L&T HIMACHAL HYDROPOWER LIMITED

COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

ASSESSMENT STUDY FOR
SACHKHAS HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECT,
DISTRICT CHAMBA, HIMACHAL PRADESH

VOLUME–I EIA REPORT

WAPCOS LIMITED
(A Government of India Undertaking)
76 C, Sector 18, Gurgaon - 122015, Haryana, INDIA
Tel. +91-124-2397396,
Fax. +91-124-2397392
Email: [email protected]
MAY 2013
CONTENTS
 CONTENTS
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL 1-1
1.2 PROJECT PROFILE 1-1
1.3 LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK 1-3
1.4 SCOPE OF THE EIA STUDY 1-4
1.5 STAGES IN AN EIA STUDY 1-5
1.6 REGISTRATION WITH QUALITY COUNCIL OF INDIA (QCI)/NABET 1-6
1.7 OUTLINE OF THE REPORT 1-6

CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 INTRODUCTION 2-1
2.2 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED 2-2
2.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2-6
2.4 SECONDARY POWER HOUSE 2-10
2.5 SALIENT FEATURES 2-12
2.6 LAND REQUIREMENT 2-14
2.7 ACCESS TO THE SITE 2-15
2.8 INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN 2-15

CHAPTER-3 CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY

3.1 GENERAL 3-1
3.2 RIVER DIVERSION 3-1
3.3 COFFER DAM 3-3
3.4 DAM 3-3
3.5 PRESSURE SHAFT 3-5
3.6 POWER HOUSE COMPLEX 3-8
3.7 TAIL RACE TUNNEL 3-9

CHAPTER-4 METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR THE EIA STUDY

4.1 INTRODUCTION 4-1
4.2 STUDY AREA 4-1
4.3 SCOPING MATRIX 4-2
4.4 DATA COLLECTION 4-4
4.5 SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION 4-7
4.6 IMPACT PREDICTION 4-8
4.7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND COST ESTIMATES 4-8

i
4.8 CATCHMENT AREA TREATMENT PLAN 4-9
4.9 LOCAL AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN 4-9
4.10 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME 4-9

CHAPTER-5 HYDROLOGY
5.1 CHENAB RIVER SYSTEMS 5-1
5.2 THE CATCHMENT AND PHYSIOGRAPHIC PARAMETERS 5-2
5.3 HYPSOMETRIC CURVE 5-3
5.4 GAUGE & DISCHARGE 5-7
5.5 STREAM FLOW CHARACTERISTICS 5-8
5.6 WATER AVAILABILITY 5-8
5.7 DESIGN FLOOD 5-9
5.8 RECOMMENDATIONS 5-15
5.9 SEDIMENT DATA AVAILABILITY 5-17
CHAPTER-6 TOPOGRAPHICAL AND GEOLOGICAL ASPECTS
6.1 INTRODUCTION 6-1
6.2 PHYSIOGRAPHY AND DRAINAGE 6-1
6.3 REGIONAL GEOLOGY OF THE AREA 6-2
6.4 STRUCTURE, TECTONICS AND METAMORPHISM 6-4
6.5 TECHTONIC SETUP OF THE PROJECT AREA 6-7
6.6 SEISMO-TECTONICS AND SEISMICITY 6-7
6.7 GEO-TECHNICAL APPRAISAL OF THE COMPONENT STRUCTURES 6-10

CHAPTER-7 BASELINE SETTING FOR PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ASPECTS

7.1 GENERAL 7-1

7.2 METEOROLOGY 7-1
7.3 SOILS 7-6
7.4 WATER QUALITY 7-9
7.5 NOISE ENVIRONMENT 7-14
7.6 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY 7-16
7.7 LAND USE PATTERN 7-19

CHAPTER-8 BASELINE SETTING FOR ECOLOGICAL ASPECTS

8.1 GENERAL 8-1
8.2 FOREST & FOREST TYPES 8-1

ii
8.3 REMOTE SENSING ASSESSMENT OF FLORA 8-2
8.4 METHODOLOGY 8-6
8.5 FINDINGS OF THE FIELD STUDIES 8-7
8.6 LICHENS & FUNGI 8-15
8.7 ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT PLANT SPEICES 8-17
8.8 RET SPECIES 8-20
8.9 FAUNA 8-20
8.10 AQUATIC ECOLOGY 8-28
8.11 FISH COMPOSITION AND STATUS 8-38

CHAPTER-9 PREDICTION OF IMPACTS

9.1 GENERAL 9-1
9.2 IMPACTS ON WATER ENVIRONMENT 9-4
9.3 IMPACTS ON AIR ENVIRONMENT 9-11
9.4 IMPACTS ON NOISE ENVIRONMENT 9-13
9.5 IMPACTS ON LAND ENVIRONMENT 9-18
9.6 IMPACTS ON BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 9-23
9.7 IMPACTS ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 9-29
9.8 INCREASED INCIDENCE OF WATER-RELATED DISEASES 9-30

iii
 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL
The state of Himachal Pradesh is located in the vicinity of Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges
of Western Himalaya and lies between 32° 22’ 40’’ t o 33° 12’ 40’’ N latitudes and 75° 45’ 55’’
to 79° 04’ 20’’ E longitudes. The state has a geogr aphical area of 55,673 sq km demarcated
into 12 districts, 109 tehsils/sub-tehsils and 57 urban areas with a total population of 60,
77,248 persons as per 2001 Census.
The geographic location and physiography of the state result in varying climatic conditions
and diverse natural ecosystems. The variations in climatic conditions range from lower
tropical regions to cold and alpine conditions in the upper regions. Many areas in the north
and east in Himachal Pradesh are snow-bound and glaciated. These glacial are the source
of many perennial river systems in the state. The prominent rivers rising from these upland
glacial areas are Sutlej, Beas, Parbati and Ravi – all south and southwest flowing rivers. The
perennial availability of water and the conductive geographic terrain have allowed
harnessing of energy from these rivers. The project location map is given in Figure-1.1.

Figure 1-1: Project Location Map

1.2 PROJECT PROFILE

The proposed Sach Khas Hydro Electric Project (HEP), in Chamba District of Himachal
Pradesh about 54 km downstream of Udaipur town, is on river Chenab as identified by

1-1
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB) in their ranking studies. The Sach Khas
HE project is proposed on river Chenab in Himachal Pradesh between longitudes 76° 25’
30.143” E to 76° 25’ 3.8’’ E and latitudes 32° 57’ 55.123” to N 32° 58’ 7.5’’N. The project
envisages harnessing the hydro-power potential of the river from EL 2219 m to EL 2149 m.
A concrete gravity dam is proposed across the river and underground power house with an
installed capacity of (260+7) MW is proposed immediately downstream of the dam. Out of
this 260 MW is proposed to be generated by the main powerhouse, whereas 2 units of 7MW
each (one acting as standby) are proposed to be installed to utilize the mandatory
environmental releases. The catchment area intercepted at the dam site is 6588 sq. km.
About 3973 sq. km. of the catchment is snow fed.
The nearest rail head is Kalka railway station, which is about 520 km from Project site. The
proposed Sach Khas HEP is at a distance of about 270 km from Bhuntar (Kullu) airport,
which is the nearest airport. The project site is well accessible by three routes ie. First from
Jammu & Kashmir through Kishtwar town; second from Pathankote - Chamba town and third
through Kullu-Manali-Udaipur via Rohtang pass, however the third route is the most
favourable. The project site is located at a distance of about 60 kms downstream from
Udaipur. The projects in cascade development u/s and d/s of Sach Khas Hydro-electric
project is shown Figure-1.2.

Figure- 1.2: Line schematic of hydro projects u/s & d/s of Sach Khas HEP

1-2
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

1.3 LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

Under the Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1986, various rules have been promulgated to
control pollution and manage environmental issues. EIA Notification, 2006 imposes certain
restrictions and prohibitions on new projects or activities, or on the expansion or
modernization of existing projects or activities based on their potential environmental
impacts. These project categories are listed in the notification and clearance process defined
based on their capacities to obtain prior environmental clearance.
State Pollution Control Boards issue NOCs and “Consent” under Air and Water Act to
various projects. Hydroelectric projects are considered as Red Category projects by HPPCB.
Forest and Fisheries Department of Himachal Pradesh have also issued specific notification
with respect to Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) and Fisheries management applicable on
hydroelectric projects in state.
1.3.1 EIA Notification, 2006
260+7 MW Sach Khas HEP is a Category A project (> 50 MW), as per item 1 (c) of Schedule
attached to EIA notification of September 2006 and requires Environmental Appraisal from
the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF), Government of India.
The appraisal process involves three stages:
• Scoping
• Public Consultation
• Appraisal
Scoping: An application for scoping was submitted to MoEF in the month of July 2010 for
issuance of Terms of Reference (TOR) to undertake EIA study. Subsequently, a
presentation was made before Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for River Valley and
Hydroelectric Projects of Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) for Prior
Environmental Clearance (Scoping) on 21.08.10 and the same was accorded by Ministry of
Environment & Forests (MOEF) vide letter no. J-12011/25/2010-IA-I dated on
20/09/2010.Later on, during studies and investigations project proponent optimized the
capacity of the project to 267 MW (260+7 MW) within the same allotted domain and the
same was approved by the Directorate of Energy, Government of Himachal Pradesh vide
letter no. HPDOE/CE(Energy)/Sach-Khas/2012-5037-38 dated 3 October, 2012,Further the
enhanced capacity (260+7MW) ToR was accorded by Ministry of Environment & Forests
(MOEF) vide letter no. J-12011/25/2010-IA-I dated 22nd February, 2013. A copy of the TOR
approved by MoEF is is enclosed as Annexure-I.
Public Consultation: On completion of draft EIA report and its executive summary, Public
consultation will be conducted through stipulated public consultation process to be organized
by Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPPCB). Outcome of the Public

1-3
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Consultation process in the form of report detailing the proceedings and video of the entire
event will be submitted to MoEF by HPPCB.
Appraisal: On completion of Public Consultation process, incorporation of suggestions, if
any during the public consultation, final report will be prepared, submitted and presented to
the Expert Appraisal Committee for River Valley and hydroelectric projects at MoEF for final
approval.
1.3.2 State Level Clearances
The Department of Environment & Scientific Technologies, state government of Himachal
Pradesh was set up in April, 2007 with an objective to improve the effectiveness of
environmental management, protect vulnerable ecosystems and enhance sustainability of
development. The Environmental Impact Assessment and monitoring of Environment
Management Plan Report prepared by the Project Proponent is reviewed by the Department
of Environment and Scientific Technologies. A committee constituted by the department with
members from State Pollution Control Board, Forest Department, Fisheries Department, etc.
reviews the EIA reports before Public Consultation as per EIA Notification of September
2006.
Various state departments have also lately issued specific notifications to be taken into
consideration by project developers in Himachal Pradesh. Relevant notifications for
Hydropower projects are briefly described.
Notification on Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan
Department of Forest has issues a notification no. FFE-B-F-(2)-72/2004-Pt-II dated August
03, 2009 setting out the requirements of preparation of CAT plan and defining the minimum
cost of this component as 2.5% of the project cost. It was later modified vide notification no.
FFE-B-F-(2)-72/2004-Pt-II dated September 30, 2009.
Notification on Fisheries
Department of Fisheries has come out with a notification no. Fish-F (5)-1/2008 dated May 2,
2008 specifically for the hydro power projects to specify the compensation to be paid by
developers for various categories of Projects.
1.4 SCOPE OF THE EIA STUDY
The brief scope of EIA study includes:
- Assessment of the existing status of physico-chemical, ecological and socio-economic
aspects of environment
- Identification of potential impacts on various environmental components due to activities
envisaged during construction and operation phases of the proposed Sach-Khas
project.
- Prediction of significant impacts on various aspects of environment.
- Delineation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) outlining measures to minimize
adverse impacts during construction and operational phases of the proposed project.

1-4
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

- Formulation of Resettlement and Rehabilitation (R&R) Plan, if any

- Formulation of Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan.
- Formulation of environmental quality monitoring programme for implementation during
construction and operation phases.
- Estimation of Cost for implementation of Environmental Management Plan,
Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan, Catchment Area Treatment Plan and
Environmental Monitoring Programme.

1.5 STAGES IN AN EIA STUDY

The purpose of this section is to enumerate the steps involved in an Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) study, which are described in the following paragraphs.
Scoping: An exhaustive list of all likely impacts drawing information from as many sources
as possible was prepared. The next step was to select a manageable number of attributes
which were likely to be affected as a result of the proposed Sach-Khas hydroelectric project.
The various criteria applied for selection of the important impacts were follows:
• Magnitude
• Extent
• Significance

Description of Environment: Before the start of the project, it is essential to ascertain the
baseline levels of appropriate environmental parameters which could be significantly
affected by the implementation of the project. The baseline status assessed as a part of
CEIA study involved both field work and review of data collected from secondary sources.
Prediction of Impacts: is essentially a process to forecast the future environmental
conditions of the project area that might be expected to occur as a result of the construction
and operation of the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project. An attempt was generally
made to forecast future environmental conditions quantitatively to the extent possible. But for
certain parameters which cannot be quantified, general approach was to discuss such
intangible impacts in quantitative terms so that planners and decision-makers are aware of
their existence as well as their possible implications.
Environmental Management Plan: the approach for formulation of an Environmental
Management Plan (EMP) is to maximize the positive environmental impacts and minimize
the negative ones. The steps suggested include modifications of plans, engineering designs,
construction schedules and techniques, as well as operational and management practices.
After selection of suitable environmental mitigation measures, cost required for
implementation of various management measures was also estimated.
Environmental Monitoring Programme: An Environmental Monitoring Programme for
implementation during project construction and operation phases has been estimated to
oversee the environmental safeguards, to ascertain the agreement between prediction and

1-5
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

reality and to suggest remedial measures not foreseen during the planning stage but arising
during operation and to generate data for further use.
1.6 REGISTRATION WITH QUALITY COUNCIL OF INDIA (QCI)/NABET
WAPCOS Limited is accreditated by QCI/NABET and the Certificate is enclosed as
Annexure-II.
1.7 OUTLINE OF THE REPORT
The document for the Comprehensive EIA study for the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric
project has been presented in two volumes. Volume-I presents the Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) study and Volume-II delineates the Environmental Management Plan.
The present document (Volume - I) outlines the findings of the EIA study for the proposed
Sach Khas hydroelectric project.
The contents of the document are organized as follows:
Chapter-1 The Chapter gives an overview of the need for the project. The policy, legal and
administrative framework for environmental clearance has been summarized. The objectives
and need for EIA study too have been covered.
Chapter-2 gives a brief description of the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project.
Chapter-3 gives a brief description of the methodology and schedule to adopt for
construction of the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project.
Chapter-4 outlines the methodology adopted for conducting the Comprehensive EIA study
for the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project.
Chapter-5 covers the hydrological aspects of the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project.
The data was mainly collected from the DPR prepared for the proposed Sach Khas
hydroelectric project.
Chapter-6 covers the geological and seismicity related aspects.
Chapter-7 covers the environmental baseline conditions covering physical aspects of
environment. The baseline study involved both field work and review of existing documents,
which is necessary for identification of data which may already have been collected for other
purposes.
Chapter-8 presents the information on ecological aspects of the Study Area. The study is
based on collection of data from various secondary data sources. As a part of the
Comprehensive EIA study, detailed ecological survey for was conducted for three seasons. The
findings of the survey were analysed and ecological characteristics of the study area have been
described in this Chapter.
Chapter-9 describes the anticipated positive and negative impacts as a result of the
construction and operation of the proposed Sach Khas hydro-power project. It is essentially a
process to forecast the future environmental conditions of the project area that might be
expected to occur as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed project. An

1-6
WAPCOS Limited
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

attempt was generally made to forecast future environmental conditions quantitatively to the
extent possible. But for certain parameters, which cannot be quantified, general approach has
been to discuss such intangible impacts in qualitative terms so that planners and decision-
makers are aware of their existence as well as their possible implications.

1-7
WAPCOS Limited
 CHAPTER-2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The proposed Sach Khas Hydroelectric project is located in the Pangi valley of Chamba
District of Himachal Pradesh. The proposed scheme lies between longitudes 76o 25’ 30.143”
E to 76o 25’ 3.8” E and latitudes 32o 57’ 55.123” N to 32o 58’ 7.5” N.
The river Chenab in project vicinity flows in the northern direction with a slight inclination
towards the east. The Sach Khas hydroelectric project is located near the Shin village (close
to the Cheninala confluence with the Chenab river) with the location of the diversion
structure proposed slightly upstream of the village and the underground powerhouse
structure at the toe of the dam. The project is planned as a dam toe scheme. Head needed
for power generation is envisaged to be harnessed entirely by the diversion structure as the
powerhouse is merely 300m downstream from the dam axis.
As per the information provided by Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB), a 40
m high (above river bed level) diversion structure is proposed across the river Chenab
located just 2.5 km up-stream of the Mokha Nala confluence, at about 200 m downstream of
the point where the river takes a westward bend, wherein the river bed elevation is 2185m.
The envisaged tail water level upstream of the Saichu Nala confluence is 2150 m.
After confirmation of levels at the site, and after the reconnaissance site visit, it emerged that
a diversion site exists, which is prima-facie suited for a concrete dam of about 77m height
(above the river bed level) located 1.1 km upstream of the Cheninala confluence, a left bank
tributary with Chenab. The river at the site flows through a narrow gorge exposing bedrock
on both the abutments. Adequate straight reach is available downstream of the river bend
where all the head works components can be housed. The live storage of the proposed
diversion scheme is 8.69 Mm3. Since the proposed scheme is a Dam-toe powerhouse, the
need for a headrace tunnel (HRT) has been eliminated. Also it has been proposed to locate
the crest of the sluice spillway sufficiently below the power intakes in the dam body to take
care of bed load depositions and entry of sediments into the intakes. Thus no desilting
chambers are required. Three intakes each leading to 5.8m diameter penstocks have been
planned to be located on three of the right bank non-overflow blocks. Three penstocks off-
taking from the intakes are proposed to direct the flows to an underground powerhouse on
the right bank of the Chenab river housing 3 units of 86.67 MW turbines with a total installed
capacity of 260 MW.
As regards the powerhouse location, it was seen during the reconnaissance visit that the site
originally envisaged by HPSEB for an underground powerhouse is located on the right bank
of the river about 0.5km upstream of its confluence with the Saichunala. However, after
numerous investigations and detailed survey carried out at site, the new powerhouse is

WAPCOS Limited 2-1

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

proposed to be located as an underground structure on the right bank of the Chenab River at
a distance of about 200m from the present dam toe and about 850m upstream of the
Cheninala confluence with the Chenab.
2.2 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
Layout 1: (Diversion site as per tender)
As per this alternative, the water of the river Chandra-Bhaga are proposed to be diverted into
a water conductor system for generation of power in an underground powerhouse located
near Sach Khas village. The diversion site is located 2.5km downstream of the confluence of
Mokhanala with the river Chenab. The river bed level at the proposed diversion site is El.
2170.0m, based on the survey data. The FRL envisaged for the scheme was El. 2219m.
A design discharge of 513.75 cumec (including 20% for desanding chamber flushing) is
proposed to be led through the power intake located on the right bank into three feeder
tunnels. Each feeder tunnel leads into a 254m long desanding chamber. The water through
each desanding chamber is let into a link tunnel through a transition placed at right angles to
the desander alignment. The three link tunnels join to form a single a head race tunnel about
4.5km long and 10.0m in diameter, which feed an underground powerhouse located about
500m upstream of the Saichunala confluence with the Chandra-Bhaga River. The allotted
tail water level at the TRT outlet should be El. 2150m which has been revised to 2149m.
Considering an average river slope of 1 in 165, and another 1.5km to Saichu from
Cheninala, the tail water levels 500m upstream of Saichunala are much lower than the
allotted levels at about El.2135m.
This layout was rejected due to following reasons:-
• Gross hydraulic head, in this case, is beyond the allotted levels
• Larger requirement of forest land as surge shaft being on surface would be located
in the forest area
• Construction adits for the head race tunnel and their approaches would be located in
forest area
• Geology in the proposed intake area is not favorable and would require extensive
excavation which would endanger the Killar – Tindi Road
• The Head race tunnel alignment passes through folded rock mass strata which would
make tunneling extremely difficult.
• Very low peaking power, as sufficient live storage would not be available.

Layout 2: (Diversion site about 300m upstream of BakhanwalNala)

In this alternative, the diversion site is proposed to be shifted 850m downstream of the
diversion site as envisaged in Layout 1. The diversion site is located just 300m upstream of

WAPCOS Limited 2-2

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

the northward bend that the river takes after the Bakanwalnala confluence with the Chenab
River. The bed level at this location would be at El. 2165.0m.

Shifting the diversion site to this location envisages layout similar to alternative-1. Since
there are no intermediate villages between the two alternative dam sites (Layout 1and
Layout 2), valley being steep, no submergence problems are anticipated. Considering FRL
as 2219m, this will lead to an increase in the dam height by about 10m. However, the
peaking operations of the plant will not possible in this alternative too.
Due to the side intakes, and fragile geology at intake site on the right bank with potential
slide zone at the upstream of intake location, huge excavation for slope stabilization would
be required and the excavations shall extend beyond the present alignment of the SKT road,
which shall need to be realigned above this area and into the forest on Rai Dhank bend.
This was not considered practically feasible in view of the single approach road to the Pangi
Valley. Also for locating desilting chambers, long HRT, etc., large amount of land would be
needed in addition to land for development of the project facility areas.

Alternately, a diversion structure with a powerhouse in the nearby downstream reach can be
considered. This alternative would not result in realization of full head as the head utilized
would reduce considerably from 70m to mere 47m. The tail water levels at this site would be
El. 2172 (as per the survey data) against the allotted levels of El. 2149m. Therefore, this
alternate does not result in optimal utilization of the river potential.

Layout 3: (Diversion site near PH-1 Pillar)

There are two types of arrangements feasible in this location. Prima facie, diversion site is
located 1.3km upstream of the Cheninala confluence with Chenab. The river takes a small
north-east bend and then flows straight north. There is an RCC pillar PH-1 constructed along
the road side, designated as a control point of survey.
This proposal comprises a diversion scheme either with a surface power house or an
underground power house, immediate downstream of the dam. The bed level of the river at
this location is about El. 2146.5m. Foundation rock is available at depths of about 20m. A
92m high dam from the deepest foundation can be envisaged. About 250m downstream of
the dam axis, on the right bank, the hill slopes relatively flat and would provide the terrain for
siting a surface powerhouse, with the power intake from the body of the dam. However, the
tail race channel would be quite long, envisaging a downstream collection basin/surge
chamber, which would result in acquisition of large tact of forest land. The powerhouse being
an open structure, heavy hill cutting and stabilization measures would be needed and extent
of the excavation would necessitate diversion of the existing SKT road which invariably
would also involve larger forest area.

WAPCOS Limited 2-3

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Alternately, an intake along the right bank 30m upstream of the dam axis can also be
constructed, through which 500m long pressure shafts will take the water to the powerhouse
for power generation. But this underground arrangement would warrant a side intake on the
right bank hill, an upstream surge shaft, and a huge underground powerhouse and
transformer cavity. This would involve huge excavation in the intake area where the
excavation would encroach the Sansari-Killad – Tindi road necessitating acquisition of larger
areas in forest again and realignment of the SansariKilarTandi Road. In view of the
disruption/realignment of the SKT road and requirement of large forest areas this scheme is
not considered.

Layout - 4: (Diversion site downstream of Layout 3)

Considering the alternative arrangements explained in the above layout 3, another

arrangement was considered, which involved shifting of the diversion structure downstream
of the location in layout-3 by 250m (i.e 1100m upstream of Cheninala confluence with the
Chenab). By doing so, the length of the pressure tunnels gets reduced to 300m, eliminating
the requirements for surge chamber. An underground powerhouse proposed just 300m
downstream of this dam axis is also possible. The geology is competent and can house the
pressure tunnels and underground powerhouse. Consistent with the allotted tail water levels
at El. 2149m, the bed level of the river is at about El. 2145m. The underground powerhouse
is proposed on the right bank of the river Chenab. This alternative envisages the utilization of
about 70m gross head.

Given the bed level of the river El. 2145 m and probable foundation rock depths at El.
2132m, a dam of about 90m high is envisaged. The hill slopes on the right bank are
relatively flat than the left bank slopes, which permits the housing of the power intakes in the
body of the dam on the right bank, eliminating the side intake which invariably would
endanger and undercut the SKT road in addition to involving larger forest area. The waters
from the river would be taken to the underground powerhouse on the right bank through
three nos. of 5.8m dia steel penstocks, with average length of 300m.

With the intakes in the body of the dam thereby dispensing away the side intake, with the
desilting basin, long HRT, underground transformer hall and shorter, tailrace, the
requirement of forest land shall be significantly less. The SKT road too shall not need to be
realigned.

WAPCOS Limited 2-4

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Layout - 5: Diversion site upstream of CheniNala

The last alternative studied is locating a diversion site further 750m downstream of the
above option and 300m upstream of CheniNala confluence with the Chenab. This layout is
schematized on the left bank; as there were visible rock exposure and the river valley is also
relatively narrow than the above. The bed level at this location is at El. 2142.0m, which is 7m
below the allotted levels.

Although, there are no schemes planned across Chenab, immediately below SachKhas,
except the Duggar HEP which is far below. This location is thus avoided as the bed levels
are much below than the allotted levels for the project.

Layout considered for final adoption

Based on the different layouts detailed above (Refer project layout), the scheme described
at Layout – 4 (diversion site 1100m upstream of CheniNala) is the most suited one, from the
consideration of given levels for the project. Considering favorable geology and rock
exposures, the layout could further be optimized into a simpler model. As the construction
period in each year is extremely limited due to the unpredictable and extreme winter weather
condition reduction in construction period of the project is of utmost importance. This project
layout would eventually bring down the construction period, as major project components,
like desanders, headrace tunnels, surge shafts, etc. have been avoided.

The storage requirement as per the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) is also under this alternative.
No diversion/realignment of existing SKT road is envisaged. Further, it is proposed that
major construction facilities shall be located in the reservoir submergence area bringing in
substantial reduction in requirement of forest land which otherwise would have been
necessary to locate these facilities in addition to forest land required for locating permanent
project components. Thus, huge forest area requirement for locating project components, as
envisaged in other layouts, could be reduced in this alternative.

To take care of the mandatory environmental flows, scheme envisages releasing these
required flows through a surface powerhouse on the left bank housing a 7MW unit. To have
100% redundancy, another unit of 7 MW is also proposed to be installed in the proposed
powerhouse. The additional unit would operate in the contingency of first unit of 7 MW either
under forced or planned outage. This would ensure that the mandatory environmental
release is available continuously even if one unit of 7 MW is out of service. Hence, the
project layout described at alternate – 4 is considered for detailed study in the DPR. A map
showing various alternatives studied is enclosed as Figure-2.1.

WAPCOS Limited 2-5

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure-2.1: Various Alternatives considered for Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project

2.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Diversion Works
The diversion site is planned in a narrow gorge of the river located about 1.08km upstream
of the confluence of the Cheni Nala with the river Chenab near Shin village. The bed level at
the proposed diversion site is about 2145m. Since the FRL of proposed scheme is 2219.0m,
a 77m high structure above the river bed level is envisaged. The proposed location has been
marked at site by HPSEB. This location is immediately downstream of the sharp bend in
river. However, it has been seen that enough straight reach is available between the
diversion site and this bend so as not to cause any problems later on. Also immediately
downstream of the proposed location the river width broadens and again constricts to a
narrow width at a location where the tailrace tunnel outlet is planned.

At Sach Khas, the proposed dam can be categorized as a small reservoir (as per the gross
storage criteria) and a large dam (as per the hydraulic head criteria of more than 30m).
Since the hydraulic head lies in the large category, the recommended design floods as per
Cl. 3.1.3. of IS 11223 would be a PMF.

WAPCOS Limited 2-6

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• PMF has been calculated as 9047 cumec (as per hydrology studies).
• Minimum available live storage between FRL (2219m) and MDDL (2209.30m) is
8.69 MCM.
• River bed elevation at the proposed dam axis is 2145m.
• Right abutment is characterized by rock scraps at 60o up to EL 2170m followed
by 25 o to35 o slopes upto EL 2190m.
• Left bank rises above the river bed at angle of 45 o to55 o with break in slopes at
EL 2160, 2190 and 2220m.
Keeping in view the above requirements and data, and after an assessment of the
topographic and geological conditions at the proposed site, a concrete gravity dam with a
breast-walled sluice spillway has been adopted as diversion structure. The dam top is
proposed at El. 2222m after accounting for a freeboard of 3m. The structure would thus have
a height of 77m from the deepest bed level. Based on the storage requirements for peaking,
the MDDL has been fixed at El. 2209.30. Five sluices of size 7.5m (width) x 12.3m (height)
have been proposed to pass the PMF with one gate in inoperative condition. The diversion
dam has been conceptualized considering foundation rock strata at a shallow depth of
around 13m below the river bed. Energy dissipation is envisaged by the use of a trajectory
bucket and a suitably located plunge pool. A sluice type gravity dam with foundation resting
over the bed rock is proposed in the present case. Regarding the hydraulics of the structure,
low level sluices with crest placed at 22m above the river bed level are proposed to pass the
design flood of 9047cumec. Energy dissipation shall occur through a trajectory type bucket
dissipater, discharging the excess flow into a pre-formed plunge pool with its center situated
at a distance of about 90m downstream of the sluice lip. It has been planned for the deepest
level of the plunge pool be excavated up to the probable scour depth calculated under the
prevailing discharge and flow conditions.

Since the river bed slope is of the order of 1 in 165, diversion structure will form a reservoir
with an approximate length of 8.3 km at FRL (2219m) and 7.3km at MDDL(2209.30). The
gross storage capacity of the reservoir is estimated as 25.24 Mm3 and the live storage
capacity is envisaged as 8.69Mm3. The reservoir is expected to trap most of the bed load
suspended sediment load thus eliminating the need of desilting chambers. Five low level
sluices with crest at 2167m of size 7.5m width and 12.3m height are proposed for flood
passage. Drawdown flushing of the reservoir shall be carried out through these sluices for
flushing out of the sediment entrapped in the reservoir. Detailed studies on sedimentation
and reservoir flushing can be taken up at detailed planning stage.

WAPCOS Limited 2-7

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Power Intake
Three number of power intakes are proposed to be located in three of the non-overflow
blocks immediately adjacent to the overflow blocks on the right bank to draw a total diversion
discharge of 428.12 cumec. Additional discharge for silt flushing is not planned for due to the
provision of trapping the sediments in the reservoir itself. The invert of intake is proposed at
El. 2196.9 m which is 29.9m above the sluice crest. The proposed invert level satisfies the
criteria for minimum submergence below the MDDL of 2209.30 m to prevent the formation of
vertices. The control arrangement at the inlet is proposed in the form of vertical lift gates with
provision for emergency gate grooves.

Three breast walled type structures are proposed with a bell-mouth inlet transition and with
accelerating velocities from the trash rack location to the mouth of penstocks. Each of the
intakes in turn feeds a 5.8m diameter penstock with a design discharge of 142.707 cumec.
The lengths of the penstock are calculated to 254, 268 and 282meters from the shortest to
the longest respectively.

The trash rack is planned to be located with an inclination of 12 degrees to the dam axis with
the top starting at a distance of 3m from the same. The bottom of the trash rack will rest on a
cantilever portion emerging from the body of the dam. The elevation of floor (trash rack
sitting) is 2193.30 m thus making the total vertical height of the trash rack to be 28.7m. Two
end piers each of width 2.4m and two intermediate piers each of width 1.2m will be provided
to support the trash rack.

The hydraulic design features of the power intake are:

• Maximum velocity through trash racks is restricted to 0.9m/sec in unclogged
condition and 1.2m/sec in 25% clogged condition, when operating at MDDL. This
satisfies the requirement of paragraph 6.1 and 6.2 of BIS 11388-1995
“Recommendations for design of trash rack for intakes”.
• The design velocity through the penstock is 5.4m/sec for normal operating
condition.
• Accelerating type of flow is proposed at the inlet of the power intake structure.
• The power intake has been designed to cater to the applicable flow condition and
relevant submergence requirements.

Pressure Shaft
Three circular pressure shafts each of diameter 5.8m have been proposed to carry the
design discharge from the intake to the powerhouse. The pressure shafts begin immediately
after the transition near the intake and bend vertically, moving parallel to the downstream
slope of the dam. They lie exposed on the downstream surface of the dam for a short reach

WAPCOS Limited 2-8

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

before being underground. They also consist of a compound bend near the toe of the dam
after which the pressure shafts become horizontal and continue on their way to the
powerhouse. There exists yet another horizontal bend in the pressure shafts near the
powerhouse after which the pressure shafts are connected to the Main Inlet Valve. The
lengths of the pressure shaft are calculated to 254, 268 and 282meters from the shortest to
the longest respectively.

The centerline of the pressure shaft at start, after the intake is proposed to be at 2199.80m
and the centerline of the machines in the powerhouse is proposed at 2138.00m, registering
a fall of 61.8m.The pressure shafts are designed such that any need for a surge shaft is
eliminated.

Powerhouse
The underground powerhouse is proposed on the right bank of the river Chenab about 200m
downstream of the toe of the dam. The water from the tailrace tunnel is proposed to
discharge into river Chenab. This site has been considered suitable for underground
powerhouse from geological considerations. The governing tailwater level has been fixed at
EL. 2149m as per the allotted level. The powerhouse is proposed to facilitate the housing of
three units, each of 86.67 MW Francis turbines.

The centerline of the turbine units is proposed at El. 2138.00m after catering to a setting
head of 9.00m below the minimum tailwater level of El. 2147.00m. The erection bay floor
level is proposed at 2151.15m while the generator hall floor level is proposed at El.
2146.15m. The length of the control block is 15m and it is located adjacent to the machine
hall at the left side of the powerhouse cavern. A 35m long service bay is located right side of
the powerhouse cavern. An adit with invert level of El. 2165.40m at the portal is planned on
the right of the powerhouse opening directly into the service bay.

Machine Hall
The internal dimensions of the powerhouse cavern has been proposed as 126m (L) x 23m
(W) x 48.5m (H). The operating floor level is kept at El. 2151.15m. The length of the machine
hall would be 76m. The unit bay is proposed with 21.5 m spacing. The EOT crane beam is
proposed at El. 2163.65m, i.e. 12.5m above the operating floor level.
Each unit is proposed with a draft tube separated by one RCC piers in between. At the draft
tube gate location, the width of each draft tube bay is 11.5m and height is 6.65m. The draft
tube gates are proposed to be operated from a deck in the transformer cavern.

WAPCOS Limited 2-9

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Conductor System
The water conductor system consists of three penstocks of 5.8m diameter located on the
right bank of the river downstream of the dam toe. These convey the water to an
underground powerhouse housing three units each of 86.67 MW, totaling to the installed
capacity of 260 MW. The penstocks are exposed to the surface for a short stretch after they
leave the dam body before going underground again. The length of the penstocks and their
diameter are so designed that the need of a surge shaft is eliminated.

Tailrace Tunnel
The outflow from the end of each of the draft tubes is proposed to be conveyed into
respective tailrace tunnels downstream of the powerhouse. These TRTs then carry the
discharge back into the river Chenab. Each TRT is D shaped and has size of 6.6m x 6.0m.
The invert elevation of the TRTs at the outlet portal is 2145.00.

2.4 SECONDARY POWER HOUSE

As per environmental regulations, it has been stated that a minimum of 20% of the average
flow occurring during the lean period i.e. December to March has to be released to take into
account the environmental aspects of the downstream region. This flow in the other months
is compensated by the additional water that is routed through the spillways.
The average discharge for SachKhas HEP from December to March in the year 1993-1994
(which is the 90% dependable year) comes out to be 60.04 cumec. Thus a constant release
of 12.01 cumec (Accounting to 20% of the average discharge) has to be constantly released.
With a view of utilization of this extra discharge for power generation a secondary intake,
pressure shaft and powerhouse has been provided in the left bank, immediately at the toe of
the dam.

Secondary Power Intake

It is proposed to provide a secondary intake in the Non-overflow block adjacent to the sluice
block on the left bank to draw a total diversion discharge of 12.01 cumec. As in the case of
the main intakes additional discharge for silt flushing is not planned for due to the provision
of trapping the sediments in the reservoir itself. The centerline of the intake is proposed at
2202.80m with the invert at El. 2201.55 m which is 34.55m above the sluice crest. The
proposed invert level satisfies the criteria for minimum submergence below the MDDL of
2209.30 m to prevent the formation of vertices. The control arrangement of this inlet is
proposed in the form of a vertical lift gate. All the hydraulic design features of the secondary
intake are consistent with the hydraulic design features of the primary intake.

WAPCOS Limited 2-10

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Secondary Pressure shaft

A 2.5m diameter secondary pressure shaft takes off immediately after the end of the
transition following the intake. It is proposed that it runs horizontally for a distance of
11.029m before the beginning of the first vertical bend. Then it runs parallel to the
downstream face of the dam. Like the primary pressure shafts it is also exposed to the
surface for a short length before it dives underground. The initial vertical bend is followed by
a second one of radius 8.0m after which the pressure shaft travels horizontally. It is also
proposed that the pressure shaft is bifurcated into two, each of diameter 1.75m before
entering the powerhouse.

The centerline of the pressure shaft at start, after the intake is proposed to be at 2202.80m
and the centerline of the machines in the powerhouse is proposed at 2139.45m, registering
a fall of 63.35m. The pressure shaft is designed such that any need for a surge shaft is
eliminated.

Secondary Powerhouse
A surface powerhouse is proposed on the right bank of the river Chenab about 10m
downstream of the toe of the dam. The water from the tailrace tunnel is proposed to
discharge into river Chenab at around the location of the plunge pool of the main dam. The
governing min tailwater level has been fixed at EL. 2145.20m as per the rating curves
developed. The powerhouse is proposed to facilitate the housing of two units, each of 7.0
MW Francis turbines. Out of these two one is proposed to act as a standby unit.

Secondary TRT
The outflow from the end of each of the draft tubes is proposed to be conveyed into
respective tailrace tunnels downstream of the powerhouse. Each TRT is D shaped and has
size of 3m x 3m. After running for a certain distance the unit TRTs merge to form into one.
The larger TRT formed after the unit TRTs merged is proposed to be of D-Shaped with a
size of 3.6m x 3m. The TRT travels with a up slope up to the outlet portal at which it is
proposed that the discharge will occur at a gentle slope of 1 in 300.
The project layout map is enclosed as Figure-2.2.

WAPCOS Limited 2-11

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure-2.2: Layout of Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project

2.5 SALIENT FEATURES

The Salient features of Sach Khas hydroelectric project are given in Table-2.1.
Table-2.1: Salient Features of Sach Khas Hydro-Electric Project
Project Location
River and Hydrology
River Chenab
Catchment Area 6588 sq.km.
Average Bed Slope 1 in 165
PMF 9047 cumecs
Concrete Dam & Spillway
Top of Dam El. 2222m
River Bed Level El. 2145m
Deepest Foundation level El. 2132m (assumed)
Full Reservoir Level El. 2219m
Minimum Drawdown Level El. 2209.30m
Dam length at Top 241.5m
Type of Spillway Sluice
Spillway Crest Elevation El. 2167m
Sluice Size 7.5m (W) x 12.3m (H)
Reservoir
Gross storage 25.24 MCM
Live Storage 8.69 MCM
Reservoir Stretch at FRL 8.2 km (approx.)

WAPCOS Limited 2-12

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Reservoir Stretch at MDDL 7.2 km (approx.)

