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Bhakra Beas Management Board
Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
March 2010
Plot No. 6-B, Sector 19-B Madhya Marg, Chandigarh-160 019
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
CHAPTER 1
CONTEXT
1.1 Power Generation at BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board): BBMB hydro projects were
constructed between 1955 and 1978. These projects comprise Bhakra Dam on river Sutlej with Power
Stations on left and right banks (1325 MW), irrigation channel with two canal power houses (155 MW),
Pong Dam on river Beas with a power station (396 MW). In addition, the projects include a diversion dam
on river Beas to divert its water to river Sutlej through a 38 KM long water conductor system in the form
of tunnels, open channel, balancing reservoir and Dehar power station (990 MW) at the tail1.
The annual power generation from these power stations is between 10,000 to 14,000 GWh.BBMB hydro
projects are connected to the Northern Grid... Importantly, the BBMB hydro projects provide invaluable
peaking power and serve as sources of emergency & black start power to the Northern Grid of India.
1.2 Power Deficit and Power Generation Options: The equipment at BBMB power houses have
been in successful operation for more than thirty years. There is a huge shortage of peaking power.
Further, the Northern Grid - a key beneficiary of the power generated from the power houses of BBMB -
remains deficit with respect to the power requirements. Following options can be considered at National
level to tide over the issues related to power shortages
Option 1 : to construct fossil fuel based new power houses to meet the power demand. This option will
however lead to emission of pollutants including carbon dioxide and generation of undesirable residues
such as fly ash. Fossil fuel being a non-renewable resource will also get depleted.
Option 2 : to explore construction of additional hydropower units. This option will lead to issues such as
finding new sources of hydropower generation , gestation time of the hydro plants, resettlement of people
in the submerged area, heightened seismicity hazard (for reservoir based high gravity dams) and string of
ecological impacts – especially in the downstream areas.
Option 3 : to carry out up-gradation of existing equipment through Renovation, Modernization and
Upgradation (RM&U). This option will leave least environmental and social impacts both at national and
regional levels..
1 Refer to Figure 2.2 in Chapter 2 for more details.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
BBMB has decided to undertake R,M&U option so as to create additional power generation capacities in
the grid.
1.3 Clean Development Mechanism: Adoption of RM&U measures leading to added power
generation capacity at the BBMB power houses would lead to reduction of carbon dioxide emissions
(Green House Gas –GHG) at the grid level as it would substitute the power that would have otherwise
been generated through fossil fuel based power plants.. The RM& U option adopted by BBMB has been
developed as a CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) project under the Kyoto Protocol of the UNFCCC
(UN Framework Convention on Climate Change)
The carbon revenues earned from the CDM project would be used to overcome the barriers that BBMB
faces towards implementation of the R,M& U activity. The RM&U project can become a showcase for the
hydro & fossil based power houses in India to follow. The additional power available in the Northern Grid
through R,M&U activity would ensure reduced detrimental environmental impacts and enhanced
economic development in the industrial, agriculture and the commercial sectors.
1.4 Proposed Activities under CDM project at BBMB:
The RM&U work includes the following activities:
• Replacement of existing generation equipments (turbine runner, generator, generator transformer and
allied systems) with energy efficient ones; and
• Providing a state-of-the-art control, instrumentation and protection system for better monitoring.
A total capacity addition of 90.0 MW is envisaged through these RM&U activities, whose basic objectives
are:
• To increase the capacity and energy generation with upgraded turbine runners for more
effective utilization of Sutlej-Beas river waters
• To ensure safe, reliable and economic electricity production by the replacement of worn-out,
deteriorated or obsolete electrical, mechanical, instrumentation
The role of BBMB in this project will be in the following capacities:
• Project Operator
• Owner of the site and project
• Owner of the emission reductions
• Seller of the emission reductions
1.5 Applicability of World Bank’s Environmental and Social Safeguards: Undertaking RM & U
activities to generate additional power is the most environmentally sound and socially acceptable option. In
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
fact, upgrading of existing turbines is essentially an efficiency enhancement measure that leads to reduced
carbon dioxide emissions and has benefits towards climate change. However, despite above, it still
becomes imperative to examine the projects as well as BBMB as an institution in the context of World
Bank’s Environmental and Social Safeguards.
Table 1.2 lists the relevant environmental and social safeguards in the context of the RM & U projects.
Table 1.2: Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies of the World Bank Triggered by the
Proposed RM & U Projects at BBMB
Safeguard Policies Triggered Yes No
Environmental Assessment (OP/BP 4.01) X Natural Habitats (OP/BP 4.04) X Forests (OP/BP 4.36) X Pest Management (OP 4.09) X Physical Cultural Resources (OP/BP 4.11) X Indigenous Peoples (OP/BP 4.10) X Involuntary Resettlement (OP/BP 4.12) X Safety of Dams (OP/BP 4.37) X Projects on International Waterways (OP/BP 7.50) X (see Section 1.6.1) Projects in Disputed Areas (OP/BP 7.60) X
Except the safeguard on Environmental Assessment (OP/BP 4.01) and Dam Safety, no other
Environmental and Social Safeguards are triggered in this project. A separate report has been prepared to
examine the Dam safety safeguard and the present report is limited to the environmental issues. Section
1.6.1 below reports on the applicability of OP 7.5 for the sake of completeness.
1.6.1 Applicability of the Exceptions to External Notification Requirements of OP 7.50: According
to paragraph 7 of OP 7.50, there are exceptions to the Bank’s requirement that the other riparian states be
notified about the project. According to paragraph 7(a) of OP 7.50, the exception applies:
“… (a) For any ongoing schemes, projects involving additions or alterations that require
rehabilitation, construction, or other changes that in the judgment of the Bank
(i) will not adversely change the quality or quantity of water flows to the other riparians; and
(ii) will not be adversely affected by the other riparians’ possible water use.
This exception applies only to minor additions or alterations to the ongoing scheme; it does not
cover works and activities that would exceed the original scheme, change its nature, or so alter or
expand its scope and extent as to make it appear a new or different scheme. In case of doubt
regarding the extent to which a project meets the criteria of this exception, the executive directors
representing the riparians concerned are informed and given at least two months to reply. Even if
projects meet the criteria of this exception, the Bank tries to secure compliance with the requirements
of any agreement or arrangement between the riparians. ”
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
The project team has assessed the project components in the context of OP 7.50 and concludes that
exception to the external notification requirements of OP 7.50, set forth in paragraph 7(a) of OP 7.50, is
fully applicable to this project for the reasons mentioned below:
• The project does not envisage any alteration in flows of water through the turbines from the
original scheme. The capacity enhancement (uprating) is proposed to be achieved through
replacement of existing generation equipment with more energy efficient ones without any
changes to water flows.
• The project works are small compared to the original scheme, are meant to support the
rehabilitation of the original scheme
• The project lies between existing upstream and downstream regulation structures in what is
effectively a long cascade of river development and thus is not expected to impact the other
riparians.
Thus, given the nature of works envisaged under the proposed project: (a) the project will not adversely
affect the quality or quantity of water flows to other riparians; (b) it will not be adversely affected by other
riparians’ water use either; and (c) it does not change the nature of the scheme, or so alter or expand its
scope and extent as to make it appear as a new or different scheme. Therefore, the exception to the
external notification requirements of OP 7.50, set forth in paragraph 7(a) of OP 7.50, is fully applicable to
this project.
1.7 Environmental Audit -Focus and Approach: Since the projects and project sites already exist
on the ground with a long history of operations, the environmental examination is more akin to an
Environmental Audit2 rather than Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Box 1.1 below explains the
spirit and scope of an Environmental Audit.
Box 1.1 Environmental Audit and Environmental Impact Assessment- a comparative analysis3
2 Also referred in some cases as Environmental Due Diligence (EDD) – especially when transfer of assets is involved.
3 http://www.gdrc.org/uem/eia/eia-audit.html
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Environmental impact assessment is the mandatory assessment of the compliance of planned activities,
such as planning documents, programmes and projects, with environmental protection requirements
with the principles of sustainable development, with the aim of determining the optimum solution.
On the other hand, environmental audit is the assessment of the compliance of environmental
administration and performance of an operating business with environmental protection requirements,
sound environmental practice in general, and the principles of sustainable development.
Environmental auditing is mandatory only in cases stipulated by law.
