forest Department).This is a hilly tract and water shortage is
felt during summer. All animals, especially small ones will be benefitted immensely,
since they have limited mobility. Water bodies will be made in valleys, depressions or
nalla banks where there is reasonable prospect of water storage during summer. Each
water body will be 40’ x 30’. Excavation will go up to about 5m depth. An amount of Rs
75.00 Lakhs @ of Rs 7.5 Lakh Per Annum has been proposed for Soil and Moisture
Conservation Activities.

3.4.6. Salt Licks:

Mineral salt is needed by all animals, starting from elephant, deer to porcupine, pangolin
etc. to have good health. To compensate the natural salt licks affected by habitat
degradation, 10 more salt licks will be provided. Salt licks are made by mixing 6 parts
clay with 1 part mineral mixture. Mineral mixture is compounded with 90 parts of
common salt, 8 parts of rock salt and 2 parts of mineral mixture. The latter consists of
essential elements like Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Zinc (Zn), Selenium (Se),
Molybdenum (Mo), Iron (Fe), Phosphorus (P), Sulphur (S), Boron (B) etc. The provision
of Rs. 25.00 Lakhs has been made for the construction of Salt lick near water bodies and
other suitable areas.

3.4.7. Corpus Fund:

A corpus fund at the Project cost will be operated by DFO, Singrauli division to outreach
victims of house damage or accidental death due to trampling by elephant in particular
and other mega wildlife in general. Ex-gratia will be sanctioned in part forthwith from
this fund by concerned DFO after preliminary enquiry report received from Range
Officer and Revenue Inspector and local Police Officer.

3.4.8. Inoculation of Livestock:

In Waidhan Taluka as per information gathered from VAS approximately 10,000 cattle
are living. Regularly they visit the nearby forest area where ungulates like deer, sambar,
wild boar and Nil gai are also living. These village cattle are often affected by FMD (Foot
and Mouth disease) when visit forest area for grazing such disease will transmit to wild
ungulates. In order to overcome this short-comings, the cattle will be regularly inoculated
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against F.M.D (Foot and Mouth Disease), to prevent spread of cattle borne diseases in the
forest and affect wild animals (Hoofed animals like Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar etc.).

3.4.9. Monitoring Committee:

A monitoring committee under the Chairmanship of Conservator of Forests will be

formed where D.F.O., Singrauli will be the member. Besides, the Range Officers,
Foresters, Forest Guards will also be members together with VSS (Van Surakhya Samiti)
presidents of V.S.S.s involved in the Project area. Also the Honorary Wildlife Warden of
Singrauli Division will be special invitees. A representative of User Agency shall also be
invited to such meeting.
The Forest Department staff as well as the members of VSS will be sent on exposure
visits within and outside the state. An amount of Rs.1.00 lakhs will be required annually.
Total cost Rs.10.00 lakhs has been provided in the conservation plan towards this.

3.4.10. Safeguard along Roadside:

The Bandha Coal Mine Area is connected through both Ranchi – Renukut – Singrauli –
Bargawan – Sidhi – Rewa national highway and Waidhen-Bargawan-Sidhi state highway.
From both national highway and state highway, network of forest roads and few pakka
jeepable roads are available connecting the surrounding villages.
There is movement of elephants and other herbivore/carnivore species from dusk to dawn
and possibility of accident is inevitable. Therefore State Highway Authorities will be
appraised to provide road underpass near the Rivers and Local Nalas within the
transportation route of coal in Singrauli coal field area.
Fluorescent Sign Boards (both metal boards as well as masonry boards) with good write
ups about movement of wild animals will be provided on sensible points of the National
Highway and State Highway adjacent to this Coal Block in order to make aware the
passers-by about occurrence of accident if they are confronted with wildlife. The
provision of Rs. 25.00 Lakhs has been made for the Safety precautions, signage, boards,
and displays to avoid the Man-Elephant/Animal conflict.

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 CHAPTER-4
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
WITHIN THE PROJECT
AREA WITH FINANCIAL
FORECAST
 Wildlife Conservation Plan for Bandha Coal Mine in Singrauli Forest Division, Madhya Pradesh of M/s EMMRL

4.0 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES WITHIN THE PROJECT AREA WITH

FINANCIAL FORECAST
A. Interventions to be implemented by the project authority inside the project area
with justification. All measures are discussed in Chapter-3. The financial requirement of
various interventions suggested in the plan as per current costs is given in flowing table
for the plan period of 10 years and annual cash flow for the core area of the project. All
activities within the core area will be implemented by the project proponent.
B. Relevant provision of Environmental plan for the project and the intervention
overlapping in nature are to be specified.
Table-4.1: Financial Forecast
Sl Estimated
Management interventions
No. Cost (in Lac)
Wildlife Habitat Improvement Works
1 Assisted Natural regeneration with gap plantation (200 75.00
plants/ha) over 300 ha in nearby forest areas @ Rs. 25,000/-
Ha
2 Soil and Moisture conservation activities: Development of 50.00
water bodies like stop dam, water tanks, earthen dams, etc.
depending on the site suitability (catchment area, run-off,
etc.)
3 To Prevent Soil Erosion: Eradication of weed hindering the 40.00
growth of palatable grasses
4 Salt lick near water bodies and other suitable areas 25.00
5 Planting of species suitable to wildlife like legumes, etc. 25.00
Fire Protection Works
1 Engaging fire watchers, cleaning and burning of fire lines, 50.00
fire fighting squads, hiring vehicles, training and awareness
program, etc.
Special provision for human elephant conflict
1 Creation of various physical barriers like elephant proof 25.00
trench (EPT), removable barriers, spike walls, etc.
2 Solar fencing, tentacle fencing, biological fencing. 40.00
3 Various acoustic deterrence’s and farm based deterrence like 25.00
flash light, spot light, flickering light, etc.
4 Mobile app based technology like Sajag app 10.00
5 Elephant depredation squad, Gajraj vahan and other suitable 40.00
vehicles and equipments.