Intake (on right non-overflow blocks)
Number 3
Intake Invert El. 2196.9
Trash Rack Size (single panel) 3.95m (W) x 4.089m (H),
48 nos. (4panel per bay, 4 bays per intake)
Design Discharge per intake 142.707cumec
Gate Operation Level El. 2222m
Size of Gates 6.6m (W) X 5.8m (H)
Secondary intake on Left Non-Overflow Block
Number 1
Intake Invert El. 2201.55
Trash rack Size (single) 3.6m (w) x 3.64m (h), 3 panels
Design Discharge 12 cumec
Gate Operation Level El. 2222
Size of Gates 2.2m (w) x 3.96m (h)
Pressure Shaft
Number 3
Diameter 5.8
Length 254, 268 and 282m
Secondary Pressure Shaft on left abutment block of dam
Number 1
Diameter 2.5
Lengthupto bifurcation 92.0m
Diameter after bifurcation 1.75m
Length after bifurcation 33.5m & 28m
Powerhouse (on Right Bank)
Type Underground
Size 126m (L) x 23m (W) x 48.5m (H)
Number of Units 3
Installed Capacity 3 x 86.7 MW + 2 X 7 MW
Type of turbines Francis
Centre line of machine El. 2139.6
Unit Design Discharge 142.707cumec
Normal TWL El. 2149.0m
Min. TWL El. 2147.0m
Gross Head 68.1m
Net Head 66.86m
Secondary Powerhouse (on Left Bank)
Type Surface
Size 52m (L) x 15m (w) x 32m (H)
Number of Units 1 + 1 standby
Installed Capacity 7 MW each
Type of Turbine Francis
Centre line of machine El. 2139.5
Unit design discharge 12 cumec
Normal TWL El. 2149.0m
Min. TWL El. 2145.0m
Tailrace Tunnel
Number 3 Nos.
Shape D-Shape
Height 6m

WAPCOS Limited 2-13

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Length 99.75m,113.13m,132.35m
Design Discharge 142.707 X 3
HFL at TRT outlet El. 2158.0m
Power Generation
90% Dependable year 999.92GWh
50% Dependable Year 1009.44 GWh
Source: DPR
2.6 LAND REQUIREMENT
Land would be acquired on permanent basis for:
• Reservoir
• Dam & Power House,
• Downstream coffer dam and outlet portals of diversion tunnels,
• All muck disposal and borrow areas/ quarries,
• All access roads to the permanent works,
• Explosive magazines and access roads,
• Project site office/Job facilities

The total land required for the project is 125.62, About 118.22 ha is forest land and the
balance land 7.40 ha is private land. The details are given in Table-2.2.
Table-2.2: Land requirement for the project
Sr. No Project Component/ Activity Area (ha)
1 Submergence Area:
a) Forest Land 81.88
b) Non-Forest Land (Private Land) 0.28
Total Area of Submergence 82.16
2 Muck Dumping Area 10.53
3 Quarry 3.03
4 Dam & Power House 9.54
5 Project Site Offices/Job Facilities: 5.25
6 Explosive Magazine 0.23
7 Sub-surface (Underground Works) Area 2.44
8. Approach Roads to explosive magazine, 5.32
Project facilities & Quarry
9. Township & Office (Private land on lease 7.12
basis)
TOTAL 125.62
Source: DPR

WAPCOS Limited 2-14

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

2.7 ACCESS TO THE SITE

There are three accesses available for the project site, first from Jammu & Kashmir through
Kishtwar town; second from Pathankote - Chamba town and third through Kullu-Manali via
Rohtang pass. The most favourable approach is the third one through Kullu-Manali via
Rohtang pass. This approach from Manali to Udaipur and further to site location is
characterized by overflowing nallahs, bridges and culverts. The project area is about 220 km
from Manali and about 14.3 km upstream of Killar. Manali is situated at a distance of approx.
550 kms from Delhi and Udaipur at a distance of around 200 kms from Manali. The project
site is located at a distance of about 60 kms downstream from Udaipur. The road up to
Manali is in good condition. Further, to reach Udaipur, Rohtang pass situated at a distance
of 140 km and at EL. 3195m has to be crossed. This stretch officially remains closed from
15th November - 15th May due to heavy snow fall. Double laning of this stretch is under
progress by BRO and a Rohtang Tunnel to bypass this area is also proposed. The road
(partially metaled and partially WBM road) from Udaipur to site is in very bad condition with
numerous big overflowing nallahs; sharp carves and overhanging blocks (rock mass). These
nallahs are to be cleared very frequently during the rainy season by JCB’s/Dozers to make it
approachable. The approach road and cross drainage works needs to be improved before
the start of the construction activities.

A line diagram of the route to project site is shown in Figure-2.3.

Figure-2.3: Project Location distances

The nearest airport is Bhuntar and the nearest rail head is Kiratpur.

2.8 INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN

The infrastructure works at proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project would broadly
comprise of:
• Batching Plant
• Crusher Plant
• Stores
• Fabrication Yard
• Workshop
• Formwork & Rebar Yard
• Workman Camp
• Staff Colony
• E&M Workshop

WAPCOS Limited 2-15

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• H&M Workshop
• QA/QC Lab
• Site Office
• Disposal Area
• Borrow Areas/Quarries
• Project Roads leading to all work sites.

Infrastructure works and facilities required for constructing and maintaining the project are
discussed in following sections. The Infrastructure layout plan has been depicted in Figure-
2.4. The land requirements for various infrastructure works covering residential buildings are
given in Table-2.3. The land requirements for permanent and temporary Nonresidential
buildings are given in Table-2.4 and 2.5 respectively.
Figure-2.4: Infrastructure layout plan

WAPCOS Limited 2-16

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-2.3 Land Requirement for Residential Buildings – (Permanent & Temporary)

S. Type of Colony Remarks
No. Quarter Permanent Temporary
Number Plinth Total Number Plinth Total Total No. of
of Units Area Plinth of Units Area Plinth units
(m2) Area (m2) Area
(m2) (m2)
1 Type A 6 240 1440 1 240 240 7
2 Type B 13 200 2600 15 120 1800 28
3 Type C 10 150 1500 46 100 4600 56
4 Type D 17 100 1700 24 80 1920 43
46 7240 86 8560 132
Total 15800
Source: DPR

Table-2.4: Land Requirement for Permanent Non Residential Buildings

S.No. Description No. Plinth Area Total Plinth
(m2) Area (m2)
1 General Manager 1 150 150
2 Project Control Office 1 840 840
3 Deputy General Manager 2 150 300
4 Sr. Manager Admn. And Chief Accounts 1 150 150
Officer
5 Public Relation Officer 1 75 75
6 Telephone Exchange 1 100 100
7 Rest House 1 300 300
8 Sub-ordinate Rest House 1 150 150
9 Fire Station 1 50 50
10 Officers Club 1 100 100
11 Staff Club 2 75 150
12 Model Room 1 30 30
13 Market 1 1500 1500
14 Bus Stand 1 50 50
15 Security Post 3 50 150
16 Central Field Stores and Workshops 1 1000 1000
17 Field Testing Labs 1 100 100
Total 5195
Source: DPR

Table2.5: Land Requirement for Temporary Non Residential Buildings

S.No. Description Total Plinth Area (m2)
1 Site Office 1500
2 Store 1500
3 Quality Control Lab 200
4 Pantry 600
5 P&M Office Workshop 4000

WAPCOS Limited 2-17

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

S.No. Description Total Plinth Area (m2)

6 Diesel Dispensing 150
7 D.G.Room 300
8 Repair Shop 800
9 Batching Plant 8500
10 Chilling Plant 3000
11 Cement Godown 2250
12 Stock Pile 2500
13 Mobile Crushing Plant 3000
14 Quality Control Laboratory 400
15 Fabrication shop and yard 3000
16 Carpentry Shop & Lagging Yard 1500
17 Explosive Magazine with Portable 300
18 Department Workmen 550
19 Labour Roof Shed for 200 Nos. 3000
Total 37050
Source: DPR
Road Facilities and Bridges

The transportation of the material would be done by road transport to the project site. The
main highway from Chandigarh to Project Site has been surveyed to study its suitability to
transport heavy loads to the project site. Road through Rohtang Pass will be opened for
seven months in a year and the same road will be utilized for the transport of construction
material.

Workshops at Dam site and Powerhouse Areas

Given the sizes of civil components, all the facilities will be cater to one location to have easy
accessibility through all the components.
Since all the work would be highly mechanized, adequate and self-sufficient repair and
service facilities would be set up at the project site. There are absolutely no services or
Facilities of mechanical nature available near the project area. All mechanical repairs and
servicing will be done in house by providing enough space for workshops, maintaining an
adequate inventory and deputing skilled manpower. Close Monitoring of the inventories of
spares, consumables, and other materials would be done to ensure reduced downtime.
Adequate and competent repair staff would be deployed in the field as well as in the shops
to keep the construction fleet in top operational condition.

Separate workshops would be set up for:

• Earth moving machinery mounted on tracks like shovels, dozers, etc.

• Earth moving machines mounted on tyres like dumpers, loaders, graders etc.

WAPCOS Limited 2-18

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• Pneumatic, concreting equipment like boomers, wet shotcrete machines, concrete

Pumps etc.
• Transport equipment like buses, trucks, transit mixers, ambulances, light vehicles,
etc.
• Penstock fabrication yard.

Every workshop would have partly covered area in addition to open area. Equipment
requiring major overhaul/repairs would normally be parked under cover. The open areas
would provide parking space for the equipment under minor repair. A store to stock the
spares for the equipment, a site office and toilet facilities would be provided under the
covered space. The penstock fabrication yard would be equipped with two plate bending
rolls, a battery of welding and gas cutting sets, hydro-testing and radiography facility, sand-
blasting and painting equipment and sufficient space to stock the raw plates as well as the
finished ferrules awaiting dispatch. An E.O.T crane of 40 MT capacity erected in the yard
would be deployed for handling the ferrules during different stages of fabrication. A separate
mobile crane of 40 MT would be deployed to handle the plates/ferrules in the stock yard. The
fabrication yard would be partly covered to allow welding and other activities to go on
unhindered under the covered area.

Stores and Warehouses

Keeping the size of the project in view only, a Central warehouse would be set up to stock
the material required for the project. All supplies to the project would be stocked hereon their
arrival from the suppliers. Site stores would be made for daily need at every work site to
stock the specific material required for the work it is meant to cater for. These site stores
would receive material from the central warehouse as per their demand. Inventory control
would be computerized to increase efficiency and also to assist in planning procurement of
material.
Workshops have been proposed for earth moving equipment and for concreting and drilling
equipment at contractors cost. Since all the work would be highly mechanized, adequate and
self-sufficient repair and service facilities would be set up at the project site since none of
these facilities are available in the area nearby. Since all mechanical repairs and servicing
will be done at site, maintaining an adequate inventory and having adequate skilled
manpower available will be essential.

Construction Power
Construction power would be available through two sources 3.5MW Chhoo Hydroelectric
Project and through diesel generating sets. It has been planned that 75% of Power will be
available through diesel generating sets and 25% through Choo Hydroelectric Project. The

WAPCOS Limited 2-19

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

requirement would have to be met only by installing diesel generating sets. The requirement
of construction power would vary at each individual site depending upon the equipment
deployed.

Aggregate and Batching Plants

A total requirement of 7.5 Lac cum of concrete is estimated, where Dam is having the major
concrete quantity of 5.8 Lac cum, since the project is Dam Toe project, the concentration of
construction activity would be confined to one main area.

The set up for aggregate and concrete production for the project would be as below:

Batching Plant of 30 Cum, 60 Cum & 90 Cum and Crusher Plant of 200 TPH will be
deployed to arrange the concrete and aggregate.

Project Areas Roads

To execute the various civil works, roads would be made for linking the work site to other
sites and to job facility areas. They would essentially be unpaved and would be constructed
at a workable gradient so that loaded construction equipment does not have to toil hard to
group slope. An average gradient of 1:15 has been contemplated. These roads would be
connected to the existing roads in the area or to other project roads. The details are given in
Table-2.6.
Table -2.6: Project Road Network
Road Distance Length (km)
Diversion Tunnel to Disposal Area 4.5
Disposal Area to Cofferdam 4.4
Dam to Disposal Area 4.2
Adit to Bottom of Penstock to Disposal Area 4.0
Construction Adit to Top of Power House to Disposal Area 3.7
Main Access Tunnel to Power House to Disposal Area 3.5
Tail Race Tunnel to Disposal Area 3.7
Diversion Tunnel to Batching Plant 1.0
Intake to Batching Plant 2.0
Dam to Batching Plant 1.5
Adit to Bottom of Penstock to Batching Plant 2.0
Construction Adit to Top of Power House to Batching Plant 2.0
Main Access Tunnel to Power House to Batching Plant 1.5
Tail Race Tunnel to Batching Plant 1.5
Source: DPR

Bridges Required
Both permanent and temporary bridges would be constructed to cross the waterways falling
in the alignments of the roads. The details are given in Table-2.7.

WAPCOS Limited 2-20

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table 2.7: Details of Bridges required

S.No. Description Approx. Length (m)
1 Bridge at Chenab River Downstream of Tail Race 50
Tunnel
2. Bridge at Ajog Village for access to Township 50
Source: DPR

Muck Dumping Areas

Total muck from excavation of the project components such as Dam, Power house, TRT,
Adits, Pressure shaft etc. worked out, Component wise muck generation, disposal& area
required are presented in the Table 2.8 to 2.10 respectively.
Table- 2.8: Component wise Total Muck Generation
S. No. Particulars Approx. Quantity (cum)
1. Diversion Tunnel 1,40,000
2. Dam & Intake 6,00,000
3. Plunge Pool 1,10,000
4. Pressure Shaft 70,000
5. Powerhouse 2,50,000
6. Tail Race Tunnel 20,000
7. Adits 25,000
7. Approach Roads 1,00,000
Total 13,15,000
Source: DPR
Table- 2.9: Total Muck to be disposed after Considering Swelling Factor
S. No. Description Quantity (Cum)
1. Total Excavation 13,15,000
2. Common Excavation 5,26,000
3. Total Rock Excavation = (1) – (2) 7,89,000
4. Reusable Quantity as construction
3,94,500
material
5. Disposable rock muck 3,94,500
6. Disposable rock muck after swelling:
5,91,750
(considering 50% swelling factor)
7. Back fill/fill quantity 1,90,000
8. Disposable common muck = (2) – (7) 3,36,000
9. Disposable common muck after
swelling 4,20,000
(considering 25% swelling factor)
10. Total muck to be disposed = (6 ) + (9) 10,11,750
Source: DPR

It is clear from above table that total 10, 11,750 cubic meters muck requires proper disposal.
Most of the area, identified for dumping is planned on the banks of nearest drainages &
away from River HFL. The identified areas are mostly gradually sloping near river bank. The

WAPCOS Limited 2-21

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

drainage side bank of the area will be properly protected and stabilized with Gabions/
Retaining Walls of suitable designed sections.

Table 2.10: Muck Disposal Areas & Capacities

S. No. Disposal Site. Area Average road Capacity
distance from
Dam area
(ha) (km) (Lakh cum)
1. Area near Bumbal (R/Bank) 5.46 1 2.30
2. Area near Mindhal Bridge 0.77 6 0.20
(L/Bank)
3. Area near Mindhal Bridge 0.66 6 1.10
(L/Bank)
4. Area near Mindhal Bridge 3.64 6 6.60
(L/Bank)
Total 10.53 10.20

Source: DPR

About 10.11 Lakh cum. of muck is to be disposed hence capacity of the dumping area is
sufficient to accommodate the muck generated from the project.

It is further elaborated that unused muck would be piled up at an angle of repose at the
proposed dumping sites. For the stabilization of dumped materials various engineering
measures and phyto-remedial measures shall be provided.

Telecommunications

The different work sites, stores, workshop, office, colonies, police station, hospital etc.
should have a reliable telecommunication network, interconnected to the existing
telecommunication network of Himachal Pradesh. An electronic exchange with a minimum
capacity of 50 lines is proposed at the project site during the construction stage. This internal
system should be maintained by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited to ensure reliable
connectivity with the rest of the country.

In addition to the above, a wireless VSAT system is also proposed as a standby system for
linking the project site with headquarters, procurement offices and regional offices. After
completion of the project construction, the telecommunication network is proposed to be
maintained to the extent necessary so as to provide a reliable service during plant operation.

Domestic Water supply

There is no treated water supply source available near project site. For the potable water
supply to the main residential colony, a water treatment plant of sufficient capacity is
proposed to be provided in the area earmarked for the main colony complex. There is a
water source at Nearest Nallas which is proposed to be tapped. For the office/field

WAPCOS Limited 2-22

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

hostel/staff hostel complex packaged water treatment plant is proposed to be provided. For
labour/construction colonies, the water sources at nallas and various other small sources will
serve the purpose after providing suitable water treatment.

Sewage treatment Plant

During the construction stage, for main colony complex, it is proposed to provide common
septic tanks with adequate capacities. The above system will facilitate easy maintenance of
the sewerage system. At a later stage, all these septic tanks would be connected to a
common sewer line leading to a sewage treatment plant (STP) which shall be constructed
catering adequate capacity.

Explosive Magazines

For completing the project as per the construction programme, it has been estimated that
one explosive magazine, of 20 MT capacity, would be sufficient to meet the requirement.
The area around the building for explosive and detonators would be fenced and have a
strong gate which would be operated by the armed guard only. Adequate protection of the
building against lightening would also be provided as per IS: 2309.The Explosive Rules of
1983 lay down that a safe distance of 345 m should exist from the magazine structure of 30
MT capacity to any railway line or public road. It also specifies that a safe distance of 690 m
should exist from the magazine to any houses, dwellings, factories etc. As per investigations
at site, the requirement of 690 m safe distance can be met.

WAPCOS Limited 2-23

 CHAPTER-3
CONSTRUCTION
METHODOLOGY
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-3
CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY
3.1 GENERAL
The project implementation schedules for construction of a hydroelectric project are drawn
with a view to complete all the works and commission the project in the shortest possible
duration, so that the construction cost in terms of IDC is minimum and the project benefits
are accrued early, Mechanized construction has been planned for all components of the
project to achieve consistent quality with faster progress. Construction activities in different
parts of the project will be so sequenced as to optimize the use of construction equipment
and machinery. Access to the various work sites and all the basic infrastructure facilities will
be provided in advance, before taking up of the main civil structures.
Major assumption considered while making the construction methodology are as below:

• Construction Period: 10.5 years (including infrastructural works)

• Monsoon months – June – September
• Winter (non-working months): November – April
• In a day, 20 hrs working is considered, whereas in a month 26 days working is
considered.
• Efficiency factor of all equipment is considered as 80%.

The methodology proposed to be adopted for construction of various project appurtenances

is summarized in the following sections:

3.2 RIVER DIVERSION

Diversion Tunnel
The diversion of the river will be carried out diversion tunnel which is constructed on left
bank side by constructing a coffer dam across the length of the Dam portion.The Diversion
Tunnel will be of 10 m finished diameter, 780m length and bed slope of 1 in 130. The key
features of diversion tunnel are given in Table-3.1.

Table-3.1: Key Features of Diversion Tunnel

Excavated size of Diversion Tunnel (in Class II,III & IV),m 11.6
Excavated size of Diversion Tunnel (in Class V), m 12.2
Finished Diameter of Diversion Tunnel, m 10.0
Cross-sectional area of Diversion Tunnel (in Class I & II,III & 109.64
IV), m2
Cross-sectional area of Diversion Tunnel (in Class V), m2 114.84
Total Length of Diversion Tunnel, m 780.0

The type of rocks likely to be encountered on the alignment of Diversion Tunnel is given in
Table-3.2.

WAPCOS Limited 3-1

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-3.2: Type of rocks likely to be encountered

Types of Rocks likely to be encountered % Length (m)
Good Rock – Class II 25 195.00
Fair Rock – Class III 60 468.00
Poor Rock – Class IV 10 78.00
Very Poor Rock – Class V 5 39.00

Excavation: 1 No., 780m long, 10 m finished diameter, Horse-Shoe shaped diversion tunnel
on the left bank of river Chenab shall be excavated through drilling and blasting by heading
& benching method.

Class II
Excavation in Class II classified in drawing as Good rock will be carried out through drilling &
blasting by heading and benching method. The tunnel excavation will be done by
conventional drill and blast method using hydraulic drill jumbo. Drilling will be done by Two
Boom Drill Jumbo. This will be followed by charging and subsequent blasting of the drilled
face. Excavator of bucket capacity 2.0 Cum and 20 T dumpers will carry out clearing of the
generated muck from blasted face. As the excavation proceeds, rock support system by the
way of rock bolts and shotcrete will be provided in accordance with the approved
construction drawings. Drilling of rock bolts will be carried out with Two Boom Drill Jumbo,
while shotcreting will be done by shotcrete machine.

Excavation Sequence for Class II

• Surveying
• Drilling
• Charging of drilled holes
• Blasting
• Defuming
• Mucking
• Scaling/Trimming
• Shotcreting
• Rock bolting
• Drainage holes

Class III & IV

Excavation in Class III & IV classified in drawing as Fair and Poor rock, will be carried out by
drilling & blasting by heading and benching method. Similar sequence of operation will be
carried out as explained in Class II rock class.

Class V
Excavation in Class V as classified in drawing falls under Very poor rock mass conditions.
For this class, if the rock is highly squeezing, less pull will be considered. In addition to that,

WAPCOS Limited 3-2

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

permanent steel rib support will be provided in accordance with the approved construction
drawings and technical specifications.
The excavation sequence for Class V
• Surveying
• Drilling
• Charging of drilled holes
• Blasting
• Defuming
• Mucking
• Scaling/Trimming
• Shotcreting
• Rock bolting
• Drainage holes
• Rib erection & backfill concrete

The total duration required to excavate 780 m long diversion tunnel shall be (9 + 2.0 months,
considering benching will follow heading after 100 m and will be done 1 month after the
Heading), 11.0 months. In order to reduce time, diversion tunnel will be excavated from both
the faces, with one set of equipment for each face. Thus, total duration of excavation will be
reduced to 6 months. Portal excavation will take initial 1 months. Thus, the total duration will
be 7 months. For Lining of diversion tunnel, including 2 months of Lining for Inlet and Outlet
Portal is 7 months. Thus, the total duration for Diversion Tunnel excavation and Lining is
14.0 months.

3.3 COFFER DAM

The coffer dam shall be constructed/repaired three times during entire construction period of
the project. Construction of coffer dam with the placement quantity of around 13526 cum
colcrete for Upstream Cofferdam and 5409 Cum for Downstream Cofferdam (for one time
construction) shall be carried out in a period of 2 months including excavation, grouting, etc.
It is proposed to use the useful excavated muck from the Diversion tunnel as well as
abutment excavation in the construction of coffer dam.

The height of the cofferdam will vary based on the river bed. The central hearting zone will
be formed with colcrete. The top of the hearting zone will be 1m below the top level of the
cofferdam. The Colcrete will be overlaid with M 20 concrete.

3.4 DAM
Excavation
In principle this is indicative method of excavation, which will be developed during
construction stages for exact routing of construction ramps, zones, levels to be tackled.
Excavation requiring no blasting operation shall be executed in accordance with theoretical

WAPCOS Limited 3-3

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

cut line defined by cross section on the construction drawing taking into account the nature
of ground. Surfaces shall be perfectly levelled and excavations carried out to ensure final
shape.. Excavations in rock requiring blasting shall be carried out in accordance with
blasting specifications. Blasting shall be performed only by licensed and skilled operators
and under the authority of qualified foreman. All the workers involved in blasting works shall
be well trained. Around the blasting area, before blasting, workers shall check that the
affected area is cleared. All blasting works shall be carried out using controlled blasting
technique to minimise any damage to final profile. The depth and spacing of holes, the
amount of explosives to be used for the hole, the distribution of explosives within one hole
and the numbers and sequence of delay detonators shall be selected in order to obtain the
excavations to the lines and grades as specified in the drawings without any over break,
fracturing and loosening of the rock below or beyond the required excavation lines or level or
causing any damages to the adjacent property or permanent work.
The ground of the excavation area shall be blasted in layers with thickness as required to
meet the specified excavation levels, and the end of holes for blasting the final layers shall
not be drilled closer than 0.3 m to the required final level or line. Any excavation surface for
permanent works after blasting shall exhibit a regular fracture plane between barrels without
back break and with half barrels visible over the major portion of the surface.
The method of pre-splitting will be adopted in areas where it is necessary to keep the sound
rock without any cracks for the structures. Such cracks for the final contour are created by
blasting prior to the rest of the holes for blasting pattern.

Blast pattern shall be accurately set out and holes shall be collared within 50mm of the
required position. Holes, which are over drilled, shall be fully stemmed to the required depth
before charging up takes place. All perimeter holes for surface blasting shall be drilled to a
depth of 1 m below the bottom of any production holes adjacent to perimeter plane.
Controlled perimeter blasting techniques shall be used only and if required to obtain the
excavation faces on permanent works to the lines, grades and levels as specified and on
faces steeper than 1V: 1H.
The material excavated and kept in temporary storage for using later for back filling shall be
well protected, to maintain the material properly regardless of the weather conditions. The
storage area shall be safe with slopes in accordance with angle of internal friction with
materials and with necessary drainage to prevent water flooding during heavy rainfall.
Hydraulic excavators will be used to load the excavated soil / blasted rock into the dumpers,
which will be disposed of to the disposal yard. All the necessary slope protection measures
such as rock anchors, shotcreting wherever necessary will be installed simultaneously going
down with the excavation.

WAPCOS Limited 3-4

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Concreting
In the first phase, concreting of Dam block up to EL 2167.00 m will be completed. In the First
phase, second phase, concreting of piers and breast wall will be done from EL 2167.00m to
EL 2222.00m. In the second stage concreting of power intake block and NOF blocks on the
right bank will be completed. In the third phase concreting of NOF on the left bank will be
completed. At last concreting of bridge will be done. A 8.0 m wide bridge is provided over the
spillway with EL at + 2222.00m. Concreting in dam bays will be done on completion of
excavation work in these portions. For the bottom portion in sluice way bays, where
thickness varies through the longitudinal direction concreting will be done on completion of
excavation work in these portions. For the bottom portions in sluice way bays, where
thickness varies through the longitudinal direction concreting will be done through the Tower
crane. L&T formwork shutters will be mobilized for shutters of 1.50m lift. For installation of
gates, first stage embedded parts are placed while concreting is done.
Green concrete from the batching plant will be transported by 6 Cum Transit Mixers to the
location.

Bridge over the pier will be constructed in-situ by fixing form work from the spillway section.
Necessary embedment will be provided to spillway portion to take care of staging for the
bridge. RCC deck slab of the bridge will be concreted using formwork supported on
temporary brackets fixed to the main beams of the bridge by providing inserts during
concreting of the piers. Kerbs and handrails will be placed on both sides all along the length
of the bridge.

3.5 PRESSURE SHAFT

Three Circular pressure shafts each of diameter 5.8 m have been proposed to carry the
design discharge from the Intake to Power House. For all the three pressure shaft
excavation will be done through the construction Adit.

Adit to Pressure Shaft Bottom

Adit to Pressue Shaft bottom is of 7m finished dia and 137m long. A time of Two month
duration is required for Adit to bottom of Pressure Shaft excavation including portal
excavation
Excavation (Bottom Horizontal Portion)
The excavation of bottom horizontal portion of Pressure Shaft will be taken up as soon as
the Adit to Pressure Shaft has been completed. The tunnel excavation will be done by
conventional drill and blast method using two boom drill jumbo. For all classes of rock type,
full face excavation will be carried out. This will be followed by charging and subsequent
blasting of the drilled face. Excavator will carry out loading of the generated muck whereas

WAPCOS Limited 3-5

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

20T capacity dumpers will do the mucking and disposal. As the excavation proceeds, rock
support system by the way of rock bolts and shotcrete will be provided in accordance with
the technical specifications and approved construction drawings. Drilling of rock bolts will be
carried out with two boom drill jumbo, while shotrcreting will be done by shotcrete machine.
Excavation Sequence
• Surveying
• Drilling
• Charging of drilled holes
• Blasting
• Defuming
• Mucking
• Scaling/Trimming
• Rock bolting
• Shotcreting
The salient features of bottom horizontal portion of pressure shaft are given in Table-3.3. A
time of 2 months shall be required for excavation of 220 m long bottom pressure shaft.

Table-3.3: Salient features of bottom horizontal portion of pressure shaft

Excavated Size of Pressure Shaft (in Class II, III & IV),m 7.1
Excavated Size of Pressure Shaft (in Class V) m 7.65
Finished Diameter of Pressure Shaft, m 5.8
Excavated Diameter, m 7.65
2
Cross-sectional area of pressure Shaft(in Class II, III & IV) m 48.00
Cross-sectional area of pressure Shaft(in Class V) m2 53.00
Maximum Length of Pressure Shaft, m 185

The salient features of inclined pressure shaft are given in Table-3.4.

Table-3.4:Salient features of Inclined Pressure Shaft
Excavated size of Inclined Pressure Shaft(in Class II, III & IV),m 7.1
Excavated size of Inclined Pressure Shaft(in Class V),m 7.3
Finished Diameter of Inclined Pressure Shaft, m 5.8
Cross-sectional area of Inclined Pressure Shaft(in Class II, III & 45.00
IV),, m2
Cross-sectional Area of Inclined Pressure Shaft(in Class V), m2 48.00
Maximum Length of Inclined Pressure Shaft, m 75.00

Excavation of inclined portion of pressure shaft will be taken up as soon as the bottom
horizontal portion of pressure shaft excavation has been completed.

The pressure shaft initially will be constructed by Alimak raise climbing method from bottom
to top. The shaft shall be excavated full face from the bottom. The drilling can be achieved
by jack hammers for a drill length of 2.4m. The charging also will be done by the Alimak
raise climber platform. The muck generated in each blast shall be collected in the horizontal
pressure shaft tunnel and will be disposed out through adit.

WAPCOS Limited 3-6

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Liner erection and concreting

Concreting is planned to be carried out in two fronts. After the completion of excavation in
vertical pressure shaft, the lining of vertical shaft will be done by fixing a structural steel liner
and then concreting the remaining portion left around the steel liner. By using the same front
the lining of horizontal portion will be continued and completed.
Horizontal portion of pressure shaft concreting

Rails will be fixed at the invert level matching the alignment of the excavated pressure shaft.
The trolley platform on rails will be used to transport the liner to the required position in the
pressure shaft by winch arrangement. Structural steel liner of required grade will be
positioned on the trolley by crane. The steel liner will be safely secured to the trolley platform
before movement. After transporting the trolley platform along with the steel liner to the
required position, the steel liner piece will be unsecured from the trolley and rose by means
of jack arrangement to release the trolley and removed. The lowered steel liner is positioned
and aligned by means of precast concrete blocks all around. Concrete will be transported
from the batching plant to the entrance of the underground pressure shaft portal by means of
transit mixers. Concrete shall be transported to the concreting location by pumping through
pipes. After fixing the liner pieces and on completion of the alignment, end shutter (bulk
head) will be fixed leaving space for the future liner to be erected and welding to the existing
liner. On completion of fixing the end shutter, concreting will be carried out around the
respective steel liner portion with the help of suitable concrete pump. Repeat the above
process to progress and complete the structural steel liner installation and concrete
encasing.

Inclined Portion of Pressure Shaft Concreting

The liner ferrule will be shifted to the gantry location by trolley, which will be travelling on the
rails. The gantry is used for lowering the liner ferrule to the desired location. The lowered
steel liner is positioned and aligned by means of precast concrete blocks all around.
Concrete will be transported from the batching plant to the entrance of the underground
pressure shaft portal by means of transit mixers. Concrete shall be transported to the
concreting location by pumping through pipes. After fixing the liner pieces and on completion
of the alignment, end shutter (bulk head) will be fixed leaving space for the future liner to be
erected and welded to the existing liner. On completion of fixing, end shutter concreting will
be carried out around the respective steel liner portion with the help of suitable concrete
pump.

WAPCOS Limited 3-7

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The total duration for Bottom Horizontal Pressure Shaft Concreting of 185 m length shall be
4.5, for 171 m shall be 4months for 157 m shall be 3.5 months considering cycle time of
50m/month. The total duration for Inclined Pressure Shaft Concreting, considering
20m/month, for 80 m shall be 4 months and consecutively for 3 shafts 12 months.
Consider 2 months for Anchor Block Concreting and consecutively for remaining 2 shafts,
total duration will be 6 months.

3.6 POWER HOUSE COMPLEX

The underground powerhouse is proposed on the right bank of the river Chenab about 200m
downstream of the toe of the dam. The water from the tailrace tunnel is proposed to be
discharged into river Chenab.

Power House Excavation

The excavation of Power House underground cavern will be carried out by constructing
ramps for benching down from higher levels to lower ones. The total volume to be excavated
is 1, 21,213cum and timeenvisaged is 12 months. Blasting operations must be carefully
performed in order to minimize rock shattering and overbreaks. Therefore pre splitting will be
required and instantaneous explosive charge shall be controlled so that vibration will be
reduced up to the levels required by technical specifications. Benches vibration will be
reduced up to the levels required by technical specifications. Benches of 1.5-3m height are
envisaged according to rock quality; shotcreting and rock bolting as required, will be carried
out immediately after and in parallel with the excavation stage.
The volume to be excavated are small but the rate of progress will be limited due to the
above mentioned factors. Careful Blasting techniques, limited bench heights as well as the
removal of the ramps required to reach the various level used for mucking the material will
slow the progress of excavation.
Power House Excavation Stages
Stages 1 and 2:
Power house cavern roof, elevation 2172.40m up to 2165.40 m
After reaching the crown portion through the adit, a central drift driven thorough the entire
length of the power house cavern, shall be excavated (stage-1) followed by slashing down
the side material of power house roof (stage-2) to complete the excavation up to elevation
2165.40.Total excavation quantity for stage 1 & 2 is 15650 Cum.
Stage 3
Elevation 2165.40 m to 2146.15 m (Erection bay level)
From this level the excavation will proceed in bunches of 1.5-3meters up to the elevation
2151.15 of the erection bay. A ramp will be left for mucking the material through the crown

WAPCOS Limited 3-8

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

adit until the erection bay Main Access Tunnel excavation is reached and can be used for
material removal from this elevation. The total excavation for stage 3 is 54080 cum.

Stage 4
Elevation 2152.75 m to 2133 m
From erection bay level the excavation will proceed, benching down, to the level of the TRT
with 1.5-3m, benches and leaving a ramp for mucking from erection bay until the TRT level
is reached and can be used. The total excavation quantity for stage 4 is 32120 cum.

Stage 5
Elevation 2133.00 m to 2125.60 m
In continuation, the excavation of draft tubes and drainage pits will take place. Total
excavation quantity for stage 5 is 10970 cum.

Power House Concreting

Power house first stage construction usually is not controlled by the volume of concrete to be
placed but by formwork and reinforcing steel fixing operations. Concrete placing will be done
mainly with concrete pump or concrete bucket handled by EOT crane. The total volume is
34280 cum. The construction sequences of 1st and 2nd stage concrete in power house are
detailed in the construction schedule.

Work will start from service bay and draft tube level of Unit 1, service bay columns will be
completed at the earliest to allow for EOT crane erection; 2 months are foreseen for its
erection. Power House first stage concrete will start after the EOT crane installation. This
crane will be utilized for erection of draft tube lining as well as for concrete and formwork
activities during the entire construction period of the Power House.

Power House second stage construction is controlled by the E&M erection phases. In this
stage concrete placing will commence as soon as the erection of the various components of
the machine is completed and the area is made free from concrete embedment.

Simultaneously slab formwork and pouring for different floors will be carried out to build the
offices and galleries as well as the control room. Architectural works and finishing will be
carried out in parallel to E&M works.

3.7 TAIL RACE TUNNEL

Water exiting from the turbines will be discharged into a tail race tunnel extending from the
substructure of the powerhouse to the banks of Chenab River.

WAPCOS Limited 3-9

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

6.0m finished diameter D shaped Diversion Tunnel will be excavated by conventional Drilling
and Blasting Method in Full Face, with pull depending upon the type and class of rock mass
encountered. The salient features of Tail Race Tunnel are given in Table-3.5.

Table-3.5: Salient features of Tail Race Runnel

Excavated size of Tail Race Tunnel (in Class 7.3
II, III & IV), m
Excavated size of Tail Race Tunnel (in 7.9
ClassV), m
Finished width of Tail Race Tunnel, m 6.6
Cross sectional area of Tail Race Tunnel(in 44.60
Class I, II, III & IV), m2
Cross sectional area of Tail Race Tunnel(in 50.21
Class V), m2
Maximum Length of Tail Race Tunnel,m 126

The duration for excavation of Tail Race Tunnel shall be 4.5 Months and Portal Excavation
shall take 3 months. Thus, total duration for excavation shall be 7.5 months.For Tail Race
Tunnel Lining duration of 3 months is expected.

WAPCOS Limited 3-10

 CHAPTER-4
METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR
THE EIA STUDY
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-4

METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR THE EIA STUDY

4.1 INTRODUCTION
Standard methodologies of Environment Impact Assessment have been followed for
conducting the CEIA study for the proposed Sach-Khas hydroelectric project. A brief
description of the methodology adopted for conducting the CEIA study for the proposed
Sach-Khas hydroelectric project is outlined in the present chapter. The information
presented in this Chapter has been presented through various primary as well as secondary
sources.
4.2 STUDY AREA
The study area considered for the CEIA study is given as below:
• Submergence area
• Area within 10 km of the periphery of the submergence area
• Area to be acquired for siting of various project appurtenances.
• Area within 10 km of various project appurtenances
• Catchment area intercepted at the barrage site

The study area is enclosed as Figure-4.1.

FCC of the Study Area

1
L & T Himachal Hydropower Limited

Figure-4.1: FCC of the Study Area

WAPCOS Limited 4-1

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

4.3 SCOPING MATRIX

Scoping is a tool which gives direction for selection of impacts due to the project activities on
the environment. As a part of the study, scoping exercise was conducted selecting various
types of impacts which can accrue due to hydroelectric project. Based on the project
features, site conditions, various parameters to be covered as a part of the EIA study were
selected. The results of Scoping analysis are presented in Table-4.1.

Table-4.1: Scoping Matrix for EIA study for the proposed Sach-Khas Hydroelectric
Project
Aspects of Environment Likely Impacts
A. Land Environment
Construction phase - Increase in soil erosion from
various construction and quarry
sites
- Pollution by construction spoils
- Acquisition of land for labour
camps/ colonies
- Solid waste generated from labour
camps/colonies
Operation phase - Acquisition of land for various
project appurtenances
- Loss of forest land
due to acquisition of land for
various project appurtenances
B. Water resources & water quality
Construction phase - Impact on water quality of
receiving water body due to
disposal of runoff from construction
Sites carrying high sediment level.
- Degradation of water quality due to
disposal of effluent from labour,
camps/colonies
Operation phase - Modification of hydrologic regime
due to diversion of water for
hydropower generation
C. Aquatic Ecology
Construction phase - Increased pressure on riverine
fisheries as a result of
indiscriminate fishing by the
Immigrant labour population.
- Reduced productivity due to
increase in turbidity levels as a
result of disposed off waste water
from construction sites and labour
Camps/colonies.