Environmental audits are being used as a tool and an aid to test the effectiveness of environmental
efforts at local level. An environmental audit is a systematic, independent internal review to check
whether the results of environmental work tally with the targets. An environmental audit also focuses
on whether the methods used to achieve goals are effective. To be more precise the work of an
environmental audit is a study of documents and reports to see whether there are any deviations
between targets and results. This is done by interviewing key people in the organisation. An
environmental audit will confirm whether or not the environmental targets have been attained.
During a typical environmental audit, a team of qualified inspectors (either employees of the
organization being audited or contractor personnel), conducts a comprehensive examination of a plant
or other facility to determine whether it is complying with environmental laws and regulations. Using
checklists, audit protocols , relying on professional judgment and evaluations of site-specific
conditions, the team systematically verifies compliance with applicable requirements. The team may
also evaluate the effectiveness of systems in place to manage compliance and assess the environmental
risks associated with the facility's operations.
The Environmental Audit in the case of BBMB’s RM&U projects was therefore targeted to assess
• Environmental compliance,
• Environmental Management System on an organization wide basis and
• BBMB’s institutional capacity and commitment to environment
The Environmental Audit thus aimed to ascertain:
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• BBMB’s understanding and sensitivity to the environmental issues and whether appropriate
actions are taken to manage these issues
• BBMB’s status on Environmental Compliance and whether a system is in place to monitor and
audit the same
• BBMB’s human resources for environmental management, adequacy and capacity
To conduct Environmental Audit as per above, meetings were held with top management and concerned
BBMB officials. Visits were made to the project sites and concerned staff at BBMB was interviewed,
especially the Environmental Officers (EOs). In addition, documents concerning consents/authorization
were accessed and reviewed. Supporting data on environmental monitoring was also looked into. As
BBMB has implemented Environmental Management System (EMS) as per ISO 14001, the EMS
documentation formed an important basis for Environmental Audit. Training programs and training related
arrangements and facilities were also examined from capacity building perspective. Figure 1.1 explains
the overall approach that was followed.
1.8 Limitations: There are certain limitations to this Environmental Audit report that should be noted.
• The focus of the Environmental Audit was limited to the CDM project sites and did not cover all
the BBMB projects.
• There were limited site visits
• The Audit was performed solely based on the secondary data and information provided by BBMB.
No primary and independent data are generated through third party monitoring to verify the data
provided.
However these limitations should be acceptable given the project context, low environmental and social
sensitivity and BBMB’s record on meeting compliance with environmental regulators such as Pollution
Control Boards (PCBs). The compliance records have been satisfactory.
Further, BBMB has implemented Environmental Management System (EMS) as per ISO 14001. The
practice and records of internal and external audit of EMS provide a basis for independent assessment and
lend credence to the information provided. The Environmental Audit therefore focused on the assessment
of EMS to understand organization wide commitment and management capacity at the BBMB. This
assessment has been satisfactory.
1.9 Structure of the Report: The report is developed across six chapters. Chapter 1 sets the context.
Chapter 2 provides an overview of BBMB, its mandate, assets under management and the socio-economic
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
and environmental implications. The various environmental management related initiatives undertaken by
BBMB are described in Chapter 3 with an introduction to the EMS approach that has been adopted. The
EMS approach has now set an overarching framework at BBMB that is driven through policy, objectives
and targets rather than practicing a project limited ad-hoc approach. Chapter 4 therefore details the EMS
system at BBMB, its structure and operation with supporting details in various annexes. Chapter 5
describes the social welfare related initiatives undertaken by BBMB that are interlinked to environmental
issues and demonstrate BBMB’s proactive community commitments. Finally, overall observations and
recommendations are summarized in Chapter 6 for BBMB’s consideration.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
CHAPTER 2
BACKGROUND: ABOUT THE BHAKRA-BEAS MANAGEMENT BOARD
2.1 History and Evolution: Bhakra-Beas River Valley Development Projects formed a major part of
the master plan formulated for the optimum utilisation of waters from three rivers viz. Sutlej, Beas and
Ravi which came to the exclusive share of India as per Indus Water Treaty concluded with neighbouring
Pakistan in the year 1960. Originally, the Bhakra-Beas River Valley Development Projects were the joint
ventures of erstwhile Punjab and Rajasthan State Governments.
2.2 Constitution: However, on reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Punjab on 1st November, 1966, the
Bhakra Management Board (BMB) was constituted under section 79 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act,
1966 for the administration, maintenance and operation of Bhakra Nangal Project on 1st October 1967.
Construction of Beas Projects, a joint venture of States of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan was entrusted to
Beas Construction Board according to Punjab Reorganisation Act. The Beas Project Works, on
completion, were transferred by Government of India from Beas Construction Board (BCB) to Bhakra
Management Board as per Section 80 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966 and the Bhakra Management
Board was renamed as Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) w.e.f. 15th May 1976.
Partner State Governments and their State Electricity Boards form the key partners and stakeholders of
BBMB. The BBMB consists of a whole time Chairman, two whole time Members (appointed by the Govt.
of India) and one representative each from the states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh
besides two representatives from Govt. of India (One each from Ministry of Power and Ministry of Water
Resources).
2.3 Vision, Mission and the Mandate: Box 2.1 below states the Vision and Mission statement of
BBMB
Box 2.1 Vision and Mission statement of BBMB
Vision Statement:
“To lead and be a trend setter in the power sector in establishing high standards in operation, maintenance,
renovation and modernization of hydel projects, transmission, canal systems and to exploit new hydro
power potential to optimally utilize the existing infrastructure and resources.”
Mission Statement:
“To keep our systems running efficiently at minimum cost.”
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
The mandate or the functions of BBMB which are specified in Section 79(1) and (3) of Punjab
Reorganization Act are as under:
1. To administer, operate and maintain Bhakra-Beas Projects, Beas-Satluj Project and Pong Dam.
2. To regulate the supply of water from Satluj, Beas and Ravi rivers to the States of Punjab, Haryana,
Rajasthan and Delhi.
3. To regulate the supply of power from Bhakra Nangal and Beas projects to the States of Punjab,
Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh.
4. Any other function as Central Government may assign after consultation with the Governments of
States of Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan4.
2.4.1 Assets Constructed, Presently Managed and Assets Improved: The BBMB projects were
begun on the basis of the Indo-Pak Indus River Treaty allowing for the exclusive use of the river
waters of Ravi, Beas and Sutlej to India. The projects were initiated as early as 1948 and
substantially completed around 1966. The main dams/barrages forming a part of the BBMB
Master Plan were:
• Bhakra-Nangal on River Sutlej
• Pong-Pandoh on River Beas
• Thein on River Ravi
Among these, the Bhakra Dam was the most significant project
BBMB functions to distribute waters of the three rivers as well generate and distribute the generated hydro
power to the states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and to the independently
administered Union Territories of Delhi and Chandigarh in Northern India.
Figure 2.1 shows the location of the influence area states covered by BBMB and Figure 2.2 is the Master
Plan of River Satluj, Beas, Ravi and Connected Main Canals.
4 In the year 1999, the Government of India entrusted additional functions of providing and performing engineering and related technical consultancy services in fields of HEPs and irrigation projects.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Figure 2.1: States Benefiting from the Bhakra Nangal Project
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
RAJASTHAN
CHANDIGARH
DELHI
Beas (Pong) Dam
Pandoh Dam
Ranjit Sagar(Thein) Dam
Bhakra Dam
Nangal Dam
Harike H/W
Sutlej River
Ropar H/W
MadhopurH/W
Sirhind Canal
Anandpur Sahib H/ChannelNangal H/Channel
Tajewala H/W
Madhopur Beas Link
Beas
Sutle
j Li
nk
Bhakra BeasNation’s Pride
Ghaggar H/W
Bikaner
Jaisalmer
Manak Escape
International BorderState Boundary
RiverCanal/ Branch
Legend:
Dam/ HW
N
Head BML
Har. Con. Pt. RD 1,60,000’
HR. Con. Pt. RD 3,90,000’
UTTAR PRADESH
J & K
HARYANA
PUNJAB
HIMACHAL PRADESH
Ferozepur Feeder’
Wazirabad Barrage
Okhla Barrage
Figure 2.2: Master Plan of River Satluj, Beas, Ravi and Connected Main Canals.