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6 Awareness programme, training, constitution of Hathi-Mitra 40.00

dal in affected villages, hiring of vehicles, labour and other
expert services.
7 Miscellaneous expenditure related to human elephant 25.00
conflict
8 Construction of tower for suitable plan for monitoring 40.00
purpose.
9 Free distribution of Seedling 20.00
Organizational Strengthening
1 Equipments for studies on Elephant Habitat Utilization like 25.00
Camera trap, DGPS, Drone etc.
2 Wages related to monitoring Forest department Staff 10.00
3 Wages related to monitoring by VSS Members 10.00
4 Construction of Nature Interpretation Centre cum 20.00
Auditorium
Strengthening forest management committee for better cooperation and
protection
1 Developmental activities in JFM areas for socio-economic 40.00
development
2 Various eco-tourism promotion activities 40.00
3 Construction of grainery, godown for safety from elephants. 25.00
4 Distribution of seedlings of fruit bearing and other species in 25.00
village areas.
Miscellaneous expenditures
1 Safety precautions, signage, boards, displays 25.00
2 Study tours for gaining experiences and knowledge about 25.00
efforts being done, within or outside country in human
elephant mitigation.
3 Corpus Fund 25.00
Total 800.00
10% Cost escalation and Unforeseen 80.00
Grand Total 880.00

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Sl. No. Management interventions Year wise financial projection (in Lac.)
I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Total
WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENT WORKS
Assisted Natural regeneration with gap 75.00
1 plantation (200 plants/ha) over 300 ha in 20.00 15.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00
nearby forest areas @ Rs. 25,000/-Ha
Soil and Moisture conservation activities:
Development of water bodies like stop dam,
05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00
2 water tanks, earthen dams, etc. depending on 50.00
the site suitability (catchment area, run-off,
etc.)
To Prevent Soil Erosion: Eradication of weed 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00 04.00
3 40.00
hindering the growth of palatable grasses
4 Salt lick near water bodies/ suitable areas 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 25.00
5 Planting of species suitable to wildlife 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 25.00
FIRE PROTECTION WORK
Engaging fire watchers, cleaning and burning
6 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 50.00
of fire lines, hiring vehicles, etc.
SPECIAL PROVISION FOR HUMAN ELEPHANT CONFLICT
Creation of various physical barriers like
elephant proof trench (EPT), removable
7 15.00 10.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 65.00
barriers, spike walls, Solar fencing, tentacle
fencing, biological fencing etc.
Various acoustic deterrence’s and farm based
deterrence like flash light, spot light, flickering
light, etc. Mobile app based technology like
Sajag app, Elephant depredation squad, Gajraj
vahan and other suitable vehicles and
equipments.
8 40.00 30.00 25.00 20.00 15.00 15.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 05.00 180.00
Awareness programme, training, constitution
of Hathi-Mitra dal in affected villages, hiring
of vehicles, labour and other expert services.
Miscellaneous expenditure related to human
elephant conflict. Construction of tower for
suitable plan for monitoring purpose.
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9 Free Distribution of Seedlings 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 20.00
ORGANIZATIONAL STRENGTHENING
Equipment for Studies on Elephant Habitat
10 15.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 25.00
Utilization
Wages Related to Monitoring by Forest Staff
11 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 20.00
and members of VSS
Construction of Nature Interpretation centre
12 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 20.00
cum Auditorium
STRENGTHENING FOREST MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE FOR BETTER COOPERATION AND PROTECTION
Developmental activities in JFM areas for
13 20.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 20.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 40.00
socio-economic development
14 various eco-tourism promotion activities 00.00 00.00 20.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 20.00 00.00 40.00
Construction of grainery, godown for safety
15 00.00 15.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 25.00
from elephants.
Distribution of seedlings of fruit bearing and
16 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 25.00
other species in village areas.
MISCELLANEOUS EXPENDITURES
17 Safety precautions, signage, boards, displays 15.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 25.00
Study tours for gaining experiences and
18 knowledge about efforts being done, within or 15.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 10.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 00.00 25.00
outside country in human elephant mitigation.
19 Corpus Fund 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 05.00 00.00 25.00
Total 183.00 93.00 88.00 53.00 58.00 108.00 63.00 43.00 73.00 38.00 800.00
10% Cost escalation and Unforeseen 18.30 9.30 8.80 5.30 5.80 10.80 6.30 4.30 7.30 3.80 80.00
Grand Total 201.30 102.30 96.8 58.30 63.80 118.80 69.30 47.30 80.30 41.80 880.00

(Rs. Eight Crore Eighty Lakhs Only)

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ANNEXURES
 µ

Legend
Bandha Coal Block

0 10 20 30 40 km