WAPCOS Limited 4-2

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Aspects of Environment Likely Impacts

Operation phase - Impacts on spawning & breeding
grounds in the stretch downstream
of dam site to Tail race disposal site.
- Degradation of riverine ecology
- Impacts on migratory fish species
- Impact on aquatic ecology due to
reduction in flow downstream of the
dam site upto tail race disposal site.
D. Terrestrial Ecology
Construction phase - Increased pressure from labour to
meet their fuel wood requirements
during project construction phase
- Adverse impacts on flora and fauna
due to increased accessibility in the
area and increased level of human
interferences
- Loss of forest due to siting of various project
appurtenances
Operation phase - Impacts on wildlife movement due to the
project
- Impacts on wildlife habitats due to
Acquisition of forest land for various project
appurtenances.
E. Socio-Economic Aspects
Construction phase - Increased employment potential
during project construction phase
- Development of allied sectors
leading to greater employment
- Pressure on existing infrastructure
Facilities.
- Cultural conflicts and law and order issues
due to migration of labour population
Operation phase - Loss of community properties, if any
- Impacts on archaeological and
cultural monuments, if any
- Impacts on mineral reserves, if any
F. Air Pollution
Construction Phase - Impacts due to emission as a result of fuel
combustion in various construction
equipment
- Impacts due to emission as a result of
increased vehicular movement for
transportation of men and material during
project construction phase
- Fugitive envisions from various sources
- Impacts due to emissions from DG set
G. Noise Pollution
Construction Phase - Noise due to operation of various
construction equipment
- Noise due to increased vehicular
movement
- Impacts due to blasting

WAPCOS Limited 4-3

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Aspects of Environment Likely Impacts

- Increased noise levels due to operation of
DG set
H. Public Health
Construction Phase - Increased incidence of water related
diseases
- Transmission of diseases by immigrant
labour population
Operation phase - Increased incidence of vector- borne
diseases

Based on the Scoping matrix, the environmental baseline data has been collected. The
project details have been superimposed on environmental baseline conditions to understand
the beneficial and deleterious impacts due to the construction and operation of the proposed
Sach-Khas hydroelectric project.
4.4 DATA COLLECTION
4.4.1 Physico-Chemical Aspects
Primary surveys have been conducted for three seasons namely, monsoon, post-monsoon
and pre-monsoon seasons. The data has been collected for flora, fauna, forest types and
ecological parameters, geological and soil features. During these surveys data and
information was collected on physico-chemical, biological and socio-economic aspects of the
study area. In addition, detailed surveys and studies were also conducted for understanding
bio-diversity in the study area.
As a part of the EIA study, primary data has been collected for three seasons. The details
are given in Table-4.2.
Table-4.2: Details of field studies conducted as a part of CEIA studies
Season Months
Monsoon August 2010
Winter November – December 2010
Summer May-June 2011

Geology
The regional geology around the project area highlighting geology, stratigraphy, etc. has
been covered in the EIA Report, as per the available information in the Detailed Project
Report (DPR) of the project.
Hydrology
Hydrological data for river Chenab as available in the Detailed Project Report was collected
and has been suitably incorporated in the Comprehensive EIA study.

WAPCOS Limited 4-4

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Seismo-tectonics
The regional seismo-tectonics around the project area highlighting seismicity has been
covered in the EIA Report, as per the available information in the Detailed Project Report
(DPR) of the project.
Landuse pattern
Landuse pattern of the study area as well as the catchment area was carried out by standard
methods of analysis of remotely sensed data and followed by ground truth collection and
interpretation of satellite data. For this purpose digital satellite data was procured from
National Remote Sensing Agency, Hyderabad, IRS-P6 LISS-IV. The data was processed
through ERDAS software package available with WAPCOS.
Soil
The soil quality was monitored at various locations in the catchment area. The monitoring
was conducted for three seasons as detailed in Table-4.2. The parameters monitored were:
• pH
• Electrical Conductivity
• Organic Matter
• Sodium
• Available Phosphorus
• Available Potassium
• Available Nitrogen
• Cation Exchange Capacity
• Particle Size Distribution
• Texture

Water Quality
The existing data on water quality has been collected to evaluate river water quality on
upstream and downstream of the project site. The water quality was monitored for various
seasons as listed in Table-4.2. The water samples were collected from the study area and
analyzed for physico-chemical parameters which are listed in Table-4.3.
Table-4.3: Water quality parameters analyzed as a part of the field studies
pH Zinc
Electrical Conductivity Mercury
Total Dissolved Solids Cadmium
Sulphates Magnesium
Chlorides Lead
Nitrates Manganese
Phosphates Cyanides
Sodium Hardness
Potassium DO
Calcium BOD
Copper COD
Iron Oil & grease
Total Coliform Fecal Coliform

WAPCOS Limited 4-5

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Ambient air quality

The ambient air quality was monitored at three locations in the study area. Monitoring was
conducted for three seasons as listed in Table-4.2. The frequency of monitoring for each
season was twice a week for four consecutive weeks. The parameters monitored were
Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM), Sulphur-dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen di-oxides (NO2).
Ambient Noise level
As a part of the EIA study noise level was monitored at various locations in the study area.
Monitoring was conducted for various seasons as listed in Table-4.2. At each station, hourly
noise level was monitored during day time. Further day time equivalent noise level was
estimated.
4.4.2 Ecological Aspects
Terrestrial Ecology
Flora
Data on forest type legal status and their extent in the catchment and study area has been
collected from the forest department. The other relevant data on bio-diversity economically
important species medicinal plant, rare and endangered species in the study area and its
surroundings have been collected from secondary sources like Forest research institute and
wildlife department. In addition field studies were conducted to collect data on various
aspects in the study area. The sampling sites were selected based on topography and
floristic composition. The various aspects studied were floral density frequency and
abundance of species of trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses. Plants of economical species
and medicinal use and endangered species were also identified as a part of the study. The
monitoring was conducted for various seasons listed in Table-4.2.
Fauna
The faunal assessment has been done on the basis secondary data collected from different
government offices like forest department, wildlife department, fisheries department, etc. The
presence of wildlife was also confirmed from the local inhabitants depending on the animal
sightings and the frequency of their visits in the catchment area. In addition review of
secondary data was another source of information for studying the fauna of the area. In
addition, sightings of faunal population during ecological survey and then field studies were
also recorded as a part of the data collection exercise.
Aquatic Ecology and Fisheries
Water samples from river Chenab were also collected as a part of field studies. The density
and diversity of periphyton and phytoplanktons, species diversity index and primary
productivity etc. were also studied. The field studies were conducted for various seasons as
listed in Table-4.2.

WAPCOS Limited 4-6

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The secondary data pertaining to fisheries in river Chenab was collected from Fisheries
Department and through literature review as well. Fishing was done at various sites in the
project area and river stretches both upstream and downstream of the dam site of proposed
Sach Khas hydroelectric project to ascertain the dispersal pattern of fish species.
Identification and measurements of all the fish catch was done and an inventory of the fish
species was also prepared. Various migratory species and the species to be affected due to
conversion of lentic to lotic conditions as a result of commissioning of the proposed project
were also identified.
4.5 SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION

The summary of the data collected from various sources is outlined in Table-4.4.

Table-4.4 : Summary of data collected for the Comprehensive EIA study

Aspect Mode of Parameters Frequency Source
Data monitored
collection
Meteorology Secondary Temperature, - India Meteorological
humidity, rainfall Department (IMD)

Water Secondary Flow, Design - Detailed Project Report

Resources hydrograph and (DPR)
design flood
hydrograph

Water Quality Primary Physico- Three Field studies for

chemical and seasons monsoon, winter and
biological summer seasons
parameters
Ambient air Primary RPM, SPM, SO2, Three Field studies for
quality NOx seasons monsoon, winter and
summer seasons
Noise Primary Hourly noise and Three Field studies for
equivalent noise seasons monsoon, winter and
level summer seasons
Landuse Primary and Land use pattern - NRSA and
secondary Ground truth
Studies
Geology Secondary Geological - Detailed Project
characteristics of Report (DPR )
the study area
Soils Physico- Three Field studies for
chemical seasons monsoon, winter and
parameters summer seasons
Terrestrial Primary and Floral and faunal Three Field studies for
Ecology secondary diversity seasons monsoon, winter and
summer seasons
Secondary data as
available with the
Forest and Wildlife

WAPCOS Limited 4-7

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Aspect Mode of Parameters Frequency Source

Data monitored
collection
Departments
Aquatic Primary and Presence and Three Field studies for
Ecology Secondary abundance of seasons monsoon, winter and
various species summer seasons
Secondary data as
available with the
Fisheries Department

4.6 IMPACT PREDICTION

Prediction is essentially a process to forecast the future environmental conditions of the
project area that might be expected to occur because of implementation of the project. An
attempt was generally made to forecast future environmental conditions quantitatively to the
extent possible. But for certain parameters, which cannot be quantified, general approach
has been adopted to discuss such intangible impacts in qualitative terms so that planners
and decision-makers are aware of their existence as well as their possible implications.
Impact of project activities has been predicted using mathematical models and overlay
technique (super-imposition of activity on environmental parameter). For intangible impacts
qualitative assessment has been done. The environmental impacts predicted are listed as
below:
- Loss of land.
- Impacts on hydrologic regime.
- Impacts on water quality.
- Increase in incidence of water-related diseases including water-borne and vector-
borne diseases.
- Effect on riverine fisheries including migratory fish species.
- Increase in air pollution and noise level during project construction phase
- Impacts due to sewage generation from labour camps
- Impacts due to acquisition of forest land
- Impacts due to increase in terrestrial and aquatic ecology due to increased human
interferences during project construction and operation phases

4.7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND COST ESTIMATES

Based on the environmental baseline conditions and project inputs, the adverse impacts
were identified and a set of measures have been suggested as a part of Environmental
Management Plan (EMP) for their amelioration. The management measures have been
suggested for the following aspects:
• Compensatory afforestation
• Establishment of Botanical Garden
• Habitat improvement for avi-fauna
• Afforestation in degraded areas
• Conservation and cultivation of Medicinal Plants
• Anti-poaching measures

WAPCOS Limited 4-8

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• Provision of facilities in labour camps (Heating, Water Supply, Sanitation & Sewage
Treatment Facilities, Solid Waste Management )
• Provision of free fuel to labour population
• Public health delivery system
• Restoration of quarry sites and landscaping of construction sites
• Disposal of Muck and Reclamation of Muck Disposal Sites
• Management of Impact due to construction of road
• Water pollution control Control of Air Pollution
• Measures for noise control
• Greenbelt development plan
• Energy Conservation measures
• Catchment Area Treatment
• Release of Environmental Flows
• Fisheries Management Plan

The expenditure required for implementation of these management measures has also
been estimated as a part of the EMP study.
4.8 CATCHMENT AREA TREATMENT PLAN
As a part of the CEIA study, a catchment area treatment plan for the catchment area
intercepted at the project site has been formulated. An amount of 2.5% of the project cost
has been earmarked for implementation of CAT Plan. Various sub-watersheds have been
categorized into different erosion categories, as per Silt Yield Index (SYI) method. For high
and very high erosion categories, a catchment area treatment plan comprising of
engineering and biological measures has been formulated.
4.9 LOCAL AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN
As a part of the CEIA Study, a Local Area Development Plan (LADP) has been formulated
for implementation in study area villages. An amount of 1.5% of the project cost has been
earmarked for implementation of Local Area Development Plan (LADP).
4.10 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME
It is necessary to continue monitoring of certain parameters to verify the adequacy of various
measures outlined in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and to assess the
implementation of mitigative measures. An Environmental Monitoring Programme for critical
parameters has been suggested for implementation during project construction and
operation phases. The cost required for implementation of Environmental Monitoring
Programme has also been indicated.

WAPCOS Limited 4-9

CHAPTER-5
HYDROLOGY
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-5
HYDROLOGY

5.1 CHENAB RIVER SYSTEMS

The river Chenab on which Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project is proposed to be located is one
of the five major rivers of the great Indus river system. The Chenab river originates from the
snow covered slopes of Great Himalayas in district Lahaul & Spiti and flows through steep
gradient with series of loops and bends. In its upper reaches it is also known as the
Chandrabhaga. In India, Chenab basin spreads over two states namely Himachal Pradesh
and Jammu & Kashmir which comprise of the extreme western sector of the Himalayas. The
Chenab River is formed by two major tributaries in the head reach namely Chandra and
Bhaga rivers. The Chandra River originates from Baralacha La at an elevation of about 4950
m above sea level and is augmented by Chandra Tal. The Bhaga rises in the north-western
slopes of Baralacha pass and is further joined by Jhankar and Millang nalas in the head
reach. The Chandra comes forming a loop changing the course from southerly to westerly
and then to north westerly direction and the Bhaga comes descending in direct westerly
course. The important places in this reach are Koksar on Chandra River and Keylong on
Bhaga river. The Chandra and Bhaga join each other at Tandi (EL 2820 m) south of
Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. These two
streams, after meeting at Tandi in Lahaul Valley, form the Chandrabhaga which flows
forward through the Pangi valley towards Kashmir.

Downstream of Tandi, the Chandrabhaga continues to flow in the north westerly direction
when it meets its first major tributary, Miyar Nala on its right (EL 2590 m) at Udaipur. It is
later joined by Sach Nala on its right which drains a catchment area of 690 sq. km and keeps
flowing in this northerly direction till it is joined by Lujai Nala.

After a short journey from the confluence of Lujai Nala, it enters the Paddar area of Kishtwar
district of Jammu and Kashmir state at EL 1980 m.

About 60% of catchment area at Project site remains perpetually covered by snow and
glaciers and the comparatively high flows between March to June are largely contributed by
snow melting. High discharge in the river between July to September is further compounded
due to monsoon precipitation. The minimum flow occurs during December, January and
February.

WAPCOS Limited 5-1

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

5.2 THE CATCHMENT AND PHYSIOGRAPHIC PARAMETERS

The Sach Khas HE project is proposed on river Chenab is located about 54 km downstream
of Udaipur G&D site (Latitude: 32043’45” N, Longitude: 76039’ E). The substantial part of
project catchment is snowfed with elevation greater than 4500 m. The physiographic
parameters of the project catchment and Udaipur G&D site have been estimated using the
GIS and remote sensing techniques. The catchment area of the project, longest flow path,
centroid, centroidal flow path and equivalent stream slope has been estimated by GIS
processing of SRTM digital elevation model namely srtm_52_06 on Arc GIS 9.3. The
cumulative hypsometric curve for the project catchment has been developed using ILWIS
3.7. The estimated Physiographic parameters are given in Table 5.1. The physiographic
maps of catchment up to Sach Khas HEP site and Udaipur G&D site are shown in Figures
5.1 and 5.2 respectively.

Table 5.1 Physiographic Parameters of Sach Khas HEP site and Udaipur G&D site
Sach Khas HEP Site
Total catchment area 6588 sq.km
Snowfed catchment area 3973 sq.km (60.31% of total catchment area)
Longest flow path (L) 218.13 km
Centroidal flow path (Lc) 89.54 km
Equivalent stream slope (S) 8.58 m/km
Udaipur G&D Site
Total catchment area 5910 sq.km
Snowfed catchment area 3860 sq.km (65.31% of total catchment area)
Source: DPR

Figure – 5.1 Physiographic Map of catchment up to Sach Khas HEP site

WAPCOS Limited 5-2

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure – 5.2 Physiographic Map of catchment up to Udaipur site

5.3 HYPSOMETRIC CURVE

The hypsometric details of the catchment up to Udaipur G&D site as well as Sach Khas dam
site are given in Figures 5.3 and 5.4 respectively and Tables 5.2 and 5.3 respectively.

WAPCOS Limited 5-3

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure- 5.3 Hypsometric Curve at Udaipur G&D site

WAPCOS Limited 5-4

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-5.2 – Hypsometric details at Udaipur G&D site

Elevation (m) Cumulative Area below Cumulative Percentage of total
elevation (sq.km) area
2611 0.01 0
2700 7.04 0.12
2800 21.08 0.36
2900 46.76 0.79
3000 102.04 1.73
3100 163.30 2.76
3200 229.62 3.89
3300 297.63 5.04
3400 370.70 6.27
3500 451.99 7.65
3600 535.99 9.07
3700 631.91 10.69
3800 743.44 12.58
3900 873.87 14.79
4000 1023.61 17.32
4100 1190.68 20.15
4200 1374.76 23.26
4300 1574.62 26.64
4400 1797.14 30.41
4500 2049.66 34.68
4600 2316.57 39.2
4700 2595.52 43.92
4800 2897.54 49.03
4900 3227.56 54.61
5000 3580.14 60.58
5100 3947.45 66.79
5200 4333.97 73.33
5300 4717.08 79.82
5400 5074.54 85.86
5500 5378.52 91.01
5600 5603.30 94.81
5700 5747.27 97.25
5800 5830.43 98.65
5900 5876.44 99.43
6000 5898.20 99.8
6100 5906.56 99.94
6200 5909.33 99.99
6294 5909.99 100
Source: DPR

WAPCOS Limited 5-5

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure- 5.4 Hypsometric Curve at Sach Khas HEP site

WAPCOS Limited 5-6

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Table-5.3 Hypsometric details at Sach Khas HE Project site

Elevation (m) Cumulative Area below elevation (sq.km) Cumulative percentage
2209 0.59 0.01
2400 22.18 0.34
2600 85.41 1.3
2800 146.97 2.23
3000 271.29 4.12
3200 445.78 6.77
3400 639.31 9.71
3500 744.84 11.31
3600 852.85 12.95
3800 1112.17 16.88
4000 1445.64 21.95
4200 1857.22 28.19
4400 2338.68 34.5
4500 2614.68 39.69
4600 2904.12 44.09
4800 3525.72 53.52
5000 4234.66 64.29
5200 5001.52 75.93
5400 5748.18 87.26
5600 6279.89 95.34
5800 6507.46 98.79
6000 6575.28 99.82
6294 6587.67 100
Source: DPR
5.4 GAUGE & DISCHARGE
A brief summary of G&D data availability status of Chenab Basin with respect to Sach Khas
HEP is placed in Table-5.4. These G&D sites have been established and maintained by
Central Water Commission (CWC).

Table-5.4: Details of G&D Sites in Chenab basin

Latitude/ CA
Station River Type of Data Data Available
Longitude (Sq.km)
0 / //
32 33 00 Jan 1986 to Jun
Daily G& D
76058/00// 2010
Tandi 1640 Bhaga Daily Jan 1974 to Dec
Discharge 1985
32023/00// Daily May 1973 to Dec
Ghousal 2477 Chandra
76058/00// Discharge 2007
32043/00// Jan 1986 to Jun
Daily G& D
76039/00// 2010
Udaipur 5910 Chenab Daily Jan 1974 to Dec
Discharge 1985
32042/00// Daily Jun 1992 to May
Miyar 956 Miyar
76040/00// Discharge 2008
33016/00// Daily May 1990 to May
Gulabgarh 8548 Chenab
76010/00// Discharge 2009
33022/00// Daily
Benzwar 10687 Chenab
75045/00// Discharge
Source: DPR

WAPCOS Limited 5-7

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

5.5 STREAM FLOW CHARACTERISTICS

A preliminary analysis of discharge data of Tandi, Ghousal, Udaipur, Gulabgarh and
Benzwar is carried out to find out the general stream flow characteristics in the project
catchment. The maximum and minimum daily flows, the 10-daily average flows, average
annual discharge, annual runoffs etc. are computed for these G&D sites. Finally, the average
annual runoffs and specific yields of the catchment are computed and presented in Table-
5.5 to have a comparative picture.

Table-5.5: General flow parameters in the G&D observation sites

Parameters Tandi Ghousal Udaipur Gulabgarh Benzwar
River Chandra Bhaga Chenab Chenab Chenab
CA in sq. km 1640 2477 5910 8548 10687
Maximum
816 629 1750 1599 3147
discharge in m3/s
Minimum
2 7.25 12 7.32 15
discharge in m3/s
Average annual
57.61 106.81 237.53 284.35 417.43
discharge in m3/s
Average annual
1816.78 1359.78 7490.70 9012.57 13164.19
runoff in Mm3
Specific yield in
1107.79 1359.78 1267.46 1054.40 1232
mm/sq. km
Source: DPR
It is observed from the Table-5.5, that the flow variation is quite high in the Chenab River. It
is further observed that the maximum and minimum discharges observed at Gulabgarh are
not in line with the maximum and minimums of rest of the sites.

5.6 WATER AVAILABILITY

The 10 daily discharge data at Sach Khas HEP site for the period 1974-75 to 2009-10 is
enclosed as Annexure-II, The 10 daily discharge data at Sach Khas HEP site for 90%
dependable year is given in Table-5.6.
Table-5.6: 10-daily discharge data at Sach Khas HEP site for 90% dependable year
Month Discharge (m3/s)
June I 339.77
II 525.26
III 510.65
July I 722.12
II 724.46
III 502.94
August I 552.68
II 443.77
III 522.50
September I 396.95
II 274.44
III 223.06
October I 145.25

WAPCOS Limited 5-8

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Month Discharge (m3/s)

II 120.17
III 89.18
November I 85.72
II 88.84
III 82.49
December I 75.69
II 74.80
III 62.12
January I 55.62
II 53.73
III 50.29
February I 50.83
II 50.50
III 67.44
March I 49.49
II 58.75
III 71.24
April I 76.02
II 76.02
III 97.76
May I 128.53
II 149.60
III 216.36
Source: DPR

5.7 DESIGN FLOOD

5.7.1 DESIGN FLOOD CRITERIA
A 77 m high concrete gravity dam from river bed level is proposed at Sach Khas dam site on
Chenab River with gross storage capacity of 25.24 M cum at FRL EL 2219 m. The criterion
of selection of inflow design flood for safety of dam as per IS-11223-1985 is given in Table-
5.7.
Table-5.7: Criteria for Selection of Design Flood
Classification Gross Storage Static Head at FRL Inflow design flood
for safety of dam
Small Between 0.5 and 10 M Between 7.5 m and 12 m 100 year flood
cum
Intermediate Between 10 and 60 M Between 12 m and 30 m Standard Project
cum Flood
Large Greater than 60 M cum Greater than 30 m Probable Maximum
Flood
Source: DPR
Gross storage capacity is less than 60 Mm3 but the static head is more than 30 m.
Therefore, the spillway of the proposed dam shall be designed to pass probable maximum
flood.
5.7.2 Methodology Adopted
Floods in Chenab River are generally observed due to heavy rains in its lower catchment
during southwest monsoon season of June to Sept. In order to estimate the probable

WAPCOS Limited 5-9

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

maximum flood under the complex hydro-meteorological conditions in Sach Khas catchment,
it is desirable to separately analyze the contributions of rain storm and snowmelt and then
synthesize them into flood hydrograph with reference to the most severe combinations of
critical hydrological and meteorological parameters/factors that are reasonably possible in
the region. In the absence of the data pertaining to snowfall and seasonal snow cover area;
it is not possible to estimate the snowmelt contributions during the flood conditions. The
base flow is thus assumed to take into account the snowmelt contribution.
The design flood value has been estimated by adopting the following approaches:
• Probabilistic approach using frequency analysis
• Deterministic approach using Unit Hydrograph analysis
• Transfer from downstream projects using Dicken’s formula

Probabilistic Approach using Frequency Analysis

Annual flood peaks are available for the period 1974-75 to 2009-10 at Udaipur. This annual
peak series have been considered for frequency analysis. Figure-5.5 shows year wise
variation in flood peaks. The visual inspection of data does not indicate significant variation
in the average value for different data sets.

Figure-5.5 Yearly variation of peak floods at Udaipur

Daily discharge observations at Udaipur had been taken once in a day. The peak discharges
are limited to the above condition, which do not take into consideration the possible peak
discharge occurrences during the daily non-recorded hourly gauge observation. However the
frequency analysis has been carried out with this limitation. As it is quite likely that possible
peaks might have been missed for reasons explained above, the design flood peak arrived

WAPCOS Limited 5-10

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

at by frequency analysis has to be maximized appropriately. In view of these factors and to

allow for the possibility of floods due to bursting of temporary blockage of river due to ice and
landslides, the peak discharges have been maximized by 35%, as used in the case of
Chhatru HEP located on the same river in the upstream. The daily observed peak and
maximized peak series are given in Table-5.8. Detailed statistics of flood peak series are
given in Table-5.9.
Table – 5.8: Peak Series at Udaipur
SL. No. Year Date Daily Flood Daily value
Peak increased by 35%
(m3/s) for Instantaneous
peak
1 1974 18 July 1974 975.00 1316.25
2 1975 16 July 1975 1200.00 1620.00
3 1976 25 July 1976 860.00 1161.00
4 1977 15 July 1977 987.00 1332.45
5 1978 30 June 1978 1076.00 1452.60
6 1979 16 July 1979 993.00 1340.55
7 1980 14 July 1980 1116.00 1506.60
8 1981 29 June 1981 989.00 1335.15
9 1982 30 July 1982 1129.00 1524.15
10 1983 05 August 1983 986.00 1331.10
11 1984 27 June 1984 785.00 1059.75
12 1985 13 July 1985 762.00 1028.70
13 1986 07 July 1986 1081.00 1459.35
14 1987 25 July 1987 1144.00 1544.40
15 1988 22 July 1988 1739.00 2347.65
16 1989 30 July 1989 1750.00 2362.50
17 1990 25 June 1990 1235.00 1667.25
18 1991 20 July 1991 1238.00 1671.30
19 1992 23 July 1992 1284.00 1733.40
20 1993 08 July 1993 911.00 1229.85
21 1994 01 July 1994 1262.00 1703.70
22 1995 19 July 1995 1083.00 1462.05
23 1996 28 June 1996 806.00 1088.10
24 1997 12 August 1997 826.00 1115.10
25 1998 05 July 1998 1097.00 1480.95
26 1999 20 July 1999 1382.00 1865.70
27 2000 01 August 2000 1199.00 1618.65
28 2001 14 August 2001 1278.00 1725.30
29 2002 04 July 2002 1388.00 1873.80
30 2003 27 June 2003 1286.00 1736.10
31 2004 09 July 2004 1177.00 1588.95
32 2005 01 July 2005 1131.00 1526.85
33 2006 06 August 2006 1200.00 1620.00
34 2007 29 June 2007 1023.00 1381.05

WAPCOS Limited 5-11

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

SL. No. Year Date Daily Flood Daily value

Peak increased by 35%
(m3/s) for Instantaneous
peak
35 2008 14 June 2008 857.00 1156.95
36 2009 12 August 2009 1220.41 1647.55
Source: DPR
Table-5.9: Detailed Statistics of Instantaneous Peak Series
Parameters Statistics
Mean 1517.08
Median 1515.38
Mode 1620.00
Standard deviation 305.34
Sample Variance 93234.41
Kurtosis 1.54
Skewness 0.86
Minimum 1028.70
Maximum 2362.50
Count 36
Source: DPR
Application of various Frequency Distributions
To carry out the frequency analysis, the following commonly used distributions have been
applied:
• Gumbel extreme value distribution
• Log Pearson type-III distribution
• Log Normal 2-Parameter distribution

The summary of the flood frequency analysis by the above three distributions is given in
Table-5.10.

Table-5.10: Summary of Flood Frequency Analysis

Sl. No Return Log Log Gumbel
Period Pearson-III Normal Probability
(Yrs.) Distribution
1 25 2122.71 2097.57 2500.97
2 50 2268.11 2225.82 2744.07
3 100 2409.74 2347.84 2985.79
4 500 2731.90 2615.66 3545.17
5 1000 2869.84 2726.52 3785.86
6 10000 3332.52 3083.60 4585.44
Source: DPR
Selection of Best fit Distribution
Chi Square Criteria
Chi square test (X 2) has been conducted for goodness of fit for the above-mentioned
theoretical distributions and is shown in Table-5.11.

WAPCOS Limited 5-12

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Table-5.11: Chi Square criteria for different Distributions

Gumbel Extreme Log-Pearson 2-Parameter Log
Type of Test value distribution Type III Normal distribution
distribution

X2 3.72 3.72 3.72

Critical X2 5.99 3.84 5.99
Source: DPR
It can be observed from Table-5.11, that both Gumbel Extreme value and 2-parameter Log
Normal distributions appear to be the best fitting theoretical distribution to the sample data.
We may consider the Gumbel distribution as it gives a higher value. Transferring this value
to Sach Khas by Dicken’s formula we get the design flood as 4975 cumec.
Deterministic Approach Using Unit Hydrograph Analysis
Estimation of Rainfed Catchment
The permanent snowline elevation for the catchment is around 4500 m. From the
hypsometric curve (Table 5.3) the snowfed area has been worked out as 3973 sq. km and
rainfed area is worked out as 2615 sq. km.
Design Storm Studies
Design Storm study of the Sach Khas H.E. Project was entrusted to the Indian
Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi. The 1 day SPS and PMP estimates as
supplied by IMD at Sach Khas H.E. Project are 9.5 cm and 13.9 cm respectivelly.

A 24-hour clock hour correction of 15% has been applied to 1-day SPS and PMP as
suggested by India Meteorology Department (IMD). The temporal distribution of rainfall for 1-
day is given in Table-5.12 and plotted in Figure-5.6.

Figure-5.6 Temporal Distribution of Design Storm

WAPCOS Limited 5-13

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Table-5.12 Temporal Distribution of design Storm

Temporal Distribution (%)
Duration (Hrs.)
1-Day
0 0
3 30
6 46
9 60
12 71
15 81
18 89
21 96
24 100
Source: DPR
While carrying out the studies, double bells have been used. Two bells of 12 hours each has
been considered as per current practice with details as under in Table-5.13.
Table-5.13: 24 Hour, 48 Hour Distribution of PMP & SPS
24 Hour Distribution PMP 24 Hr = 15.985 cm
i) 1st Bell (71% of 24 Hour Rainfall) 11.349 cm
ii) 2nd Bell (29% of 24 hour Rainfall) 4.636 cm
Source: DPR
Derivation of Unit Hydrograph
Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project, intercepts an area of 6588 sq.km having snowfed area of
3973 sq. km and rainfed area 2615 sq.km. On the basis of above, the unit hydrograph
parameters have been calculated for snow free catchment area only. (Ref.: Flood estimation
report for Western Himalayas - Zone 7). UH ordinates for the Sach Khas catchment are
tabulated in Table-5.14. The ordinates of unit hydrograph are plotted in Figure-5.7.

Table-5.14: Unit Hydrograph Ordinates

Time Discharge Time Discharge
(Hrs.) (m3/s) (Hrs.) (m3/s)
0 0 11 490
1 5 12 260
2 13 13 140
3 32 14 85
4 60 15 41
5 110 16 18
6 280 17 12
7 980 18 6
8 1440 19 4
9 1878.61 20 1
10 1415 20.52 0
Source: DPR

WAPCOS Limited 5-14

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Figure-5.7: Ordinates of Unit hydrograph

Loss Rate
A uniform loss rate of 2 mm/hour has been adopted as suggested by CWC.

Transfer of Design Flood from Baglihar, Ratle and Dulhasti

The design floods fixed for some of the downstream projects in Chenab are transferred to
Sach Khas dam site using Dicken’s formula as shown in Table 5.15.
Table-5.15 Design floods of downstream projects
S.No Name of Catchment area Design flood in m3/s Transferred to Sach
project in sq km Khas by Dicken’s
formula
1 Baglihar 17325 16500 7990
2 Ratle 14965 14700 7945
3 Dulhasti 10500 8000 5639
Source: DPR
5.8 RECOMMENDATIONS
The floods estimated by all the three approaches are summarized below in Table-5.16. The
flood computed by deterministic approach using UH method is quite high as compared to the
flood obtained by other methods. The design flood of 9047 cumecs has been recommended
based on hydro meteorological approach.

Table – 5.16: Design Flood Estimated by Different methods

S. No. Method Flood (Cumecs)
1 Frequency Analysis (10,000 Year Return Period) 4975
2 Hydro-meteorological approach 9047
3 Transferred from Baglihar H.E.Project 7990
4 Transferred from Ratle H.E.Project 7945
Transferred from Dulhasti H.E.Project 5639
Source: DPR
Flood Hydrograph
The ordinates of flood hydrograph are given in Table-5.17 and depicted in Figure-5.8. The
PMF of the project has been taken as 9047 cumec.

WAPCOS Limited 5-15

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Table-5.17: Ordinates of Flood Hydrograph

Duration (hour) Discharge (m3/s)
0 790.86
1 791.02
2 791.43
3 792.89
4 795.98
5 802.40
6 817.88
7 862.41
8 943.07
9 1109.98
10 1318.24
11 1578.51
12 1964.38
13 2449.42
14 3024.63
15 3332.94
16 3163.95
17 2625.98
18 2127.42
19 2110.13
20 2431.40
21 3183.79
22 3992.19
23 4719.44
24 5711.67
25 6916.33
26 8324.17
27 9046.75
28 8560.67
29 7097.87
30 5504.54
31 4212.81
32 3074.86
33 2039.16
34 1357.96
35 1092.88
36 954.59
37 878.53
38 834.15
39 811.60
Source: DPR

WAPCOS Limited 5-16

 EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, HP

Figure-5.8: Design flood hydrograph adopted for Sach Khas hydroelectric project
5.9 SEDIMENT DATA AVAILABILITY
The Silt rate estimated at various sites namely Udaipur, Benzwar and Premnagar Site in
Chenab river basin by CWC are tabulated as in Table-5.18.
Table- 5.18: Details of Silt data
G&D Site C. A. Type of Period River Sediment Source
(Sq.km) Data Rate
(Ha-m/Sq.
km/Yr.)
Udaipur 5910 Daily Jan’03- Chenab 0.0287 Calculated
May’08
Benzwar 10687 Monthly Jun’73- Chenab 0.081 Calculated
May’02
Premnagar 15490 Avg. 1968 to Chenab 0.155 Sept 84
Annual 1976 Feasibility
Report,
Baglihar HEP,
Volume-VI
Source: DPR

It may be concluded from Table-5.18 that annual silt yield increases as we go downstream
of the river. The Sach Khas catchment area is nearly half the catchment area of Benzwar
and one-third that of the Premnagar. Sach Khas site is near the vicinity of Udaipur, but the
data availability at Udaipur is of short period, so annual silt yield is linearly interpolated
between Udaipur and Benzwar after taking account of 20% suspended load (as per standard
BIS practice) as bed load for both the sites. The annual silt yield estimated is 0.0433 ha-
m/sq.km/year.

WAPCOS Limited 5-17

 CHAPTER-6
TOPOGRAPHICAL AND
GEOLOGICAL ASPECTS
L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-6
TOPOGRAPHICAL AND GEOLOGICAL ASPECTS

6.1 INTRODUCTION
The Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project envisages ±90.0 m high concrete gravity dam across
the river Chenab (N 76025’25” E 32058’), about 8 km downstream of Purthi Village in order
to create a reservoir of the capacity of 8.69 MCM between FRL 2219 m and MDDL of
2209.3m. The water will be conducted through the dam to the underground power house
through 300 m long pressure shafts.
In order to utilize the full potential between (EL 2219.0m) and (EL 2149.0m) & keeping in
view the environmental and ecological balance, various schemes i.e. Alternative II,
Alternative III, Alternative III-A and Alternative IV were investigated. Eventually, the present
scheme with a ±90.0 m high concrete gravity dam with underground power house has been
evolved, which is geotechnically feasible and techno economically viable. Various
alternatives considered for the Sach Khas Hydroelectric Project are summarized in Table
6.1.
The following geotechnical mapping and sub-surface investigations have been carried out to
evaluate various alternative layouts.

Table 6.1: Summary of Geotechnical Mapping and Sub-Surface Investigations

(1) Geological mapping of dam site, head race tunnel, Cumulative 6000m X 600m
power house, tail race tunnel and diversion tunnel on
1:2000, 1:1000 and 1:500 scale
(2) Drill hole core logging Cumulative 1343.27 m
(i) Alternative II 50.50 m
(ii) Alternative III 319.10 m
(iii) Alternative III-A 50.50m
(iv) Alternative IV 923.17 m
(3) Drift logging Cumulative 320 m
(i) Alternative III 100 m
(ii) Alternative IV 220 m
Source: DPR

6.2 PHYSIOGRAPHY AND DRAINAGE

The project area constitutes a part of the Pangi Valley and is characterized by rugged
topography comprising high ranges, deep valleys, escarpments and cliff faces. The area
constitutes a part of great Himalayan ranges; older folded cover sequence and crystalline
complex overprinted by Himalayan fold thrust movement, covering a stretch of the Chandra

WAPCOS Limited 6-1

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Bhaga Valley. The altitude of the area varies between 2500m and 6000m with several peaks
projecting over ∆6000m above mean sea level. The Shopu or Trishul peak (∆5222m) marks
the boundary of Himachal Pradesh with that of Jammu and Kashmir. The mountains are
bare along the upper reaches whereas they are forest covered along the lower slopes.

The Chenab river is a major river of the Indus Basin, originating from the Great Himalayan
and Pir Panjal ranges. The river formed by two major tributaries in the upper reaches i.e.
Chandra river and Bhaga river. The Chandra originates from Bara-La Che La whereas
Bhaga takes off from Suraj Tal in the vicinity of the Bara-La Cha La; Bhaga River is further
joined by the Jhankar and the Milang Nala before it joints the Chandra at Tandi to form
Chandrabhaga or Chenab River. Further downstream of its confluence, it is joined by other
significant tributaries namely Shansha Nala near Rashil and Thirot Nala at Thirot, Miyar Nala
at Udaipur, Saichu Nala at Dawag, Ajog, Bakanwal, Kulna Nala, Sach and Chhoo Nala in the
vicinity of Purthi, Dheda Nala, Saichu Nala near Cherry and Lu jai and Sansari Nala
downstream of Killar town. The river in its course traverse through the Lahaul, Pattan and
Pangi Vally of the Himachal Pradesh before entering into Jammu and Kashmir, downstream
of Biana Nallah.

The terrain in the upper reaches of tributaries shows typical glacial landscape characterized
by rugged towering peaks, cirque glaciers and moranic deposits. There are also thick and
extensive alluvial fans. At the higher reaches of the valley, the thickness of colluvium cover
varies from a few meter to 10 meter but in the lower portions it could be even up to ±20 to
30m in a few stretches. These tributaries show sub dendritic to trellis pattern of drainage.

The higher reaches of the slopes on either side of the Chandra Bhaga or Chenab River have
a number of glaciers which forms the perennial source of discharge in tributaries. About 200
glaciers have been identified in the Chenab basin in Himachal Pradesh of which 43 lies on
its southern side in Pir Panjal range and 157 on the northern side. As per Dobhal and Kumar
(1966), the ratio between basin area and glaciated area is 4.22:1.

6.3 REGIONAL GEOLOGY OF THE AREA

The project area constitutes a part of great Himalayan range, older folded cover sequence
and crystalline complex overprinted by Himalayan fold-thrust movement, covering a stretch
of Chandra-Bhaga valley. The topography of the area is rugged and characterized by sharp
crested ridges and deep cut valleys.

The valley slopes in the area are characterized by the stretches of unusually abundant
debris. These could have been formed due to the fractured or weathered rocks transported

WAPCOS Limited 6-2

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

in abundance by snow, avalanche and landslides to the lower elevations on the banks of the
river.
The rock at and around this stretch of the area are represented by dark grey phyllitic
quartzites and quartzites with thin carbonaceous and pelitic bands. They belong to Haimanta
group of Proterozoic age and the geological succession worked out by Prashara et al (1986-
87) and Prashara (1992) is given in Table-6.2. The Regional Geology is depicted in Figure-
6.1.
Table-6.2: Geological succession of the Area
GROUP AGE FORMATION LITHOLOGY
Haimanta Proterozoic Kunzum La Greenish grey siltstone, shale
& dolomite
Batal Quartzite, phyllite, Carbonaceous
and pyritous.
(It also includes Manjir and Katarigali
Formations)
Lahaul or Chola Thach Garnetiferous schist and quartzite
Rohtang
Gneissic Gufa Granite gneiss, migmatite and
meta sediments
Group

Damphung Matamorphites with subordinate

gneiss and migmatite
Kulti Granite gneiss, migmatites with high
grade Granite, gneiss, migmatites with
high grade Granite, gneiss, migmatites
with high grade metamorphites

Source: DPR
Haimanta Group of rocks has been divided into Batal and Kunzum- La Formations. In the
south-eastern part of the Lahaul i.e. in the valley of Chenab or Chandra-Bhaga, the Batal
Formation of this group is regarded to be represented by Manjir and Katarigali Formations of
Vaikrita Group of Chamba area. Here Rapa & Gadhoke (1984) mapped two formations i.e.
Bagotu and Dunai which were regarded equivalents of Manjir and Salooni Formations of
Chamba area. Subsequently un-fossiliferous part of Salooni Formation was renamed as
Bharmour Formation and correlated with Katarigali Formation of Jammu & Kashmir. These
formations have not been defined in the rest of Lahaul area except that the pelites
underlying the Tandi Group were correlated with Salooni and conglomerate exposed at
Chobia and Trilokinath with Manjir Formation by Raina and Prashara (1973).