Bhakra Nangal Project:
The Bhakra Dam was the first multi-purpose project of Free India. It was dedicated to the Nation on the
22nd of October in 1963 by Pundit Nehru. Key features of the Bhakra dam are:
Height of the dam 225.55 m (740 feet) (from the deepest foundation)
Type of dam Concrete straight gravity
Length at top 1700 feet Elevation at top of dam (above mean
sea level) 1700 feet
Name of reservoir Govind Sagar Area of reservoir 168.35 sq.km Length of reservoir 96.56 km Catchment area 56,980 sq km Gross Storage capacity of Reservoir 9621 million m3
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Key features of the Bhakra Dam power Houses are:
Left Bank Power House
Installed capacity 5 x 108 MW = 540 MW
Type of turbine Vertical shaft
Right Bank Power House
Installed capacity 5 x 157 MW = 785 MW
Type of turbines Vertical shaft
Nangal Dam and Nangal Hydel Channel
A barrage at Nangal called “Nangal Dam” for diversion of Satluj Water to Irrigation Channels through a
65 km long Nangal Hydel Channel was constructed in 1954.
Canal Power Houses
Power generation at Ganguwal (77.65 MW) and Kotla (77.65 MW) Canal Power Houses had commenced
in 1955 and 1956 respectively.
Beas Satluj Link Project (Beas Unit – I)
• This was the first Inter-linking River Project.
• Beas Unit-I i.e. the Beas Satluj Link Project had been completed in 1977. It diverts 3.80 MAF of
Beas Waters to Satluj and generates 990 MW of power at Dehar Power Plant. The Schematic
View of the Beas Unit – I is shown in Figure 2.3.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Figure 2.3: Schematic View of the Beas Unit – I
Beas Project (Beas Unit – II)
Beas Unit –II is the Pong Dam which was completed in 1974. It is also a big storage dam and the main
source of water to the desert lands of Rajasthan. 396 MW of power is generated here. The key features of
the Pong Dam are:
Height of Dam 132.59 m (435 ft.)
Gross Storage capacity of
Reservoir
8570 million m3
Area of Reservoir 260. sq. Km.
BBMB Reservoirs
There are two big storage Reservoirs namely, ‘Gobind Sagar’ and ‘Maharana Partap Sagar’ which provide
irrigation and drinking water to Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi and Chandigarh. Drinking water is also
supplied to Himachal Pradesh.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
BBMB Hydro Power Plants
Sr.
No.
Name of the Plant Original Installed Capacity Installed Capacity after
RM&U
1 Bhakra Left Bank 450 MW 540.00 MW
2 Bhakra Right Bank 600 MW 785.00 MW
3 Ganguwal Power Plant 77.65 MW 76.39 MW
4 Kotla Power Plant 77.65 MW 77.34 MW
5 Dehar Power Plant 990 MW 990.00 MW
6 Pong Power Plant 360 MW 396.00 MW
TOTAL 2555.30 MW 2864.73 MW
BBMB Transmission Network (as shown in Figure 2.4)
Lines Sub-Stations (Nos.) Lines Length (Ckt.
km.)
400 KV 3 574
220 KV 17 2995
132 KV 2 22
66 KV 2 115.5
Total 24 3706.5
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Figure 2.4: BBMB Transmission Network
2.5 Environmental and Economic Benefits Accrued to BBMB Projects: All the three river valley
projects managed by BBMB i.e. Bhakra-Nangal, BSL Project and Beas Dam Project were planned and
executed before 1978, i.e. much before Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was made mandatory by
the Government of India5. Hence, no EIA report is available on the BBMB projects.
The environmental benefits of the projects have been however accounted on gross terms. For example the
Bhakra-Nangal Project (BNP) has generated about 248 billion kWh of energy between 1955 and 2005. An
equivalent thermal power would have consumed 161 million tons of coal and would have produced more
5 Ministry of Environment and Forests vide Notification on EIA of 1994 made Environmental Impact Assessment mandatory for the Environmental Clearance of Large Hydel projects
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
than 50 million tons of ash content. Environmental impacts of handling and disposal of such quantities of
fly ash, especially on the counts of air emissions, land occupation and soil/water degradation were thus
avoided had a coal based thermal route was taken for generation of power.
Some of the significant socio-economic benefits of BBMB projects are listed below. Many of these
benefits provide reduced risks, conservation and protection to the environment in the catchment of BBMB.
• Bhakra and Beas Projects, being multi-purpose projects involving power and irrigation, have ushered
in India’s well-known ‘Green Revolution’; the assured irrigation supply for the Green Revolution was
provided by canals from BNP as well as tube wells energized from the power generated by BNP.
Combined together, these two aspects of BNP had a major role in the food grain production in Punjab
and Haryana – between the 1960s and 2000, productivity for wheat and rice in terms of kg/Ha has
nearly tripled for both states. At the present time, the average wheat yield in Punjab is the highest for
any state in India, with Haryana taking second place. Only these two states in India have crossed a
yield of over four tons per Ha, a fact credited to BBMB projects
• In 1951, only 42 out of 11,947 villages in Punjab had electricity. With the help of power generation
from Bhakra, Punjab and Haryana were the first States in India to provide electricity to every village
in the year 1975-76.
• The Bhakra and Beas Reservoirs have been shown to save the regional ecology from devastating
floods. While flood control was not a primary objective of the project, it has proved to be a boon for
the areas and population in the downstream areas of river Sutlej. Since commissioning till date,
average daily inflows of more than 90,000 cusec were received in 16 years. Bhakra absorbed all the
floods except in two years i.e. in 1978 and 1988 when average daily discharge of more than 50,000
cusec were made from Bhakra Dam. Bhakra Dam has also been absorbing floods up to 6,00,000 cusec.
Similarly, the flash floods in 1997, 2000 and 2005 in the Sutlej brought about large-scale devastation
in Himachal Pradesh, but had no effect in Punjab
.
• With the help of power generation from Bhakra-Nangal Project, the region underwent large-scale
industrialization. Nangal Fertilizers factory was among the earliest of these which received Power
directly from Bhakra Power Houses. The refugees settled in BNP Command area soon developed
industrial enterprises. Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar in Punjab and Faridabad, Ballabhgarh and
Sonepat in Haryana were developed as major industrial centres. In addition to big industries, a large
number of small-scale industries have also come up in this area. In Punjab alone, the number of
small-scale industries has grown to around 2,00,000, employing nearly a million people.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• These reservoirs have also provided a source of tourism. Every year, about 3 lakh tourists visit the
Gobind Sagar Lake which was formed upstream of the Bhakra dam as a major tourist attraction.
• BBMB project reservoirs serve as important sources of fish production as well. On an average, over
1,100 tones of fishery products are raised and sold by the local fishermen each year. The Gobind Sagar
reservoir has in fact created history by maintaining the highest per unit fish production in large
reservoirs for the last two decades in the country. 1,400 direct and 1,500 indirect jobs have been
generated to run these operations.
Box 2.2 lists some of the salient economic indicators attributable to BBMB projects.
Box 2.2: Salient Economic Indicators Attributable to BBMB Projects
Bhakra Nangal Project:
New area irrigated: 26 lakh Ha
Area where irrigation improved: 9
lakh Ha
Number of towns electrified: 128
Number of villages electrified:
13,000
Annual increase in food grains:
15.78 lakh tonnes
Cost of annual agricultural
produce: Rs. 465 crores
Cost of out-turn from major
industries: Rs. 635 crores
Beas Project Unit – I (Beas Sutlej
Link):
Annual irrigation: 3.26 lakh Ha
Annual increase in food grains:
223.6 thousand tonnes
Cost of annual agricultural
produce: Rs. 100 crores
Beas Project Unit – II (Beas Dam
at Pong):
Annual irrigation: 1.6 million Ha
Annual increase in food grains: 2
million tonnes
Cost of annual produce: Rs. 350
crores
Clearly, the economic indicators show a significant positive impact of BBMB projects on the economy of
the participating States.
BBMB has been following all the environmental compliance related requirements with the concerned
authorities by undertaking prevention, control and monitoring measures. In addition to the requirements of
Environmental Compliance, BBMB has adopted an Environmental Management System (EMS as per ISO
14001) on a proactive basis supported with an Environmental Management Plans (EMP). This EMP is
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
implemented and improved on a continual basis to ensure that environmental aspects (issues) are identified
and addressed through appropriate institutional and budgetary provisions.
