Environment Impact Assessment

(September 2003)

This report is an upgraded version of the progress report submitted by NEERI in September 2002. This report, Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment Report, has been prepared using the available baseline data (similar to the one in Progress report & IEE), preparation of environmental impact statement based on identification, prediction, evaluation of impacts, ranking of environmentally viable alternatives and preparation of environmental management plan along with environmental monitoring programme. The observations on the report are as follows:

• The hydrographic data pertaining to tides, currents, sediment transport has been analysed from available secondary data /published literature. Tidal observations were made at Pamban Port between 3^rd May to 5^th May, 2003.

• Baseline marine environment status has been established by using the data generated during the IEE in 1998 and the same was validated by resampling at the locations. The marine environmental status was established for Adams Bridge, Palk Bay & Gulf of Mannar. The marine environment data related to fishing reported availability of fish in shallow waters near Dhanushkodi within 2 to 3 ft.

• The information presented for marine environment is comprehensive and covers components related to marine environment.

• The landuse cover/ landuse data was presented for Pamban Island. The data generated by using IRCC LIS satellite images in 1998 were revalidated and checked by using the Satellite Imageries procured in May 2002. The area suitable for disposal of dredged spoil has been identified using this data. The land identified for dredged material disposal is located between Kodandaramaswamy Temple & Dhanushkodi.

• The impacts associated with the project have been discussed for Pre-construction, Construction  and Post Construction Phases. The impacts were analysed using network methods.

• Impacts on the marine environment were mainly studied in terms of sediment transport/littoral movement using hydrodynamic models. The impacts were focused mainly on the marine environment. The impacts due to development of shore based facilities, road/rail movement, land acquisition and R&R issues were qualitatively discusses. The positive benefits especially on the economic front were not much focused.

• The Environmental Management Plan presented in this stage of report was indicative but addressed most of the issues. The EMP did not discuss about the monitoring requirements related to construction and operation phases and also about the required institutional mechanism.

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