WAPCOS Limited 6-3

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure-6.1: Regional Geology of the Area

6.4 STRUCTURE, TECTONICS AND METAMORPHISM

Many authors (e.g. Prasbra, K. C and Rapa, D.A., 1977; Nanda, M.M and Singh, M.P., 1977;
Srikantia, S.V. and Bhargava, 0.N., 1979; Steck , A., et al., 1999; Searle, M, et al., 1988;
Fuchs, G., and Linner, M., 1995; Frank W., M., Purtscheller, F., 1997; Robyr, M., 2002 and
references therein) have already worked in the upper Lahaul, Chamba and Zanskar area in
order to resolve the rather complex tectonic evolution of these regions. These studies,
although sometimes contradictory have allowed laying the bases of the tectono-

WAPCOS Limited 6-4

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

metamorphic evolution of this part of the Himalayan range. It comes out from these previous
works that the Himalayan structures are dominated by SW-directed thrusting and folding.
However, in the Spiti and the Chenab Valley area, early NE-directed verging structures have
also been described. Following these works, four major tectonic events are considered to
explain the tectonic evolution of the Chamba, Zanskar and Lahaul area.

Phase D1: The NE-directed Shikar Beh Nappe

The early NE-directed Shikar Beh Nappe was proposed for the first time by Steck et al. (1993).
Their arguments are based on the regional distribution of the metamorphic facies in the
lower part of the Chandra Valley, near Khoksar. In this area, the metamorphic grade
reaches the amphibolites facies conditions and decreases gradually northward, in the direction
of the frontal part of the North Himalayan nappes. This decrease in metamorphic conditions
likely results from the overthrusting of a pile of nappes from the SW towards the NE. Other
arguments for an early NE-directed nappe are based on the unusual vergence of the Tandi
Syncline. Although the enigmatic character of this syncline was already recognized by several
authors. Lyddecker (1883) recognized this structure as a syncline. A detailed analysis
(Powell and Connaghan 1973) showed the polyphase nature of this structure and they
demonstrated that the Tandi syncline is associated with a first phase of deformation.
Nevertheless, they interpreted it as an antiform closing to the NE. Frank et al. (1973) and
Srikantia and Bhargava (1976 and 1979) recognized the NE-directed vergence of the Tandi
Syncline. This unusual NE-vergence only represents a local perturbation of the SW-
directed folding associated with the SW-directed thrusting along the Main Central Thrust. In
recent years, the detailed structural analysis of the Tandi Syncline confirmed that this structure
corresponds to a NE verging fold (Steck et al; 1993) and are associated this phase with an
early NE-directed nappe referred to as the Shikar Beh Nappe. However, the existence of such
nappe is still debatable among various other workers (Frank et al 1995).

Phase D2: The SW-directed Nyimaling-Tsarap Nappe

In the northern part of the Indian Himalaya, in the Zanskar and Ladakh area, the first phase of
folding is associated with the SW-directed North Himalayan nappes emplacement
though, nappe tectonics in the northern part of the Himalaya is still debated by Fuchs and
Linner (1995). For these authors, the term of nappe is not appropriate to describe the
tectonics in the Zanskar region. They consider that prevalent tectonics in Zanskar only consists of
folds and imbricated structures. On the basis of a two-dimensional shear model, Steck et al.
(1993) calculated a total crustal shortening of about 87 Km within the Tethyan Himalaya of
Zanskar and concluded that the geometry and the kinematic of the Tethyan Himalaya in the
Zanskar is comparable with the tectonic style of Alpine nappes.

WAPCOS Limited 6-5

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The North Himalayan nappes emplacement is responsible for the main phase of
deformation affecting the sedimentary sequences of the Tethyan Himalaya in the northern
part of the range. The name of Nyimaling-Tsarap nappe was introduced by Steck et al (1993)
for the whole thrust pile of sedimentary rocks located between the Indus Suture Zone to the
north and the Baralacha La to the south. The internal structure of this nappe stack is
characterized by a progressive change in style of deformation. The northern part of the range,
close to the suture zone, corresponds to the root zone of the Nyimaling-Tsarap nappe. In this
region, the deformation is primarily accommodated by ductile shearing and folding. In
contrast, in the frontal part of the nappe, the deformation becomes more and more brittle and
is characterized by the development of imbricate structures.

Phase D3: The SW-directed High Himalayan Nappe

In the Lahaul and Spiti area, the early NE directed structures of the Shikar Bah nappe (DI)
are overprinted by SW-directed folding. These D3 structures are observed in the central
and southern part of the upper Lahaul, and intensity of deformation increases from NE to
SW, whereas no D3 large scale structures was highlighted in Chenab valley area. This
D3 phase is, on the other hand, responsible for the spectacular SW-directed Kalath fold
in the Kullu Valley (Thoni, 1977). On the, basis of its vergence, its style and its location, this
D3 phase is interpreted as related to the SW-directed folding and thrusting of the High
Himalayan nappe along the Main Central Thrust (e.g. Crystalline nappe; Frank et al; 1977).
This SW-directed nappe is generally formed of the metamorphic core zone of the
Himalayan Orogen. In numerous sections along the range, the crystalline nappe is
separated from the low-grade metamorphic sediments of the Tethyan Himalaya by the
extensional Zanskar Shear Zone (Dezes et al; 1999) considered as a local equivalent of
the south Tibetan Detachment System.

Phase D4: The doming phase

In the central and eastern part of the Himalaya, the metamorphic core zone of the range
corresponds to a 5-40 km thick, NE-dipping monoclonal slab. In contrast, in the
northwestern part of the Himalaya of India, the high-grade metamorphic rocks are
mainly exposed in a more internal part of the orogen. A major characteristic of this
high-grade metamorphic zone in the Zanskar area is the presence of several large-scale
dome structures, cored by Cambro-Ordovician granitic gneisses and/or tertiary migmatites
and leucogranites. This particular setting implies that the exhumation of high-grade rocks in
this part of the range was for a large part controlled by doming. The exhumation of these
rocks back to the surface and the mechanism of dome formation are a complicated and still
debated problem.

WAPCOS Limited 6-6

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

6.5 TECHTONIC SETUP OF THE PROJECT AREA

The proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project is situated in between MCT and STDS in broad
tectonic framework of the Tethyan Himalayas and Central Crystalline sequences. In NW
Himalayas the Main Central Thrust is disposed as window and Klippe structures. The Kishtwar
Window is located towards NW of the project area, while Kullu-LargiRampur Window in SE
direction. Towards south in Chamba region, the MCT run more or less parallel to MBT in NW-SE
direction. The Shimla Klippe is significant adjunct to this thrust. Other tectonic element like
MBT and HFT lies further south of MCT while STDS and Zanskar shear zone towards north
of the project area. The some of the important local thrust/fault are Miyar thrust also refer by
some authors (e.g. Thakur, V.C, 2002) as Chenab Normal Fault, Salgaron thrust, Sarchu fault,
Panjal thrust and significant shear zone such as Killar-Miyar shear zone, Kanjhar shear zone
and Zanskar shear zone disposed in the north of the project area.

A review of the published maps suggest that the nearest Tectonic elements such as Miyar and
Salgarom thrust and located more than 50 km away and other fault such as Sundarnagar and
Kistwar faults are located more than 70km away from the Sach Khas project area and no
tectonic implications are foreseen.

6.6 SEISMO-TECTONICS AND SEISMICITY

The Himalayas is the product of the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate,
where Indian plate is underthrusting beneath the Eurasian plate. The collision tectonics
resulting in progressive progradation of thrust sheets like the Main Central Thrust (MCT),
Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) and the Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT). The
contemporary deformation styles and the seismicity in the Himalaya are related to this
continued collision tectonics resulting in strain builds up along discrete tectonic surfaces
and transverse features causing segmented blocks. On the basis of well constrained focal
depths of many moderate earthquakes in the tectonic domain between the MBT and MCT,
the focal mechanism of discrete events and neotectonic adjustments, many workers
have postulated that in the Main Himalayan seismic belt, the events are related to the
thrust type of faults.
Two seismo-tectonic models, one Steady State Model proposed by Seeber and
Armbruster, (1981) and another, the Evolutionary Model proposed by Ni and Barazangi,
(1984) and minor modifications, have been in use to explain the high seismic status of the
Himalaya. Seeber and Armbruster, (1981) have identified two separate seismogenic
domains. One related to the interplate detachment surface, dipping at low angles
towards north beneath the Tethyan slab, and the source for the Great Himalayan
Earthquakes like the Kangra event of 1905. The other domain is the thrust type of

WAPCOS Limited 6-7

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

deformation style located between the MCT and MBT, the Basement Thrust Front (BTF). It
has also been postulated that the Detachment surface and the MCT and related thrust
surfaces, which are steeper than the detachment surface merge beneath the Great
Himalayan Range.
The most referred conceptual tectonic model of the Himalayan Seismic Belt (HSB), the
seismic zone within the MBT and MCT, suggests that below the Main Central Thrust
(MCT) lies the Basement Thrust Front (BTF), a ramp. The ramp is a geometrical asperity
on the plane of detachment, which accumulates the stress due to collision tectonics in
the Himalaya, and it was suggested that the great earthquakes occurred on the plane of
detachment. The plane of detachment separates the Indian shield and the Himalayan
sedimentary wedge; some authors named it Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT).
The Himalayan Seismic Belt generated several large and great earthquakes based on
which a conceptual tectonic model was envisaged. The Himalayan tectonic model fits
fairly well with the Western Himalayan seismicity to the north of MBT, where earthquakes
occur on the MHT at shallower (<20 km) depth. The four great earthquakes that
occurred to the south of MBT, however, do not fit into this model. It is argued that these
events are not on the MHT, each occurred at a deeper depth in different tectonic
domains.

The upper Chenab valley area encompassing the proposed Sach Khas Hydroelectric
project is located in highly seismic Central Himalayas. Tectonically, the region is located
in Main Himalayan Tectonic Belt bounded by Indus Suture Zone (ISZ) in the north and
Main Boundary Fault—(MBF-1) in south. Most important tectonic plane within this belt is
Main Central Thrust (MCT). However, its position in the area between the rivers Beas and
Chenab has not been clearly demarcated. The other feature of tectonic importance in this
belt is the Vaikrita Thrust. The tectonic zone south of Main Himalayan Belt is Frontal Fold
Belt demarcated in north by MBF1 and in south by Foot Hill Thrust (FHT). The important
tectonic surfaces in this zone include MBF-II, Jwalamukhi Thrust and MBF-III apart from
several transverse faults. From seismotectonic point of view, the project area falls on the
western margin of Kangra Seismic Block of Narula (1991) which is demarcated by Ravi
Tear in west and Sunder Nagar Fault in east. The earthquake catalogue of IMD indicates
that the concentration of magnitude >4<5 earthquakes is maximum in 'the area, being
71% of total recorded events between latitude 32°-3 4°and longitude 75°- 78°. The
catalogue also indicates that after 1964, when worldwide seismic network was
established, a total of 83 earthquakes were recorded up to March, 1995 in the above
mentioned area. The percentage of earthquakes with magnitude >4<5 was 75, those with
magnitude >5<6 were 14% and rest of the events had greater magnitude.

WAPCOS Limited 6-8

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure 6.2 Seismotectonic domain of NW Himalayas

Figure 6.3 Seismotectonic domain of NW Himalayas

WAPCOS Limited 6-9

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Major earthquakes of the region include Kangra-1905 (M=8); Chamba-1945, 1947, 1950
(M=6.5, 6.2, & 5.5); Dharamshala 1978, 1986 (M= 5 & 5.7) and Kathua-1980 (M=5.3). As
per Zoning Map of India Showing Seismic Zones (IS: 1893-2002 (Part-1)), the project
area lies in Zone-V i.e. highest seismic zone in Western Himalayas. (Refer Figure-6.2 &
6.3). Therefore, it is recommended that suitable seismic coefficient to commensurate with
the seismic status of the area may be evolved based on detailed seismo-tectonic and
seismological studies and incorporated in the design of various appurtenant structures of the
scheme.

6.7 GEO-TECHNICAL APPRAISAL OF THE COMPONENT STRUCTURES

DAM
The Sach Khas dam site is of heterogeneous both in terms of lithological assemblage as
well as structural conditions. Grey color, hard, compact quartzite with phyllite and phyllitic
quartzite partings forms the foundation of dam and spillways. These lithologies are traversed
by multiple sets of discontinuities. These in association with foliation discontinuities and
foliation parallel shear seams and variable degree of weathering (mostly W-II) have rendered
the rock mass further heterogeneous. However, the core recovery (70 to 90%) and RQD
(>70) and lugeon values (2 to 10) with local shattered zones varying in thickness from 10cm
to 30cm indicates the fair to good quality of rock mass foundation.

POWER HOUSE
The underground power house cavern has been located in the North-South ridge, about
300m downstream of the dam axis. The underground cavern will be located in grey quartzite,
diamictite and phyllitic quartzite bands. The foliation trends N40oW – S40oE with 35o-40o dips
towards SW i.e. downstream.
The proposed power house cavern is likely to encounter fresh and hard quartzite (55% to
60%), diamictite and phyllitic quartzite (30% to 35%) in 80 to 85% reach, phyllite in 10%
reach and sheared and shattered rock mass in 5% reach.

PRESSURE SHAFTS
The water from the reservoir will be carried through three, 5.8m diameter (finished diameter)
and approx. 300m long pressure shafts embedded partly in dam body (EL±2150m) and
partly in the toe of north south trending ridge at an invert level of EL 2140.40m on the right
bank of river Chenab.
The pressure shafts will roughly pass through 45% in quartzite, 25% in diamictite and 30% in
phyllite and phyllitic quartzite rock mass. The rock quality index ‘Q’ probably varies from 7.8
to 3.6 whereas, the shear seams and shattered rock mass may have ‘Q’ values of 1.6 to
<0.5.

WAPCOS Limited 6-10

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

DIVERSION TUNNEL
The proposed diversion arrangement consists of a 10m dia. and 780.0m long tunnel and is
located on the left flank of the Chenab River in a North South trending ridge. The inlet portal
of the Diversion Tunnel is located 280m upstream of the Sach Khas dam axis whereas outlet
portal is located 350m downstream of the dam axis.
The diversion tunnel roughly passes through 52% in quartzite, 28% in diamictite and 20% in
phyllitic quartzite and phyllite interbands. The rock quality index ‘Q’ will probably vary from
3.2 to 7.4 for moderately jointed and competent quartzite diamictite; the values for thinly
foliated phyllite and phyllitic quartzite may be of the order of 1.2 to 4.1 whereas soft rock
units, shear seams and shattered zones may have a Q values of 0.15 to 0.04.

COFFER DAM
For construction requirement, two coffer dams, 200m upstream and 290m downstream of
the Sach Khas dam axis have been proposed with top level fixed at EL 2172m and EL
2162m respectively.The grey color, fresh and hard quartzite with phyllitic quartzite and
phyllite interbands are exposed on both the abutments of the upstream Coffer Dams.

TAIL RACE TUNNEL

The Tail Race Tunnel (Tunnel) in say from power house cavern run in N350W-S350E
direction. The tunnel would negotiate fresh, hard and competent quartzite, diamictite, phyllitic
quartzite and phyllite inter bands in its entire reach.

The TRT will encounter fair to poor rock mass and the ‘Q’-values varying from 6.3 to 1.6 for
the quartzite, phyllitic quartzite and diamictite inter bands. The ‘Q’-values will be 1.1 to <0.1
for the phyllite and sheared rock mass.

AUXILIARY POWER HOUSE

The auxiliary power house 30.5 x 10.0 m (L x W) aligned in N660W-S660E direction has
been located on the left flank of river Chenab on a rock cut terrace at EL 2160m, at the foot
of dam. Hard and massive quartzite with phyllite inter bands are exposed along the river
bank and uphill slopes. The terrace is covered with thin overburden comprising slope wash
material.The power house will be founded on hard and fresh rock mass. However, the
surface runoff and stream lets may have to be diverted by parabolic drainage, thus,
preventing erosional matter coming into the area of pit.

WAPCOS Limited 6-11

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CONSTRUCTION ADITS

MAIN ACCESS TUNNEL (MAT)

A 220m long and 8.0m dia. ‘D’ shaped MAT to power house cavern has been planned at an
invert level of 2163.0m with a down grade of 13.9:1, upstream of the Bambal Nala. The MAT
will have a vertical cover of 5-7m in the initial reach to more than 100m in the cavern area.

The MAT will encounter moderately fresh to fresh quartzite and phyllitic quartzite at the
portal with a W=II weathering and stained joints in the initial reaches followed by hard and
fresh grey color quartzite (50%) diamictite (20%), phyllitic quartzite (20%) and phyllite
interbands and shear seams 10%. The general trend of foliation is N550W-S550E with 760 to
800 southwesterly dips.

The Q-values generally varies from 3.4 to 1.6 for the quartzite, phyllitic quartzite & diamictite
and 1.1 to 0.01 for phyllictic and sheared rock mass in the reach between 0m to 80m length.
It is followed by Q= 7.8 to 1.6 for quartzite & diamictite and 3.2 to <0.5 for phyllitic quartzite
and phyllite for the rock mass between 80m to 220m length.

CONSTRUCTION ADIT TO POWER HOUSE CAVERN

A 200m long construction adit for the excavation of the top of power house cavern has been
planned at an invert level of 2163.0m upstream of the MAT. The adit will subsequently be
used as ventilation tunnel in the power house cavern area.

Hard and fresh quartzite with diamictite, phyllitic quartzite and phyllite interbands are
expected to encounter in the adit. The percentage of rock mass will be of the order of 50%,
20%, 20% and 10% respectively. The general trend of foliation is N550W-S550E with
760southwesterly dips. For the initial 60.0m reach, the rock mass quality index Q generally
varies from 6.4 to 1.6 for quartzite, diamictite & phyllitic quartzite inter bands and 1.1 to <0.1
for phyllitic quartzite & sheared rock mass whereas from 60.0m to 200.0m length of adit Q-
values will be of the order of 7.8 to 1.6 for quartzite & diamictite and 3.2 to <0.5 for phyllitic
quartzite, phyllite and sheared rock mass.

CONSTRUCTION ADIT TO PRESSURE SHAFTS

A construction adit at an invert level of 2141.40m has been planned to excavate the three
pressure shafts. The D-shaped adit will have a length of 140m and diameter of 7.0m in 10:1
down grade excavation slope.
The adit is expected to encounter quartzite (40%) diamictite 30%, phyllitic quartzite 10% and
phyllite and sheared rock mass (20%). The general trend of foliation is N550W-S550E with
760 southwesterly dips. For the initial 55m length of adit, the Q-values varies from 4.2 to 1.6

WAPCOS Limited 6-12

L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

for quartzite & diamictite and 1.1 to <0.1 for weathered phyllitic quartzite, phyllite & sheared
rock mass. The reach between 55m to 155m length is likely to encounter Q-values ranging
from 6.8 to 3.2 for quartzite & diamictite and 1.6 to <0.5 for weathered phyllite & sheared
zone material.

RESERVOIR AREA

A detailed assessment of the reservoir area has been made and in principle, it is qualitative
and is largely based on the observations of geomorphology, vegetation and geology backed
by approximate measurements of the slide features. The 90.0m high, Sach Khas dam with
FRL 2219.0m will have water way of about 8.4km and extend 400m upstream of the Purthi
Bridge.

The topography of the reservoir area comprises of steep slopes along the right and left bank
of the reservoir in a broad ‘U’ shaped valley. The lower elevations comprise glacial drifts,
glacio-fluvial deposits; colluvial / slope wash material, riverine material with exposures of
rocks.

The rock exposed in reservoir area is mainly quartzite with diamictite, quartzite phyllite and
phyllite interbands, trending N300-750W – S300-750E with 400 to 850 south westerly dips. The
rocks are highly folded and crenulated. In addition to the foliation joints, the rock mass is
traversed by four prominent sets of joints i.e. (a) East –West / 200 to 450 northerly southerly
dips (b) North-South/ 500 to 800 Easterly southerly dips (c) N450W-S450E/ 600 to 700
Northerly easterly and (d) N450E-S450W/ 300 to 700 North Westerly dips.

WAPCOS Limited 6-13

 CHAPTER-7
BASELINE SETTING FOR
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ASPECTS
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-7

BASELINE SETTING FOR PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ASPECTS

7.1 GENERAL
Before start of any Environmental Impact Assessment study, it is necessary to identify the
baseline levels of relevant environmental parameters which are likely to be affected as a result
of the construction and operation of the proposed project. A similar approach has been adopted
for conducting the CEIA study for the proposed Sach khas hydroelectric Project. A Scoping
Matrix as outlined in Chapter-4 was formulated to identify various issues likely to be affected as
a result of the proposed project. Based on the specific inputs likely to accrue in the proposed
project, aspects to be covered in the EIA study were identified. The other issues as outlined in
the Scoping Matrix were then discarded. Thus, planning of baseline survey commenced with
the shortlisting of impacts and identification of parameters for which the data needs to be
collected. The baseline setting for physico-chemical aspects have been covered in this
Chapter.

7.2 METEOROLOGY
Temperature
Temperature variation in the project area ranges from extreme cold in winter to moderate
temperatures in summer. During winter season, upper reaches of most part of the project
area is covered with snow and temperature remains much below the freezing point
throughout winter season. Cold season precipitation is observed from December to March.

The storms from Iran and Baluchistan side are mainly responsible for heavy snowfall during
winter season in the area. The catchment area is by and large snow bound for about two
months during winter season. For the remaining months, the lower reaches of the drainage
area is free from the snow cover.

For a major part of the year, the basin is under the effect of cold weather systems; viz.
Western Disturbances. The Dhauladhar, the Pir Panjal and the Zanskar ranges of the
Himalayas impart distinct climatological features to the Chenab basin.

Temperature data is not available within the catchment up to Sach Khas. However, daily
maximum and minimum temperature data observed by IMD are available in the downstream
of Sach Khas dam site viz. at Badarwah and Banihal falling in J&K. The data availability is
shown in Table-7.1.

WAPCOS Limited 7-1

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-7.1 : Temperature data availability in Chenab Basin

S.No. Name of Station Elevation Period of data availability
1 Badarwah EL 1643 m 1977-2009
2 Banihal EL 1630 m 1972-2009
Source: DPR

Monthly snowline elevations

It is observed that the temporary snowline reaches about EL 2600 in the Pangi Valley of the
Chenab basin where Sach Khas dam site is proposed, during winter season. The permanent
snowline is commonly taken as EL 4500 m in these areas. Further, the snow cover is
maximum in September-October and minimum in March-April. Accordingly, the monthly
snowline elevations are assumed and the areas above snowline are calculated from the
hypsometric data and are given in Table-7.2

Table-7.2: Snowline elevations and areas

Month Assumed snowline Elevation (m) Area above Snowline (m)
January 3500 5843
February 3000 6317
March 2600 6503
April 2700 6410
May 2900 6379
June 3200 6142
July 3400 5949
August 3700 5605
September 4000 5142
October 4500 3973
November 4200 4731
December 3800 5476
Source: DPR
Average monthly temperatures in the project catchment.
It can be observed that temperature data obtained from both Badarwah and Banihal stations
are in close agreement, indicating consistency of the temperature data. Further, it comes out
that the average minimum temperature of the project catchment area in the month of
January are of the order of -60C, while the average maximum temperatures are in the month
of July , which is around 110C. The monthly average temperatures in the project catchment
are depicted graphically in Figure-7.1.

WAPCOS Limited 7-2

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure-7.1: Monthly average temperatures in project catchment

PRECIPITATION CHARACTERISTICS
There are a few raingauge stations in the project catchment maintained by India
Meteorological Department (IMD). The details are given in Table-7.3.

Table-7.3: Details of raingauges in Project catchment maintained by IMD

S.No. Name of Station Elevation (m) Period of data availability
1 Gondla EL 3144 1970-2002
2 Keylong EL 3166 1970-2003
3 Koksar EL 3204 1970-2005
4 Udaipur EL 2641 2001-2003
Source: DPR
The rainfall data of Udaipur is for a very less period for inclusion in any catchment-wide
analysis. The other three stations viz. Gondla, Keylong and Koksar are very close to each
other in comparison to the catchment spread. Further, all the three stations are located at
similar elevations denying a representative catchment rainfall estimate. Nevertheless, an
analysis has been carried out in the DPR with the daily rainfall data available for the stations.
A summary of the results of the analysis is presented in Table-7.4.

WAPCOS Limited 7-3

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-7.4: Summary results of analysis

Description Gondla Keylong Koksar Udaipur

Average annual 932.1 mm 494.78 mm 923.58 mm The data
rainfall availability
Maximum annual 1656.6 mm 1193.5 mm 2127.0 mm period is too
rainfall in 1972 in 1994 in 1988 less for
Minimum annual 457.5 mm 120.9 mm 360.0 mm analysis.
rainfall in 2000 in 1973 in 1973
Maximum daily 82.6 mm 85.0 mm in 120.0 mm in
rainfall on 11.03.1975 08.08.1972 27.02.1988
Source: DPR
The Thiessen Polygon Analysis was carried out to assign weights to the station rainfalls of
Gondla, Keylong and Koksar. The Thiessen map is shown in Figure-7.2. The weights
assigned to various stations as per Theissen Polygon Analysis is given in Table-7.5.

Table-7.5: Weights assigned to rainfall stations in Catchment Area

Station Thiessen weights
Gondla 0.13
Keylong 0.485
Koksar 0.385
Source: DPR

Figure-7.2: Thiessen Map of Sach Khas project catchment

The monthly average rainfalls in the project catchment based on the weights above is
estimated as 798 mm. The monthwise rainfall is given in Table-7.6.

WAPCOS Limited 7-4

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-7.6: Monthly average rainfall in the catchment area of Sach Khas HEP

Month Average Rainfall (mm)

January 80.30
February 111.57
March 126.78
April 78.31
May 60.65
June 33.68
July 76.01
August 71.67
September 56.74
October 21.41
November 25.81
December 54.85
Total 797.77 say 798 mm
Source: DPR
The monthly average rainfall at Gondla, Keylong and Koksar is shown in Figure-7.3. The
monthly average weighted rainfall in the catchment area of Sach Khas HEP is depicted in
Figure-7.4.

Figure-7.3 Monthly average rainfall at Gondla, Keylong & Koksar

WAPCOS Limited 7-5

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure-7.4: Monthly weighted average rainfall in project catchment

From the above analysis, a few important features of the precipitation pattern emerges –
1. There are two distinct rainfall cycles – one from November to May and the other from
June to October. Rainfall in the winter season is attributed to Western Disturbances
moving from West to East in westerly wind regime that normally prevails over the
Himalayan latitudes. From July to October, the basin is normally under the influence
of southwest monsoons.
2. The amount of rainfall in winter due to Western Disturbances is more than that in
summer due to Monsoon. From the results of the analysis carried out, it comes out
that out of the total annual rainfall, rainfall in the period November to May is 67%
against 33% rainfall in the period June to October. It may be mentioned here that the
flood producing area is however quite diminished in the winter season and therefore,
the extreme flood events are always experienced in the monsoon season.
3. Based on the available data the average annual rainfall in the project catchment is
797.77 mm. It may be mentioned that this not the representative of the catchment, as
most of the catchment area remains snow-covered and snowfall data is not available.

7.3 SOILS
Soil is the product of geological, chemical and biological interactions. The soils in the region
vary according to altitude and climate. The soil in the project area and study area are young
like any other region of Himalayas. The vegetal cover is one of the most important
influencing factors characterizing the soil types in a region. Soil on the slope above 30o, due
to erosion and mass wasting processing, are generally shallow and usually have very thin

WAPCOS Limited 7-6

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

surface horizons. Such soils have medium to coarse texture. Residual soils are well
developed on level summits of lesser Himalayas, Sub-soil are deep and heavily textured.

As a part of field studies, soil depth at various locations in the catchment area ranged from
20 to 50 cm. has been collected during summer, post-monsoon and winter seasons and
were analyzed. The sampling stations are shown in Figure- 7.5. The results of the analysis
of soil sampling conducted for Monsoon, winter and pre-monsoon seasons are given in
Tables-7.7 to 7.9 respectively.

Table-7.7: Results of soil sampling analysis of study area (Monsoon season)

Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10
pH - 7.2 7.6 7.8 7.5 7.5 7.2 7.2 7.5 7.0 7.3
Electrical micro 17.1 18.4 27.4 20.8 24.6 16.9 26.2 18.4 20.7 27.1
Conductivity mhos/
cm
Organic % 1.0 0.8 1.0 1.1 1.0 1.7 1.4 1.4 1.6 1.2
Matter
Available Kg/ha 11 16 15 13 15 13 16 16 12 15
Phosphorous
(as P2O5)
Available Kg/ha 140 180 140 150 130 170 150 120 130 140
Potassium
(as K2O)
Available Kg/ha 294 310 317 294 290 350 280 250 320 245
Nitrogen
(as N)
Cation meq/ 11.2 12.7 11.9 13.1 11.5 13.7 11.8 12.6 11.9 12.0
Exchange 100gm
WAPCOS Limited 7-7
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10

Capacity
Particle Size %w/w
Distribution
>0.25mm %w/w 24.1 25.1 18.4 21.2 23.7 25.1 20.4 21.8 21.5 17.9

0.25 to %w/w 26.2 26.0 27.1 24.2 21.4 27.1 26.2 25.1 27.0 24.4
0.149mm
0.149 %w/w 27.4 24.1 14.2 15.6 18.4 27.8 27.0 25.1 27.1 27.1
to0.088mm
0.088 to %w/w 8.4 9.2 9.1 7.3 11.7 11.9 9.9 7.4 9.6 11.4
0.074mm
0.074 to %w/w 1.2 0.8 1.7 1.8 2.1 1.7 1.3 2.1 1.9 1.5
0.0625mm
0.0625 to %w/w 1.4 0.7 1.8 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.4 2.0 1.5 1.2
0.053mm
<0.053mm %w/w - - - - - - - - - -
Source: Field Studies
Table-7.8: Results of soil sampling analysis of study area (winter season)
Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10
pH - 7.3 7.5 7.6 7.4 7.4 7.1 7.1 7.3 7.0 7.2
Electrical micro 17.0 18.4 25.2 20.2 23.7 16.0 26.2 18.4 20.7 27.1
Conductivity mhos/
cm
Organic % 0.8 0.7 0.8 1.0 1.1 1.5 1.2 1.1 1.2 1.0
Matter
Available kg/ha 10 15 14 12 14 12 14 14 10 13
Phosphorous
(as P2O5)
Available kg/ha 130 160 120 130 120 150 140 110 120 130
Potassium
(as K2O)
Available kg/ha 282 305 312 287 280 340 276 241 310 240
Nitrogen
(as N)
Cation meq/ 11.4 12.0 11.5 12.2 11.2 12.8 11.6 12.0 11.5 11.2
Exchange 100gm
Capacity
Particle Size %w/w
Distribution
>0.25mm %w/w 24.1 25.1 18.4 21.2 23.7 25.1 20.4 21.8 21.5 17.9

0.25 to %w/w 26.2 26.0 27.1 24.2 21.4 27.1 26.2 25.1 27.0 24.4
0.149mm
0.149 %w/w 27.4 24.1 14.2 15.6 18.4 27.8 27.0 25.1 27.1 27.1
to0.088mm
0.088 to %w/w 8.4 9.2 9.1 7.3 11.7 11.9 9.9 7.4 9.6 11.4
0.074mm
0.074 to %w/w 1.2 0.8 1.7 1.8 2.1 1.7 1.3 2.1 1.9 1.5
0.0625mm
0.0625 to %w/w 1.4 0.7 1.8 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.4 2.0 1.5 1.2
0.053mm
<0.053mm %w/w - - - - - - - - - -
Source: Field Studies

WAPCOS Limited 7-8

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-7.9: Results of soil sampling analysis of study area (summer season)

Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10

pH - 7.2 7.4 7.5 7.4 7.4 7.2 7.1 7.2 7.1 7.1
Electrical micro 17.2 18.5 25.3 20.4 23.7 16.2 26.2 18.5 20.9 27.2
Conductivity mhos/ 8 4
cm
Organic % 0.9 0.7 0.9 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.2 1.4 1.2 1.2
Matter
Available kg/ha 10 14 14 12 13 12 14 12 10 12
Phosphorous
(as P2O5)
Available kg/ha 125 154 110 128 119 147 138 108 117 128
Potassium
(as K2O)
Available kg/ha 274 302 306 270 264 325 270 235 308 236
Nitrogen
(as N)
Cation meq/ 11.2 11.8 11.4 12.0 11.0 12.3 11.2 11.7 11.2 11.1
Exchange 100gm
Capacity
Particle Size %w/w
Distribution
>0.25mm %w/w 24.1 25.1 18.4 21.2 23.7 25.1 20.4 21.8 21.5 17.9

0.25 to %w/w 26.2 26.0 27.1 24.2 21.4 27.1 26.2 25.1 27.0 24.4
0.149mm
0.149 %w/w 27.4 24.1 14.2 15.6 18.4 27.8 27.0 25.1 27.1 27.1
to0.088mm
0.088 to %w/w 8.4 9.2 9.1 7.3 11.7 11.9 9.9 7.4 9.6 11.4
0.074mm
0.074 to %w/w 1.2 0.8 1.7 1.8 2.1 1.7 1.3 2.1 1.9 1.5
0.0625mm
0.0625 to %w/w 1.4 0.7 1.8 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.4 2.0 1.5 1.2
0.053mm
<0.053mm %w/w - - - - - - - - - -
Source: Field Studies
The pH of soil at various sites lies within neutral range. The levels of NPK indicate moderate
soil productivity. The CEC levels do not indicate any potential for soil salinization or adverse
impacts on soil productivity
In a hydroelectric project, no significant impact on soil quality is expected barring, soil
pollution at local level due to disposal of construction waste. For amelioration of such
impacts appropriate management measures are recommended.

7.4 WATER QUALITY

There are no major sources of organic pollution loading in the basin. The Catchment
intercepted at the project site has low population density with low cropping intensity. The low
cropping intensity coupled with low agro-chemical dosing also means that the pollution load
due to agro-chemicals is quite low. The absence of industries implies that there is no

WAPCOS Limited 7-9

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

pollution load from this source as well.

As a part of the field studies, water samples were collected at various locations in the study
area. The water sampling results for three seasons (summer, monsoon and winter) covered
as a part of the field studies are given in Tables-7.10 to 7.12. The locations of various
sampling stations as shown in Figure-7.6 and are listed as below:

W1 - At dam site
W2 - 1 km upstream of dam site
W3 - 1 km downstream of dam site
W4 - 3 km downstream of the dam site
W5 - Power house site.

The drinking water quality standards are given in Table-7.13.

Table-7.10: Water quality in the study area (Monsoon season)

Parameter Unit Sampling stations
W1 W2 W3 W4 W5
pH - 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5
TDS mg/l 76 78 80 74 80
Sulphates mg/l <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
Nitrates mg/l 3.1 4.0 3.5 3.2 2.9
Phosphates mg/l 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
Chlorides mg/l 8 7 7 7 8
Sodium mg/l 11 9 11 11 9

WAPCOS Limited 7-10

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Parameter Unit Sampling stations

W1 W2 W3 W4 W5
Potassium mg/l 3.1 3.0 4.1 3.0 3.9
Calcium mg/l 14 16 16 14 14
Magnesium mg/l 2.7 2.7 2.6 2.2 2.1
Copper mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Mercury mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Lead mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
Iron mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Zinc mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Cyanides mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cadmium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Chromium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Manganese mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
DO mg/l 8.6 8.9 8.6 8.7 8.9
BOD mg/l 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.1
COD mg/l 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.3 2.2
Hardness mg/l 46 51 51 44 44
Electrical µS/cm 104 107 109 101 109
Conductivity
Total Coliform MPN/100 ml Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Source: Field Studies
Table-7.11: Water quality in the study area (winter season)
Parameter UNIT Sampling stations
W1 W2 W3 W4 W5
pH - 7.1 7.1 7.2 7.4 7.5
TDS mg/l 80 84 82 78 84
Sulphates mg/l <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
Nitrates mg/l 3.6 4.1 3.8 3.4 3.0
Phosphates mg/l 0.4 0.5 0.3 0.4 0.4
Chlorides mg/l 10 10 9 10 12
Sodium mg/l 14 12 14 13 12
Potassium mg/l 3.5 3.5 4.4 3.2 4.3
Calcium mg/l 16 18 17 15 17
Magnesium mg/l 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.4 2.4
Copper mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Mercury mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Lead mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
Iron mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Zinc mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Cyanides mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cadmium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Chromium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Manganese mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
DO mg/l 8.7 8.9 8.7 8.8 8.9
BOD mg/l 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.3
COD mg/l 2.3 2.4 2.3 2.4 2.5
Hardness mg/l 52 57 54 47 52
Electrical µS/cm 110 115 112 107 115
WAPCOS Limited 7-11
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Parameter UNIT Sampling stations

W1 W2 W3 W4 W5
Conductivity
Total Coliform MPN/100 ml Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Source: Field Studies

Table-7.12: Water quality in the study area (summer season)

Parameter UNIT Sampling stations
W1 W2 W3 W4 W5
pH - 7.1 7.1 7.1 7.3 7.3
TDS mg/l 76 80 77 72 76
Sulphates mg/l <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
Nitrates mg/l 3.2 3.4 3.4 3.2 2.9
Phosphates mg/l 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.4
Chlorides mg/l 8 8 6 7 10
Sodium mg/l 11 11 10 12 10
Potassium mg/l 3.2 3.4 4.1 3.0 4.0
Calcium mg/l 14 16 14 14 16
Magnesium mg/l 2.6 2.5 2.6 2.0 2.1
Copper mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Mercury mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Lead mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
Iron mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Zinc mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Cyanides mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cadmium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Chromium mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Manganese mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
DO mg/l 8.6 8.8 8.6 8.7 8.8
BOD mg/l 1.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
COD mg/l 2.0 2.2 2.1 2.1 2.2
Hardness mg/l 46 50 45 43 49
Electrical µS/cm 101 110 102 97 102
Conductivity
Total Coliform MPN/100 ml Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Source: Field Studies

Table-7.13: Drinking water quality standards (Specified by Central Public Health and
Environment Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO)
Characteristics *Acceptable **Cause for
Rejection
Turbidity (units on JTU scale) 2.5 10
Colour (Units on platinum cobalt scale) 5.0 25
Taste and Odour Unobjectionable Unobjectionable
PH 7.0 to 8.5 <6.5 or >9.2
Total Dissolved Solids (mg/l) 500 1500
Total hardness (mg/l) (as CaCO3) 200 600
Chlorides as CD (mg/l) 200 1000
Sulphates (as SO4) 200 400

WAPCOS Limited 7-12

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Characteristics *Acceptable **Cause for

Rejection
Fluorides (as F) (mg/l) 1.0 1.5
Nitrates (as NO3) (mg/l) 45 45
Calcium (as Ca) (mg/l) 75 200
Magnesium (as Mg) (mg/l) 30 150
If there are 250 mg/l of sulphates, Mg content
can be increased to a maximum of 125 mg/l
with the reduction of sulphates at the rate of 1
unit per every 2.5 units of sulphates
Iron (as Fe) (mg/l) 0.1 1.0
Manganese (as Mn) (mg/l) 0.05 0.5
Copper (as Cu) (mg/l) 0.05 1.5
Zinc (as Zn) (mg/l) 5.0 15.0
Phenolic compounds (as phenol) (mg/l) 0.001 0.002
Anionic detergents (as MBAS) (mg/l) 0.2 1.0
Mineral Oil (mg/l) 0.01 0.3
Toxic materials
Arsenic (as As) (mg/l) 0.05 0.05
Cadmium (as Cd) (mg/l) 0.01 0.01
Chromium (as hexaalent Cr) (mg/l) 0.05 0.05
Cyanides (as CN) (mg/l) 0.05 0.05
Lead (as Pb) (mg/l) 0.1 0.1
Selenium (as Se) (mg/l) 0.01 0.01
Mercury (total as Hg) (mg/l) 0.001 0.001
Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) 0.2 µg/l 0.2 µg/l
Notes:
*1. The figures indicated under the column `Acceptable’ are the limits upto which water is generally
acceptable to the consumers
**2 Figures in excess of those mentioned under `Acceptable render the water not acceptable, but still may
be tolerated in the absence of alternative and better source but upto the limits indicated under column
“Cause for Rejection” above which are supply will have to be rejected.