On the whole, it can be said that BBMB Projects have brought about socio-economic upliftment of the
region by way of enhanced industrialization & employment opportunities, better energy and irrigation
facilities, ecological protection and improvement due to non-devastation possible by flood control
measures. A balanced view on economic, environmental and social scorecard of BBMB’s development
effectiveness therefore shows a positive result.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
CHAPTER 3
MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES / ASPECTS AT BBMB
3.1 Key Environmental Issues: As no new construction activities are executed by BBMB under the
present project activity, the environmental issues/aspects for BBMB are limited mainly to the operation of
various existing assets, utilities and supporting infrastructure. The key activities and linked environmental
issues cover the following as depicted in Table 3.1
Table 3.1 Environmental Issues/Aspects in BBMB Operations
Activity Environmental issue/aspect
Management and disposal of silt in reservoirs
impact on land and agriculture
Minor repairs, reconstruction for strengthening etc Construction and demolition waste
Lake tourism activities Contamination of water
Fabrication and Maintenance of machinery
impact on soil and water due to release of oil,
lubricants;
noise,
packaging waste
worker health and safety
Townships
Generation of sewage
Generation of solid waste
Generation of biomedical waste from hospitals
All the impacts cited above are mitigable and not significant if managed effectively especially to meet the
compliance requirements as per the applicable laws and regulations.
3.2 Impact Mitigation and Enhancement Measures: BBMB has been addressing the impacts cited
in Table 3.1 through various mitigation as well as enhancement measures. These include
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• practicing good housekeeping and training at the project sites (e.g. through waste prevention and
management). In addition, BBMB has been checking encroachments along the roads to stop
choking of drains, supply lines, sewer lines etc. as a preventive measure.
• raising awareness. BBMB has been implementing ‘Awareness Programmes’ among BBMB
employees to plant trees/plants around their residences/colonies.
• creation of requisite pollution control facilities (e.g. providing environmental infrastructure at
townships)
• implementing environmental enhancement measures through stakeholder partnerships (e.g. joint
aforestation with communities and construction contractors)
• carrying out monitoring and control (e.g. ensuring environmental compliance and permits with
Pollution Control Boards (PCBs)
• conducting environmental impact assessment (EIA) where there is a public interest, issues are
complex and identification of mitigations is not obvious
• Remaining in touch with PCBs for latest guidelines, innovations, instructions in the environment
field. Participate in seminars, publish papers relating to the steps undertaken and results gained
and to conduct pilot studies, if found necessary.
It may be thus observed that the strategies adopted by BBMB are wide encompassing covering prevention,
control and conservation supported by physical, institutional and policy measures. Some of the specific
mitigation and enhancement measures implemented by BBMB are listed in the sections below.
3.2.1 Impact Mitigation Measures: On the townships, following measures have been taken towards
building and operating required environmental infrastructure.
• Sewage management at BBMB townships: BBMB has three major residential townships at Nangal,
Sundernagar and Talwara. At Nangal, which is the largest township, a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP)
of 1.5 million gallon per day capacity is in operation. Sundernagar, Pandoh and Slapper townships also
have STPs. There is no STP at Talwara where the sewage is treated with bleaching powder. However,
regular testing of sewage quality is carried out from labs.
• Hospital waste management in BBMB hospitals: There are three 100-bedded hospitals in the townships
of BBMB, at Nangal, Talwara & Sundernagar. Hospital waste is disposed off as per prescribed norms.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Clearance for treatment/disposal of bio-medical waste has been obtained from PPCB for Nangal &
Talwara Hospitals.
• Solid waste management: BBMB has prepared solid waste management plans for its safe and scientific
disposal around the project areas as compliant with the applicable MSW (management and handling
rules). These plans are currently under implementation.
3.2.2 Environmental Enhancement Measures: Apart from mitigations and management measures,
BBMB has carried out environmental improvement projects and programmes. Highlights of these
initiatives are described below.
• Adjacent to the “Greenland Project”, a ‘Rock Garden’ on the pattern of Nek Chand Rock Garden of
Chandigarh has been established on 20 acres of land at Talwara under the able guidance of Padam Shri
Nek Chand Ji. It is important to note that the Rock Garden was established with Beas Project
wastes.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
BBMB has identified green belts & development of parks, nurseries, gardens in the spare land of BBMB.
Here, aforestation programmes are taken up in partnership with communities and drawing support from
construction contractors.
BBMB has prepared ‘Catchment Area Treatment’ and ‘Fringe Area Treatment’ Plans and is implementing
these plans in coordination with Himachal Pradesh Govt. Authorities.
3.2.3 Environmental Monitoring: BBMB monitors the effectiveness of mitigation measures through
environmental monitoring activities that are conducted in and around project locations as well as
townships. Monitoring activities include
• Monitoring of water quality at reservoirs and drinking water supplies
• Ambient air and workspace noise monitoring
3.2.4 Conduct of Environmental Impact Assessment: In some cases where the impacts need to be
assessed on a more scientific basis, or if grievances are reported by the affected people, then BBMB has
conducted Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on its own.
These EIA studies are not stipulated under the EIA Notification but are conducted to resolve issues on a
more rational and scientific basis. One such example is the EIA of BSL project that was commissioned by
BBMB in 2000. This case is illustrated in the section below to underscore the proactive approach of
BBMB in managing the environmental issues.
3.2.4.1 Case of EIA Study of the BSL Project
BBMB decided to engage NEERI, Nagpur for the EIA and EMP studies of BSL Project in 1999, because
of the grievances received by affected people on account of the accumulation and disposal of silt. Public
representative bodies/Non Government Organizations (NGOs) of the area, other Himachal Pradesh Govt.
departments were also made stake-holders in the study. The ‘Final Report’ of the Institute was received in
December 2000. Figure 3.1 shows the project location.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Figure 3.1 Beas Satluj Link (BSL) Project
The NEERI report was discussed in the 176th meeting of BBMB held on 12th November 2001 in which it
was decided to implement the short-term mitigation measures as recommended at a cost of Rs. 182.8 lakhs.
Table 3.2 shows the actions taken by BBMB against specific environmental issues as identified in this
project.
Table 3.2 EIA and EMP for BSL Project
Short-term Measures Issue Identified Action Taken by BBMB Flow of Beas River downstream of Pandoh Dam
Minimum daily inflow in River Beas at Mandi
town should be 5% of minimum daily flow
upstream of Pandoh Dam. After accounting for all
the Khads/River/Rivulets confluencing with the
River Beas in the reach between Pandoh Dam and
Mandi and flowing under normal present
condition, the short fall, if any, may be made up
by release of water from Pandoh Dam.
BBMB started maintaining the minimum daily inflow
in river Beas at Mandi equal to 5% of the minimum
daily inflow upstream of Pandoh Dam as
recommended by NEERI and also started sending the
data to H.P. Pollution Control Board, Shimla
regularly.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Minimum Environmental Flow in River Beas
The Himachal Pradesh Govt. vide Notification
dated 16.07.2005 and revised Notification dated
09.09.2005 ordered to release the minimum flow
downstream of Diversion Dams throughout the
year at a threshold value of not less than 15% of
the minimum inflow observed in the lean season.
Accordingly, BBMB started releasing the minimum
stipulated flow as desired vide above said
notifications from Pandoh dam from September,
2005. This step of BBMB is noteworthy as it
demonstrates its environmental sensitivity while
compromising on generation of power.
In 2006, PSEB and NHPC filed writ petitions in
the Hon’ble High Court Shimla challenging the
notifications issued by H.P. Govt. regarding
release of 15% minimum flow downstream
throughout the year. The Hon’ble Court has
stayed the impugned notifications qua petitioners
only.
However, BBMB has decided not to approach the
Court of law for this issue.
Road along Baggi Sundernagar Hydel Channel
(tarring of one side of road along Hydel Channel).
12 km metalled road was constructed along
Sundernagar Hydel Channel. It has provided an all-
weather means of transportation to the adjoining
villages.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Design & Maintenance of Cross-over Bridges:
Seasonal cross over bridges on Suketi Khad
needed to be improved using engineering
concepts and proper maintenance.
All the 22 Nos. temporary steel foot bridges on Suketi
Khad were improved/fabricated during
September/October 2002. These bridges are removed
during monsoon and re-installed thereafter in the non-
monsoon months and maintained by BBMB.
(Before)
(After)
Organised promotion of fish production in Suketi
Khad and its tributaries: Construction of fish seed
ponds and fish propagation in the area delineated
specifically for the artificial fish needed.
