UNIT - 3

PLAN FOR MITIGATION OF ADVERSE IMPACTS ON WATER, AIR, LAND,

ENERGY, FLORA, AND FAUNA
INTRODUCTION
1. Environmental degradation occurs due to unplanned and uncontrolled development
activities such as highways, industries, dams, and mining. These projects may harm
ecosystems, natural resources, and the quality of life.
2. A Mitigation Plan aims to prevent, reduce, or manage adverse environmental
impacts through scientific, technical, and management interventions.
3. The goal is to ensure sustainable development, which meets present needs without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR AIR POLLUTION
1. Dust Control Measures
Construction, mining, and unpaved roads generate dust particles (PM10, PM2.5) that
affect human health and visibility. Sprinkling water regularly, using dust-binding
chemicals, and enclosing dust-producing operations help reduce suspended particles.
2. Emission Reduction Technologies
Industrial emissions such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides must be controlled using
devices like electrostatic precipitators, bag filters, cyclone separators, and wet
scrubbers. These technologies help trap and neutralize harmful gases and particles before
they are released into the atmosphere.
3. Green Belt Development
Developing a green belt around factories and roads can serve as a pollution sink. Trees
like neem, peepal, and banyan absorb pollutants like CO₂ and provide oxygen. This also
improves the visual aesthetics and climate of the area.
4. Use of Clean Fuels
Promoting LPG, CNG, electricity, and biofuels in transport and industrial sectors can
significantly reduce emissions of CO, HC, NOx, and particulates. Cleaner fuels also help
in reducing the carbon footprint of the project.
5. Air Quality Monitoring
Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems (CAAQMS) must be installed to
monitor pollutants like SO₂, NO₂, and PM2.5. Corrective actions must be taken if limits
exceed permissible levels set by the CPCB.
6. Controlled Scheduling
Work like demolition and blasting should be scheduled during calm weather conditions
and enclosed spaces to limit the spread of dust and emissions.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR WATER POLLUTION
1. Effluent and Sewage Treatment
Industries must treat wastewater before discharge using Effluent Treatment Plants
(ETPs), while domestic waste should go through Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs).
Treated water can be reused for gardening or flushing, reducing freshwater demand.
2. Rainwater Harvesting
Installing rooftop rainwater harvesting systems helps store rainwater and recharge
underground aquifers. This reduces dependency on groundwater and prevents surface
runoff and flooding.
3. Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD)
Industries should aim for ZLD by recycling and reusing all treated water. Technologies
like Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Multi-Effect Evaporation (MEE) help in achieving ZLD.
4. Establishment of Buffer Zones
Creating green buffer zones or fencing near water bodies prevents direct contamination
and maintains the integrity of aquatic ecosystems.
5. Oil and Grease Traps
Mechanical workshops, automobile service stations, and industrial units should install
traps to prevent oil and grease from entering the sewage network.
6. Groundwater Monitoring
Periodic sampling of groundwater ensures early detection of pollutants like heavy metals,
fluoride, or nitrates. It helps in preventing long-term contamination and protecting public
health.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR LAND DEGRADATION
1. Soil Stabilization Techniques
To prevent soil erosion, especially in hilly areas, methods like hydroseeding, vegetation
cover, geotextiles, and terracing should be used. This enhances the land’s productivity and
reduces sedimentation in rivers.
2. Solid Waste Management
Proper segregation at source, collection, transportation, and disposal of solid waste should
be ensured. Scientific landfills should be used for hazardous waste, and organic waste
should be composted.
3. Topsoil Conservation
Before construction, the top 15–20 cm of fertile soil should be stored safely and reused
for landscaping or agricultural purposes. This prevents the loss of soil nutrients and
biodiversity.
4. Proper Land Zoning and Use
Construction should follow land use planning and avoid restricted areas such as forests,
wetlands, and floodplains to reduce environmental damage and risk of disasters.
5. Bio-remediation for Polluted Sites
Use of microbial or plant-based techniques to clean contaminated soil (e.g., oil spills,
heavy metals) helps restore the productivity of land over time.
6. Reforestation of Degraded Areas
Plantation drives on barren land help reduce erosion, improve microclimate, increase
rainfall infiltration, and support biodiversity restoration.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION
1. Energy-Efficient Equipment
Promote the use of star-rated appliances, LED lighting, and high-efficiency motors.
This reduces power consumption and operating costs.
2. Adoption of Renewable Energy
Install solar panels, solar water heaters, and wind turbines in both industrial and
residential projects. Government subsidies can help promote adoption.
3. Energy Audits
Energy audits identify areas of energy wastage in lighting, air conditioning, and
equipment usage. Recommendations from audits help improve efficiency.
4. Smart Grids and Automation
IoT-based smart meters and automated systems can detect faults, control energy usage,
and optimize operations based on demand.
5. Architectural Design for Daylight
Proper orientation of buildings, skylights, and reflective surfaces can reduce the need for
artificial lighting during the day.
6. Training and Awareness
Workshops and campaigns can teach workers and residents to adopt energy-saving habits