The total hardness in water samples ranged from 44-51 mg/l and 47 to 57 mg/l in monsoon and
winter season respectively. In summer season, Hardness level ranged from 43 to 50 mg/l. The
low hardness level can be attributed low calcium and magnesium levels, which are responsible
for soft nature of water. The low EC and TDS values indicate the lower concentration of cations
and anions. The concentration of TDS level ranged from 72 to 84 mg/l in various seasons,
which is much lower than the permissible limit of 500 mg/l specified for domestic use (Refer
Table-7.13). This is also reflected by the fact that the concentration of most of the cations and
anions are well within the permissible limit.

The BOD values are well within the permissible limits, which indicate the absence of organic
pollution loading. This is mainly due to the low population density and absence of industries in
the area. The low COD values also indicate the absence of chemical pollution loading in the
area. The marginal quantity of pollution load, which enters river Chenab, gets diluted. In fact,
even for the minimum flow, there is more than adequate water available for dilution. The heavy
metal concentration in the study area is below the permissible limit used for drinking purposes.

WAPCOS Limited 7-13

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Total Coliform count is nil in the study area. It can be concluded that water quality was
observed to be quite good, as various parameters are well below the permissible limit specified
for meeting domestic requirements.

7.5 NOISE ENVIRONMENT

Baseline noise data has been measured using a weighted sound pressure level meter. The
survey was carried out in calm surrounding. Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurement in
the outside environment was made using sound pressure level meter. Hourly noise meter
readings were taken at different sites. The survey for monsoon season was conducted in
August 2010. The location of various noise monitoring stations is shown in Figure-7.7. The
noise levels were monitored continuously from 6 AM to 9 PM at each location and hourly
equivalent noise level was measured. Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurement in the
ambient environment was made using sound pressure level meter. The hourly ambient noise
levels monitored for various seasons are given in Tables-7.14 to 7.16. The noise standards
for various categories are given in Table-7.17. The day time equivalent noise levels
estimated are given in Table-7.18.

WAPCOS Limited 7-14

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-7.14: Hourly equivalent noise levels-Monsoon Season

Location Dam site (N1) Submergence Power house Village
Area (N2) site (N3) Shin
6-7 AM 35 36 36 35
7-8 AM 38 36 37 36
8-9 AM 39 39 39 40
9-10 AM 41 40 41 40
10-11 AM 42 42 42 42
11-12 Noon 44 44 42 41
12 noon – 1 PM 40 41 42 42
1-2 PM 42 41 41 42
2-3 PM 42 42 42 40
3-4 PM 40 42 40 40
4-5 PM 42 42 42 41
5-6 PM 41 40 41 40
6-7 PM 40 39 38 39
7-8 PM 39 37 37 38
8-9 PM 38 37 37 37
Source: Field Studies
Table-7.15: Hourly equivalent noise levels-Winter Season
Location Dam site-1 Submergence Power house Village
(N1) Area (N2) site (N3) Shin
6-7 AM 37 37 38 38
7-8 AM 40 39 40 39
8-9 AM 41 41 41 42
9-10 AM 42 43 42 42
10-11 AM 44 44 43 42
11-12 Noon 45 44 40 42
12 noon – 1 PM 42 43 44 44
1-2 PM 42 42 43 44
2-3 PM 43 43 43 42
3-4 PM 42 42 42 42
4-5 PM 41 41 43 42
5-6 PM 40 40 42 42
6-7 PM 40 40 40 40
7-8 PM 39 39 39 39
8-9 PM 38 38 38 38
Source: Field Studies
Table-7.16: Hourly equivalent noise levels-Summer Season
Location Dam site-1 Submergence Power house Village
(N1) Area (N2) site (N3) Shin
6-7 AM 38 39 39 40
7-8 AM 41 40 42 42
8-9 AM 42 43 42 44
9-10 AM 43 44 43 44
10-11 AM 45 45 45 45
11-12 Noon 45 46 45 46
12 Noon – 1 PM 44 47 46 47
1-2 PM 44 45 45 46
2-3 PM 44 44 45 46
3-4 PM 44 44 45 44
4-5 PM 43 43 43 42
WAPCOS Limited 7-15
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Location Dam site-1 Submergence Power house Village

(N1) Area (N2) site (N3) Shin
5-6 PM 41 42 42 42
6-7 PM 42 41 41 41
7-8 PM 39 40 40 40
8-9 PM 39 39 39 39
Source : Field Studies

Table-7.17 : Ambient Noise Standards

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Area Category Limits in dB(A)Leq
Code of Area -----------------------------------------------------------
Day time Night time
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. Industrial Area 75 70
B. Commercial Area 65 55
C. Residential Area 55 45
D. Silence Zone 50 40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
• Day time 6 A.M. and 9 P.M.
• Night time is 9 P.M. and 6 A.M.
• Silence zone is defined as areas upto 100 meters around such
• Premises as hospitals, educational institutions and courts. The silence zones are to be
declared by competent authority. Use of vehicular horns, loudspeakers and bursting of
crackers shall be banned in these zones.
• Environment (Protection) Third Amendment Rules, 2000 Gazette notification, Government of
India, date 14.2.2000.

Table-7.18: Day time Equivalent noise levels

S. No. Location Zone Value (dB(A))

Monsoon Winter Summer
1. Dam site-1 Residential 40.0 41.55 42.75
2. Submergence Area Residential 40.5 41.54 43.46
3. Power house site Residential 40.3 41.58 42.34
4. Village Shin Residential 40.7 41.57 43.86

The day time equivalent noise level at various sampling stations ranged from 40.0 to 40.7
dB(A) and 41.5 to 41.6 dB(A) and 42.3 to 43.9 dB(A) in monsoon, winter and summer
seasons respectively. The noise levels were observed to be well within permissible limits
specified for residential area (Refer Table-7.17).

7.6 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

The ambient air quality with respect to the study area around the proposed site forms the
baseline information. The study area represents rural environment. The sources of air
pollution in the region are vehicular traffic, dust arising from unpaved roads and domestic
fuel burning. The prime objective of the baseline air quality study was to establish the

WAPCOS Limited 7-16

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

existing ambient air quality of the area. This section describes the identification of sampling
locations, methodology adopted for monitoring, and frequency of sampling.

Selection of Sampling Locations

The baseline status of the ambient air quality has been established through a scientifically
designed ambient air quality monitoring network and is based on the following
considerations:

• Meteorological conditions on synoptic scale;

• Representatives of regional background air quality for obtaining baseline status
• Representation of likely affected area.

Three Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (AAQM) locations were selected taking care of above-
mentioned points. The following stations have been monitored:
• Near dam site
• Near power house site
• Village Shin
The location of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring stations are shown in Figure-7.8.

Frequency and Parameters for Sampling

Ambient air quality monitoring has been carried out with a frequency of two samples per
week for four consecutive weeks at various locations.The baseline data of ambient air
environment has been generated for the mentioned parameters as given below:
WAPCOS Limited 7-17
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM)

• Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

The findings of ambient air quality monitoring in various seasons are given in Table-7.19.
The ambient air quality standards are given in Table-7.20.
Table-7.19: Findings of ambient air quality monitoring in various seasons
Parameter Average (µg/m3) Maximum (µg/m3) Minimum (µg/m3)
Particulate Matter 44.8 – 51.9 49 – 56 42 – 49
less than 10
microns (PM10)
Sulphur dioxide 6.4 – 7.2 7.0 – 7.6 BDL
(SO2)
Nitrogen dioxide 8.7 – 11.8 10.4 – 13.2 7.6 – 8.9
(NO2)

Table-7.20: National Ambient Air quality Standards (NAAQS)

S. Pollutant Time Concentration of Ambient Air
No. Weighted Industrial, Ecologically Sensitive
Average Residential Rural area (notified by
and other area Central Government)
1 Annual* 50 20
Sulphur Dioxide
(SO2) , µg/m3
24 hours ** 80 80
2 Nitrogen Annual* 40 30
Dioxide (NO2) ,
µg/m3 24 hours ** 80 80
3 Particulate 60 60
Matter (Size Annual*
less than 10, 100 100
µm) or PM10 , 24 hours **
µg/m3

Notes:
• Annual arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurements in a year at a particular site
taken twice a week 24 hourly at uniform intervals.
• 24 hourly or 08 hourly or 01 hourly monitored values, as applicable, shall be
complied with 98% of the time in a year. 2% of the time, they may exceed the limits
but not on two consecutive days of monitoring.

Observations on ambient RPM levels

The average RPM levels as observed at various stations in the study area ranged from 44.8
to 51.9 µg/m3. The highest RPM value was recorded as 56 µg/m3 at power house site. The
RPM values monitored during the field survey were well below the permissible limit of 100
µg/m3 for residential and rural areas (Refer Table-7.20).

Observation on ambient SO2 levels

The highest average SO2 values of 7.2 µg/m3 was observed at dam site in winter season.
The highest value of 7.6 µg/m3 too was also observed at the same station in winter season.
WAPCOS Limited 7-18
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The SO2 level was Below Detectable Limit BDL) of 6 µg/m3 at some stations covered in
ambient air quality monitoring programme. The SO2 level observed at various sampling
stations was much lower than the permissible limit of 80 µg/m3 for residential and rural areas
are given in Table-7.20.
Observations on NO2 levels
The highest average NO2 values of 11.8 µg/m3 was observed at power house site in winter
season. The highest value of 13.2 µg/m3 too was also observed at the same station in winter
season. The NO2 level observed at various sampling stations was much lower than the
permissible limit of 80 µg/m3 for residential and rural areas are given in Table-7.20.

7.7 LAND USE PATTERN

Landuse describes how a patch of land is used (e.g. for agriculture, settlement, forest),
whereas land cover describes the materials (such as vegetation, rocks or buildings) that are
present on the surface. Accurate land use and land cover identification is the key to most of
the planning processes.
The land use pattern of the study area has been studied through digital satellite imagery
data. Digital IRS-P6, LISS-III satellite imagery (Path: 095, Row: 048) dated 9th May,2007
was procured from National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA), Hyderabad. The data was
processed through ERDAS software package available with WAPCOS.
Multi-variate statistics have been used for the analysis of multi-spectral data. As a first step,
clustering algorithms was established to a set of multi-variate class statistics against which
each pixel measurement vector in the scene was compared. Then a classification decision
rule, such as the probability of maximum likelihood that the pixel belongs to a particular class
amongst the statistics set was calculated and the pixel was assigned to the particular class.
The information classes most often considered include both cover type or community type
descriptors as well as limited structural categories, such as crown cover and size class: of
the trees.

Although two different approaches to the development of the multi-variate statistics are
used, unsupervised and supervised, their combination gives better results. In the
unsupervised classification, the radiance values of the image data set were submitted to
clustering algorithms that generate statistics until the stopping rule i.e. minimum number of
points per cluster was reached and the minimum distance between clusters and separability
measure was established. Another approach is to 'seed' spectral space with starting points
to establish candidate mean value for clusters, and then iterate the clustering procedure until
minimization criteria is achieved. In the supervised method, training sites with known
properties were used to extract spectral statistics from the image data by interactively

WAPCOS Limited 7-19

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

identifying the sites in the imagery. Ground truthing was done for site identification. In the
unsupervised method, identification of the cluster was done after completing the
classification by comparing the spatial distribution of the mapped classes with ground
reference data.
The wide geographic distribution and the range of sites and climates occupied by forests
complicates the understanding of the interaction of forests with solar radiation. Many forests
grow in uneven mountainous terrain. The terrain relief produces large variations in how solar
radiation reaches the forests and produces land form shadows. Terrain relief also generates
large micro-climate variations in temperature, precipitation, and soil properties that produce
large differences in forest composition and activity over elatively small geographic areas.
Vegetation indices are an aid for obtaining accurate results. The DN values of different
bands can be combined mathematically to create output images that can be used
extensively in forest analysis to bring out small differences between vegetation classes.
These mathematical combinations are called indices and if chosen judiciously, they highlight
and enhance differences, which cannot be observed in the display of original color bands.
Indices also help in minimizing shadow effects in satellite multi-spectral images. Ground
truth studies were conducted in the area to validate various signals in the satellite images
and correlate them with different land use domains. The image obtained after the vegetation
index, enhancement becomes a single band data Le. The grey set. The grey set was
merged with the colored False Color Composite (FCC). This image was then classified using
the prominent signatures extracted based on the past experience. However, this is only a
preliminary classification which will be refined further. The classified image of the study area
is given as Figure-7.9. The landuse pattern of the study area is given in Table-7.21.
Table 7.21: Land use pattern of the study area of Sach Khas HE project based on
satellite data
S.No Category Area(ha) Area(%)
1 River 15 0.03
2 Dense Vegetation 18443 38.79
3 Open Vegetation 12956 27.25
4 Agricultural Land 4903 10.31
5 Scrubs 404 0.85
6 Snow 6919 14.55
7 Degraded/Barren Land 3758 7.90
8 Settlements 152 0.32
Total 47550 100.00
Source: Satellite Data

The major landuse category in the study area of Sach Khas HE project is dense vegetation,
as it accounts for about 38.79% of the study area followed by open vegetation (27.25%).

WAPCOS Limited 7-20

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Snow covered area accounts about 14.55% of the study area. The area under Agricultural
Land is 10.31% of the study area. Barren land accounts for about 7.9% of the study area.
Settlements account for about 0.32% of the study area. The area under scrub and water
bodies is 0.85% and 0.03% of the study area.

42
L & T Himachal Hydropower Limited

Figure-7.9: Classified Image of the Study Area

WAPCOS Limited 7-21

 CHAPTER-8
BASELINE SETTING FOR
ECOLOGICAL ASPECTS
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-8
BASELINE SETTING FOR ECOLOGICAL ASPECTS
8.1 GENERAL
Before start of any Environmental Impact Assessment study, it is necessary to identify the
baseline levels of relevant environmental parameters which are likely to be affected as a result
of the construction and operation of the proposed project. A similar approach has been adopted
for conducting the CEIA study for the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric Project. The baseline
setting for Ecologcal aspects have been covered in this Chapter.
8.2 FORESTS & FOREST TYPES
The Pangi valley is spread over an area of about 1176 sq miles. Out of which, 602 sq miles
falls under grass land, 93 sq miles under forest and 3 sq miles under cultivation (Minakshi
Chaudhary, 1998). The forest predominates with mixed broad leaves to conifer on the
downslopes. Among broad leaves birch and maples are common, however, oak is absent.
Among confers deodar is pre-dominant species followed by pine, spruces and firs. Forest
area of pangi valley valley consist of 8009 Ha RF, 4795 Ha PF, 97503 ha Unclassified forest
and the remaing under others as alpine scrubs, respectively.

The floristic accounts of the Indian cold deserts Lahaul & Spiti including Pangi Valley also
forms a part of Cold Desert of Himalayas, have been largely described under „Western
Himalayas by the early Phytogeographers (Hooker, 1906 and Chatterjee, 1939). Various
authors have described the vegetation of this region as Caragana-Lonicera-Artemisia
formation (Osmaston, 1922); Zone of Dry bushes (Nako, 1955); Alpine Steppe
(Schweinfurth, 1957); Dry alpine scrub (Champion and Seth, 1968) and Alpine stony deserts
(Puri et al., 1989). The vegetation in Cold Deserts, infact, varies from semi-desertic to
desertic, depending upon the prevailing bio-climate.

The Study area has no eco-sensitive area nearby to project vicinity any declared protected
or Reserved Forests under Forest Protection Act -1927, Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and
Biodiversity Conservation Act (2001) is present 10 km radius from project boundary. Mostly,
the unclassified forest including Alpine pasture has been reported on hill slopes above
3500m msl which is far away from project impacted zone located at deep in river bed of
about 2145 to 2220m, msl. No National park or’ Wildlife Sanctuary is reported within 10 km
from the proposed boundary as far as sensitivity is concern for special conditions of EIA
Notification 2006 & 2009.

Therefore, based on the primary survey as well as secondary data sources, the predominate
Forest Types include Broad Leaved and Coniferous Forest, Lower Western Himalayan
Temperate, Moist Alpine Scrubs and Dry Alpine Forests in the study area. However, the

WAPCOS Limited 8-1

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

major forest types assessed during field survey according to the classification of Champion
and Seth (1968) are:

Type 16/C1 Dry alpine scrub

Type 16/E1 Dwarf juniper scrub
Type 15/C3 Alpine Pastures
Type 13/C5 West Himalayan Dry Juniper Forests
Type 13/C1 Broad leaved and Coniferous Forests
Type 12/C1 Dry Temperate Mixed Evergreen Forest
Type 12/C2 Dry Coniferous Forest
Type 12/C1c: Moist Deodar Forests
Type 12/C1d: Western Mixed Coniferous Forests
Type 12/C1f: Low level Blue pine type
Type 12/1s1: Alder Forests

8.3 REMOTE SENSING ASSESSMENT OF FLORA

Application of remote sensing in biodiversity assessment and characterization is limited in
the literature. Remote sensing technique has been used to demarcate the biotype of a
region so far. However, the dream of species characterization in biodiversity assessment
using remote sensing is yet to be achieved (Turner et al., 2003). The major problem with the
use of remote sensing in biodiversity characterization is the identification species, as we
could see only the crown in the air borne/space borne data. Even satellite data with 0.5 m
pixel resolution are not able to identify individual species (Biging et al., 1995). Datasets from
IRS 1C/1D LISS III for the distribution maps of Podophyllum heterophyllum, Artemisia
maritime, Thymus linearis and other important species such as Hippophae rhamnoides and
stratification of Ephedra gerardiana from the cold desrts of western Himalayas (Porwal et al.,
2003). The other study in genus level mapping of Pinus and Abies by White et al. (1995),
has achieved only 63% accuracy. However, they have just demarcated the species
occurrence not the biodiversity value of that species. Hence, the details such as the species
composition and stand density of forests could be obtained only through field floristic
sampling studies.
During present investigation Remont Sensing data has been used for authentication of
presence of major biotype in the area. The probable project site is well marked in the
Figure-8.1. The secondary data from the species distribution map of zone IV of HP which
comprises of 3 distircts (Kinnaur, Lahul & Spiti and Chamba-Pangi valley) has been
completed by the state forest department. In Pangi valley (H.P.), to observe the land use
patterns, the state department has ans assess the livelihood pattern the area was mapped
through Remot Sensing Techniques. The pangi valley has spread on area of approximity
1,600 square kilometer. Therefore, major LSEs types of the region were mapped using IRS
1D LISS III satellite image (Path 094, Row 047) and the results revealed that 21.96% of
Pangi is occupied by forests ). Out of this, maximum area was occupied by mixed broad

WAPCOS Limited 8-2

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

leaved forest (36.08%) followed by Cedrus deodara (26.94%), Betula utilis (18.07%), Pinus
wallichiana (11.26%), Corylus jacquemontii (7.30%) and Pinus gerardiana (0.35%) forests.
These species were also found present during the study period conducted in vicinity of Sach
Khas project.
The depicted floral cover is broadly described with dominant groups, however is not able to
give complete account. Therefore, this data has been used as secondary data base where
predominant groups are almost in line with the satellite imager data along with other
supportive communities.
The description of sampling sites w.r.t. Project appurtenances is given in Table-8.1. The
sampling location map is enclosed as Figure-8.2.
Table-8.1: Description of Sampling Sites w.r.t. Project appurtenances
Sampling Location Distance from Dam Longitude Latitude
sites site E N
Submergence area-Catchment U/S Dam Site
Site1 (T1) Chenab river – Near Mujar chow 320 55’24” 076027’3
Catchment Area- confluence with 0”
Submergnece zone chenab (5.0-10.0 km)
Dam Site to Power House Area
Site 2 (T2) Dam site (Plate 1) Left & Diversion Structure 320 57’57” 076025’1
Right Banks 0.0km 5”
Site 3 (T3) Power House Site ~ 300m d/s Dam site

Project Influenced Area D/S Dam Site

Site 4 (T4) Mindhal and Sach Khas Cherry Bangla & 330 00’05” 076026’0
village up to Shin village Mindhal Bridge Site 2”
iimage (~3km)
Site 5 (T5) Influenced Zone d/s Approx 6-7km d/s
towards Findru Village along Chenab river

WAPCOS Limited 8-3

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure -8.1 : Remote Sensing Map- Satellite Imagery of Pangi Valley with proposed
Sach Khas Project vicinity (H.P.)

WAPCOS Limited 8-4

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

U/S Veiw of Sach Khas HEP (Ref. By Mr. D/S Veiw of Sach Khas HEP (Ref. By Mr.
Shakher Damle) Shakher Damle)

WAPCOS Limited 8-5

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

L&T 260 MW Sach Khas HEP Dam Axis Left Bridge across Chenab River for Mindhal
Bank Drift village d/s
Catchment-Submergence, Project site and Influence zone on Chandrabhaga river,
Pangi Valley HP
8.4 METHODOLOGY
Floral Study

The present report on the plants of project area is based on field survey of the area. The
seasonal study has been conducted during pre-monsoon (summer), monsoon and winter
seasons. The whole area of the valley was divided into four altitudes i.e. from river bed 2200
to 3000 m, 3000-3500 m, 3500-4000 m, and 4000-4500 m for having an holistic view of
phyto-sociological aspects. The number of quadrats laid in the study area is given in Table-
8.2.
Table-8.2: Number of Quadrats laid in the Study Area
Sampling Trees Shrubs Herbs (1x1) m2
2
Location (10x10) m (5x5) m2 Winter Pre Monsoon
Monsoon
Site I 14 20 15 24 18
Site II 15 20 15 19 22
Site III 15 20 15 17 17
Site IV 12 20 15 21 15
Site V 20 20 15 21 18
To understand community structure, quadrat sampling mode was followed. The vegetation
sampling was done at seven locations. Sampling was carried out by randomly placing
quadrats of 10m x 10m size for trees, 5m x 5m size for shrubs and 1m x 1m for herbs. The
size and number of quadrats needed were determined using the species area curve (Misra,
1968).

Species diversity and evenness index is calculated by using the Shannon-Wiener Diversity
Index formula and Evenness Index formula, respectively.

Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H) = - Σ pi ln (pi)

WAPCOS Limited 8-6

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Where, pi is the pr oportion of total number of species made up of the ith species.

Evenness index (E): H/ log S

Where, H is Shannon Wiener index of general diversity and S is number of species

A nested quadrates technique was used for sampling the vegetation. The size and number
of quadrates needed were determined using species area curve (Mishra, 1968) and the
runnings mean method (Kershaw, 1973). To study the phytosociological attributes quadrates
of 10 m × 10 m size for trees, 5 m x 5 m. size for shrubs and 1m x 1m size for herbs and
grasses were randomly laid out at each site at different elevations. Total 10 number of
quadrats were laid at study sites which are representation of from the left and right banks
river Chenab, where each 5 quadrats laid both banks to the uppermost possible slopes. The
terrain is tough nd steep up to the tree lines on Left bank from the Pir Panjal range whereas
right banks at higher elevation has comparately moderate slopes from the Zanskar range.
The enumeration of vegetation in each of the quadrat was done.
The vegetation data collected for phyto-sociological information was quantitatively analyzed
for density and frequency of each species according to the method developed by Curtis and
McIntosh (1950). The size and number of quadrats needed were determined using the
species area curve (Misra, 1968).
The tree species diversity for each stand in different forest types was determined using
Shannon Wiener information function (Shannon and Wiener, 1963) and Evenness Index
formula, respectively.
8.5 FINDINGS OF THE FIELD STUDIES

To understand the community in the proposed project area, the sampling was carried out at
five locations. The results indicate that Deodar (Cedrus deodara) is the dominant species
alongwith Kail (Pinus wallichiana), Fir and Spruce fringe at side slopes of high altitudes in
river course area in the project vicinity. The dominating deciduous trees are Corylus colurna,
Aesculus indica, Juglans regia, and Fraxinus sp. near the river banks. Higher slopes are
dominated by Birches and Mapples with fever patches of pinus gerdiana. These forests
perform protective function, by preventing snow slides and avalanches. The upper fringes
form by Juniperous and alpine scrubs. The undergrowth mainly comprises of Rumax sp,
Rosa sp, Berberis spp. Juniperus communis, J. recurva. The ground flora comprises of
mainly of Artemisia sp., and Polygonum sp.. The prominent feature in vast stretch of nutrition
grasses-alpine pasture during summers followed with patches of alpine scrub, principally
birch, Juniperus spp. The study area also has a variety of medicinal herbs and flowers, e.g.,
Dhup (Jurinea macrocephala), Patis (Aconitum heterophyllum), Karu (Picrorrhiza kurrooa),
Kala Jira (Bunium persicum) are commonly occurring and extracted for commercial

WAPCOS Limited 8-7

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

proposes. The details of density and frequency of various trees and shrubs for the sampling
sites is given in Tables-8.3 and 8.4. The details of density and herbs species in summer,
monsoon and winter seasons is given in Tables-8.5 and 8.6 respectively.

Site I: Catchment Area –submergence zone

Catchment area of the project is characterized by Deodar Forest on both banks alongwith
Kail (Pinus wallichiana), Fir and Spruce fringe at high altitudes. The dominant tree species in
catchment area are Deodars and at higher elevations is Bitula utilis followed by maples and
above the fringes by Juniperous spp and Juglus regia spp. Downslopes patch also has
fewever ash and walnut trees. Shrub layer is dominated by Juniperus communis and
Lonicera sp. Shrubs are represented by sixteen species among them predominate at hill
slopes are Rosa sp., Berberis sp, Rumux sp. and Salix sp. The community thus formed is
represented by mainly deaodar, Junipers, Juglans, Prunus as top story followed by Barberis,
Rosa as shrubs as understory vegetation. The details of density and frequency of various
trees and shrubs is given in Tables-8.3 and 8.4. The alpine scrubs (3200-3500m), meadows
(>3500m) and pastures-grass land (>4500m) are present above the fringe zone of birch and
junifers starting from the downward of snow scree slopes. In general grassi meadows mixed
with chilgosa are observed. There was not much variation in occurrence of vegetation at
Power house, dam site and catchment area however the pattern changes d/s power house
area that might be related to decrease in elevation along the river bed slopes.
The herbs are rich in diversity and represented by several of grasses and flowering plants of
seasonal and periinnial nature from the dry scrub land, moistures wet land alpine area varies
along the hill slopes from deep river bed. The group is represented by about 47 species.
Herbs like compositeae and asteraceae are the common herbs in winter on both the bank of
Chenab river. There are 14 taxon of perennial herbs reported with some seasonal herbs
from the family Ranunculaseae, Apeaceae, and Scrofulariaceae etc. Monsoon seasons
shows variation in species composition, the common species recorded from downstream
area are Fabaecae (Trifolium pretense, Oxytropis humifusa), Asteraceae (Anthemis cotula
and Taraxacum officianale), taxon from the family Poaceae and polygoneaceae. The details
of density and frequency of herbs in monsoon, winter and summer seasons is given through
Tables-8.5 and 8.6 respectively.
Site II: Dam Site
The dominant tree species at this site is Deodar (Cedrus deodara) alongwith Kail (Pinus
wallichiana), Fir and Spruce fringe at high altitudes. The higher slopes are dominanted by
Birches and maples followed by junipers. These forests perform protective function, by
preventing snow slides and avalanches. The undergrowth comprises of Berberis vulgaris,
Lonicera sp., Rosa sp, Juniperus at upper fringe in the Birch patches. The ground flora

WAPCOS Limited 8-8

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

comprises of mainly of Artemisia sp. and Polygonum sp. etc. The study area shows the
absent of river bank riparian vegetation due to steep slopes. The cover starts about 3-4
meter above the left banks however at much higher side on the right banks. The river flows
through a confined and narrow valley. The dense patch of deodar has been noticed. Other
vegetation is varied along the side slope to tope hills following a general pattern of
distribution i.e. grassi-pasture land (>4000m), alpine meadows (>3500m), alpine scrubs
(3200-3500m), broad leaves forest-Birches and maples (3000-3200m) and downward
Conifers. The area is reperesned by rich diversity of herbal group. These groups are almost
absent along the river bank at dam site except the members of apeaceae, however, at side
slopes are quite frequent. The density and frequency of taxon observed are given through
Tables-8.3 to 8.6 respectively.

Site III: Power House Site

The power house side is located 300m downstream of dam site where the river takes a bend
while flowing through almost same river morphology. Therefore, the same type of vegetation
is present in the power house site. The dominant species along river bank slopes is deodar
followed by Pinus wallichiana, Picea smithiana and Juniperus recurva. The shrub layer
formed is mainly represented by Rosa sp, Berberis sp, A Artemeissia sp, Aesculus sp, and
Salix sp. The dominating deciduous trees are present near to river banks Corylus colurna,
Juglans regia and Fraxinus sp. followed by Aesculus sp and Salix spp of shrubs. Among
herbs apeaceae are dominant group followed by the poaceae and polygoneacae. Details of
floral accounts are given through Tables-8.3 to 8.6 respectively.

Site IV: Downstream of Power house site near Mindhal Bridge

The river downstream of power house flows comparatively open valley and joined by three
side streams i.e. Chheni nalla, Mokha nala and downward of Mindhal bridge Saichu nalla.
The vegetation also reflecting the impact of comparatively open valley, though the dominant
species is the deodaor only however inbetween the deaodar and river banks many variety of
trees and shrubs has taken place. The trees followed by Pinus spp (Blue Pines), Picea sp,
Abies sp and near river bank growth of thangi trees i.e. corylus spp and shrubs of Asculus
sp, Salix spp and others as Rosa and Berberis spp. However the higher tree line is mainly
predominate by Birches which are located at far higher places. Further the birch fringe
followed by Juniperous and aboive the line alpine scrubs of Pinus geardiana are commonly
occurring. Near the Birch tree line towards alpine meadows Aconitum sp also occurring
commonly. The dominant deciduous trees are present close to river banks Corylus colurna,
Juglans regia, Fraxinus sp. and Aesculus indica. The details of density and frequency of
trees, shrubs and herbs for this sampling site located are given in Tables-8.3 to 8.6
respectively.
WAPCOS Limited 8-9
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Site V: Influenced Area d/s towards Findru village

After confluence of Saichi nall on right bank Pinus wallichiana, and Juniperus the
chandrabhaga river- Chenab river again enters to the narrow and confined valley however
the river bed level decrease from 2145 at power house site to 2120 d/s confluence. The
river banks are near and after confluence are having interference of dense thangi trees
followed by walnuts, ash, elm, hazelnut with willow growth and above by other conifers as
Abies sp, Blue pine, Spruce and Fir. At higher slopes Deodar dominate which are at its
fringe line have Birch and Mapples. Thus, the downwards along river Chenab showing
influences of other vegetation of lower elevation supporting the western mixed conifer forest
types, alder forest type and low blue pine forest type. The area downstream will not
anticipate any impact as the river flow will not be alter and bankful flow will be available as
usual.
The details of density and frequency of various trees, shrubs and seasonal variation among
herbs for the sampling site located towards Findru village 4-5 km downstream of Power
house Site is given through Tables-8.3 to 8.6 respectively.
Table-8.3 : Density and frequency of trees in the study area

Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Site 5

d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R.
Tree Species Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq
Abies pindrow 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 10 1.6 40 3.7
Cedrus deodara 160 23.5 190 25.0 170 26.3 120 17.5 210 19.5
Pinus gerardiana 20 2.0 50 1.9 30 1.8 20 1.6 40 1.2
Pinus wallichiana 50 7.8 60 9.6 60 8.8 50 9.5 120 12.2
Picea smithiana 20 3.9 40 3.8 40 1.8 60 6.3 70 7.3
Alnus nitida 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 30 3.2 50 2.4
Betula utilis 80 13.7 90 15.4 100 15.8 40 6.3 80 7.3
Corylus colurna 40 5.9 20 1.9 40 1.8 20 3.2 70 3.7
Corylus cornuta 30 3.9 20 1.9 30 1.8 30 3.2 50 2.4
Corylus jacquemontii 50 7.8 50 7.7 60 7.0 90 9.5 100 8.5
Acer acuminatum 40 5.9 50 7.7 30 5.3 30 3.2 30 3.7
Juglans regia 90 2.0 50 3.8 60 10.5 40 1.6 60 1.2
Juniperus recurva 80 3.9 60 5.8 20 1.8 40 3.2 40 2.4
Juniperus communis 80 3.9 60 3.8 70 5.3 60 3.2 20 1.2
J.macropoda 20 2.0 30 1.9 20 1.8 0 0.0 0 0.0
Podophyllum hexandrum 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 30 3.2 20 1.2
Populus caspica 30 3.9 30 1.9 30 3.5 80 6.3 40 2.4
Ulmus wallichiana 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 40 3.2 90 4.9
Prunus padus 0 0.0 20 1.9 20 1.8 40 3.2 50 4.9
Prunus cornuta 40 5.9 50 3.8 30 1.8 60 4.8 60 6.1
Fraxinus floribunda 20 3.9 20 1.9 20 1.8 30 4.8 20 2.4
Robinia pseudoacacia 0 0.0 0 0.0 30 1.8 10 1.6 10 1.2
Total Trees 850 100 890 100 860 100 930 100.0 1270 100.0

Table-8.4 : Density (no./ha) of Shrubs in the Study Area

Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Site 5
d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R.
Shrubs Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq
Berberis jaeschkeana 560 13.6 720 15.1 520 17.0 400 12.9 320 7.7
B.aristata 120 3.0 320 5.7 200 9.4 120 4.8 360 13.5

WAPCOS Limited 8-10

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Site 5

d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R. d % R.
Shrubs Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq Nos./ha Freq
Salix eleganse 160 4.5 120 3.8 200 5.7 240 8.1 120 3.8
S. fragilis 80 3.0 80 1.9 160 3.8 320 8.1 240 5.8
Aesculus indica 280 6.1 160 5.7 120 5.7 160 4.8 160 9.6
Lonicera spinosa 400 12.1 400 15.1 360 11.3 360 9.7 320 3.8
Rosa webbiana 520 15.2 480 15.1 400 13.2 480 11.3 400 13.5
Hipophae rhamnoids 120 3.0 120 1.9 80 1.9 0 0.0 0 0.0
Hipophae tibetiana 80 1.5 80 3.8 40 1.9 80 1.6 0 0.0
Artemesia maritima 120 1.5 0 0.0 0 0.0 160 3.2 0 0.0
Artemisia nilagirica 360 10.6 320 9.4 200 5.7 200 6.5 360 11.5
Artemisia brevifolia 120 3.0 0 0.0 160 5.7 120 1.6 0 0.0
Rumex hastatus 440 10.6 240 9.4 400 9.4 360 9.7 400 13.5
Skimmia laureola 160 4.5 200 5.7 0 0.0 80 3.2 0 0.0
Medicago falcata 80 3.0 120 1.9 120 3.8 120 3.2 200 3.8
Ephedra gerardiana 120 4.5 160 3.8 200 3.8 280 8.1 240 11.5
E. intermediata 0 0.0 80 1.9 80 1.9 80 3.2 120 1.9
Total Shrubs 3720 100 3600 100 3240 100.0 3560 100.0 3240 100

Table-8.5 (A) : Density (no./ha) of herbs in the Study Area

Scientific Name Site 1 Site 2 Site 3
S M W S M W S M W
Artemisia dracunculus-- prnl 0.12 0.10 0.20 0.03 0.05 0.20 0.03 0.13 0.33
Bromus inermis 0.25 1.05 0.15 0.67 0.85 0.60 0.27 0.67 0.40
Bunium persicum 0.08 0.35 0.58 0.35 0.07 0.42
Bupleurum falcatum 0.50 0.05 0.17 0.35 0.08 0.08
Chaerophyllum reflexum 0.17 0.14 0.20 0.05 0.07
Anthemis cotula 0.14 0.55 0.20 0.17
Saussurea costus 0.05 0.08 0.32 0.70 0.02 0.40
Taraxacum officianale 0.25 0.65 0.21 0.17 0.10 0.20 0.55 0.20 0.17
Cynoglossum sp. 0.75 0.05 0.60 0.42 0.10 0.30 0.02 0.08 0.33
Eritrichium canum 0.15 0.52 0.08 0.15 0.28 0.10
Sisymbrium orientale 0.35 0.14 0.08 0.30 0.50 0.05
Cirsium wallichii 0.58 1.20 0.92 1.05 0.03 0.35
Dianthus orientalis 0.58 0.10 0.08 0.40 0.12 0.17
Aconitum heterophyllum-- prnl 0.67 0.10 0.60 0.92 0.05 0.30 0.47 0.27 0.23
A.deinorrhizum 0.08 0.90 0.30 0.50 0.15 0.10 0.05 0.22 0.23
A.violaceum 0.08 0.14 0.10 0.23 0.20 0.20 0.08 0.38 0.43
Impatiens sulcata 0.21 0.38 0.20 0.42 0.05 0.40 0.22 0.17 0.23
Draba spp (D.Himachalensis)--prnl 0.32 0.10 0.40 0.17 0.20 0.10 0.23 0.15 0.13
Scabiosa speciosa 0.03 0.10 0.10 0.42 0.20 0.10 0.20 0.13 0.40
Oxytropis humifusa 0.55 0.38 0.30 0.32 0.60 0.70 0.17 0.67 0.43
Trofolium pratense 0.72 0.40 0.25 0.30 0.42 0.12
Poa alpine (meadow grass) 0.95 0.69 0.40 0.67 0.60 0.20 0.27 0.38 0.30
Geranium wallichinum --Prnl 0.18 0.52 0.50 0.30 0.40 0.50 0.07 0.17 0.08
Nepeta spicata 0.40 0.19 0.58 0.25 0.08 0.17
Thymus linearis 0.20 0.24 0.25 0.30 0.07 0.08
Jurinea dolomiaea --prnl 0.21 0.05 0.10 0.33 0.50 0.60 0.08 0.20 0.37
Cichorium intybus --prnl 0.22 0.49 0.20 0.25 0.50 0.20 0.02 0.08 0.20
WAPCOS Limited 8-11
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Scientific Name Site 1 Site 2 Site 3

S M W S M W S M W
Polygonum macrophyllum --prnl 0.18 0.33 0.20 0.87 0.10 0.50 0.05 0.10 0.38
Polygonum spp 0.23 1.03 0.20 0.38 0.20 0.45 0.62 0.48 1.22
Polygonum affine --prnl 0.58 1.20 0.24 0.17 0.40 0.36 0.65 0.47 0.35
Arthraxon lancifolius 0.95 0.21 0.75 0.25 0.27 0.43
Stipa roylei 0.18 0.14 0.20 0.08 0.16 0.36 0.12 0.22 0.32
Lolium perenne 0.65 0.33 0.68 0.19 0.07 0.38
Kraschennini koviaceratoides 0.05 0.14 0.10 0.20 0.05 0.17
Viola spp 0.10 0.19 0.10 0.30 0.15 0.07 0.08 0.15 0.40
Angelica glauca 0.20 0.19 0.11 0.40 0.15 0.08 0.22 0.35 0.10
Valeriana jatamansi 0.40 0.05 0.02 0.40 0.70 0.07 0.23 0.18 0.47
Ferula asafoetida-- prnl 0.04 0.05 0.01 0.05 0.07 0.04 0.02 0.03 0.02
F. jaeschkeana --prnl 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.02 0.07 0.08 0.02
Arnebia benthami 0.05 0.40 0.05 0.15 0.47
A.euchroma 0.05 0.40 0.05 0.15 0.20
Pedicularis pectinata 0.22 0.05 0.50 0.09 0.10 0.18 0.45 0.15
Picrorhiza kurruoa-- prnl 0.05 0.05 0.04 0.04 0.06 0.05 0.12 0.17 0.25
Gentiana kurroo --prnl 0.01 0.03 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.04 0.17 0.57 0.17
Crocus sativus --- prnl 0.09 0.05 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.02 0.13 0.13 0.13
Humulus lupulus ---prnl 0.08 0.05 0.03 0.07 0.05 0.04 0.32 0.38 0.38
Primula minutesiita 0.12 0.76 0.08 0.05 0.15 0.32
Saxifraga sibirica 0.28 0.03 0.05
Note: prnl: Parrenial nature