Revised project proposal regarding ‘Promotion of
fisheries in the riparian area of Suketi khad &
adjacent streams’ was received from the Director of
Fisheries (HP) in Sept. 2003. The administrative
approval of Rs. 72 lakhs accorded by BBMB and the
demand draft amounting to Rs. 36.00 lakhs (1st
instalment) was released Oct. 2003. Fishery Dept. is
still executing the 1st phase. Deposition of the silt in agriculture land: Silt-
affected agricultural land needs to be made
productive by adopting one-time farm
management for restoration of land environment.
The Scheme was not found techno-economically
feasible & practicable by the HP Govt.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Compensation to the farmers for the subsequent
damage to crop and land, if any, with the help of
revenue Dept. along the current line of practice.
BBMB pays the compensation to the farmers for the
damaged crops and the land, if any, with the help of
Revenue Authorities of HP.
Provision of cattle troughs: Possibility of
providing cattle throughs along the Suketi Khad
may be explored and implemented, if possible.
BBMB earmarked Rs.4.40 lakhs for providing 22 no.
troughs along Suketi Khad to provide clean drinking
water to the animals for which the land was proposed
to be provided by HP Govt. Lately, the Department
of Animal Health/Breeding withdrew this demand, as
from 2004 onwards clean water is available in the
khad for animals during lean months.
Long-term Measures
Issue Identified Action Taken by BBMB W.R.D.T.C., University of Roorkee collaborated
with NEERI to evolve the most techno-economic
and viable solution for the safe disposal of silt
from Balancing Reservoir.
The various options were studied and following
recommendations were made:
• Reduction in silt load at Pandoh Dam
• Increase in dredging rate
• Disposal of silt
Reduction in silt load at Pandoh Dam:
Flushing of Pandoh Dam is done regularly by BBMB
during high flood periods.
Increase in dredging rate:
2nd Dredger was procured and commissioned during
the monsoon season of 2004.
3rd Dredger has also been procured and has been put
into operation from July, 2007.
Disposal of silt:
The Expert Committee’ meant for suggesting long-
term option for disposal of silt was formed by
CPCB & MoEF in 2004,which has suggested
an Action Plan for disposal of Silt in 2005. The
Action Plan is under implementation by BBMB.
CAT Plan for BSL Project was also suggested by the
Expert Committee, which has been prepared by HP
Forest Dept. and is under scrutiny by the Expert
Committee.
Apart from the measures listed above, it was also decided in the said meeting to undertake certain long
term measures that were organization-wide and not limited to the BSL project. These measures included
the following
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Providing guidelines to Chief Engineers on conducting regular meetings with stakeholders of
environmental projects and the public for redressal of their problems/grievances and to maintain
harmony with them
• Setting up of fully equipped central laboratories at all project stations for conducting silt analysis,
chemical and bacteriological tests for checking the performance of potable water, treatment plants,
sewage treatment plants etc.
• Environmental Upgradation of Power Plants and Project Colonies by having ‘ISO 14000
Certification’
3.3 Adoption of Environmental Management System (EMS) along with Quality Management
System (QMS) : While the implementation of monitoring, mitigative and environmental enhancement
projects helped BBMB in identification and resolution of specific environmental issues, adoption of an
Environmental Management System (EMS) as per ISO 14001 standard on an organization-wide basis was
considered as a useful and effective strategy. This recommendation in fact resulted from the EIA study
conducted at the BSL project described above. Section 3.3.1 below describes the EMS approach.
3.3.1 Environmental Management System (EMS): Figure 3.2 shows a typical process followed in
the EMS starting from formulation of Environmental Policy to Management Review.
Environmental Policy
PlanningEnvironmental aspects
Legal and otherrequirements
Objectives and targetsEnvironmental management
programs
Implementation and Operation
Structure & ResponsibilityTraining, Awareness &
CompetenceCommunication
EMS documentationDocument Control
Operational ControlEmergency Preparedness
and response
Checking and Corrective Action
Monitoring and measurement
Non-conformance and corrective and preventive
actionsRecords
EMS Audits
ManagementReview
ContinualImprovement
Figure 3.2 Elements of EMS as per ISO 14001
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
It may be observed that the elements of EMS essentially follow the cycle of Plan-Do-Check and Act
leading to continual improvement guided by BBMB’s Environmental Policy.
In the EMS approach the issues identified in Table 3.1 form Environmental Aspects. These aspects get
analyzed in the context of legal requirements considering normal, ab-normal as well as emergency
situations. A legal register provides a basis towards checking environmental compliance.
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) as well as Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan
(EPRP) are evolved according to the significance of environmental aspects. Accordingly, the
responsibilities are allocated across the organization, supported by required training to the concerned staff.
All procedures to be followed are documented with document upkeep guidelines.
The EMP and EPRP are implemented as per the set objectives and targets. Accordingly, implementation
plans are prepared and budgets are allocated for implementation. Monitoring of the EMP and audit of the
“system” are carried out to check the effectiveness of measures undertaken. If there are any shortfalls or
non-conformities then corrective actions are undertaken. A management review meeting is held to report
the findings and take further directions. The objectives and targets are revisited based on the performance,
new issues if any and emergent organizational needs and aspirations. The entire system of addressing and
resolving environmental issues is thus systematic and not ad-hoc. The system is measurable and subject to
internal and external audit process supported by institutional development (training), documentation
(records) and a Management Review.
EMS (ISO 14001) at BBMB was considered to lead to following advantages
• EMS provides a robust and internationally understood framework right from identification of
environmental issues/aspects, mitigation/enhancement measures, allocation of responsibilities,
monitoring and control
• EMS is driven by management policy, management review and management support that provides
apex level treatment to environmental issues
• EMS is based on continual improvement is subject to internal and external audit and is
documented
• EMS requires that human resources in the entire organization as well as its stakeholders are made
aware to the general as well as specific environmental issues, objectives and targets that are to be
met
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Clearly, the various environmental mitigation and enhancement measures undertaken by BBMB today (see
sections 3.2) fall in the systems and programmatic approach of ISO 14001 EMS. This form assures that
environmental issues are identified and dealt with in a systematic manner on an organization wide basis.
3.3.2 Integration of EMS with QMS: BBMB considered implementation of EMS ISO 14001 in
tandem with Quality Management System (QMS) as per ISO 9001. Not many organizations have followed
such a strategy. Following have been the benefits of the integrated approach.
• As both EMS and QMS follow the cycle Plan-Do-Check-Act Simultaneous consideration of EMS
and QMS led to optimization over documentation, work instructions and maintenance of the
systems
• Integration of quality and environment allowed mainstreaming of sustainability in BBMB’s
business operations.
With such an implementation, BBMB became the first hydropower management company in India that has
obtained QMS 9001 and EMS ISO 14001 certifications.
Figure 3.3 describes the evolution of EMS based approach to environmental management at BBMB. It
may be observed that BBMB has gradually moved from Level I approach to Level III over a period of time
moving towards a proactive, systemic, organization wide and business integrated environmental
management system.
BBMB’s efforts at environmental management have been appreciated by juries at independent
organizations. The Greentech Foundation, declared BBMB as the winner of the Gold Award in the
hydropower sector “for outstanding achievement in environmental management” for 2007.6
6 Greentech Foundation based in New Delhi, India is a non-profit organization established to promote education, training, research and dissemination of knowledge, advancing the scientific, technical and practical aspects of industrial safety, environment management, climate change, pollution control, hazardous/non-hazardous waste management, water treatment, water pollution, noise pollution, eco tourism, and occupational health, fire, safety and security.
"Greentech Environment Excellence Awards" and "Greentech Safety Awards", coveted awards in the Indian corporate world, are presented every year to various organizations/companies for outstanding achievements in the field of OHSAS industrial fire safety and security, and environmental management. Past winners from the domain of environmental excellence include Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Aditya Birla Group, Tata Chemicals Limited, etc. Source: http://greentech.org/
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Mitigation Measures
Environmental Issues
Environmental Issues
Mitigation Measures
Preventive and Enhancement
Measures
Environmental Issues
Environmental Management System as
per ISO 14001
Preventive and Enhancement
Measures
Mitigation Measures
Quality Management System as per ISO
9000
Training , Awareness and Competence
Internal and External Audits
Management Review
DocumentationMonitoringBudgeting
Project limited Reactive Approach
Proactive Comprehensive
but Project limited Approach
Proactive System based
Organization wide Business Integrated
Approach
Level ILevel II Level III
Figure 3.3 Levels of Environmental Management and Evolution at BBMB
As the EMS at BBMB has become today the principal driver for environmental management, the
Environmental Audit focused on the structure, implementation and operation of the Environmental
Management System. Chapter 4 describes the evolution, scope and content of BBMB’s EMS.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
CHAPTER 4
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS) AS PER 14001 AT BBMB
4.1 Motivation for EMS Approach: From using a management approach geared towards tackling
grievances and/or complaints in an ad hoc manner, BBMB recognized the need to adopt an anticipatory
and methodological mechanism in the form of its organization-wide Environmental Management System,
i.e. EMS as per ISO 14001.