like switching off unused devices and using appliances at optimal times.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR FLORA (PLANT LIFE)
1. Compensatory Afforestation
For every tree cut, at least 5–10 new trees must be planted in a nearby location.
Maintenance must be ensured for 3–5 years with proper fencing and watering.
2. Pre-Project Botanical Survey
Before starting the project, surveys must be conducted to identify endangered and
medicinal species. These plants must be protected or relocated.
3. Green Landscaping
Develop parks, lawns, green terraces, and roadside plantations using native plant species
that need less water and care.
4. Avoid Invasive Species
Avoid introducing fast-growing exotic plants like Prosopis and Lantana which harm the
ecosystem. Use native plants that support local fauna.
5. Organic Fertilizer Usage
Replace chemical fertilizers and pesticides with compost, vermicompost, neem oil, and
cow dung to protect soil and plant health.
6. Creation of Botanical Parks
These parks act as biodiversity hubs, preserve native species, and can also be used for
environmental education and eco-tourism.
MITIGATION PLAN FOR FAUNA (ANIMAL LIFE)
1. Wildlife Corridors and Underpasses
Highways near forests should include animal crossings to prevent accidents. These
corridors allow animals to move freely and safely between habitats.
2. Minimize Noise and Light Pollution
Avoid night-time construction. Use noise-dampening machinery and shielded lights to
reduce disturbance to birds and nocturnal species.
3. Protection of Habitats
Avoid construction in nesting zones, wetlands, or migration paths. If damage is
unavoidable, a restoration plan must be implemented post-project.
4. Avoid Activity During Breeding Seasons
Construction near natural habitats should be restricted during breeding seasons to protect
sensitive species like turtles and migratory birds.
5. Ban on Hunting and Trapping
Strict rules must be enforced to prevent workers and locals from hunting or disturbing
animals in the project area.
6. Wildlife Rescue and Monitoring Teams
Set up a team with trained forest officers and veterinarians to handle wildlife emergencies
and monitor movement patterns using camera traps.
MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
1. Public Awareness Programs
Involve local communities through training and awareness campaigns to encourage
participation in environmental protection and reporting violations.
2. Third-Party Audits and Reviews
Appoint external agencies to conduct environmental audits to ensure impartial monitoring
and to suggest improvements.
3. Use of Remote Sensing & GIS
Technology tools like GIS and satellite images can be used to monitor environmental
changes and illegal land use over time.
Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMP)
Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMP) is a critical component of Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA).
It involves a systematic approach to track and evaluate environmental parameters to
ensure that environmental protection measures are effectively implemented during project
construction, operation, and decommissioning phases.
It ensures that the project activities remain within the approved environmental limits and
helps identify any unexpected adverse impacts early.
Objectives of Environmental Monitoring
1. Ensure compliance with environmental standards and regulations.
2. Measure the effectiveness of mitigation strategies mentioned in EIA.
3. Identify unanticipated impacts on the environment during and after project
execution.
4. Help decision-makers take corrective actions quickly.
5. Provide data for future planning and environmental management.
6. Strengthen public confidence by maintaining transparency.
Components of Environmental Monitoring Plan
An effective EMP should cover the following components:
a. Air Quality Monitoring
• Regular monitoring of PM10, PM2.5, SO₂, NOx, CO using air quality sensors.
• Placement of air monitoring stations around the project site.
• Ensures pollution remains below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS).
b. Water Quality Monitoring
• Monitor surface and groundwater for pH, BOD, COD, heavy metals, and coliform
bacteria.
• Regular sampling near water bodies to prevent contamination.
• Ensures compliance with CPCB and BIS standards for water.
c. Noise Monitoring
• Regular checks for daytime and nighttime noise levels using decibel meters.
• Ensures noise from equipment, traffic, and activities stays within legal limits.
d. Soil Quality Monitoring
• Test for pH, nutrient content, heavy metals, oil, and grease contamination.
 • Identify risks of land degradation or toxic accumulation.
e. Flora and Fauna Monitoring
• Observe and record impacts on local biodiversity and natural habitats.
• Track migration, population, and health of key species.
• Prevent destruction or disturbance to ecologically sensitive areas.
f. Waste Management Monitoring
• Regular checking of solid, liquid, and hazardous waste disposal practices.
• Ensure waste is managed as per Hazardous Waste Management Rules.
• Prevent leaching or illegal dumping.
g. Health and Safety Monitoring
• Monitor health parameters of workers and local residents.
• Conduct regular medical check-ups, and record incidents of illness.
• Track exposure to hazardous substances.
h. Energy and Resource Usage
• Monitor the consumption of electricity, fuel, and water.
• Promote conservation through audits and efficient technologies.
Steps in Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMP)
An Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMP) is prepared in a step-by-step manner to ensure
that all environmental aspects of a project are monitored and controlled effectively. Below are
the detailed steps involved:
1. Choose What to Monitor (Environmental Parameters)
The first step is to decide what environmental elements should be monitored.
This depends on the type of project (factory, highway, dam, etc.).