Table-8.5 (B) : Density (no./ha) of herbs in the Study Area

Scientific Name Site 4 Site 5
S M W S M W
Artemisia dracunculus --prnl 0.23 0.12 0.07 0.07 0.25 0.06
Bromus inermis 0.40 0.95 0.60 0.31 1.10 0.29
Bunium persicum 0.10 0.20 0.10 0.30
Bupleurum falcatum 0.13 0.50 0.60 0.05
Chaerophyllum reflexum 0.07 0.75
Anthemis cotula 0.44 0.56 0.30 0.20
Saussurea costus 0.03 0.13 0.10 0.10
Taraxacum officianale 0.63 0.40 0.03 0.11 0.05 0.03
Cynoglossum sp. 0.50 0.20 0.00 0.32 0.34 0.30
Eritrichium canum 0.27 0.20 0.10 0.11
Sisymbrium orientale 0.07 0.15 0.06 0.13
Cirsium wallichii 0.07 0.08 ------- 0.15 0.40
Dianthus orientalis 0.07 0.12 0.31 0.15
Aconitum heterophyllum -- prnl 0.52 0.14 0.23 0.19 0.22 0.19
A.deinorrhizum 0.10 0.45 0.21 0.07 0.15 0.10
A.violaceum 0.47 0.20 0.36 0.60 0.30 0.30
Impatiens sulcata 0.47 1.10 0.01 0.67 0.05 0.10
Draba spp (D.Himachalensis) --prnl 0.23 1.50 0.04 0.33 3.30 0.20
Scabiosa speciosa 0.09 0.10 0.06 0.07 0.75 0.90
Oxytropis humifusa 0.71 1.02 0.28 0.23 0.43 0.10
Trofolium pratense 0.67 0.35 0.46 0.40
Poa alpine (meadow grass) 0.45 0.90 0.30 0.35 0.12 0.60
Geranium wallichinum -- prnl 0.18 0.21 0.19 0.25 0.20 0.90
Nepeta spicata 0.18 0.22 0.20 0.17
Thymus linearis 0.31 0.35 0.20 0.25
Jurinea dolomiaea-- prnl 0.20 0.60 0.05
Cichorium intybus -- prnl 0.18 0.20 0.03 0.32 0.35 0.31
Polygonum macrophyllum --prnl 0.58 0.82 0.06 0.27 0.32 0.20
Polygonum spp 0.85 0.20 0.14 0.47 0.20 0.10
Polygonum affine -- prnl 1.02 0.95 0.11 0.60 0.15 0.10
Arthraxon lancifolius 0.20 0.23 0.15 0.27
WAPCOS Limited 8-12
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Scientific Name Site 4 Site 5

S M W S M W
Stipa roylei 0.42 0.10 0.01 0.33 0.65 0.60
Lolium perenne 0.18 0.20 0.45 0.15
Kraschennini koviaceratoides 0.13 0.40 1.25 0.15
Viola spp 0.12 0.20 0.05 0.05 0.15 0.30
Angelica glauca 0.25 0.10 0.03 0.75 0.30 0.50
Valeriana jatamansi 0.35 0.20 0.01 0.10 0.05 0.90
Ferula asafetida -- prnl 0.03 0.20 0.07 0.05 0.10 0.02
F. jaeschkeana -- prnl 0.02 0.40 0.02 0.01 0.10 0.01
Arnebia benthami 1.20 0.05
A.euchroma 0.30 0.10
Pedicularis pectinata 0.43 0.20 0.30 0.40
Picrorhiza kurruoa --prnl 0.32 0.60 0.00 0.65 1.10 0.10
Gentiana kurroo -- Prnl 0.30 0.10 0.02 0.30 1.55 0.30
Crocus sativus -- prnl 0.23 2.10 0.07 0.45 1.80 0.30
Humulus lupulus -- prnl 0.20 0.20 0.00 0.23 0.15 0.50
Primula minutessita 0.25 0.40 0.10 0.25
Saxifraga sibirica 0.30 0.28
Note: prnl: Parrenial nature

Vegetational Profile & Status

A total 84 species of flowering plants are observed in the study area. Out of which, 22
species are from trees, 16 from shrubs and 46 from herbs. However, no species from
twiners and climbers are present in the area that may be due to dry semi arid to arid climatic
conditions (Table-8.6). Similarly none of the species among pteridophytes and bryophytes
has been found in the area during study period along the slopes of river Chenab that may be
due to dry climatic conditions. Though, the presence of bryophytes in the wet moist alpine
meados has shown presence of bryophyte that may be the marchantia or seleginella group
due to its survival in the wet soil surface at an elevation above 4000 m. However, 11 species
of Lichens and Fungi are reported from the area mainly mashrooms and authenticated with
the secondary data. There are 11 plant species are belong to the Gymnosperm group
whereas the remaining trees, shrubs and herbs are belongs to Angiosperms group.
Table-8.6: Vegetation observed in the study area
S. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit
No
1. Abies pindrow Fir Pinaceae Tree
2. Cedrus deodara Deodar Pinaceae Tree
3. Pinus gerardiana Chilgoza pine Pinaceae Tree
4. Pinus wallichiana Kail Pinaceae Tree
5. Picea smithiana Spruce Pinaceae Tree
6. Alnus nitida Alder Betulaceae Tree
7. Betula utilis Bhojpatra Burj Betulaceae Tree
8. Corylus colurna Thangi, Pinakooni Betulaceae Tree
9. Corylus cornuta hazelnut Betulaceae Tree
10. Corylus jacquemontii Virin Betulaceae Tree
11. Acer acuminatum Mapple, Snakebark Aceraceae Tree
12. Juglans regia Akhrut- walnut Juglandaceae Tree
13. Juniperus recurva - Cupressaceae Tree
14. Juniperus communis Bithal Cupressaceae Tree
15. J.macropoda Dhupi /shurgh Cupressaceae Tree
WAPCOS Limited 8-13
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

S. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

No
16. Podophyllum hexandrum Bankakri Berberidaceae Tree
17. Populus caspica Popular Salicaceae Tree
18. Ulmus wallichiana Elm tree Ulmaceae Tree
19. Prunus padus Taranizum,Birdcherry Rosaceae Tree
20. Prunus cornuta Taranizum,Birdcherry Rosaceae Tree
21. Fraxinus floribunda Himalayan ash Oleaceae Tree
22. Salix eleganse Bashal Salicaceae Shrub
23. S. fragilis & alba Willow Salicaceae Shrub
24. Aesculus indica Indian Horse Chestnut Sapindaceae Shrub
25. Berberis jaeschkeana -------- Berberidaceae Shrub
26. Berberis aristata -------- Berberidaceae Shrub
27. Lonicera spinosa -Honeysuckel Caprifoliaceae Shrub
28. Rosa webbiana Chua, Susli Rosaceae Shrub
29. Hipophae rhamnoids Sea Buckthorn Elaeagnaceae shrub
30. Hipophae tibetiana Sea Buckthorn Elaeagnaceae shrub
31. Artemesia maritima aromatic Asteraceae Shrub
32. Artemisia nilagirica aromatic Asteraceae Shrub
33. Artemisia brevifolia Nureha Asteraceae Shrub
34. Rumex hastatus Churki buti, dry rocks Polygonaceae Shrub
35. Skimmia laureola Pattidhup-Ornamtnl Rutaceae Shrub
36. Medicago falcata Yellow lucerne Fabaecae Shrub
37. Ephedra gerardiana Somalata Ephedraceae Shrub
38. E. intermediata Somalata Ephedraceae Shrub
39. Primula minutessita ----- Primulaceae Herb
40. Bunium persicum Kala Zira, Apiaceae Herb
41. Bupleurum falcatum Sickle leafs Apiaecae Herb
42. Chaerophyllum reflexum Kashmir Chervil Apiaceae Herb
43. Artemisia dracunculus (Prnl) Tarragon Asteraceae Herb
44. Anthemis cotula Chigar weed Asteraceae Herb
45. Saussurea costus kuth Asteraceae Herb
46. Taraxacum officianale ----- Asteraceae Herb
47. Cynoglossum sp. Gypsy flower Boraginaecae Herb
48. Sisymbrium orientale Hedgemustard Brrassicaceae Herb
49. Cirsium wallichii Kateli Compositae Herb
50. Dianthus orientalis ----- Caryophyllaeca Herb
e
51. Aconitum heterophyllum Patish or Atish Ranunculaceae Herb
52. A.deinorrhizum Patish Ranunculaceae Herb
53. A.violaceum Meethapatish Ranunculaceae Herb
54. Impatiens sulcata ----- Balsaminaceae Herb
55. Draba spp (D.himachalensis) Yellow drabas Brassicaceae Herb
56. Scabiosa speciosa ------ Dipsaeaecae Herb
57. Oxytropis humifusa ------ Fabaecae Herb
58. Trofolium pratense Wild Red Clover Fabaecae Herb
59. Poa alpine (meadow grass) Alpine bluegrass Gentianaceae Herb
60. Geranium wallichinum Geraniaceae Herb
61. Nepeta spicata Lamiaecae Herb
62. Thymus linearis Wild ajwain Lamiaceae Herb
63. Jurinea dolomiaea jhari dhoop 3200- Compositae Herb
3800m

WAPCOS Limited 8-14

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

S. Scientific Name Local Name Family Habit

No
64. Cichorium intybus chicory Asteraceae Herb
65. Polygonum macrophyllum - Polygonacae Herb
66. Polygonum verticilatum Polygonacae Herb
67. Polygonum aviculare Lowgrass,buckwheat Polygonacae Herb
68. Polygonum affine PRNL Border jawel- Polygonacae Herb
69. Arthraxon lancifolius Kangulya (Hindi). Poaceae Grass
70. Stipa roylei grass Poaceae Herb
71. Lolium perenne grass Poaceae Herb
72. Kraschennini koviaceratoides Chenopodiacea Herb
e
73. Viola spp - Violaceae Herb
74. Angelica glauca Taskarh-Canda Apiaceae Herb
75. Valeriana jatamansi Jatamansi Valerianaceae Herb
76. Ferula asafetida PRNL Hing Apiaceae Herb
77. F. jaeschkeana PRNL Wild hing Apiaceae Herb
78. Arnebia benthami Rattan jot Boraginaceae Herb
79. A.euchroma Rattanjot Boraginaceae Herb
80. Pedicularis pectinata Marsh lousewort Scrophulariaec Herb
ae
81. Picrorhiza kurruoa Karoo -- Scrofulariaceae Herb
82. Gentiana kurroo Karu Scrofulariaceae Herb
83. Crocus sativus Kesarj,alpine tundra Iridaceae Herb
84. Humulus lupuluL hops Cannabaceae Herb

8.6 LICHENS & FUNGI

Numerous patches of ashy blue and yellow coloured Crustose lichens were observed over
the big boulders at the dam site attached. A good growth of music, liverworts, and hornworts
were also recorded in places of rocky and boulders along the river. No macrophytes
attached to the rocks, boulders, stones, etc. are found in the area as being dry and cold
climatic conditions.
VAM fungi as viewed from literature-secondary data are present in association with some
endemic plants. These are well know for their close association with plants and plays very
important role in the plant growth and soil conservation. Among them are Pinus gerardiana
and Sea buck thorn Hippophae rhamnoides, a multipurpose shrub and native of higher
Himalayas which are also known as cold desert gold due to its high potential as a bio
resource for wetland reclamation, soil erosion, food, medicinal and cosmetic industries.
Pinus gerardian has association with mycorrhizal fungi- Basidiomycetous mycelium and B.
hyphae. The literature for scientific study on microbial associates with Sea buck thoran plant
revealed the presence of 26 fungal species in its rhizosphere. Among them, three fungal
entophytes (e.g. Aspergillus niger, Morteirella minutessima and sterile mycelium) and four
species of VAM spores (i.e. Globus albidum, Globus fasciculatum, Globus macrocarpum,
and Gigaspora margariata) has also been isolated from different plant parts (Root, stem ,
leaves and barks) and soil samples respectively [ (Shiv Kumar & Anand Kumar, 2007,
WAPCOS Limited 8-15
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Ref.Enclosed: The low plant species richness at lower slopes could also be attributed to soil
erosion, for pastoralists uproot plants such as Krascheninnikovia ceratoides and Caragana
versicolor from these slopes (Rawat and Adhikari 2005b). Some other plants e.g. Caragana,
though it was not observed in the study area however it is reported in the pir panjal and
zanskar range- a leguminous plant is known to enhance soil fertility as its root-nodules have
nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Lu et al. 2009), and it also helps in retaining moisture in the soil

Cladonia carneola (Fr.) Entoloma (Fr.) P. Kumm. Lecidea Ach.

Lichen P. Micheli Lichen P. Micheli Lichen P. Micheli

Lycoperdon Pers. Pluteus Fr. Stropharia (Fr.) Quél.

Rhizoplaca taxon Rhizoplaca taxon Scutellinia Lambotte

**Reference: Mushroom Observer Species List

Lichens & fungi of Pangi, Valley, Himachal, India
(219).htm. Pangi Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India:
Alok Mahendroo (alok): 2011-07-28

Rhizocarpon geographicum

Lichen & Fungi Species & their Images**

WAPCOS Limited 8-16

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

8.7 ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT PLANT SPEICES

Vegetation in the study area is dominated by temperate conifers like Juniperus sp., Pinus
sp., Cedrus sp. including broadleaved species of Betula sp., Populus sp. and shrubs like
Hippophae sp. and Rosa sp. Most of the vegetation present in the area are having limited
distribution due to climatic conditions prevailing in the area however locally they are present
in abundance. Numerous herbs species are having economic and medicinal importance and
are being used in ayrveda and yunani medicince by local vaids and even supplied out side
places. The trees are also having importance varies from timber, fodder, fuel wood to
medicinal values.
On the basis of ethanobotanical importance the floral groups are further described under
different heads as follows.
Medicinal Plants
The list of medicinal plants were recorded from the study area are given in Table-8.7.

Table-8.7 : Medicinal Plants in the Study Area

Family & scientific Local URSV (Mode of IMP( Kirtikar and Basu, 1976),
name name preparation and DIFME (Jain 1991), ECDT (Sood
ailments cured) etal 2001) & Medicincal plants
of HP by N.K.Chohaun and
Bharmaur Area by Dutt etal 2011
ASTERACEAE or Nureha Juice of fresh Stomachic disorders, aphrodisiac, .
Compositae roots used Laxative, anthelminitic, alexiteric,
cures scorpion sting, toothache,
gripping, ophthalmia, inflammation
Artemisia brevifolia (Yunani) & acts as blood purifier
ASTERACEAE Tarragon Dried leaves and Purgative, controls ear pain,
Artemisia seeds are smoke cures burns, and
dracunculus crushed to make toothaches.
paste.
ELAEAGNACEAE Cherma Fruits as berries Cures eruptions and lung
Hippophae used for various complaints and tuberculosis. As
rhamnoides purposes. aphrodisiac, pickle and herbal tea.
Also cures jaundice and helps in
blood purification*
Hippophae tibetana Chhr-Tuan Dried berries Stomach disorders, cough,
processed for congestion, jaundice and as blood
various used purifier*, commonly as Herbal Tea
ASTERACEAE kuth Fresh juice of Antidote against food poisoning.
Saussurea ccostus leaves and Dried powder as cooling agent*
flowers used
EPHEDERACEAE Extract of young Diaphoretic, antipyretic, astringent,
Ephedra gerardiana Somalata and fresh shoots stimulant, jaundice, cures
Wall.ex Stapf. is used in joint rheumatism, syphilis, respiratory
pains troubles, asthmatic
Ephedra intermedia paroxysms, heart failure, cardiac
problems ans acts as blood purifier

WAPCOS Limited 8-17

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Family & scientific Local URSV (Mode of IMP( Kirtikar and Basu, 1976),
name name preparation and DIFME (Jain 1991), ECDT (Sood
ailments cured) etal 2001) & Medicincal plants
of HP by N.K.Chohaun and
Bharmaur Area by Dutt etal 2011
FABACEAE Chhushin Whole plant is
Oxytropis spp Darm boiled in water
and the water is
applied
POLYGONACEAE Shomang Extract & Juice of To cure burns and other skin
Rumex spp fresh leaves problems
Polygonum spp Plant powder Also considered as cooling agent
used and taken orally with water to cure
jaundice* Stomach disorders
ROSACEAE T-siya, Flower and fruit Cures hepatitis, jaundice &
Rosa webbiana Seva juice useful stomach pain & juice as tonic to
vigour vitality
Apiaceae Kala zira Seeds are useful Stomach Disorder and add
Bunium persicum flavours to foods.
Apiaceae Gum resins In remedy of whooping cough,
Ferula asafoetida Hing pneumonia, bronchitis in children
F.jaeschkeana and asthma
Boraginaceae Rattan jot Rhizomes Anti HIV activity
Arnebia benthami
Ranunculaceae Pettish Grounded roots to relieve stomach pain.
Aconitum spp meetha-patish
Compositae Gugal dhoop Jhari dhoop As dhuni
Jurinea dolomiaea
Fabaecae Red flower Asthma
Trifolium pratense
Gentianaceae Kaud Leaves to relieve fever.
Gentiana kurroo
Scrophulariaceae Kaud Leaves Antipyretic. As insecticides in
Picrorhiza kurroa wheat fields
Violaceae Banakshan Flowers Cough & Cold treatment
Species of Viola
Asteraceae Kuth Roots, leaves, To relieve from Arthrites, dhuni for
Saussurea costus flowes bed evil spirits, Relief in pregnancy
etc.

Economically Important Plants

In study area the local people are depends on the forest for their lively hood such as fruits,
timber, fuel wood, dyes and fodder. The list of plants used for the various purposes are
given in Table-8.8.

Table-8.8: Other Economically Important Plants in the Study Area

Family Scientific Name Local Use
Name
Berberidaceae Berberis jaeschkeana Dye
Betulaceae Betula utilis Bhiy Timber, Furniture
Caprifoliaceae Lonicear sp. Fuel
Cupressaceae Juniperus communis Fuel

WAPCOS Limited 8-18

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Family Scientific Name Local Use

Name
Ephedraceae Ephedra gerardiana Toothbrush
Fabaceae Trifolium pretens Fodder and food
Leguminaceae Robinia pseudo-acacia Timber
Pinaceae Cedrus deodara Diyar Kleu Timber
Pinaceae Pinus wallichiana Kail Timber, Furniture
Rosaceae Prunus armeniaca Jammu Cultivated for Fruits
Salicaceae Salix denticulata Timber, Fuel, Fodder
Salicaceae Salix alba Timber, Fuel, Fodder
Salicaceae Salix fragilis Timber, Fuel, Fodder
Salicaceae Populus caspica Safeda Timber, Fodder,
Furniture, Fuel

Agriculture practices including Horticulure

The habitation area also following agricultural practice. As per the data available, about 3 sq
miles of Pangi Valley area has agricultural practices. Some of agricultural field are also present
in Shin, Mindhal, Sach khas and Findue village in the locality. The major crops grown are
categorized in to vegetables, grasses, pulses, and fruits. The details of vegetation under
cultivation practices are given through Tables 8.9 to 8.11.
Table-8.9: Agriculture crops /grass grown in the Area
Crop species English name Local name
Allium cepa Onion Pyaz
Brassica juncea Indian Mustard Sarson
Cannabis sativa Hemp Bhang
Chenopodium album Goose foot Bathu
Fagopyrum esculentum Buckwheat Oggal-Bharesh
Fagopyrum tataricum Buckwheat Papher-Bharesh
Lens esculenta Lentils masoor
Phaseolus vulgaris Kidney bean Rajmah
Pisum sativum Pea Dal matar
Setaria italica Foxtail millet Kagni, kauni
Solanum tuberosum potato aloo
Triticum aestivum wheat gehun
Zea mays Maize makki

Table-8.10: Vegetables grown in the area

Botanical Name Common Name Common Name
Brassica oleracea var. capitata Cabbage Band Gobhi
B. oleracea var. botrytis Cauliflower Phulgobhi
B. campestris var. rapa Turnip Shaljam
Raphanus sativus Radish Muli
Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis Spinach Palak
Spinacia oleracea Spinach Vilayati Palak
Chenopodium album Bathua
Pisum sativum Pea Matar
Phaseolus vulgaris French bean Fransebean
Solanum tuberosum Potato Alu
Lycopersicon esculentum Tomato Tamatar
Capsicum annuum Green chilli Shimla mirch
WAPCOS Limited 8-19
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Botanical Name Common Name Common Name

C. frutescens Chilli Lal mirch
Daucus carota Carrot Gajar
Solanum melongena var. esculentum Aubergine Baingan

Table-8. 11 : Fruit Plants grown in the area or naturally occurring in the area
Malus pumila Apple
Prunus armeniaca Apricot
P. avium Cherry
P. amygdalus Almonds
Juglans regia Walnut
Corylus colurna Hazelnut (wild)
Castanea vulgaris Chestnut (wild and cultivated)
Pinus gerardiana Chilgoza, Neoza (wild)

8.8 RET SPEICES

During the field survey one rare species (Eremurus himalaicus, Family: Liliaceae) is recorded
from the study area (Red Data Book Plants of India (Nayar & Sastry 1987-88). Eremurus
himalaicus is endemic to Western Himalaya. The plant is observed in the study area in
monsoon season.
8.9 FAUNA
The fauna of the study area consists mostly of species with zoo-geographic affinities of
palaearctic, Indo-Malayan and indigenous variably. However, to gain an insight in the
following respects for species of carnivore, ungulates, non-human primates, mammals,
birds/butterflies, reptiles and other fauna, the survey was conducted in the study area up to
10km radius from the project appurtenances in catchment-submergence zone, dam site,
power house site and d/s power house site upto 5km river reach length.
Ground surveys was carried out by trekking the impact zone for identification of faunal
species inhabiting the area along the riverbanks, adjoining forest on the slopes, nullahs, hill
top and agricultural fields. Apart from direct sightings and primary data generated through
transects and trails, we have also collected secondary data from literatures published, forest
department and other sources like citing of animals by the locals in the study area. The
sighting of wild animals and other faunal groups were carried out during study period though
being tough terrain and hill peaks remain covered in snow most of the period, the possible
accounts are taxed in this section. The general methodology followed is described below as:

• For sampling butterflies the standard ‘Pollard Walk’ methodology was used by recording
all the species that were encountered while trekking along the foot trails between these
two sites, daily. Photographs of specimens of species were taken in the field for
identification purpose. Sampling was done for 1 hour in a stretch on each transect(n=4).

WAPCOS Limited 8-20

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

• For sampling birds ‘point sampling’ along the fixed transects (foot trails) was carried out
to record all the species of birds observed with the help of binoculars; field guides and
photography for 1 hour on each transect(n=4).
• For sampling mammals, ‘direct count on open width (20 m) transect’ was used on the
same transects (n=4) for 1 hour in each transect. Besides, information on recent
sightings / records of mammals by the villagers and locals was also collected form
these areas.
• ‘Reptiles’ mainly lizards were sampled by ‘direct count on open width transects’ (n = 4)
for 1 hour in each transect.
8.9.1 Mammals

The study area reported occurrence of a total of 19 species of wild mammal mosly
aclimatised of dry temperate climates as per the secondary information collected. These 19
species belong to 17 Genra, 11 families and 5 Order of mammals as confirmed from Pangi
Valley Area (ZSI 2011). Most of the animals are present in the Sechu Tuan Nalla Wildlife
Sanctuary which is located beyond 10km of the study area. This is a high altitude (2550 m -
6072m asl) wildlife sanctuary which is spread over an area of 10,295 ha. Therefore, the
presence in the Zanskar might be viewd from the presence of pasture land zone. These
species are widely distributed in the trans -himalayan zone.
The direct sighting of most of these species in the demarcated study area up to 10km radius
has not found and the presence is only supported from secondary data. The other factor of
not able to direct sighting may be the area is having habitation of few villages and rugged
terrain of Chenab deep cut valley. However, during present assessment in the study area
the possible presence of 18 species are also made out with the information supplied by the
locals and available literatures which belongs to 18 genera and 9 families. About 8 species
are carnivorous in nature and belong to the family Ursidae, Canidae, Mustelidae and
Felidae. These species are found in the forest area and towards snow covered hill peaks,
however, fewever times species of ursidae and canidae also cited near to agricutral field at
the fringes of forests in human habitation for searching the food as per the information
provided by the locals. Some of the common mammals found in the area are Himalayan
brown bear (Ursus arctos), Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus), Fox (Vulpes
montana), Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Ibex (Capra sibirica) and Yellow throated marten
(Martes flavigula). Other mammals which are generally remain at higher altitude peaks and
alpine pature land are Musk Deer, Snow Leopards, Jungle Cat, Goral, Bharal--Blue Sheep,
Common Langur, Markhor, Himalayan Mouse-Hare, Serow, Himalayan Tahr, Marmot etc.
The list of mammal species reported in the Study Area and their conservation status is given
in Table-8.12.

WAPCOS Limited 8-21

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

As per survey conducted and information retrieved from the locals, presence of Tahr, Gharal
and deers on pasture and alpine meadow slopes below snow scree mountain peaks
(>4000m asl) on left bank Pir Panjal range and right bank Zanskar range, which are located
far away places from the deep river bed project side (2145m, asl) and will not anticipate any
impacts. The maximum submergence level will reaches up to 2220m, asl.
Table-8.12: The mammalian species reported from the Study Area with their status
S. Family / Scientific name IUCN 2013 WPA (1972) Remarks#
No. Species common name
A Mustelidae
1 Himalayan Yellow- Martes flavigula Least Concern Schedule II Indirect
throated Marten evidence*
2 Himalayan Weasel Mustela sibirica Schedule II Indirect
evidence*
B Canidae
3 Fox Vulpes monntana Data deficient Schedule II Direct sightings
C Cercopithecidae
4 Hanuman Langur Semnopithecus Least Concern Schedule II Direct sightings
entellus
D Bovidae
5 Himalayan Tahr Hemitragus Vulnerable Schedule I Direct sightings
jemlachicus
6 Ghoral Naemorhedus goral Near Schedule III Direct sightings
Threatened

7 Bharal-Himalayan Blue Pseudois nayar Endangered Schedule I Indirect

Sheep Evidence

8 Musk Deer Moschus chrysogaster Vulnerable Schedule I Indirect

evidence

9 Wild goat –Jungli bakri Capra ibex Endangered Schedule I Indirect

evidence
10 Markhor--Large Wild Goat Capra falconeri Endangered Schedule I Indierct
evidence
11 The Himalayan serow Capricornis thar Near Schedule I Indirect
Threatened evidence
E Felidae
12 Snow Leopard Uncia uncial / Endangered Schedule I Indirect
Panthera uncia evidence
13 Cat jungle Felis chaus Least Concern Schedule II Indirect
evidence
F Ursidae
14 Himalayan Black Bear Salenarctos Vulnerable Schedule II Indirect
thibetanous evidence
15 Himalayan Brown Bear, Ursus arctos Vulnerable Schedule II Indirect
evidence
G Sciuridae
16 Himalayan marmot-the Marmota himalayana Least Concern Schedule II Direct Sighting
largest ground squirl -
H Ochotonidae
17 The Himalayan Mouse Ochotona roylei Least Schedule IV Direct
hare or Royle's Pika Conceren evidence
I Vespertilionidae (Fruit
Bats)

WAPCOS Limited 8-22

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

S. Family / Scientific name IUCN 2013 WPA (1972) Remarks#

No. Species common name
18 Coromandel Pipistrelle Pipistrellus Least Concern Schedule V Indirect
coromandra evidence

* Information from the locals, Secondary data from literature & of forest & wildlife division
**

The information of other domesticated animals and livestocks present in the area are also
collected. These animals are mainly mammals and enlisted in the study area are as given in
Table-8.13.
Table-8.13: List of Domestic Fauna in the Study Area
S. No. Zoological Name Common Name
1 Bos grunniens Yak
2 Bos indicus Cow
3 Cains familieris Dog
4 Capra hircus Goat
5 Equus cabilus Horse
6 Equus hermionus Ass
7 Felis domesticus Cat
8 Ovius polic Sheep

8.9.2 Avi-Fauna

As many as 38 birds species belonging to 18 families were observed in the study area. The
list is enclosed as Table-8.14. Most of the species of birds are protected as their respective
families have been listed under Schedule IV of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. On the
basis of their sighting the species are divided into common, rare and categories occasional.
The bird includes the monal and koklas, pheasants, Himalayan tragopan, snow pigeon and
the chukor. Little Forktail, Koklass Pheasant were among the uncommon or rarely sighted
species, whereas Himalayan Monal was reported from high altitude nearby area by the local
inhabitants.
Most of the bird species to be affected in this zone prefer aquatic fresh water habitat, but
these are of common occurrence and distributed all over the Chandrabhaga River e.g.
White-capped Red start, Plumbeous Water Redstart, Brown Dipper, Little Forktail, and
Citrine Wagtail. Similarly, among the species of butterflies and mammals none of the
species is totally dependant or restricted to the submergence area.
There is a paucity of published records on the birds of this Area. However, Singh et al.
(1990) has provided a preliminary list of 16 bird recored in the Sechu Sanctuary Zone
located about 12km distance from the project site. Among them the common species are as
Western Tragopan Tragopan melanocephalus (Globally Threatened), Snowcock
Tetraogallus himalayensis, Himalayan or Impeyan Monal Lophophorus impejanus and
Koklass Pheasant Pucrasia macrolopha are found here but data on general bird life is
WAPCOS Limited 8-23
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

lacking. The site is considered Data Deficient till we have more information on avifauna.
Later on studies in the Pangi valley was conducted by the ZSI (2011) and they have
reported presence of 75 species of Avi fauna. During present studies the species
encountered are illustrated in the Table8.14.
Table-8.14: List of avi-faunal recorded from the Study Area
Common Name Scientific Name Family Abundance
Himalayan Bulbul Pycnonotus leucogenys Pycnonotidae Common
Red vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer Pycnonotidae Common
House Sparrow Passer domesticus Passeridae Common
Rock Bunting Emberiza fucata Fringillidae Common
White-capped Bunting Emberiza stewarti Fringillidae
European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Fringillidae Common
*Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris Fringillidae Uncommon-
Common Hoopoe Upupa epops Upupidae Occasional
Yellow browed Tit Silvyparus modestus Paridae Common
Rufous-vented Tit Parus rubidiventris Paridae Common
Simla Crested tit Parus rufonuchalis Paridae Occasional
Green-backed Tit Parus monticolus Paridae Ocassional
Ashy Drongo Dicrurus leucophaeus Dicrurinae Common
Western Crowned Warbler Phylloscopus occipitalis Phylloscopidae Common
White-throated Fantail Rhipidera albicollis Rhipiduridae Common
Grey Bushchat Saxicola ferrea Muscicapidae Common
Plumbeous Water Redstart Rhyacornis fuliginosus Muscicapidae Common
White capped Water Redstart Chaimarrornis leucocephalus Muscicapidae Common
Little Forktail Enicurrus scouleri Muscicapidae Uncommon
Brown Dipper Cinclus pallasii Cinclidae Fairly common
Blue Whistling Thrush Myophonus caeruleus Turdidae Common
Streaked laughing Thrush Garrulax lineatus Timaliidae Common
Variegated Laughing thrush Garrulax variegatus Timaliidae Common
Oriental White eye Zosterops palpebrosus Zosteropidae Uncommon
Oriental Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis Columbidae Common
Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis Columbidae Common
Snow Pigeon Columba leuconota Columbidae Fairly common
Rock pigeon Columba livia Columbidae Ocassional
Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis Accipitridae Common
Yellow-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax graculus Corvidae Common
Red billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Corvidae Common
*Himalayan snow cock Tetraogallus himalayensis Phasianidae Fairly common
Chukar Alectoris gracea /chukar Phasianidae Fairly common
Himalayan Monal Lophophorus impejanus Phasianidae Fairly Common
*Koklass Pheasant Pucrasia macrolopha Phasianidae Uncommom
Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola Motacillidae Common

WAPCOS Limited 8-24

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Common Name Scientific Name Family Abundance

*Western Tragopan Tragopan melanocephalus Phasianidae Uncommon
*Snow Partridge Lewra lewra Phasianidae Uncommon
*Not sighted in the study area however present at higher elevation in Pangi Valley.
8.9.3 Herpetofauna- Reptiles

Total 7 species of reptiles has been recorded from the area. However, only two species of
herpetofauna i.e. Ladakhi Rock Skink (Asymblepharus ladacensis) and Kashmir Rock
Agama (Laudakia tuberculata) were sighted during the survey. Besides that no any
herpetofauna species was encountered however, description is given based on secondary
information. The information was also collected from secondary source to find out
occurrence of reptiles of Kashmir Himalayas from the locals & from the literature
(Biodiversity of the Kashmir Himalayas by GH. Dar et al. 2002) and from recent studies of
ZSI (2011)on flora and fauna of Pangi Vaalley, which show the presence of 7 reptile species
in the area. However, during priamary survey, no such species was encountered except the
rock agama and skinks. Similarly, presence of pit vipor is also supported from the research
evidence, which shows presence of Himalayan Pit Viper upto Ladakh Himalayas 4800m, asl.
The occurrence of common species of reptiles are enlisted in Table-8.15.

Table-8.15: List of Reptiles in the study area

S.No. Common Name Scientific Name
Lizards
1 Common Garden Lizard Calotes versicolor
2 Kashmir Rock Agamid Laudakia tuberculata
3 Skinks or Ladakhi Rock Skink Lygosoma himalayana or Asymblepharus
ladacensis
Snakes
1 Himalayan pit viper Agkistrodon himalayanus
2. Mountain keel back Amphiesoma platycips
3. Himalayan trinket snake Elaphe hodgsoni
4. Rat snake Ptyes mucosus
*Based on secondary data

8.9.4 Insects

Among Insects, species of Butterfly and Moths were study. Seondary information with
respect to the occurrence in the study area has also been collected though the area has
paucity of data. Some data from the Pangi Valley is available. The project site is located
within the Pangi valley. Therefore, the secondary information was used for supporting of the
primary data.

WAPCOS Limited 8-25

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

8.9.5 Butterflies

During the survey, a total of 16 species of insects were sighted in the study period. Some of
the butterflies like Small copper (Lycaena phlaeas), Satyr (Aulocera sps.), Indian tortoise
shell (Aglais cachmirensis), Indian cabbage white (Pieris canidia indica) and Clouded yellow
(Colias sp.) were common and found throughout the study area. On the basis of their
sighting the species are divided into common, uncommon and occasional categories. The
list of butterflies recorded from the study area is given at Table-8.16. The alpine zone
Himalayas are typical habitat for Appollo butterflies. The ZSI has reported 16 oriental
species and 17 palearctic species of butterflyies from the Pangi Valley. These species are
reported in the moist alpine meadows and pasture land areas however presence of some
the species in the mixed forest area has also been reported. However, during present
investigation total 16 species are observed where presence of Palearctic species (S.No.11-
16) and remaining Oriental species are viewed from the ZSI report and remaining are
sighted in the field.

Table-8.16: Insects found in the Project Area

S.No. Common name Scientific name Family Abundance
1 Common Emigrant Catopsilia pomona Pieridae Uncommon
2 Indian Cabbage White Pieris canidia indica Pieridae Common
3 Cabbage butterfly Pieris brassicae Pieridae Common
4 Small Copper Lycaena phlaeas Lycaenidae Fairly Common
5 Common Satyr Aulocera swaha swaha Nymphalidae Common
6 Indian Tortoiseshell Aglais cachmirensis Nymphalidae Very Common
7 Indian Red Admiral Vanessa indica Nymphalidae common
8 Painted Lady Vanessa cardui Nymphalidae common
9 Clouded Yellow Colias fieldii Pieridae Uncommon
10 Walnut Blue Chaetoprocta odata Lycaenidae Common
11 The Tailed Cupid Everes huegelii Lycaenidae Common
12 Pearl white Euchloe daphalis Pieridae Common
13 Violet Meadow Blue Polyommatus icarus* Lycaenidae Common
14 Common meadow blue Polyommatus eros* Lycaenidae Common
15 Silvery Meadow Blue Polyommatus florenciae* Lycaenidae Common
16 Large green underwing Albulina galathea* Lycaenidae Common
17 Mountain Apollos Parnassius spp**. Papilionidae Common
*Ref ZSI 2011 ** Apollo –alpine meadows(Threatened Category IUCN)

The occurrence of butterflies has shown interaction with some of the flowering plant species.
Mostly are occurring in the moist alpine meadows area located much higher elevation
(>3500m) beyond the submergence and influenced zone of the proposed project. Some of
the species are also found in the deadar site. The list of community intraction with plant
species has been shown in Table-8.17 (Ref. ZSI 2011).