Further, it is notable that BBMB is the only organization of its kind in India to have obtained not just an
EMS but also a QMS Certification for both its Power and Irrigation Wings7. In an effort to formalize its
commitment to the environment and deliverance of quality to its customers, BBMB decided to opt for both
systems of certification (see Section 4.4 for the Environmental and Quality Policy of the organization).
4.2 Phased Certification of EMS: The Environmental Management System covers major activities
of BBMB. The EMS at BBMB was certified in two phases – Phase I and Phase II.The majority of the
utilities were certified in Phase II. Phased approach for the organization of the size and spread of BBMB
was appropriate but in addition it provided an avenue of “learning while doing”. It may be observed that
the CDM project site was implemented in Phase II.
4.3 EMS Scope and Linkages with QMS : The EMS covers major activities of the BBMB at
corporate as well as project locations, with the following Chief Engineers nominated as Management
Representatives by the Chairman, BBMB for the scope of work under their jurisdiction:
Irrigation Wing Power Wing
Bhakra Complex: Chief Engineer, Bhakra
Dam, BBMB, Nangal Township
Bhakra Complex and Pong Power House:
Chief Engineer, Generation, BBMB, Nangal
Township
Unit I - Beas Sutlej Link Project: Chief
Engineer, BSL Project, BBMB, Sunder
Nagar
Dehar Power House and System Operation
Activities: Chief Engineer, System Operation,
BBMB, Chandigarh
7 The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Ltd. (NHPC), India is an ISO 14001:2004 certified company in the sector of hydropower development alone.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Irrigation Wing Power Wing
Unit II - Beas Dam: Chief Engineer, Beas
Dam, BBMB, Talwara
Transmission System: Chief Engineer,
Transmission System, BBMB, Chandigarh
Certain activities of the EMS and QMS converge, thus requiring common procedures/formats.
Recognizing this, with some strategic planning and coordination, BBMB has combined the two
management systems to further the objectives of both QMS and EMS. Thus, BBMB has aligned the
common management elements in the form of “Common Management System Documents” (see
Annexure 1). This aspect is important as it fully mainstreams environmental considerations in BBMB’s
business operations.
4.4 BBMB Organization Chart8: BBMB is one of the organizations designated as a “Statutory
Body” under the ambit of the Ministry of Power, Government of India. Any environment-related
regulations / legislations are conveyed to BBMB by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) of
the Government of India through the Ministry of Power.
BBMB is headed by a full-time Chairman and two full-time Members i.e. Member (Irrigation) and
Member (Power), who head the Irrigation and Power Wings of BBMB respectively. The Financial Adviser
and CAO heads the Finance and Accounts Wing of the Board.
The Secretary and Special Secretary assist the Chairman and the full-time Members of BBMB in the
normal working of the Board.
Other than the two full-time Members, BBMB’s Board also includes six other Members as listed below:
Member, Govt. of India Jt. Secy (H) Govt. of India,
Ministry of Power, New Delhi.Member, Govt. of India Commissioner (Indus) Govt. of India.
Ministry of Water Resources New DelhiMember, Punjab Secretary to Govt. of Punjab,
Irrigation and Power Department Chandigarh.
8 Source: (a) BBMB: The Board – Organizational Hierarchy at http://bbmb.gov.in/english/menu1.asp (b) Annual Report of the Ministry of Power (2005-2006) at http://www.mycii.org/library/annual%20reports-government.htm
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Member, Haryana Financial Commissioner and
Principal Secretary to Govt. of Haryana,
Department of Irrigation ChandigarhMember, Rajasthan Secretary to Govt. of Rajasthan,
Department of Irrigation JaipurMember, Himachal Pradesh Principal Secy. to Govt of Himachal Pradesh,
MPP and Power Department Shimla
After the Members, Power and Irrigation in the organisational hierarchy of the Power and Irrigation
Wings, are the Chief Engineers (Power) and Chief Engineers (Irrigation). The Chief Engineers (Power)
head the offices of System Operation, Transmission Systems and Generation. Similarly, there are three
posts of Chief Engineer for the Irrigation Wing – one each for the Bhakra Dam, Beas Dam and Beas-Sutlej
Link.
The Chief Engineers are followed by Superintending Engineers / Directors, Senior Executive Engineers /
Deputy Directors and Assistant Engineers.
Figures 4.1(a) and 4.1(b) illustrate the organizational hierarchy at BBMB. The EMS at BBMB recognizes
this organizational structure and reflects the same in its procedures and documentation.
4.5 Environmental Policy of BBMB: The major projects of BBMB are established in natural
surroundings. BBMB is committed to preserve clean, green and serene environment of the projects and
their surroundings. The Environmental Policy Statement dated 11 June, 2009 and approved by the
Chairman; has been an affirmation of BBMB’s commitment to9:
• Ensure safe and environmentally sound practices for the management of dams, reservoirs, canals,
water conducting system and related infra-structure, power houses, substations and townships.
• Generate and promote green and clean hydro-electric power.
• Efficient waste management.
• To promote Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects in the organisation.
• Prevent environmental degradation in accordance with prevailing international / national
standards, practices, technology and laws.
9 Note: The Environmental Policy Statement has been framed in compliance with requirements of ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.2
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
34
• Setting-up of appropriate environmental objectives, targets and their achievements as per
Environmental Management Plans (EMP) ensuring their continual improvement.
Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Figure 4.1 (a): BBMB Board Members
MEMBER, MINISTRY
OF WATER RESOURC
ES GoI
MEMBER, MoP (JT.
SEC.), GoI
MEMBER, IRRIGATIO
N
(FULL-TIME)
MEMBER, POWER
(FULL-TIME)
FINANCIAL
ADVISOR & CAO
MEMBER, PUNJAB
(DEPT. OF IRR. /
POWER)
MEMBER, RAJASTHAN(DEPT. OF IRR. / POWER)
MEMBER, HARYANA (DEPT. OF
IRR. / POWER)
MEMBER, H.P.
(DEPT. OF IRR./
POWER)
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND
MINISTRY OF POWER
BBMB BOARD
CHAIRMAN, BBMB
SECRETARY AND SPECIAL SECRETARY
**: Other bodies under the ambit of the MoP include: (a) Damodar Valley Corporation (b) Power Trading Corporation India Ltd., (c) National Power Training Institute, (d) Central Power Research Institute, (e) Bureau of Energy Efficiency and various Central Public Sector Undertakings.
In case of BBMB, the MoP does not concern itself with matters relating to irrigation.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
36
DY. FA & CAO
SNR.ACCTS.
OFFICERS
BBMB FINANCE AND ACCOUNTS WING
FINANCIAL
ADVISOR & CHIEF
ACCOUNTS
BBMB IRRIGATION WING
MEMBER, IRRIGATI
ON
(FULL-TIME)
CHIEF ENGINEER
, BEAS DAM*
CHIEF ENGINEER
., BEAS-SUTLEJ*
CHIEF ENGINEER, BHAKRA
Superintending Engineer / Director
Senior Executive Engineer/Deputy
Assistant Engineer
CHIEF ENGINEER, TRANSM. SYSTEM*
CHIEF ENGINEER
, GENERA-
CHIEF ENGINEER, SYSTEMS
OPS*
BBMB POWER WING
MEMBER, POWER
(FULL-TIME)
Engineers/Dy. Directors
Engineers/Directors, Sr.
head the respective offices followed by
*: Chief Engineers
Superintending
Engineers. The and Assistant
Executive
Superintending Engineer / Director
Assistant Engineer
Senior Executive Engineer/Deputy
Figure 4.1(b): Organizational Hierarchy at BBMB
Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Water conservation and rain water harvesting.
• Eco friendly / Bio-tech projects.
• Community services in peripheral area of the Project in Environmental Sector.
The policy statement is thus proactive and guides preventive, mitigative as well as enhancement related
measures in addressing the various environmental issues.