Common parameters include:

• Air – Dust, smoke, and gases (PM2.5, PM10, SO₂, NOx).
• Water – pH, BOD, COD, oil, chemicals in rivers or ponds.
• Noise – Sound levels caused by machines or vehicles.
• Soil – Fertility, presence of toxic substances.
• Biodiversity – Plants and animals in nearby forests or lakes.
• Waste – Quantity and type of waste generated.

This step ensures we monitor the right things to protect the environment.
2. Select Where to Monitor (Monitoring Locations)
Next, we decide where to check these parameters. The location should be:

Areas where pollution is most likely to happen, such as:

• Near chimneys, effluent outlets, drains.
• Nearby residential areas, schools, hospitals.
• Upwind and downwind points for air.
• Upstream and downstream for water.

This helps to understand how far the impact is spreading and who is affected.
3. Decide How Often to Monitor (Frequency)
It is important to define how many times and how often monitoring will be done.

Examples of frequency:
• Air and noise: Daily or weekly during construction.
• Water and soil: Once a month or once in 3 months.
• Flora and fauna: Once every season.
• Waste: Daily logs and monthly reports.

This ensures that we get regular updates and do not miss any dangerous changes.
4. Use the Right Tools (Instruments and Methods)
In this step, we choose proper instruments and tools to do the testing.

Examples:
• Air: High Volume Sampler, Gas Analyzer.
• Water: pH meter, turbidity meter, COD/BOD kits.
• Noise: Sound level meter.
• Soil: Soil testing kits, spectrophotometers.
Methods must follow CPCB, BIS, or ISO standards to ensure correct and legal results.

Using accurate tools helps in getting trustworthy data.

5. Collect the Data (Sample Collection)
Here, the team collects samples of air, water, or soil and notes noise levels.

Important points:
• Samples must be taken carefully and labeled properly.
• Samples should be sent to certified labs for analysis.
 • The team must record time, date, weather, etc., during collection.

This step ensures that clean and organized data is available for analysis.
6. Analyze and Compare Results (Data Evaluation)
After collection, the samples are analyzed in labs or using field instruments.

Analysis includes:
• Checking if the values are within legal limits.
• Comparing data with baseline levels (before the project started).
• Looking for any increase in pollution or harmful changes.

This helps to know whether the project is safe or causing problems.

7. Prepare Reports (Documentation and Submission)
After analysis, a report is created showing:

What was monitored

Where and when it was monitored
Results (in tables and graphs)
Comparison with government standards
Any violations or alerts
Suggestions for improvement
These reports are submitted to:
• Pollution Control Boards
• Project authorities
• Local communities, if needed

This ensures transparency and legal compliance.