WAPCOS Limited 8-26

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-8.17: Nectar food plants of Butterflies from Pangi Valley (ZSI, 2011)
Plants Plant Family Butterfly species
Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipschitz Asteraecae Aulocera swaha
Oxytropis spp. Fabaecae Albulina galathea
Anthemis cotula Linnaeus Asteracae Colias fieldii
Medicago falcata Linnaeus Fabaecae Colias fieldii
Scabiosa speciosa Dipsaeaecae Pieris brassicae
Trofolium repens Linnaeus Fabaecae Polyommatus eros,
P.astrarche
Nepeta spicata Benth. Limiaecae Pieris brassicae
Pedicularis pectinata Scrophulariaecae Albulina galathea
Bupleurum falcatum Apiaecae Albulina galathea
Cynoglossum sp. Boraginaecae Polyommatus icarus
Nepeta spicata benth. Lamiaecae Aulocera swaha
Anthemis cotula Linnaeus Asteracae Colias fieldii
Dianthus orientalis Caryophyllaecae A. galathea, P. icarus
Oxytropis sp. Fabaecae Polyommatus icarus
Trifolium pretense (Linnaeus) Fabaecae Colias fieldii
Chaerophyllum reflexum Lindl. Apiaceae Chaetoprocta odata
Taraxacum sp. Asteraceae Colias fieldii
Thymus linearis Benth. Lamiaceae Lycaena phaleas
Sisymbrium orientale Brrassicaceae Pieris brassicae
Cirsium wallichii Compositae Vanessa cardui

Maniola pulchra sitting at Parage eversmanni –lives in

Deodar tree habitat of deodar

Blue cupid Aglais kaschmirensis

WAPCOS Limited 8-27

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Ref.Faunal Diversity of Pangi

Valley, 2011(Dr.Kamal Saini and
Dr. Avtar Kaur Sidhu), High
Altitude Regional Centre,
Zoological Survey Of India, Solan

Polyommatus icarus

Butterflies reported in the study area –Pangi Valley

8.9.6 Protected Areas and Corridors for wild animals

There is no Wildlife sanctuary, National park or Biosphere Reserve present within the study
area. The project area does not come under any wildlife corridor. The pattern of occurrences
of fauna much above the submergence area reflects that no direct impacts is anticipated on
the occurrence and distribution of faunal diversity.
8.10 AQUATIC ECOLOGY
8.10.1 Sampling Details
The river Chenab in project vicinity flows in the northern direction with a slight inclination
towards the east. The Cheni nala confluences with the Chenab river on its left bank about
downstream of 1.1 km near the Shin village of proposed dam. Further about 2.5 km
downstream one more stream joins the Chenb river namely by the Mokha Nala and about
200m downwords of confluence point, the river takes a westward bend. The right bank
stream Saichu nallah also confluence Chenab near the tail water discharge site.
Therefore, the complete area is divided in to three zones of having an holistic view of river
ecology i.e. Submergence zone, Dam site to powerhouse site, and downstream influence
zone covering about 20 km longitudinal length of the river in line of 10km radius approach
based on project appurtenances. The details of sampling sites are given in Table and Plates.
Samples were made during Pre monsoon (summer), monsoon and winter seasons during
the study period. The details of the study area to assess the aquatic fauna are given in
Table-8.18 and Figure-8.3.
Table-8.18: Description of study sites selected on river Chenab and its tributaries in
the project impact zone
Sampling Location Distance from Dam Elevation Longitude Latitude
sites site covered E N
(amsl)
Submergence area U/S Dam Site
Site 1 Chenab river – River Reach length 2200 +40m 320 55’24” 076027’30”
Submergence u/s 2-10 km from dam
zone, site to Mujar (Chow)
WAPCOS Limited 8-28
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Sampling Location Distance from Dam Elevation Longitude Latitude

sites site covered E N
(amsl)
U/s dam site stream confluence with
view (Fig -8.2) Chenab
Dam Site to Power House Area
Site 2 - River 1.5 km dam site to 2150+16m 320 57’57” 076025’15”
Dam site Chandrabhaga power house area upto
Dam site confluence of Saichu
image(Fig-8.2) Nallah
Project Influenced Area D/S Dam Site
Site 3 Saichu nallah ~8.0 km of river reach 2130+20m 330 00’05” 076026’02”
confluence to length of Chenab up to
Mokha nallah Fintru Village
confluence with Mindhal Bridge Site
river Chenab up Image (Fig-8.2)
to Fintru village
Source: Field Studies

WAPCOS Limited 8-29

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Figure -8.3: River Chandrabhaga Project Influenced Area --through Pangi valley

8.10.2 Methodology
The river /stream morphology is determined to ascertain the type of habitats, substratum and
covers (aquatic vegetation, substratum, large woody debris, Particulate as clay, silt, sand,
gravel, pebble, cobble, boulder, bedrock etc.), bank conditions, flow pattern, and type of
valleys following flood prone area and riparian covers etc has been assessed based on the
criteria described by Rosgen (1996) and habitat inventory described by Armontrout (1998),
Myers and Swanson (1992) and Rosgen (1996). Stream order classification was based on
Horton’s (1954) approach as modified by Strahler (1954, 1957). In this system all ultimate
headwaters are called first order streams. Stream formed by union of two such streams are
designated second order and whenever two streams of a particular order join they form next
order and so on. Habitat structures were observed in the river stretches from down stream
to upstream at a fixed point including longitudinal survey of submergence, dam site and
influence zones of toe dam projects with onsite visual estimation.
Plankton samples were collected using a tericot ring net of a 20 µm net to make. For
enumeration of phytoplankton population, 100 l composite water samples were collected
from the river surface up to 60 cm depth and were filtered through a 20 µm net to make 1 l of
WAPCOS Limited 8-30
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

bulk sample. The bulk samples so collected were preserved in 2% formalin solution and
were brought to the laboratory for analysis. Ten replicate water samples each of 15 ml were
made out of the preserved 1 l bulk sample and were centrifuged at 1500 rpm for 10 minutes.
After centrifuging, the volume of aliquot concentrate was measured. 0.1 ml of aliquot
concentrate was used for enumeration of phytoplankton population in each replicate. A
plankton chamber of 0.1 ml capacity was used for counting of plankton under a light
microscope. Periphyton-Epilithic phytobenthos were obtained by scrapping the surface of
rocks and boulders (4 x 4 cm2) with the help of a hard brush and preserved in 3% formalin
solution for further analyses.
For the quantification of zooplankton and phytoplankton 100 liters of water for each
community was filtered at each site by using plankton net made up of fine silk cloth (mesh
size 25 µm). The filtrate collected for the study of phytoplankton was preserved in Lugol’s
solution, while a part of the unpreserved samples for the study of zooplankton was brought
to the laboratory.
Benthic macro-invertebrates were collected from the pebbles, cobbles and gravels form the
surface collected up to 15 cm sediment depth at different elevations with the help of sieve of
a mesh size of 100 µm.
All collected specimens–organisms of planktons, periphytons, benthoses etc were preserved
in 3 % formalin solution or 70 % alcohol and were identified by using keys formulated by
different workers such as Pennak (1953), Edmondson (1959), Ward and Whipple (1959),
Needham and Needham (1962), Trivedy and Goel (1984), Sarod and Kamat (1984), Hustedt
and Jensen (1985), Battish (1992), Edington and Holdren (1995) and APHA (1992, 1998).
The density of the plankton and benthic samples was estimated by using drop count method
(Bhatt et al., 2005) and standards methods of APHA (1992, 1998).
Fishes occurrence were determined by visual method and by collecting samples using
different fishing gears like cast net, scoop net, hand net, hook-line, pot and open local
devices methods. 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 (2008)
was compared to assess threatened, endangered and vulnerable species in the study area.
Conservation Assessment Management Plan of Biodiversity Conservation Prioritization
Project Workshop (CAMP-BCPP, 1997) was followed to understand the threats and
conservation status of Indian fish species.
The total number of planktons present in a litre of water sample was calculated using the
following formula:
N = (n x v x 100)/ V
Where, N= Number of plankton per litre
n = average number of plankton cells in 0.1 ml of aliquot concentrate
WAPCOS Limited 8-31
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

v = volume of plankton concentrate (aliquot)

V= volume of water from bulk sample centrifuged

The species diversity index was calculated using Shannon’s species diversity index (H)
formula taking the density values of each species into consideration.
Shannon index of general diversity (H): - ΣPi log Pi
Where ni = density value for each species
N = total density value
Pi = density probability for each species = ni /N
8.10.3 River Morphology & Habitat Structure
The Chenab river is mainly snow fed. The main drainage channel of the basin is Chenab
river, which is named after the confluence of two streams namely Chandra and Bhaga river
near Tandi (2,573 meters) in the districts of Lahaul & Spiti (H.P.). Chandra river rises in the
snows lying lake of Chandra Tal, located in the southeast slope of the Baralacha La pass
and turns abruptly west after traveling 48-km to flow another 64-km to meet with the Bhaga
River at Tandi in the Lahaul and Spiti district. The Bhaga River rises in a small tarn called
Suraj Tal. The river pursues a southwesterly course for about 64-km and joins Chandra at
Tandi The united stream, called the Chandrabhaga, flowing northwesterly for 46 kms is
joined on its right bank by the Miyar Nala near Udaipur. The latter negotiates a total river
course of 80 km with an average fall of about 24 m/km. The Chandrabhaga, after flowing in
general northwest direction almost parallel to the Pir Panjal range, crosses at El. 1838 masl
the Pangi valley of Himachal Pradesh to enter Padder block of district Kishtwar of J&K.
After sweeping the Lahul and Spiti valley it enters in the Pangi Valley of Chamba district at
Karunalla confluence point (~2400m, asl) downward of Udaipur and leaves the Pangi valley
after confluence of Sansari Nallah to Kishatwar area of J& K (Figure below). Here, the river
is sandwiched between two sub-systems of the Himalayas the Zaskar and the Pir Panjal. It
flows in from Lahaul and passing through the length, it divides Pangi into two unequal parts
while the cliffs sometimes rise vertically to a height of a couple of thousand feet. The
mountains are surroundings the valley range between 5,400 and 6,700 meters. The tiny
villages of this verdant pocket lie between 2,100 and 3,000 meters. On the right bank of the
river Chanderbhaga, the growing settlement of Kilar (2,590 mtrs), is the administrative
headquarter. Thus hill peaks are ranging from river bed 2100m to 6707m. There are many
passes located on the Pir Panjal range which takes to Pangi valley like Cheni Pass, Drati,
Chobia, Kugdi and Sach Pass (4268m to 5300m). At project site, Mindhal village is on the
left bank whereas Sach khas is on the rightbank of river Chenab. At this point, valley spread
out (comparatively open type though V-shaped) and river flows in NW direction to reach
Killar and Dharawas as shown in Figure below. The several streams born on Zanskar range
and feed the Chenab on right banks. These are mainly Karu nallah, Saichu, Parmar, Kiryani,
WAPCOS Limited 8-32
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Mahlu, Lujai, and the Sansari nallah (the last one in HP) near killer are noticeable. On the
left bank , the Cheni nallah near Mindhal, and Sach Khas nallah near Killar are noticeable.
At project site, hills are showing cover of overhanging snow clad peaks overawe. Vegetation
becomes sparse or even devoid of vegetation except few patches of deodar trees. The river
flows here through deep gorges cutting through the stable and rocky hills of high mountains
in the project site. Thus flows through narrow valley. The river flows through a narrow gorge
exposing bedrock on both the abutments where the diversion site is planned immediately
near to the sharp bend in river. Also immediately downstream of the proposed location the
river width broadens and again constricts to a narrow width at a location where the tailrace
tunnel outlet is planned.
The tract lies in a semi arid zone of inner Himalayas. The climate varies from dry temperate
to alpinetypes. The area remains snow covered for almost six month period where
temperature ranges between –20 oC to +27 oC. The rock system is very fragileand liable to
erosion which is often accentuated by the rigrous of severe winters, avalanches and the
strong winds that accompany them. The valley is surrounded by high mountain peaks and
deep river bed i.e. stable and confined valley (‘U to V’ shapes Plate-8.1). The aspects of the
hills in the area are steep to highly steep. The Pir Panjal range on left bank has much higher
steep slope than the right bank side Zanskar range. The vegetation is sparse and river bank
is devoid of riparian cover. The substratum is rocky which constitute large rocks, boulders
with lesser amount of cobbles, pebbles and absence of sand at banks. River has torrent
flow with bubble formation where rapids and cascade habitat is occur quite frequently. Some
place scour pools, side and pocket pools also formed by the presence of rocks and
boulders. Thus, the river has high gradient at dam site (4-10%) and fluvial morphology. At
dam site and power house sites, rapids habitat dominant whereas no frequent run, pool and
scour pools habitat observed in the river course. The streams are first order category and
consits fall and cascade habitats with torrent flow. The glacial melt water is flowing in the
Chenab and its streams where velocity is found >4m/sec (torrent flow) due to steep slope.
All the streams falling in the influenced area and river Chenab are claasified A-type as per
Rosgen’s (1996) criterion developed for river morphology. The detail geomorphology of the
river Chenab and its streams falling in the project submergence zone and influenced zone is
depicted in Table-8.20.

WAPCOS Limited 8-33

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-8.20: River Morphology and Habitat Structures of Chenab & its streams in the
Project Impact Zone
Sites River/Stream Gradient (% Substratum with Habitats
Slope) & Stream stream/river
type morphology
U/S dam Site-Submergence Zone
I Chenab-Snow < 4% and Rocks, Boulders, Rapids. Confined
Fed Category A Banks stable and rocky morphology with
hills, No riparian cover stable rocky hills
(V-U shape)
Dam site to Power House Zone
II River < 4%, and Rocks, Boulders, Rapids. Confined
Chandrabhaga Category A Banks stable and rocky morphology with
(Chenab)- hills, No riparian cover, stable rocky hills.
Snow Fed Valley Narrow and
confined (V-U shape)
Influnced Zone D/s dam site
III River Chenab 2-4% river Rocks, Boulders, Rapids in Chenab
& side streams Chenab and Banks stable and rocky whereas cascade,
-Snow Fed streams above hills, No riparian cover, fall and lesser
10% slope- Valley Narrow and pools in steams.
Category A confined (V-shape) Confined
morphology.

Biotic resources study involved the assessment of status of phytoplankton, zooplankton,

phytobenthos, benthos and macro-invertebrates, macrophytes, fishes and other aquatic
fauna. Biotic resources are divided into two groups i.e. autotrophs and heterotrophs.
Autotroph constitutes the aquatic flora whereas heterotrophs constitutes of aquatic fauna.
Aquatic flora comprises of algae in suspended form (plankton) and benthic form (phyto-
benthos). Aquatic fauna includes zooplankton, micro- invertebrates and fish & fisheries.
Aquatic flora includes microflora as phytoplankton, phytobenthos, and periphytons and
macroflora consist of aquatic plants.
8.10.4 Phytoplanktons
Micro flora is comprised of Chlorophyceae (green algae), Cynophyceae (blue green algae)
and Bacillarionphyceae (ditoms) (Table-8.21). The stream being a freshwater body, the
presence of Chlorophyceae was more prominent. Chlorophyceae included Ulothrix,
Spirogyra, Zygnema and Cladophora as filamentous algae forming sheets on the river /
streams edges. Other green algae found predominate are chlorella, scenedesmus and
closterium with other flagellates. Blue green algae are represented by Oscillatoria,
Phormidium and Schizothrix taxon. After green algae, diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) are found
in abundance. At most of the sampling sites Achnanthes, Cocconeis, Fragilaria and
Gomphonema taxon were the most common species in river Chenab and its tributaries
recorded during study period. The trend of aquatic flora is reflecting the local climatic
conditions. However, the occurrence was quite low that may be attributed to the glacial melt

WAPCOS Limited 8-34

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

water of oligotropic nature. Thus, the variation in occurrence of phytoplankton taxa is the
reflection of prevailing the water quality, channel morphology, elevation, geomorphology that
occur in the project site in river Chandrabhaga and its tributaries.
Table-8.21: Phytoplankton Species Observed in the project impact zone
Phytoplankton Taxon Influenced
(cells/l or sq cm) Submergence Dam Site to Zone (D/s
Zone (u/s dam Power house Power house
site) Area area)
PM M W PM M W PM M W
Blue Green Algae
Cyanophyceae
Oscillatoria tinues 8 10 12 8 6 14 12
O. limnosa 4 6 8 9 6 8 11 8
Phormidium autumnale 4 4 6 2 8 12 8
Schizothrix fasciculata 8 4 4 8 6
Green Algae-Cholorphyceae
Zygnema himalayense 8 12 26 6 8 12 14 8 18
Spirogyra porticalis 6 12 6 8 18 4 14
Ulothrix zonata 6 8 4 10 4 14
Cladophora glomerata 4 10 9 12 8 8 18
Scenedesmus ellipticus 8 10 14 6 12 16 10 24
Chlorella vulgaris 4 6 14 8 6 8 10
Chlamydomonas moewusii 4 6 16 6 12 10 16
Closterium leibleinii 2 12 12 12 10 14 16
Microspora amoena 3 5 9 4 6 10 8 12 12
Diatoms-Bacillariophyceae
Tabellaria fenestrate 22 26 32 12 18 30 16 22 46
Cocconeis placentula 18 20 16 26 16 26 26
Diatoma hiemale 8 12 12 6 12 24 32 24 42
Flagellaria .pinnata 12 12 18 8 16 20 32 40 40
F. inflata 10 12 12 12 16 30 40
Synedra ulna 10 16 8 12 12 16 20 34
Synedra mediocontracta 6 8 10 6 12 18 20 26 38
Achnanthes linearis 8 6 8 14 24
Achnanthes minutissima 10 12 14 8 12 20 18 26 24
Stauroneis phoenicenteron 8 12 20 14 16 26 20 36
Nitzschia linearis 12 16 14 10 16 16 20 20
Navicula radiosa 22 36 18 12 14 20 22 18
Cymbella affinis 14 32 16 10 18 28 12 16 22
Hannaea arcus 12 8 8 14 14 12 16 24
Gomphoneis herculeana 10 8 18 28 12 18 20
G.geminatum 10 10 8 10 20 16 14 20 28
Amphora ovalis/bitumida 16 8 6 8 16 10 14 24
Meridion circulare 10 16 6 10 24 8 16 32
PM= Pre Monsoon, M= Monsoon, W= Winter
Source: Field Studies

WAPCOS Limited 8-35

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The river waters shows low occurrence /density and diversity that represented by
phytoplankton (56– 432 cells/l), phytobenthos (54 – 406 cells/cm2) and zooplanktons (14-
284 cells/L). Cholorophyceae accounted for the majority of the biotic communities followed
by Bacillariophyceae and Cyanophycae.
8.10.5 Macroflora/ Macrophytes
No growth of macrophytes seen in the area that may be due to rapid currents and fall habitat
which has river wash affects. However, macrophytes that remain attached to the rocks,
boulders; stones, etc. belong to various genera of bryophytes (mosses). These mosses grow
on stone and boulders that protrude a few centimeters above the surface of water
sometimes growth reaches in the flowing water edges stones.
8.10.6 Zooplanktons
Zooplanktons are represented by protozoa, rotifer and crustaceans (Refer Table-8.22).
Among protozoans Arcella, Peridinium, and Ceratium taxon are commonly observed.
Rotifers are represented by Keratella, Brachionus and Philodina taxon. Copepod consists of
Cyclopes species whereas cladocerans are represented by Daphnia and Bosmina sp. The
occurrence are mainly from the edge pools of side stream and river banks, however, the
group in totality is poorly represented due to climate conditions followed by long winters and
torrential flow. The low occurrence is also linked to rapid habitat and rocky substratum in the
deep gorge narrow valley.
Table-8.22: Zooplankton observed in the Project Impact Zone (~10km radius)
Zooplanktons (Cells/L) Submergence Dam Site-Project Influenced Zone
Zone (u/s dam Site (Power house
site) site)
PM M W PM M W PM M W
Protozoan
Peridinium cinctum 4 8 3 6 4 12 14
Arcella crenulata 4 8 10 6 8 6 14 20
Ceratium furca 3 4 4 6 10 14
Rotifers
Keratella quadrata 8 6 6 14 28
Asplanchna priodonta 10 8 8 12 26
Philodena roseola 6 10 6 4 8 12 8 18 12
Brachionus bidenta 12 6 6 12 24
Polyarthra vulgaris 4 18 10 6 10 14 10 16 14
Trichocerca longiseta 6 12 8 4 7 12 8 15 10
Cladoceran
Bosmina longirostris 12 20 6 12 14 20 34
Daphnia pulax 16 12 8 14 16 22 40
Copepods
Cyclops scutifer 4 6 8 4 8 8 14 26
Cyclops glacialis 2 4 8 6 8 16 22
PM= Pre Monsoon, M= Monsoon, W= Winter
Source: Field Studies

WAPCOS Limited 8-36

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

8.10.7 Macro-invertebrates (Zoo benthos)

Macro-invertebrate fauna of river Chenab are comprised by Heptageniidae, Baetidae,
Ephemerellidae, Perlidae, Hydropsychidae, Hydroptilidae, Chironomidae, Simulidae,
Elmiade, Blepharoceridae and Amphizoidae families. The details are given in Table-8.23.
The density of macro- invertebrates ranged from 16 to 304 individuals/m2. Among them
Ephemeropterans are observed as the dominant group which is followed by Placopteran and
dipterans. Species of genera Stenonema, Epeorus, Baetis, Ephemeralla, Rhycophila and
Chironimds are observed in the region. The distribution and occurrence is directly related to
the habitat structure and substratum of Chenab river and its tributaries. The poor occurrence
of benthos during study period could be due to low water temperature, high turbidity, torrent
flow and rocky substratum in river and its tributaries.
Table-8.23: Macro-invertebrates composition in proposed project impact area
Invertebrates Taxon Submergence Dam Site- Influenced Zone
(ind./m2) Zone (u/s dam site) Project Site (Power house site)
PM M W PM M W PM M W
Heptageniidae
Epeorus lauhalensis 2 4 8 10 12 18 36
Baetidae
Baetis chandra 8 2 6 6 8 10 16 18
Baetis himalayana 2 10 14 2 4 10 15 19 26
Ephemerellidae
Ephemeralla major 6 8 4 12 8 12 20
Stenonema tripunctatum 2 10 6 12 8 14 24
Perlidae
Isoperla montana 2 8 7 8 6 8 16
Perla marginata 6 4 12 4 10 14 10 14 18
Choloroperlatorrentium 8 6 12 4 10 12 4 8 20
Tipulidae
Ameletus primitius 6 8 14 6 8 6 8 12 22
Hydropsychidae
Rhyacophila fuscula 8 4 9 6 6 8
Hydroptilidae
Ochrotrichia susanae 16 12 12 20 18
Chironomidae
Chironemous sp 12 16 10 8 14 16 20 16
Diptera -Simulidae
Simulium pictipus 16 8 10 14 12
Athericidae
Atherix sp (Snipe fly larvae) 14 4 12 12 26
Blepharoceridae
Bibiocephalle sp 8 12 4 6 18 22 14
Elmidae
Narpus sp larvae 6 10 2 4 6 12 6
Elmid sp larvae 6 8 4 8 2
Amphizoidae (trout beetel) 4 8 2 4 4 8 2
Amphizoa sp. 2 4 8 10 12 18 36
PM= Pre Monsoon, M= Monsoon, W= Winter
Source: Field Studies
WAPCOS Limited 8-37
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

8.10.8 Diversity index

The diversity index is given in Table-8.24.

Table-8.24: Species Diversity Index and density of different biotic communities

Biota -Groups Submergence Zone Dam Site-Project Influenced Zone
(u/s dam site) Site (Power house site)
PM M W PM M W PM M W
Phytoplanktons
Shannon H' Log Base 10. 1.033 1.17 1.259 0.889 1.154 1.235 1.235 1.254 1.241
Shannon Hmax Log Base 10. 1.114 1.23 1.279 0.903 1.176 1.279 1.279 1.279 1.279
Shannon J' 0.928 0.951 0.984 0.985 0.981 0.966 0.966 0.981 0.97
Periphytons-Epiphytes
Shannon H' Log Base 10. 0.695 1.02 1.093 0.822 1.059 1.02 1.089 1.064 1.079
Shannon Hmax Log Base 10. 0.778 1.114 1.146 0.845 1.114 1.079 1.146 1.146 1.146
Shannon J' 0.893 0.916 0.954 0.973 0.951 0.945 0.95 0.929 0.941
Zooplankton
Shannon H' Log Base 10. 0.755 0.937 1.084 0.469 0.879 1.084 1.084 1.104 1.08
Shannon Hmax Log Base 10. 0.778 1 1.114 0.477 0.903 1.114 1.114 1.114 1.114
Shannon J' 0.97 0.937 0.973 0.982 0.973 0.973 0.973 0.991 0.97
Macro-Invertebrates
Shannon H' Log Base 10. 0.734 1.065 1.233 0.574 1.103 1.2 1.215 1.228 1.191
Shannon Hmax Log Base 10. 0.778 1.146 1.255 0.602 1.146 1.23 1.255 1.255 1.255
Shannon J' 0.944 0.929 0.982 0.953 0.962 0.975 0.968 0.978 0.949
Densities / Occurrences
Zooplankton (cells/I) 26 93 124 14 52 116 108 195 284
Phytoplankton (cells/I) 101 203 241 56 179 274 274 329 432
Phytobenthos (cells/cm2) 63 147 191 54 135 182 172 210 306
Macro-invertebrates (ind./m2) 42 82 190 16 83 153 169 243 304
PM= Pre Monsoon, M= Monsoon, W= Winter
Source: Field Studies

8.11 FISH COMPOSITION AND STATUS

The region has a diverse Ichthyofauna with the fish species of upper and middle reaches
showing great affinity with Western Himalayan elements. The river of Himachal Pradesh
show a longitudinal and latitudinal variation in the fish diversity, abundance, species
composition and assemblages. However, water bodies located across Tran’s himalyan zone
are virgin in oligotropic in nature. Therefore, the state department has made efforts to
restore such virgin rivers, stream and lakes through introduction of trous like rainbow and
brown trouts and the new stock of Arctic char. Earliar the efforts were made by the
Britishers. Due to this, Chandrabhaga river in the Lauhal valley area between Udaipur to
Tandi and Tandi to Darch and Tandi to Khoksar occurrence of trouts has been reported.
However, the terrain of Chandrabhaga in Pangi Valley is altogether different and very few
patch are observed suitable for future fisheries, which still to be explored.
The present study is limited to project impact zone maximal longitudinalreach length of 15-
20km river basin and very little secondary data is available so the most of the data is based

WAPCOS Limited 8-38

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

on the primary survey collected during field survey carried out in the river Chenab and its
tributaries between 2125 to 2250 m.
Fish species adapted to cold water conditions approx 100C or subzero water temperature
are found in the region. Among 3 species of fish, 1 has been classified under the vulnerable
category on the basis of CAMP criterion. Schizothorax richardsonii. Rainbow, brown and
golden trout are exotic species and introduced by the State Fishery Department. The area
has been found devoid of crucial spawning requiste riffle habitat in the dam site and
upstream zone except d/s areas near to side stream confluence. The d/s area will remain
unaltered and will coninuosly receive environmental flow and tail water flow for lower stream
habitat requirement. Table-8.25 depicts the composition and conservation status of fishes
based on available literature and primary survey. Cultural fishery is absent and there are no
fish farms and hatcheries for the fishery development in this region.
Table-8.25: Fish species composition of Chenab River and their conservation status
S. Zoological name Common name Family IUCN Status
No
1 Schizothorax richardsonii Snow tourt Cyprinidae Vulnerable
2 S. gairdnerii gairdnerii Rainbow trout Salmonidae Least Concerned
3 Salmo trutta fario Brown trout Salmonidae Least Concerned
Source: Field Studies

Out of the reported 3 fish species, Schizothorax richardsonii of Cyprinidae family is the only
species which falls in vulnerable category, though none of the species are found present in
the project area. The remaining species are declared as common or exotic in introduction.
Though, the endemic trout species is widely distributed throughout Indian Himalayan region.
Endemic trout is considered migratory in nature within the river stretch which mostly
localized in nature.

WAPCOS Limited 8-39

 CHAPTER-9
PREDICTION OF IMPACTS
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

CHAPTER-9
PREDICTION OF IMPACTS
9.1 GENERAL
Based on the project details and the baseline environmental status, potential impacts as a
result of the construction and operation of the proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project
have been identified. This Chapter addresses the basic concepts and methodological
approach for conducting a scientifically based analysis of the potential impacts likely to
accrue as a result of the proposed project. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for
quite a few disciplines is subjective in nature and cannot be quantified. Wherever possible,
the impacts have been quantified and otherwise, qualitative assessment has been
undertaken. This Chapter deals with the anticipated positive as well as negative impacts due
to construction and operation of the proposed project. The construction and operation phase
comprises of various activities each of which is likely to have an impact on environment.
Thus, it is important to understand and analyze each activity so as to assess its impact on
environment. The key activities have been categorized for construction and operation
phases.

Construction Phase Activities

• Site preparation
• Earthwork and excavation including controlled blasting and drilling
• Construction of a concrete dam of 77 m height
• Intake, Pressure shaft, Power house for underground power house for main power
house
• Intake, Pressure Shaft, Surface Power house for secondary power house
• Underground manpower house to generate (3x86.7) 260 MW of power
• Surface secondary power house to generate (2x7) 14 MW.
• Tail Race Tunnel of length 99.75 m, 113.13 n and 132.35 m
• Construction of new roads and upgradation of existing roads
• Construction of a bridge on river downstream of tail race tunnel
• Project headquarter, offices and colonies
• Disposal of muck and construction wastes
• Transportation of construction material
• Operation and maintenance of construction equipment
• Civil and mechanical fabrication works for construction of various project
components.
• Operation of DG sets
• Disposal of pollutants from workshops, etc.
• Disposal of effluents and solid waste from labour camps and colonies

Operation Phase Activities

• Diversion of water from river Chenab for hydropower generation
• Equipment maintenance and equipment restoration
• Sewage and solid waste generation from project colonies

WAPCOS Limited 9-1

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The various project activities and associated potential environmental impacts on various
environmental parameters have been identified and summarized in a matrix and the same is
outlined in Table-9.1.

WAPCOS Limited 9-2

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

TABLE-9.1

Matrix for various project activities and associated potential Environmental Impact on various Environmental Parameters
S. Project Activities Soil & Geolo Hydrolo Water Air Noise Flora/ Employment Socio-
No. Land gy gy quality quality Fauna culture
A. Construction Phase
1. Sire preparation including tree cutting √ √ √ √
2. Earthwork and excavation including √ √ √ √ √ √ √
blasting and drilling
3. Construction of concrete dam over √ √ √ √ √
river Chenab
4. Construction of primary and √ √ √
secondary surge shafts
5. Construction of primary and √ √ √
secondary intakes
6. Widening of approach roads √ √ √ √ √
7. Disposal of muck and construction √ √ √ √
wastes
8. Transportation of construction √ √ √ √
materials
9. Operation and maintenance of √ √ √ √
construction equipment
10. Disposal of sewage and solid waste √ √
from labor camps
11. Acquisition of forest land √ √ √
12. Acquisition of labor population √ √ √ √ √ √ √
B. Operation Phase Activities
1. Diversion of water for hydropower √ √ √
generation
2. Equipment maintenance √ √ √ √
3. Disposal of sewage and solid waste √ √
from project colony
4. Mushrooming of allied activities √ √ √ √ √ √

WAPCOS Limited 9-3

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The impacts which have been covered in the present Chapter are categorized as below:
- Impacts on Water Environment
- Impacts on Air Environment
- Impacts on Noise Environment
- Impacts on Land Environment
- Impacts on Biological Environment
- Impacts on Socio-Economic Environment

9.2 IMPACTS ON WATER ENVIRONMENT

The various aspects covered under water environment are:

- Water quality
- Sediments
- Water resources and downstream users

9.2.1 Water quality

a) Construction phase
The major sources of surface water pollution during project construction phase are as
follows:
• Sewage from labour camps/colonies
• Effluent from crushers
• Pollution due to muck disposal
• Effluents from other sources
i) Sewage from labour camps
The project construction is likely to last for a period of 9.5 years. The peak labour strength
likely to be employed during project construction phase is about 1000 workers and 200
technical staff. The employment opportunities in the area are limited. Thus, during the
project construction phase, some of the locals may get employment. It has been observed
during construction phase of many of the projects; the major works are contracted out, who
bring their own skilled labour. However, it is only in the unskilled category, that locals get
employment.
The construction phase, also leads to mushrooming of various allied activities to meet the
demands of the immigrant labour population in the project area.
The following assumptions have been made for assessing the emigrating population in the
area:
• 80% of workers and technical staff emigrating into the area are married.
• In 80% of the family of workers both the husband and wife will work.
• In 100% of the family of technical staff, only husband will work.
• 2% of total migrating population has been assumed as service providers.
• 50% of service providers will have families.
• Family size has been assumed as 5.

WAPCOS Limited 9-4

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Based on these assumptions the peak migrant population has been calculated as 6200
persons (Table-9.2). This population is expected to reside in the project area at any given
time.
Table- 9.2: increase in population due to migration of labour and technical staff during
construction phase
A. Migrant Population of Laborers
Total labor force 1000
Married laborers (80% of 1000) 800
Single laborers (20% of 1000) 200
Husband and wife both working Labour (80% of 800) 640
Number of families where both husband and wife work (640/2) 320
Number of families where only husband work (20% of 1000) 200
Total number of laborers families (320+200) 529
Total Migrant Population of Laborers (520 x 5 + 200) 2800
B. Migrant Population of Technical Staff
Total technical staff 400
Married technical staff 200
Single technical staff 200
Total migrant population of technical staff (100 x 5 + 100) 600
Migrant Workforce (Labor plus Technical) 3400
C. Service Providers
Total service providers (2% of total migrant workforce) 68
Married service providers (50 % as assumed) 34
Single service providers 34
Total migrant population of service providers (34 x 5 + 34) 204
3604,
Total Migrant Population say 3600

Immigration of such a large population for a long duration in remote area can cause serious
impact on various environmental resources including socio-economic profile of local
population. The congregation of large number of construction workers during the peak
construction phase is likely to create problems of sewage disposal, solid waste
management, tree cutting to meet fuel requirement, etc. Appropriate mitigating measures
have been suggested in EMP, which needs to be implemented to minimize such impacts.
The domestic water requirement has been estimated as 70 lpcd. Thus, total water
requirements work out to 0.25 mld. It is assumed that about 80% of the water supplied will
be generated as sewage. Thus, total quantum of sewage generated is expected to be of the
order of 0.20 mld. The BOD load contributed by domestic sources will be about 162 kg/day.
It is assumed that the sewage is discharged without any treatment for which, the minimum
flow required for dilution of sewage is about 2.4 cumec.
Detailed DO modelling was done using Streeter Phelp’s model. The D.O. level was
estimated using the following equation:

WAPCOS Limited 9-5

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

K1LA [10-K1t – 10-K2t ]

Dt = ------------------------------- + DA 10-K2t
K2 – K1

Dt = D.O. deficit downstream at time t.

K1 = Deoxygenation rate
K2 = Reaeration rate
LA = Ultimate upstream BOD
DA = D.O. deficit upstream
t = Time of stream flow upstream to point at which D.O. level is to be estimated

The D.O. level in the river Chenab was taken as 8.0 mg/l. The minimum flow in the river
Chenab was taken as 8.7 cumec (minimum flow estimated for 90% dependable year in the
month of February). The results of D.O. model are summarized in Table-9.3.
Table-9.3: Results of D.O. Modeling due to disposal of sewage from labour camps in
River Chenab
Distance from outfall (km) D.O. (mg/l)
0.1 8.0
0.2 8.0
0.3 8.0
0.4 8.1
0.5 8.1
1.0 8.2
It can be observed from Table-9.3, that no impact is anticipated on river water quality, as a
result of disposal of sewage from labour camps. Even though no impact is envisaged on
water quality of river Chenab, as a result of disposal of untreated sewage, it is recommended
to provide adequate treatment for the sewage generated from labour camps.

ii) Effluent from crushers

During construction phase, at least two crusher will be commissioned at the quarry site by
the contractor involved in construction activities. It is proposed only crushed material would
be brought at construction site. The total capacities of the two crushers are likely to be of the
order of 120-150 tph. Water is required to wash the boulders and to lower the temperature of
the crushing edge. About 0.1 m3 of water is required per ton of material crushed. The
effluent from the crusher would contain high-suspended solids. About 12-15 m3/hr of
wastewater is expected to be generated from each crusher. The effluent, if disposed without
treatment can lead to marginal increase in the turbidity levels in the receiving water bodies.
The natural slope in the area is such that, the effluent from the crushers will ultimately find its
way in river Chenab. This amounts to a discharge of 0.0033 to 0.0042 cumec. Even the
lowest 10 day minimum flow in river Chenab is 8.7 cumec. The effluent from crusher will
have suspended solids level of 3000-4000 mg/l. On the other hand, suspended solids as
observed at various sampling locations, during water quality monitoring studies was
WAPCOS Limited 9-6
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

observed to be <0.1 mg/l. The composite value of suspended solids would increase by 0.07
mg/l, which is insignificant. Thus, no adverse impacts are anticipated due to small quantity of
effluent and large volume of water available in river Chenab for dilution. Even then, it is
proposed to treat the effluent from crushers in settling tank before disposal so as to
ameliorate even the marginal impacts likely to accrue on this account.

iii) Pollution due to muck disposal

The major impact on the water quality arises when the muck is disposed along the river bank.
The project authorities have identified suitable muck disposal sites which are located near the
river channel. The muck will essentially come from the road-building activity, tunneling and
other excavation works. The muck out falling into the river channel will greatly contribute to the
turbidity of water continuously for long time periods. The high turbidity is known to reduce the
photosynthetic efficiency of primary producers in the river and as a result, the biological
productivity will be greatly reduced. Therefore, the prolonged turbid conditions would have
negative impact on the aquatic life. Therefore, muck disposal has to be done in line with the
Muck Disposal Plan given in EMP to avoid any adverse impact.
iv) Effluent from other sources
Substantial quantities of water would be used in the construction activities. With regard to
water quality, waste water from construction activities and runoff from construction site would
mostly contain suspended impurities. Adequate care needs to be taken so that excess
suspended solids in the wastewater are removed before discharge into water body. The
effluent is proposed to be treated by collecting the waste water and runoff from construction
sites and treating the same in settling tanks.
b) Operation phase

The major sources of water pollution during project operation phase include:

• Effluent from project colony.

• Impacts on reservoir water quality.
• Eutrophication risks
• Sediments

i) Effluent from project colony

During project operation phase, due to absence of any large-scale construction activity, the
cause and source of water pollution will be much different. Since, only a small number of
O&M staff will reside in the area in a well-designed colony with sewage treatment plant and
other infrastructure facilities, the problems of water pollution due to disposal of sewage are
not anticipated. In the operation phase, about 50 families (total population of 250) will be
residing in the project colony proposed to be developed. The details are given in Table-9.4.
WAPCOS Limited 9-7
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-9.4: Details of project colonies and officers in operation phase

S.No. Type Plinth Area (m2)
1 Main Office 800
2. Staff colony 3600
Source: DPR

About 37.5 m3/day of sewage will be generated. The total BOD loading will be order of 11
kg/day. It is proposed to provide septic tank to treat the sewage generated from project
colony. The BOD loading will reduce to 3 to 4 kg/day. The sewage treatment for septic tank
will be discharged into nearby water body. The quantum of sewage so generated will be so
small that no major adverse impact is anticipated as a result of disposal of effluents from the
project colony.

ii) Impacts on reservoir water quality

The flooding of previously forest land in the submergence area will increase the availability
of nutrients resulting from decomposition of vegetative matter. Phytoplankton productivity
can supersaturate the euphotic zone with oxygen before contributing to the accommodation
of organic matter in the sediments. Enrichment of impounded water with organic and
inorganic nutrients will be the main water quality problem immediately on commencement of
the operation. However, this phenomenon is likely to last for a short duration of few years
from the filling up of the reservoir. In the proposed project, most of the land coming under
reservoir submergence is barren, with few patches of trees. These trees too are likely to be
cleared before filling up of the reservoir. The proposed project is envisaged as a runoff the
river scheme, with significant diurnal variations in reservoir water level. In such a scenario,
significant re-aeration from natural atmosphere takes place, which maintains Dissolved
Oxygen in the water body. Thus, in the proposed project, no significant reduction in D.O.
level in reservoir water is anticipated.
iii) Eutrophication risks
Another significant impact observed in the reservoir is the problem of eutrophication, which
occurs mainly due to the disposal of nutrient rich effluents from the agricultural fields.
However, in the present case, fertilizer use in the project area is negligible, hence, the runoff
at present does not contain significant amount of nutrients. Even in the post-project phase,
use of fertilizers in the project catchment area is not expected to rise significantly. Another
factor to be considered that the proposed project is envisaged as a run off the river scheme,
with significant diurnal variations in reservoir water level. Thus, residence time would be of
the order of few days, which is too small to cause any eutrophication. Thus, in project

WAPCOS Limited 9-8

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

operation phase, problems of eutrophication, which is primarily caused by enrichment of

nutrients in water, are not anticipated.

9.2.2 Sediments
When a river flows along a steep gradient, it could carry a significant amount of sediment
load, depending on the degradation status of the catchment. When a hydraulic structure is
built across the river, it creates a reservoir, which tends to accumulate the sediment, as the
suspended load settles down due to decrease in flow velocity. The proposed project is
envisaged as a runoff the river scheme, with a barrage at regular intervals, the gates of the
barrage shall be opened to flush out the sediments. Thus, in the proposed project,
sedimentation problems are not anticipated.

9.2.3 Water resources and downstream users

The Sach Khas Hydro Electric Project is a run of river scheme project on river Chenab.
Since, it is a dam toe power house, not diversion of water for hydropower generation will
lead to drying or reduction of flow river stretch in monsoon season. The lean season, it will
lead to drying of river stretch to store water for MDDL to FRL for peaking power generation.
There are no major users of water in the intervening stretches, as the river stretch flows
through a gorge. As a result, there are no major users of water of river Chenab in the
intervening stretch. Thus, no major adverse impacts are anticipated on downstream water
users. This can lead to adverse impacts on riverine ecology, which needs to be ameliorated
through the release of minimum flow. The number of hours for which Peaking is available in
Sach Khas HEP is given in Table-9.5.
Table-9.5: Number of hours of peaking available in 90% dependable year for Sach
Khas HEP
Month Discharge in 90% Rated Time available for
Dependable year discharge peaking power
(cumec) (cumec) (hrs.)
I 339.77 428.1 19.0
June II 525.26 428.1 24.0
III 510.65 428.1 24.0
I 722.12 428.1 24.0
July II 724.46 428.1 24.0
III 502.94 428.1 24.0
I 552.68 428.1 24.0
August II 443.77 428.1 24.0
III 522.50 428.1 24.0
September I 396.95 428.1 22.3
II 274.44 428.1 15.4
III 223.06 428.1 12.5
I 145.25 428.1 8.1
October II 120.17 428.1 6.7
WAPCOS Limited 9-9
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Month Discharge in 90% Rated Time available for

Dependable year discharge peaking power
(cumec) (cumec) (hrs.)
III 89.18 428.1 5.0
I 85.72 428.1 4.8
November II 88.84 428.1 5.0
III 82.49 428.1 4.6
I 20.4 428.1 1.1
December II 27.7 428.1 1.6
III 25.9 428.1 1.5
I 10.4 428.1 0.6
January II 9.3 428.1 0.5
III 9.6 428.1 0.5
I 8.7 428.1 0.5
February II 9.3 428.1 0.5
III 10.7 428.1 0.6
I 17.3 428.1 1.0
March II 17.6 428.1 1.0
III 30.5 428.1 1.7
I 76.02 428.1 4.3
April II 76.02 428.1 4.3
III 97.76 428.1 5.5
May I 128.53 428.1 7.2
II 149.60 428.1 8.4
III 216.36 428.1 12.1
Source: DPR

It can be seen from Table-9.5 that number of hours for which peaking power will be
available, in 90% dependable year shall range from 12.5 to 24 hours in monsoon season
from June to September. In the period from October to November and April to May, peaking
will be available for a period of 4.6 to 8.1 hours and 4.3 to 12.1 hours respectively.