4.5.1 Quality Policy of BBMB: The Quality Policy Statement dated 27 May, 2009 and approved by the
Chairman states:
BBMB is committed to maintain its position as the leader and a trend setter in power sector for
establishing high standards in operation & maintenance of hydel projects, transmission system and canal
systems. BBMB will also continue to renovate, modernize and upgrade its generating units to optimally
utilize the river waters and to improve reliability and efficiency.
BBMBshall encourage adoption of energy conservation measures within the organisation besides
propagating the message to other stakeholders as well.
BBMB’s “Mission is to keep our systems running efficiently at minimum cost.”
This shall be achieved by building up and sustaining our acquired values-“discipline,hard work
,operational excellence and professionalism.”
We shall ensure continual improvement in processes, methods,procedures and resources aswell asfull
compliance to applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
4.6 Environmental Objectives at BBMB: The following are the environmental objectives laid down
as part of the EMS at BBMB:
• Minimization of environmental degradation in the management of power houses, transmission
system and related operations, dams, reservoirs, canals, water conducting system, related infra-
structure, related electro-mechanical/hydro-mechanical equipment ,townships , hospitals, schools
and related infrastructure.
• Adoption of latest techniques and good practices to prevent environmental degradation.
• To ensure appropriate system of waste management and its disposal.
• Improving the green cover at project/ work sites.
• Advance planning for tackling of potential environmental disasters.
• Material substitution and technology absorption for improving the state of environment.
• To create and improve awareness on environment related issues within and outside the
organization including suppliers, contractors and local community.
• To implement and create awareness on clean development mechanism projects in the organisation.
• To promote the rain water harvesting and water conservation measures.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• To promote use of natural resources.
• To improve the environment of the local people by community services in environment, health,
and education fields.
These objectives have been reflected in the EMS documentation of BBMB. The Environmental
Management Programmes (EMPs) are formulated at relevant level for fulfilment of these objectives and
progress monitored periodically.
4.7 Activity Specific Environmental Goals at BBMB: Activity Specific Environmental Goals are
defined separately for all major support works / areas of general nature for example Administrative offices
and educational establishments, Townships/ colonies, Hospitals/ dispensaries, Guest Houses etc. These are
documented and maintained at the level of relevant works / areas. Listing of these goals is provided below.
A strategy of setting goals for areas is important as area specific EMPs get evolved and budgeted for
implementation.
4.7.1 Environmental Goals - Administrative Offices and Educational Establishments
• Electricity conservation.
• Water conservation.
• Encourage computerization - as a step towards paperless offices.
• Recycling of paper/ waste stationary.
• Disposal of solid waste in environmental friendly manner in consonance with the relevant rules
and acts.
• Carrying out awareness campaigns about energy and water conservation.
4.7.2 Environmental Goals – Township /Colonies
• Providing clean drinking water, sanitation, garbage disposal and other civic amenities by having
proper storage, collections, treatment, transportation and disposal of solid/liquid waste generated
in residential/non residential areas.
• Proper upkeep of common areas, parks etc. by following proper horticulture practices and waste
material utilization in ‘Theme Parks’.
• Provide and maintain green cover through plantation of trees and plants in and around the
surroundings of colonies/township areas.
• Have a proper, adequately manned complaint centres to promptly attend to the
complaints/grievances of residents with regard to water, sanitation, garbage related issues and
continual improvement of the system thereof.
• Carrying out awareness campaigns about energy and water conservation.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
4.7.3 Environmental Goals – Hospital/Dispensaries
• Creating awareness amongst public / patients about hygiene, cleanliness and disease protection by
following contemporary environmental friendly practices.
• Safe collection, treatment, transportation and disposal of solid/liquid and bio-medical waste in
conformity to the relevant environmental acts and rules.
• Proper linen management, laboratory sterilization techniques for equipment and material used in
the day to day hospital functioning.
4.7.4 Environmental Goals – Guest Houses
• Providing proper amenities to maintain hygiene, cleanliness in rooms / kitchen and common
surrounding areas of Guest Houses.
• Proper housekeeping management and quick civic complaint attendance in day to day running of
Guest Houses.
4.8 Environmental Aspects and Methodology of Attaching Significance: The identification of
environmental aspects and the methodology of attaching significance to them are documented in the
BBMB EMS Manual through:
• Procedure for Identification of Environmental Aspects and Evaluation of Their Significance
(MR/EMS/P/01); see Annexure 3.
• Guidelines for Evaluation of Environmental Aspects (MR/EMS/G/01); see Annexure 4.
BBMB has devised the Procedure MR/EMS/P/01 to ensure that:
• “The environmental aspects of its activities, products and services within the defined scope of the
environmental management system of BBMB which it can control and those that it can influence
taking into account planned or new developments, or new or modified activities, products and
services, with in defined scope of EMS are determined.
• The environmental aspects are evaluated for their environmental impacts, actual or potential, so
as to determine significant environmental aspects.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• The information on environmental aspects is maintained and updated regularly taking into
consideration new development, technologies or renovation and modernization or modifications.
• Significant environmental aspects are taken into consideration in establishing, implementing and
maintaining the EMS”10.
Notably, step 6 of MR/EMS/P/01 states clearly the requirement to define countermeasures to tackle
significant aspects through technological improvements and monitoring so as to keep such aspects “within
limits”. The team nominated by the Management Representative (MR) continues to report to him and seek
his inputs throughout the exercise. The schema for attaching significance is comprehensive.
4.9 Environmental Management Programmes: Environmental Management Programmes (EMPs)
are formulated at relevant functions and levels (divisional / directorate / circle / wing levels) for fulfilment
of the environmental objectives and targets of BBMB’s EMS. EMPs lay down time-bound activities with
clear responsibility and the means to achieve set objectives. Progress is monitored periodically. In
specific, EMPs for the CDM project sites were reviewed and were found to be satisfactory.
4.10 On-site and Off-site Disaster Management Plan: BBMB has established and maintains
Procedure for Dealing with Environmental Emergencies (MR/ EMS/P/06) and Procedure for On-site
Emergency Plan Preparation and Implementation (MR/ EMS/P/09) to:
• Identify potential emergency situations, disasters and potential accidents that can have an impact
on the environment, and its response mechanism for various types of emergencies such as floods
and fire.
• Respond to actual emergency situations and accidents and prevent or mitigate associated
environmental impacts.
BBMB periodically reviews and, where necessary, revises its emergency preparedness and response
procedures, in particular, after the occurrence of accidents or emergency situations. Mock drills are also
conducted to test the efficacy of emergency procedures.
10 Source: BBMB EMS Manual ISO 14001:2004. BBMB/EM Issue 2, Released: December, 2005.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
4.11 Environmental Monitoring :A system exists for measurements of key characteristics of
processes which can have significant environmental impact(s). Regular monitoring is carried out to ensure
degree of control for continued compliance to applicable standards and criteria in accordance with the
following established procedures:
• Procedure for Control of Air Pollution (MR/ EMS/P/03)
• Procedure for Control of Water Pollution (MR/ EMS/P/04)
• Procedure for Waste Management (MR/ EMS/P/05)
• Procedure for Environmental Guidelines and Controls During Operation and Maintenance (MR/
EMS/P/08)
The Procedures are provide for:
• Documentation of information to monitor performance.
• Operational controls, as applicable.
• Conformity to environmental objectives and targets.
• Calibration and maintenance of equipment used for measurements and monitoring and retention of
necessary records.
Most of the environmental monitoring at BBMB is currently outsourced to the laboratories that are
recognized by the Pollution Control Boards (PCBs).
There is a room to improve the environmental data management at BBMB. The data is presently recorded
on hard copies (registers) in various formats and practice of electronic storage for the purposes of analyses
and reporting is not followed. BBMB may consider setting up a suitable Environmental Management
Information System (EMIS) that will help organize and interpret the data more effectively. An integration
of EMIS with Geographic Information System may also be relevant. Such a system if web based will allow
BBMB to share the data with stakeholders on 24x7 basis.
4.12 Environmental Regulatory Compliance: BBMB has a systematic Procedure (MR/ EMS/P/02)
for periodic evaluation of compliance to applicable environmental legal requirements and other applicable
environmental requirement. Importantly, this procedure is anticipatory and provides a mechanism for
combined evaluation of compliance to applicable legal requirements and other environmental
requirements. This includes:
• Routine sampling and testing of water, air, soil, noise levels etc. and ensuring conformity to laid
down standards/ rules and regulations
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Timely renewal of licenses, consents, authorizations, and filing of returns /statements/information
etc.