8. Take Action if Needed (Corrective Measures)
If the monitoring report shows that pollution is above safe limits, then:

The company must:

• Stop or reduce activities causing the problem.
• Use better machines like filters or scrubbers.
• Improve waste disposal or water treatment.
• Increase green cover to absorb pollution.

Taking quick action prevents harm to the environment and public health.
9. Inform and Involve People (Public Participation)
People living near the project site should be informed and involved.

This can be done through:

• Public meetings
• Leaflets or posters
• Feedback forms
• Community awareness programs

This increases trust, support, and cooperation from the local people.
10. Review and Improve the Plan (Continuous Monitoring)
The last step is to regularly update the EMP based on:

Latest technologies
New government rules
Feedback from people and authorities
Monitoring results over time

This keeps the plan flexible, strong, and up to date.

4. Monitoring Frequency and Schedule
• Air & noise: Daily or weekly during construction; monthly during operation.
• Water & soil: Monthly or quarterly.
• Biodiversity: Seasonal or annual assessments.
• Health & safety: Monthly reports with incident logs.
5. Responsibility and Reporting
• A dedicated Environmental Management Cell (EMC) is formed.
• Responsibilities include:
o Sample collection, testing, record maintenance.
o Submitting periodic reports to Pollution Control Boards and stakeholders.
• Maintain public transparency through environment monitoring reports (EMRs).
6. Corrective Measures
• If pollution levels exceed limits:
o Immediate corrective actions must be taken.
o Revise mitigation measures and implement improvements.
o Conduct root cause analysis for future prevention.
7. Benefits of Environmental Monitoring Plan
1. Early detection of environmental issues.
2. Improved compliance with legal norms.
3. Risk reduction for environment and human health.
4. Sustainable project development.
5. Accountability and transparency in environmental management.
8. Example

Example – A Thermal Power Plant:

• The EMP included continuous monitoring of air emissions (SO₂, NOx), ash handling,
and water use.
• Based on monitoring, new scrubbers were added to reduce emissions.

Example – Highway Project:

• EMP involved monitoring dust levels, noise from construction, and water drainage
near villages.
• Local flora was replanted in disturbed areas after project completion.
EIA Report Preparation
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report is a formal document that presents the
findings of an EIA study. It evaluates the potential environmental impacts of a proposed
project and suggests measures to minimize or avoid harm. It is submitted to regulatory
authorities for project approval.
Steps in EIA Report Preparation

Screening
• Purpose: To determine whether a project requires EIA and to what extent (full EIA
or partial).
• Process:
o Based on project type, size, and location.
o Projects are classified into Category A (requires clearance from central
authority) and Category B (state-level).
• Criteria include pollution potential, resource usage, and location sensitivity (e.g.,
near forests or rivers).

• Example: A small school building may not require EIA, but a chemical factory,
airport, or thermal power plant definitely will.

Scoping
• Purpose: To identify the critical environmental issues that need focused analysis.
• Activities:
o Consultation with stakeholders, experts, and government bodies.
o Prepares a “Terms of Reference (ToR)” – a list of what studies are needed.
o Avoids wasting time on irrelevant data.

• Example: In a highway project, key issues may include air pollution, noise,
deforestation, and impact on wildlife corridors.

Baseline Environmental Study

• Purpose: To gather detailed information about the existing environmental
conditions of the project area.
• Parameters:
o Air quality, water quality, soil type, vegetation, wildlife, noise levels,
climate, and socio-economic conditions.
• Duration: Data is usually collected for a minimum of one season (often 3 months).

• Example: If a port is planned, baseline studies may include marine biodiversity,

wave patterns, and water salinity.
Impact Prediction and Evaluation
• Purpose: To predict how the project will affect the environment.
• Methods:
o Use of modelling tools, GIS, statistical methods, and expert judgement.
o Impacts are predicted for:
▪ Construction phase
▪ Operation phase
▪ Decommissioning phase (if applicable)
• Impact Types: Direct, indirect, cumulative, reversible/irreversible, short-term/long-
term.

• Example: A cement plant may increase PM2.5 and PM10 in the air, cause
groundwater depletion, or disturb local bird populations.