In lean season, from December to March peaking will be available for a period of 0.5 to 1.7
hours in 90% dependable year. It can be observed that in lean season, river water will be
stored for a period of 22 to 23.5 hours. As a result, downstream stretch of river from the dam
site will be remain dry for a period of 22 to 23.5 hours, which will be followed by a continuous
flow equal to rated discharge of 428.1 cumec for a period of 0.5 to 2 hours.
The modification of downstream river flow characteristics (regime) by an impoundment shall
have adverse effects upon fish species. These include impact on migration, spawning
grounds, survival of eggs & juveniles, food production etc.
Regulation of stream flow during the migratory period can alter the seasonal and daily
dynamics of migration. Regulation of a river can lead to decrease in a migratory population.
In Sach Khas hydroelectric project, the discharge for 90% dependable year is higher than
WAPCOS Limited 9-10
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

the rated discharge (428.1 cumec) for a period about 70 days from 11th June to 31st August.
The project envisages generation of 260 MW of hydropower using 3 turbines of 86.57 MW
capacity each. Thus, in monsoon months, all of the three turbines can be operated and pre-
project level of discharge will be maintained in river Chenab downstream of Sach Khas
hydro-electric project.
In lean season, i.e. from December to March, the discharge is less and even one turbine
cannot run at 10% capacity. If peaking power is to be generated then the reservoir needs to
be filled up to FRL. This can result in drying of river stretch downstream of dam site of Sach
Khas hydroelectric project for a stretch of 6.0 km, i.e. upto tail end of reservoir of Dugar
hydroelectric project. The drying of river stretch to fill the reservoir upto FRL for peaking
power will last even upto 23.5 hours, after which there will continuous flow equivalent to
rated discharge of 428.1 cumec for 0.5 to 2 hours. Even, if peaking power is not attained and
turbines operate at lower capacity (based on optimization of power generation with respect
to cost) can result in drying up of river stretch followed by continuous flow of rated discharge.
The rated discharge could be 9 to 10 times the lean season flow in a 90% dependable year.

9.3 IMPACTS ON AIR ENVIRONMENT

In a water resources project, air pollution occurs mainly during project construction phase. The
major sources of air pollution during construction phase are:
• Pollution due to fuel combustion in various equipment
• Emission from various crushers
• Fugitive emissions from various sources.
• Blasting Operations
• Pollution due to increased vehicular movement
• Dust emission from muck disposal
• Pollution due to DG sets

Pollution due to fuel combustion in various equipment

The operation of various construction equipment’s requires combustion of fuel. Normally, diesel
is used in such equipment. The major pollutant which gets emitted as a result of combustion of
diesel is SO2. The SPM emissions are minimal due to low ash content in diesel. The short-term
increase in SO2, even assuming that all the equipment are operating at a common point, is
quite low, i.e. of the order of less than 1µg/m3. Hence, no major impact is anticipated on this
account on ambient air quality.

Emissions from crushers

The operation of the crusher during the construction phase is likely to generate fugitive
emissions, which can move even up to 1 km in predominant wind direction. During construction
phase, one crusher each is likely to be commissioned near proposed dam and proposed power
WAPCOS Limited 9-11
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

house sites. During crushing operations, fugitive emissions comprising mainly the suspended
particulate will be generated. Since, there are no major settlements close to the dam and power
house; hence, no major adverse impacts on this account are anticipated. However, during the
layout design, care should be taken to ensure that the labour camps, colonies, etc. are located
on the leeward side and outside the impact zone (say about 2 km on the wind direction) of the
crushers.

Fugitive Emissions from various sources

During construction phase, there will be increased vehicular movement. Lot of construction
material like sand, fine aggregate are stored at various sites, during the project construction
phase. Normally, due to blowing of winds, especially when the environment is dry, some of the
stored material can get entrained in the atmosphere. However, such impacts are visible only in
and around the storage sites. The impacts on this account are generally, insignificant in nature.

Blasting Operations
Blasting will result in vibration, which shall propagate through the rocks to various degrees
and may cause loosening of rocks/boulders. The overall impact due to blasting operations
will be restricted well below the surface and no major impacts are envisaged at the ground
level. During various blasting operations, dust will be generated, ID blowers will be provided
with dust handling system to capture and generated dust. The dust will settle on vegetation,
in the predominant down wind direction. Appropriate control measures have been
recommended to minimize the adverse impacts on this account.

Pollution due to increased vehicular movement

During construction phase, there will be increased vehicular movement for transportation of
various construction materials to the project site. Similarly, these will be increased traffic
movement on account of disposal of muck or construction waste at the dumping site. The
maximum increase in vehicle is expected to 50 vehicles per hour. Large quantity of dust is
likely to be entrained due to the movement of trucks and other heavy vehicles. Similarly,
marginal increase in Hydrocarbons, SO2 and NOx levels are anticipated for a short duration.
Modeling studies for hydrocarbon emissions were conducted and the results are given in
Table-9.6.

Table-9.6: Increase in hydrocarbon concentration due to vehicular movement

Distance (m) Increase in HC concentration (µg/m3)
10 5
20 2.50
30 1.67
40 1.25
50 1.00
WAPCOS Limited 9-12
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Distance (m) Increase in HC concentration (µg/m3)

60 0.83
70 0.71
80 0.63
90 0.56
100 0.50

The increase in vehicular density is not expected to significant. In addition, these ground
level emissions do not travel for long distances. Thus, no major adverse impacts are
anticipated on this account.

Dust emission from muck disposal

The loading and unloading of muck is one of the source of dust generation. Since, muck will be
mainly in form of small rock pieces, stone, etc., with very little dust particles. Significant amount
of dust is not expected to be generated on this account. Thus, adverse impacts due to dust
generation during muck disposal are not expected.

Pollution due to operation of DG sets

Construction power would not be available for the project from any resources in the state.
The requirement would have to be met by two sources 3.5MW Chhoo Hydroelectric Project
and through diesel generating sets. The requirement of construction power would vary at
each individual site depending upon the equipment deployed. The operation of DG sets
would lead to air pollution. The capacity of DG sets would be estimated during project
construction phase. The fuel consumed shall be LDO. The major emission LDO combustion
shall be SO2. The particulate matter emissions shall be marginal, due to low ash content in
LDO. Appropriate management measures to reduce emission level from the incinerator shall
be commissioned to reduce the impacts on ambient air quality.

9.4 IMPACTS ON NOISE ENVIRONMENT

a) Construction phase
In a water resource projects, the impacts on ambient noise levels are expected only during the
project construction phase, due to earth moving machinery, etc. Likewise, noise due to
quarrying, blasting, vehicular movement will have some adverse impacts on the ambient noise
levels in the area.
i) Impacts due to operation of construction equipment
The noise level due to operation of various construction equipment’s is given in Table-9.7.

WAPCOS Limited 9-13

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-9.7: Noise level due to operation of various construction equipment’s

Equipment Noise level dB(A)
Earth moving
Compactors 70-72
Loaders and Excavator 72-82
Dumper 72-92
Tractors 76-92
Scrappers, graders 82-92
Pavers 86-88
Truck 84-94
Material handling
Concrete mixers 75-85
Movable cranes 82-84
Stationary
Pumps 68-70
Generators 72-82
Compressors 75-85
Others
Vibrators 69-81
Saws 74-81

Under the worst-case scenario, considered for prediction of noise levels during construction
phase, it has been assumed that all these equipment’s generate noise from a common point.
The increase in noise levels due to operation of various construction equipment’s is given in
Table-9.8.
Table-9.8: Increase in noise levels due to operation of various construction equipment’s
Distance Ambient noise Increase in noise Increased Increase in
(m) levels dB(A) level due to noise level due ambient noise
construction to level due to
activities dB(A) construction construction
activities activities
dB(A) dB(A)
100 36 45 45 34
200 36 39 39 29
500 36 31 31 25
1000 36 25 25 25
1500 36 21 21 24
2000 36 19 19 24
2500 36 17 17 24
3000 36 15 15 24

It would be worthwhile to mention here that in absence of the data on actual location of various
construction equipment’s, all the equipment have been assumed to operate at a common point.
This assumption leads to over-estimation of the increase in noise levels. Also, it is a known fact
that there is a reduction in noise level as the sound wave passes through a barrier. The
transmission loss values for common construction materials are given in Table-9.9.

WAPCOS Limited 9-14

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-9.9: Transmission loss for common construction materials

Material Thickness of construction Decrease in noise level
material (inches) dB(A)
Light concrete 4 38
6 39
Dense concrete 4 40
Concrete block 4 32
6 36
Brick 4 33
Granite 4 40

Thus, the walls of various houses will attenuate at least 30 dB(A) of noise. In addition there are
attenuation due to the following factors.
• Air absorption
• Rain
• Atmospheric in homogeneities.
• Vegetal cover

Thus, no increase in noise levels is anticipated as a result of various activities, during the
project construction phase. The noise generated due to blasting is not likely to have any effect
on habitations. However, blasting can have adverse impact on wildlife. It would be worthwhile to
mention that no major wildlife is observed in and around the project site. Hence, no significant
impact is expected on this account.

Impacts due to increased vehicular movement

During construction phase, there will be significant increase in vehicular movement for
transportation of construction material. At present, there is no vehicular movement near the
dam site. During construction phase, the increase in vehicular movement is expected to
increase up to a maximum of 5 to 6 trucks/hour.

As a part of EIA study, impact on noise level due to increased vehicular movement was
studied using Federal Highway Administration model. The results of modeling are outlined in
Table-9.10.
Table-9.10: Increase in noise levels due to increased vehicular movement
Distance (m) Ambient noise Increase in Noise levels Increase in
level dB(A) noise level due due to ambient noise
to increased increased level due to
vehicular vehicular increased
movement movement vehicular
dB(A) dB(A) movement dB(A)
10 36 72 72 60
20 36 67 67 55
50 36 61 61 49
100 36 57 57 45
WAPCOS Limited 9-15
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Distance (m) Ambient noise Increase in Noise levels Increase in

level dB(A) noise level due due to ambient noise
to increased increased level due to
vehicular vehicular increased
movement movement vehicular
dB(A) dB(A) movement dB(A)
200 36 52 52 40
500 36 46 47 35
1000 36 42 44 31
As mentioned earlier, there will be significant attenuation due to various factors, e.g.
absorption by construction material, air absorption, atmospheric in homogeneties, and
vegetal cover. Thus, no significant impact on this account is anticipated. Appropriate
measures have been suggested as a part of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) report
to minimize impacts on wildlife.
Impacts on labour

The effect of high noise levels on the operating personnel has to be considered as this may
be particularly harmful. It is known that continuous exposures to high noise levels above 90
dB(A) affects the hearing acuity of the workers/operators and hence, should be avoided. To
prevent these effects, it has been recommended by Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) that the exposure period of affected persons be limited as per the
maximum exposure period specified in Table-9.11.

Table-9.11: Maximum Exposure Periods specified by OSHA

Maximum equivalent continuous Unprotected exposure period per day for 8
Noise level dB(A) hrs/day and 5 days/week
90 8
95 4
100 2
105 1
110 ½
115 ¼
120 No exposure permitted at or above this level
Noise generated due to drilling
The noise levels monitored at a 10 m distance from the source and operator’s cabin is given
in Table-9.12.
Table-9.12: Noise generated due to drilling
Equipment Noise level at source dB(A)
Standing idle (inside cabin) 70-72
Standing idle (10 m radius) 72-74
On load (inside cabin) 78-80
On load (10 m radius) 82-84

WAPCOS Limited 9-16

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The noise levels during various construction activities have been compared to various
standards prescribed by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which are
being implemented in our country through rules framed under Factories Act. It can be
observed that as per unprotected exposure period specified by OSHA (Refer Table-9.11)
that for an 8 hour duration, equivalent noise level exposure should be less than 90 dB(A).

The Director General of Mines Safety in its circular no. DG(Tech)/18 of 1975, has prescribed
the noise level in mining operations for workers in 8 hour shift period with unprotected ear as
90 dB(A) or less. Similar norms can be considered for construction phase of the proposed
project as well. The workers who are expected to be exposed to noise levels greater than 90
dB(A), should not work in these areas beyond 6 to 8 hours. In addition, they also need to be
provided with ear plugs. Thus, increased noise levels due to drilling are not expected to
adversely affect the workers operating the drill or involved in other mining activities closely.

Noise generated due to blasting

Noise generated by blasting is instantaneous, site specific and depends on type, quantity of
explosives, dimension of drill hole, degree of compaction of explosives in the hole and rock.
Noise levels generated due to blasting have been monitored at various sites and the results
have been summarized in Table-9.13.

Table-9.13: Noise generation due to blasting

No. of holes Total charge Maximum Distance (m) Noise level
(kg) charge/delay dB(A)
(kg)
15 1500 100 250 76-85
17 1700 100 250 76-86
18 1800 100 250 74-85
19 1900 100 400 70-75
20 2000 100 100 76-80
It can be observed from Table-9.13, that noise level due to blasting operations are expected
to be of the order of 75-86 dB(A). Since, the nearest settlement are about 0.8 to 1.0 km
away, the incremental noise due to blasting is expected to be 50-60 dB(A). As the blasting is
likely to last for 4 to 5 seconds depending on the charge, noise levels over this time would be
instantaneous and short in duration. Considering attenuation due to various sources, even
the instantaneous increase in noise level is not expected to 60 dB(A). Hence, noise level due
to blasting is not expected to cause any significant adverse impact.

WAPCOS Limited 9-17

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

9.5 IMPACTS ON LAND ENVIRONMENT

a) Construction phase
The major impacts anticipated on land environment during construction are as follows:
• Quarrying operations
• Operation of construction equipment
• Soil erosion
• Muck disposal
• Acquisition of land
Quarrying operations
The total quantities required for the construction of civil components of the Sach Khas HEP
are as follows:

Concrete and Shotcrete Volume : 7.5 Lakh Cum

Fine Aggregate : 3.5 Lakh Cum

Coarse Aggregate : 8.5 Lakh Cum

The above construction material shall be arranged from the identified quarry sites located at
the confluence of Bakanwal nala with Chenab River, 3.6 Km upstream of dam axis on the left
bank. The quantum of muck generation is 13, 15,000.00 cum, of 3, 94,500.00 cum shall be used
as construction material. Fine aggregate requirement shall be met locally from the river bed
and crushed sand.

River Bed Material for Aggregates

For the construction purpose around 70% material from Quarry site, 20% material from
excavated muck & rest 10% material shall be utilized from River bed.
Opening of the quarries will cause visual impacts because they remove a significant part of
the hills. Other impacts will be the noise generated during aggregate acquisition through
explosive and crushing, which could affect wildlife in the area, dust produced during the
crushing operation to get the aggregates to the appropriate size and transport of the
aggregates, and transport of materials.
The quarrying operations are semi-mechanized in nature. Normally, in a hilly terrain like
Himachal Pradesh, quarrying is normally done by cutting a face of the hill. A permanent scar
is likely to be left, once quarrying activities are over. With the passage of time, the rock from
the exposed face of the quarry under the action of wind and other erosion forces, get slowly
weathered and after some time, they become a potential source of landslide. Thus it is
necessary to implement appropriate slope stabilization measures to prevent the possibility of
soil erosion and landslides in the quarry sites.

WAPCOS Limited 9-18

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

ii) Operation of construction equipment

During construction phase, various types of equipment’s will be brought to the site. These
include crushers, batching plant, drillers, earthmovers, rock bolters, etc. The siting of this
construction equipment’s would require significant amount of space. Similarly, space will be
required for storing of various other construction equipment. In addition, land will also be
temporarily acquired, i.e. for the duration of project construction for storage of quarried
material before crushing, crushed material, cement, rubble, etc. Efforts must be made for
proper siting of these facilities.
Various criteria for selection of these sites would be:
• Proximity to the site of use
• Sensitivity of forests in the nearby areas
• Proximity from habitations
• Proximity to drinking water source

Efforts must be made to site the contractor’s working space in such a way that the adverse
impacts on environment are minimal, i.e. to locate the construction equipment, so that an
impact on human and faunal population is minimal.

iii) Soil erosion

The runoff from the construction sites will have a natural tendency to flow towards river
Chenab or its tributaries. For some distance downstream of major construction sites, such as
dam, power house, etc. there is a possibility of increased sediment levels which will lead to
reduction in light penetration, which in turn could reduces the photosynthetic activity to some
extent of the aquatic plants as it depends directly on sunlight. This change is likely to have
an adverse impact on the primary biological productivity of the affected stretch of river
Chenab. Since, river Chenab has significant flow; hence, impacts on this account are not
expected to be significant. However, runoff from construction sites, entering small streams
would have significant adverse impact on their water quality. The runoff would increase the
turbidity levels with corresponding adverse impacts on photosynthetic action and biological
productivity. The impacts on these streams and rivulets thus, would be significant. Adequate
measures need to be implemented as a part of EMP to ameliorate this adverse impact to the
extent possible.

iv) Muck disposal

Total muck from excavation of the project components such as Dam, Power house, TRT, Adits,
Pressure shaft etc. worked out, Component wise muck generation and disposal are given in
Tables-9.14 and 9.15 respectively.

WAPCOS Limited 9-19

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-9.14: Component wise Total Muck Generation

S. No. Particulars Quantity (cum)
1. Diversion Tunnel 1,40,000
2. Dam & Intake 6,00,000
3. Plunge Pool 1,10,000
4. Pressure Shaft 70,000
5. Powerhouse 2,50,000
6. Tail Race Tunnel 20,000
7. Adits 25,000
8. Project Roads 1,00,000
Total 13,15,000
Source: DPR

Table-9.15: Total Muck to be disposed after Considering Swelling Factor

S. No. Description Quantity (cum)

1 Total Excavation 13,15,000.00
2 Common Excavation (considering 40% of Total 5,26,000.00
Muck)
3 Total Rock Excavation = (1) – (2) 7,89,000.00
4 Reusable Quantity as construction material 3,94,500.00
5 Disposable rock muck 3,94,500.00
6 Disposable rock muck after swelling: 5,91,750.00
(considering 50% swelling factor)
7 Back fill/fill quantity 1,90,000.00
8 Disposable common muck = (2) – (7) 3,36,000.00
9 Disposable common muck after swelling 4,20,000.00
(considering 25% swelling factor)
10 Total muck to be disposed = (6 ) + (9) 10,11,750.00
Source: DPR

It is clear from Table-9.15, that total 1.01 Mm3 of muck needs to be disposed. Most of the
area, identified for dumping is planned on the banks of nearest drainages & away from River
HFL. The identified areas are mostly gradually sloping near river bank. The drainage side
bank of the area will be properly protected and stabilized with Gabions/ Retaining Walls of
suitable designed sections. The details of muck disposal areas and capacities are given in
Table-9.16.
Table-9.16: Muck Disposal Sites and Capacities
S. Disposal Site Area Average road Capacity
No. distance from Dam
area
(ha) (km) (lakh cum)
1 Area near Bumbal (R/Bank) 5.46 1 2.30
2 Area near Mindhal Bridge 0.77 6 0.20
(L/Bank)
WAPCOS Limited 9-20
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

S. Disposal Site Area Average road Capacity

No. distance from Dam
area
(ha) (km) (lakh cum)
3 Area near Mindhal Bridge 0.66 6 1.10
(L/Bank)
4 Area near Mindhal Bridge 3.64 6 6.60
(L/Bank)
Total 10.53 10.20
Source: DPR

The capacity of various muck disposal sites is 1.02 Mm3. As such, around 1.01 Mm3 muck to
be disposed hence capacity of the dumping area is sufficient to accommodate the muck
generated from the project.
Muck, if not securely transported and dumped at pre-designated sites, can have serious
environmental impacts, such as:

• Muck, if not disposed properly, can be washed away into the main river which can
cause negative impacts on the aquatic ecosystem of the river.
• Muck disposal can lead to impacts on various aspects of environment. Normally,
the land is cleared before muck disposal. During clearing operations, trees are
cut, and undergrowth perishes as a result of muck disposal.
• In many of the sites, muck is stacked without adequate stabilization measures. In
such a scenario, the muck moves along with runoff and creates landslide like
situations. Many a times, boulders/large stone pieces enter the river/water body,
affecting the benthic fauna, fisheries and other components of aquatic biota.
• Normally muck disposal is done at low lying areas, which get filled up due to
stacking of muck. This can sometimes affect the natural drainage pattern of the
area leading to accumulation of water or partial flooding of some area.
The muck disposal sites will be suitably stabilized on completion of the muck disposal. The
details of stabilization of muck disposal sites are outlined in Environmental Management
Plan covered in Volume-II of this Report.

v) Acquisition of land
The total land required for the project is 125.62 ha. A part of this land is required for labour
camps, quarry sites, muck disposal storage of construction material, siting of construction
equipment, which will be required temporarily and returned once the construction phase is
over. Permanent acquisition of land is required for Dam axis, submergence area, Power
House etc. The details of land required for various project appurtenances are given in Table-
9.17. The entire land to be acquired is forest land.
WAPCOS Limited 9-21
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Table-9.17: Land requirement for Sach Khas hydroelectric project

S. No Project Component/ Activity Area (ha)
1 Submergence Area:
a) Forest Land 81.88
b) Non-Forest Land (Private Land) 0.28
Total Area of Submergence 82.16
2 Muck Dumping Area 10.53
3 Quarry 3.03
4 Dam & Power House 9.54
5 Project Site Offices/Job Facilities: 5.25
6 Explosive Magazine 0.23
7 Sub-surface (Underground Works) Area 2.44
8. Approach Roads to explosive magazine, 5.32
Project facilities & Quarry
9. Township & Office (Private land on lease 7.12
basis)
Total 125.62
Source: DPR

vi) Impacts due to roads

To execute the various civil works, roads would be made for linking the work site to other
sites and to job facility areas. They would essentially be unpaved and would be constructed
at a workable gradient so that loaded construction equipment does not have to toil hard to go
up slope. An average gradient of 1:15 has been contemplated. These roads would be
connected to the existing roads in the area or to other project roads. The details are given in
Table-9.17.
Table-9.17: List of new roads to be constructed
New roads to be constructed Length (Km)
Project Area Bridge to Dam Site (Left Bank of the River) 0.368
Quarry Site to Main Road (SH-26 – Left Bank of the River) 4.139
Project Area Bridge to Main Road (Via Facility Area) 2.995
Dam Top to Main Road (SH-26 – Right Bank of the River) 0.578
Main Road (SH-26) to Dumping Area (Right Bank of the River) 4.00
Total 12.08
Source: DPR

Two bridges are proposed to construct at River Chenab, one at downstream of Tail Race
Tunnel & other on at Ajog Village for the access of Township. The length of the each bridge
shall be in order of 50 m.

WAPCOS Limited 9-22

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The construction of roads can lead to the following impacts:

• The topography of the project area has steep to precipitatuous slope, which
descends rapidly into narrow valleys. The conditions can give rise to erosion hazards
due to net downhill movement of soil aggregates.
• Removal of trees on slopes and re-working of the slopes in the immediate vicinity of
roads can encourage landslides, erosion gullies, etc. With the removal of vegetal
cover, erosive action of water gets pronounced and accelerates the process of soil
erosion and formation of deep gullies. Consequently, the hill faces are bared of soil
vegetative cover and enormous quantities of soil and rock can move down the rivers,
and in some cases, the road itself may get washed out.
• Construction of new roads increases the accessibility of a hitherto undisturbed areas
resulting in greater human interferences and subsequent adverse impacts on the
ecosystem.
• Increased air pollution during construction phase.
9.6 IMPACTS ON BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
a) Construction phase
i) Increased human interferences
During project construction phase, labour population is likely to congregate near various
construction sites. It can be assumed that the technical staff likely to congregate will be of
higher economic status and will live in a more urbanized habitat, and will not use wood as
fuel. However, workers and other population groups residing in the area may use fuel wood
(if no alternate fuel is provided) for whom firewood/coal depot could be provided.

The details of fuel wood requirements are given as below:

* Average fuel wood consumption : 20 kg pcd

* Population size over : 3600
Project construction phase
* Average consumption per day : 72 t/day or 2232 t/month
* For a construction period of 9.5 years : 54448 t or 31060 m3.

One tree produces about 2.5 m3 of wood, thus, about 127,200 trees will be cut to meet the
fuel wood requirements to the labour population, over a construction phase of 9.5 years.
Hence to minimize impacts, it is recommended that the project contractor shall provide
alternate source of fuel be provided to the labour population, so that they do not cut trees to
meet their fuel wood requirements. The details are covered in Environmental Management
Plan covered in Volume-II of this Report.

WAPCOS Limited 9-23

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

The other major impact on the flora in and around the project area would be due to
increased level of human interferences. The workers may also cut trees to meet their
requirements for construction of houses and other needs. Thus, if proper measures are not
undertaken, adverse impacts on terrestrial flora is anticipated. Since, labour camps are
proposed to be constructed by the contractor along with necessary facilities, such impacts
are not envisaged.
During construction of various components of the project, e.g., road, colony, dam axis, muck
disposal, etc. trees will have to be cleared. The tree felling or clearing shall be done by the
Forest Department.

Impacts due to Vehicular movement and blasting

Dust is expected to be generated during blasting, vehicle movement for transportation of
construction material or construction waste. The dust particles shall settle on the foliage of
trees and plants, thereby reduction in amount of sunlight falling on tree foliage. This will
reduce the photosynthetic activity. Based on experience in similar settings, the impact is
expected to be localized up to a maximum of 50 to 100 m from the source. Thus, no
significant impact is expected on this account.

Acquisition of forest land

During project construction phase, land will be required for location of construction
equipment, storage of construction material, muck disposal, widening of existing roads and
construction of new project roads. The total land requirement for the project is 125.62 ha.
The major portion is under riverbed, i.e. submergence area, which is about 82.16 ha. The
balance land is mostly under forest.
The forest in the area has already been degraded due to a large-scale human interference.
The tree density at dam site and submergence area is 126 per ha 151 per ha respectively.
The dominant tree species at dam site are Pinus wallichiana and Juniperus recurva. Shrub
layer is represented by Berberis jaeschkeana, Lonicera sp., Juniperus communis, etc. Pinus
wallichiana, and Juniperus recurva, are the dominant trees recorded from power house site.
The commonly observed shrubs at this site were Rosa sp.and Lonicera sp., Salix sp.
No rare and endangered species are observed in the forest to be acquired for the project.
Thus, no adverse impacts are anticipated on this account.

WAPCOS Limited 9-24

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

9.6.2 Impacts on Terrestrial fauna

a) Construction phase
Disturbance to wildlife
The total land required for the project is 125.62 ha of which 82.16 ha comes under
submergence, (including river bed). The balance 43.46 ha land is required for other project
appurtenances.
Based on the field survey and interaction with locals, it was confirmed that no major wildlife
is reported in the proposed submergence area. It would be worthwhile to mention here that
most of the submergence lies within the gorge portion. Thus, creation of a reservoir due to
the proposed project is not expected to cause any significant adverse impact on wildlife
movement. The project area and its surroundings are not reported to serve as habitat for
wildlife nor do they lie on any known migratory route of wildlife. Thus, no impacts are
anticipated on this account.

During construction phase, large number of machinery and construction workers shall be
mobilized. The operation of various equipments will generate significant noise, especially
during blasting which will have adverse impact on fauna of the area. The noise may affect
the fauna and in the area. . Likewise, siting of construction plants, workshops, stores, labour
camps etc. could also lead to adverse impact on fauna of the area due to increase human
interfererence.
During construction phase, accessibility to area will lead to influx of workers and the people
associated with the allied activities from outside will also increase. Increase in human
interference could have an impact on terrestrial ecosystem. The other major impact could be
the blasting to be carried out during construction phase. This impact needs to be mitigated
by adopting controlled blasting and strict surveillance regime and the same is proposed to be
used in the project. This will reduce the noise level and vibrations due to blasting to a great
extent. Likewise, siting of construction equipment, godowns, stores, labour camps, etc. may
generally disturb the fauna in the area. However, no large-scale fauna is observed in the
area. Thus, impacts on this account are not expected to be significant. However, few stray
animals sometimes venture in and around the project site. Thus, to minimize any harm due
to poaching activities from immigrant labour population, strict anti-poaching surveillance
measures need to be implemented, especially during project construction phase. The same
have been suggested as a part of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

WAPCOS Limited 9-25

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

Impacts on migratory routes

The faunal species observed in the project area are not migratory in nature. The proposed
submergence area is not the migratory route of wild animals. The construction of the
proposed Sach Khas hydroelectric project will form a reservoir of about 82.16 ha, which is
also not reported to be on the migratory route of any major faunal species.
Impacts on avi-fauna
The project area and its surroundings are quite rich in avi-fauna. However, water birds are
not very common in the area. The main reason for this phenomenon is that water birds
generally require quiescent or slow moving water environment. However, in the proposed
project area and its surroundings due to terrain conditions, water flow is swift, which does
not provide suitable habitat for the growth of water birds. With the damming of the river, a
reservoir of an area of about 82.16 ha will be created, with quiescent/tranquil conditions. The
reservoir banks will have wet environment throughout the year which can lead to proliferation
of vegetation e.g. grass, etc. along the reservoir banks. Such conditions are generally ideal
for various kinds of birds, especially, water birds. This is expected to increase the avi-faunal
population of the area.

b) Operation phase
i) Increased accessibility
During the project operation phase, the accessibility to the area will improve due to
construction of roads, which in turn may increase human interferences leading to marginal
adverse impacts on the terrestrial ecosystem. The increased accessibility to the area can
lead to increased human interferences in the form of illegal logging, lopping of trees,
collection of non-timber forest produce, etc. Since significant wildlife population is not found
in the region, adverse impacts of such interferences are likely to be marginal. The details of
measures to improve terrestrial ecology of the area are covered in Volume II of this Report.

9.6.3 Aquatic Flora

a) Construction phase
During construction phase wastewater mostly from domestic source will be discharged
mostly from various camps of workers actively engaged in the project area. Around 0.49 mld
of water is required for the workers during the peak construction phase out of which 80%
(i.e. about 0.39 mld) will be discharged back to the river as wastes, more or less as a point
sources from various congregation sites where workers will reside. The average minimum
flow during lean season is about 8.7 cumec. However, sufficient water for dilution will be
available in river Chenab to keep the DO of the river to significantly high levels.

WAPCOS Limited 9-26

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

b) Operation phase
The completion of Sach Khas hydroelectric Project would bring about significant changes in
the riverine ecology, as the river transforms from a fast-flowing water system to a quiescent
lacustrine environment. Such an alteration of the habitat would bring changes in physical,
chemical and biotic life. Among the biotic communities, certain species can survive the
transitional phase and can adapt to the changed riverine habitat. There are other species
amongst the biotic communities, which, however, for varied reasons related to feeding and
reproductive characteristics cannot acclimatize to the changed environment, and may
disappear in the early years of impoundment of water. The micro-biotic organisms especially
diatoms, blue-green and green algae before the operation of project, have their habitats
beneath boulders, stones, fallen logs along the river, where depth is such that light
penetration can take place. But with the damming of river, these organisms may perish as a
result of increase in depth.

9.6.4 Impacts on Aquatic Fauna

Construction phase
Impacts due to excavation of construction material from river bed
During the construction phase a large quantity of construction material like stones, pebbles,
gravel and sand would be needed. Significant amount of material is available in the Quarry
and river bed. It is proposed to extract construction material from quarry as well as from the
River bed. The extraction of construction material may affect the river water quality due to
increase in the turbidity levels. This is mainly because the dredged material gets released
during one or all the operations mentioned below:
• Excavation of material from the river bed.
• Loss of material during transport to the surface.
• Overflow from the dredger while loading
• Loss of material from the dredger during transportation.

The cumulative impact of all the above operations is increase in turbidity levels. Good dredging
practices can however, minimize turbidity. It has also been observed that slope collapse is the
major factor responsible for increase in the turbidity levels. If the depth of cut is too high, there
is possibility of slope collapse, which releases a sediment cloud. This will further move outside
the suction radius of dredged head.
In order to avoid this typical situation, the depth of cut be restricted to:
γ H/C < 5.5
Where,
γ - Unit weight of the soil
H - Depth of soil

WAPCOS Limited 9-27

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

C - Cohesive strength of soil

The dredging and deposition of dredged material may affect the survival and propagation of
benthic organisms. The macro-benthic life which remains attached to the stones, boulders etc.
gets dislodged and is carried away downstream by turbulent flow. The areas from where
construction material is excavated, benthic fauna gets destroyed. In due course of time,
however, the area gets recolonized, with fresh benthic fauna. The density and diversity of
benthic fauna will however, be less as compared with the pre-dredging levels.

The second important impact is on the spawning areas of fishes. Almost all the cold water fish
breed in the flowing waters. The spawning areas of these fish species are found amongst
pebbles, gravel, sand etc. The eggs are sticky in nature and remain embedded in the gravel
and subsequently hatch. Any disturbance of stream bottom will result in adverse impacts on fish
eggs. Even increase in fine solids beyond 25 ppm will result in deposition of silt over the eggs,
which would result in asphyxiation of developing embryo and also choking of gills of young
newly emerged fry. Thus, if adequate precautions during dredging operations are not
undertaken, then significant adverse impacts on aquatic ecology are anticipated.

Impacts due to discharge of sewage from labour camp/colony

The proposed hydro-power project envisages construction of a project colony at Village
Ajog. This would result in emergence of domestic waste water which is usually discharged
into the river. However, it is proposed to commission aseptic tank for treatment of sewage
prior its disposal. Due to perennial nature of river Chenab, it maintains sufficient flow
throughout the year which is sufficient to dilute the treated sewage from residential colonies.
Therefore, as mentioned earlier, no adverse impacts on water quality are anticipated due to
discharge of sewage from labour camp/colony.

Impacts due to human activities

Accumulation of labour force in the project area might result in enhancement in
indiscriminate fishing including use of explosives. The use of explosive material to kill fishes
in the river in the project area would result in complete loss of fishes and other aquatic life
making a river stretch completely barren. Indiscriminate fishing will reduce fish stock
availability for commercial and sport fishermen. These aspects have been adequately
covered in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) outlined in Volume II of this Report.

WAPCOS Limited 9-28

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

(b) Operation Phase

Impacts due to damming of river
The damming of river Chenab due to the proposed hydroelectric project in creation of 82.16 ha
of submergence area. The dam will change the fast flowing river to a quiescent lacustrine
environment. The creation of a pond will bring about a number of alterations in physical, abiotic
and biotic parameters both in upstream and downstream directions of the proposed dam site.
The micro and macro benthic biota is likely to be most severely affected as a result of the
proposed project.
The positive impact of the project will be the formation of a water body which can be used for
fish stocks on commercial basis to meet the protein requirement of region. The commercial
fishing in the proposed reservoir would be successful, provided all tree stumps and other
undesirable objects are removed before submergence. The existence of tree stumps and other
objects will hinder the operation of deep water nets. The nets will get entangled in the tree
stumps and may be damaged.
The reduction in flow rate of river Chenab in lean season is likely to increase turbidity levels
downstream of the dam. Further reduction in rate of flow may even create condition of semi-
dessication in certain stretches of the river. Since, fisheries are not reported in the project
area, hence, this is not reported to lead to any adverse impacts on riverine fisheries.
Impacts on migratory fish speies
The obstruction created by the dam would hinder migration of species especially Schizothorax
sp. (from upper reaches to the lower reaches). These fish species undertake annual migration
for feeding and breeding. Therefore, fish migration path may be obstructed due to high dam
and fishes are expected to congregate below the dam wall. Under this situation poaching
activities may increase in the area. However, it is proposed that the artificial seed production in
hatchery may be adopted which can be stocked in the river stretches downstream and
upstream of the proposed dam.
9.7 IMPACTS ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
A project of this magnitude is likely to entail both positive as well as negative impacts on the
socio-cultural fabric of the area. During construction and operation phases, a lot of allied
activities will mushroom in the project area.

9.7.1 Impacts due to influx of labour force

During the construction phase a large labour force, including skilled, semi-skilled and un-
skilled labour force including their families of the order of about 3600 persons, is expected to
immigrate into the project area. It is felt that most of the labour force would come from other
parts of the country. However, some of the locals would also be employed to work in the

WAPCOS Limited 9-29

 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

project. The labour force would stay near to the project construction sites.
The project will also lead to certain negative impacts. The most important negative impact
would be during the construction phase. The labour force that would work in the construction
site would settle around the site. They would temporarily reside there. This may lead to filth,
in terms of domestic wastewater, human waste, etc. Besides, other deleterious impacts are
likely to emerge due to inter-mixing of the local communities with the labour force.
Differences in social, cultural and economic conditions among the locals and labour force
could also lead to friction between the migrant labour population and the total population.

9.7.2 Economic impacts of the project

Apart from direct employment, the opportunities for indirect employment will also be
generated which would provide great impetus to the economy of the local area. Various
types of business like shops, food-stall, tea stalls, etc. besides a variety of suppliers, traders,
transporters will concentrate here and benefit immensely as demand will increase
significantly for almost all types of goods and services. The business community as a whole
will be benefited. The locals will avail these opportunities arising from the project and
increase their income levels. With the increase in the income levels, there will be an
improvement in the infrastructure facilities in the area.

9.7.3 Impacts due to land acquisition

Another most important deleterious impact during construction phase will be that, pertaining
to land acquisition. About 125.62 ha of land proposed to be acquired for the proposed Sach
Khas hydro-electric project. Of this about 82.16 ha is under reservoir submergence. The
balance is under forests.
9.7.4 Impacts on cultural/religious/historical monuments
Apart from village temples in the study area, monuments of cultural, religious, historical or
archaeological importance are not reported in the project as well as the study area. Thus, no
impact on such structures is envisaged.
9.8 INCREASED INCIDENCE OF WATER-RELATED DISEASES
9.8.1 Increased incidence of water-related diseases
The construction of a barrage would convert riverine ecosystem into a lacustrine ecosystem.
The vectors of various diseases may breed in shallow parts of the impounded water. The
magnitude of breeding sites for mosquitoes and other vectors in the impounded water is in
direct proportion to the length of the shoreline. Since, this is a run-of river project in a
mountainous region, increase in water spread area will be marginal and it would remain mostly
confined in the gorge of the river, the increase in the incidence of water borne disease is not
expected. Further, mosquitoes are normally observed upto a maximum elevation of about
WAPCOS Limited 9-30
 L&T Himachal Hydropower Limited EIA Report for Sach Khas HEP, Chamba, HP

2000 m above sea level. The proposed project is located just above this elevation. Hence,
increase in incidence of mosquitoes is not expected at the project site.
9.8.2 Aggregation of labour
About 1200 labourers and technical staff will congregate in the project area during peak
construction phase. The total increase in population is expected to be of the order of 3600.
Most of the labour would come from various parts of the country. The labourer would live in
dormitories provided by the Contractor. Proper sanitary facilities are generally provided. Hence,
a proper surveillance and immunization schedule needs to be developed for the labour
population migrating into the project area.

9.8.3 Inadequate facilities in labour camps

Improperly planned labour camps generally tend to become slums, with inadequate facilities for
potable water supply and sewage treatment and disposal. This could lead to outbreak of
epidemics of water-borne diseases. Adequate measures for supply of potable water and
adequate treatment for sewage has been recommended as a part of Environmental
Management Plan outlined in Volume II of this Report.

WAPCOS Limited 9-31

ANNEXURES
ANNEXURE-I
ANNEXURE-II