Mitigation Measures
• Purpose: To propose solutions to avoid, reduce, or compensate for the negative
impacts.
• Techniques:
o Engineering solutions (e.g., wastewater treatment plants)
o Pollution control equipment
o Relocation of project components
o Development of green belts

• Example: To reduce air pollution, bag filters can be installed in the chimney of an
industrial unit; for water management, rainwater harvesting may be implemented.

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

• Purpose: To ensure that all mitigation actions are properly implemented and
monitored.
• Contents:
o Roles and responsibilities of project staff
o Cost estimates and budgeting
o Time schedule for mitigation
o Monitoring programs and frequency
o Emergency preparedness plan
 • Example: The EMP of a highway project might include monitoring air quality at
construction sites, noise control near schools, and soil erosion control measures.

Public Consultation
• Purpose: To involve local communities and stakeholders in the decision-making
process.
• Benefits:
o Builds trust and transparency
o Helps identify hidden or local issues
o Improves project design through feedback
• Conducted by: State Pollution Control Boards or designated authorities.

• Example: In a mining project, nearby villagers may express concerns about

groundwater contamination or displacement. These inputs help in modifying the
project.

Report Compilation
• Purpose: To compile all the findings, data, mitigation plans, and stakeholder feedback
into a single report.
• Structure Includes:
o Executive Summary
o Project Description
o Baseline Environmental Status
o Impact Assessment
o Mitigation and Monitoring Plan
o Public Consultation Outcomes
o Environmental Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Submission: Final EIA Report is submitted to regulatory bodies (like MoEF&CC for
Category A projects) for clearance.

Example: After compiling, the EIA report of a thermal power plant is reviewed by an
expert appraisal committee before granting clearance.
Structure of an EIA Report

Project Description
Description of the Environment
Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
Analysis of Alternatives (Technology and Site)
Environmental Monitoring Program
Additional Studies
Project Benefits
Environmental Cost-Benefit Analysis
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Summary and Conclusion
Disclosure of Consultants Engaged
Project Description
• Describes the nature, size, and location of the proposed project.
• Provides technical information such as:
o Raw materials used
o Water and energy requirements
o Land use and infrastructure
• Includes project layout plans, process flow charts, and implementation schedule.
Description of the Environment
• Presents the baseline environmental conditions of the project area.
• Covers environmental parameters like:
o Air and water quality
o Noise levels
o Soil characteristics
o Flora and fauna
o Socio-economic conditions
• Data is collected through primary surveys and secondary sources.
Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
• Identifies and assesses the potential environmental impacts due to construction and
operation phases.
• Categorizes them into:
o Air pollution, water contamination, noise, waste generation, etc.
 • Provides measures to reduce, control, or eliminate these impacts.
o Example: Use of dust suppression, afforestation, wastewater treatment.
Analysis of Alternatives (Technology and Site)
• Compares different locations, processes, and technologies for the proposed project.
• Helps select the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective option.
• Justifies the final choice based on minimum environmental damage and maximum
feasibility.
Environmental Monitoring Program
• Outlines the plan to track environmental changes post-project implementation.
• Includes:
o Frequency of monitoring
o Responsible agencies
o Parameters to be tested (air, water, noise, etc.)
• Ensures the project complies with environmental norms continuously.
Additional Studies
• May include:
o Risk Assessment: Identifies hazards and safety measures.
o Disaster Management Plan: Response to fire, explosion, etc.
o Public Hearing Summary: Concerns raised by local people and responses.
Project Benefits
• Highlights economic, social, and environmental benefits of the project.
o Job creation, infrastructure development, regional growth.
• Helps build public and government support for the project.
Environmental Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Compares project benefits with environmental costs.
• Includes:
o Cost of land acquisition, pollution control, health impact vs. profit,
employment.
• Used to justify the environmental investment.
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
• Provides a detailed plan for:
o Implementing mitigation measures
o Assigning responsibilities
o Monitoring and reporting procedures
o Budget allocation
• Acts as a practical guide for the project developer.
Summary and Conclusion
• Presents a non-technical summary of the entire EIA report.
• Highlights:
o Key findings
o Major impacts and mitigation
o Project justification
• Helps stakeholders quickly understand the essence of the report.
Disclosure of Consultants Engaged
• Lists the names and credentials of the EIA consultants or agencies involved in
preparing the report.
• Ensures transparency and accountability in the report preparation process.