• Progress review for various environmental management programmes/objectives and targets /
calling of records for review.
• EMS internal audits.
• On-site observations by Senior Officers during their inspections / visits to Projects/ Work sites.
The records of the results of evaluation and compliance with legal requirements and other applicable
requirements are kept with nominated Nodal Environmental Officers at BBMB.
Environmental monitoring data generated at the CDM project sites was reviewed. The data showed
conformity with the applicable standards.
4.13 Organizational Aspects Including Training and Capacity Development: The overall human
resource requirements of officers/officials are fulfilled mainly by transferring suitable persons from Partner
States against their Share Quota. The officers in these States have been recruited / promoted based on the
set criteria for educational qualification, experience and competence as defined in service rules of
respective cadres of State Governments for different positions. A cadre of permanent BBMB officials also
exists. Overall manpower planning shall be done keeping in view of the projected work / competence
requirements and sanctioned norms.
The Secretary/BBMB looks after Human Resource planning, deployment, promotions, transfers of officer
cadre (Group A and B) in accordance with rules laid down by concerned State Governments and as per the
direction of Chairman, BBMB.
Special Secretary, BBMB looks after the pertinent issue of Rules and Regulations regarding the service
conditions of human resources in BBMB. The policy decisions of the Board are dealt with by the Rules
and Regulation Section. Although the administrative control of Group C and D employees vests with the
respective HODs i.e. respective Chief Engineers (both Irrigation and Power Wing) in the field, FA and
CAO for Finance Wing and Secretary for the concerned staff in Board Sectt., the general service
conditions, pay and allowances, regulations and management of cadre are carried out by the office of
Special Secretary.
The induction of staff from the partner States i.e. Partner State Government and State Electricity Boards
vis-à-vis direct recruitment of BBMB employees as per BBMB Regulations are also entrusted to the office
of Special Secretary, BBMB. So far as the postings and transfers and other administrative decisions are
concerned, the respective HODs exercise their power as per laid down statutes and procedures.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Besides, the demands put forth by various recognised unions are processed and settled after due
negotiations with their authorised representatives, for which the Special Secretary plays a pivotal role. The
regular holding of general meetings and correspondence etc. are held as per labour laws and executive
instructions.
The Special Secretary has also been designated as Director, Grievances for BBMB as a whole. In this
respect, a quarterly progress report indicating the position of pending grievances in respect of various
administrations is compiled and sent to the Ministry of Power.
Another important aspect of overall human resource planning is the maintenance of their competence
levels. Regular upgradation of knowledge and skills of the employees is ensured through trainings both in-
house and through external agencies.
It is planned that continued competence be ensured for the personnel performing quality related functions,
based on appropriate education, training, skills and experience as per the HRD policy.
Training activities at BBMB are planned both at the level of Director/HRD, BBMB and at Chief Engineer
levels. A procedure for manpower training is documented. A Training Institute has been established at
Nangal for providing training to in-house and external agencies on various specialized areas related to
Power and Irrigation sectors. This institute was visited during Environmental Audit.
More information about environmental training modules conducted at BBMB is provided in section 4.13.2
with observations.
4.13.1 EMS Procedure for Training and Capacity Development: The EMS at BBMB aims to ensure
that:
• Necessary competence for personnel performing work relating to significant environmental
impacts is determined and provided.
• Wherever gaps are noticed, the same shall be made up through appropriate training or other
alternative actions such as job rotation etc.
• Effectiveness of the actions taken shall be evaluated.
• Personnel are made aware of the relevance, importance and significant environmental aspects of
their activities and their contribution in the achievement of environmental objectives.
• Record of education, training, skills and experience shall be maintained.
The Procedure for Training (MR/TRG/P/06) ensures that BBMB employees as well as contractors
personnel are made aware of:
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Importance of the conformity with environmental policy and procedures and with the
requirements of EMS.
• Significant environmental impacts, actual or potential, of their work and environmental benefits of
improved personnel performance.
• Roles and responsibilities in achieving conformity with environmental policy, procedures and
EMS including emergency preparedness and response requirements.
• Potential consequences of departure from specified operating procedures for control of various
environmental impacts.
Annexure 5 lists the Procedure for Training (MR/TRG/P/06) followed by BBMB as part of the EMS.
4.13.2 Environment-themed Training Sessions at BBMB: Environment-themed training sessions /
seminars which have taken place at BBMB from 2003 - 2009 include:
• Seminar on Environmental Management System
• Training on handling of solid waste and drinking water issues.
• Seminar on polythene bags and their environmental effects.
• Seminar on T-(B) operation and maintenance of DG set and LT system.
• Seminar on T-A(1) maintenance of static excitation equipment of Dehar units and environmental
aspects.
• Seminar on T-(1) maintenance of unit transformers and environmental aspects.
• Seminar on Quality and environmental management of Slapper Division, and operation and
maintenance of BCW silt ejector and gates.
• Seminar on divisional profile and works and quality of environmental management of Slapper
Division.
• All India Seminar on environmental considerations in planning and design of power projects.
• Short-term course on Environmental Management for River Valley Projects.
• Training programme on Environmental Law - policy and practice.
• Training on Environmental System (ISO-14001).
• Training on Environmental Aspects.
• Environment Protection Act 1986 and Motor Vehicle Act 1986.
• Interactive session for engineers/workers, environmental aspects-issues and challenges and fire
safety at working places.
• Programme on Environmental Protection Act 1986 and Motor Vehicle Act 1986, Hazardous
Waste Management and Handling Rules 1989, and Batteries Management and Handling Rules
2001.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Training programme on effective assessment, management and monitoring of environmental
safeguards in river valley and hydel projects.
• Seminar on quality and environmental management of township divisions.
• Seminar on operation and maintenance of hydel channels: quality and environmental management.
• Interactive programme regarding general awareness of environmental pollution and child welfare.
• Seminar on quality and environmental management of BRSC and PD Divisions.
• Seminar on quality and environmental management of Electrical and Workshop Divisions
• Seminar on quality and environmental management of dredging operations and disposal of silt.
• Interaction sessions for awareness training programme for EMS/QMS
• Lead assessors training programmes
Since 2006, training specific to EMS/QMS has been imparted to 210 persons (as on 11th March
2010)
While the topics above are comprehensive, it may be useful if BBMB considers training sessions
specifically on
• Environmental Data Management
• Geographical Information Systems
• Integrated Management Systems (especially QMS and EMS integration)
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Clean Development Mechanism (under this theme series of programmes may be considered such
as how to prepare a Project Idea Note, Project Design Document etc)
4.14 Internal and External Audits: BBMB has implemented a common system of internal audit for
EMS and QMS through a well documented procedure for Internal Audit of QMS and EMS (MR/
AUD/P/07). Audits are carried out at planned intervals. The interval period depends up on many factors
such as significant environmental impacts, results of previous audit, impending visits of statutory
authorities, changes affecting operations such as monsoon conditions etc.
Audits are conducted with objective of:
• Determination of conformity with environmental criteria and status of maintenance and
implementation of EMS.
• Reporting performance of EMS to management.
• Identification of improvement opportunities.
Annual Audit Plans are prepared by concerned MRs as well as the Central Management Representative
(CMR). Frequency of audit shall at the minimum be six monthly at both CE level and at Head Office level.
However, this frequency can be modified depending upon factors such as:
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• Audit results.
• Changes in environmental impacts.
• Non – compliance to legal or other applicable environmental requirement
• Changes in process parameters, machinery, technology.
• Occurrence of emergency / near emergency situations.
• Results of air/ water / soil testing as applicable.
• Operational controls and results of monitoring.
• Accidents / incidents.
• Public complaints.
The Procedure for Internal Audit of QMS and EMS (MR/ AUD/P/07) addresses the responsibilities and
requirements for :
• Planning the audits.
• Conducting the audit.
• Reporting the audit results.
• Follow-up actions as a result of audit (mitigation, rectification, corrective or preventive).
• Closing of audit non-conformities.
• Retaining associated records.
• Determining of audit criteria, scope, frequency and method.
Auditors are selected from amongst a pool of trained internal auditors in such a manner so as to avoid any
element of bias and ensure objectivity, impartiality of audit process.
4.15 Management Review and Continual Improvement: Procedure for Environmental, Non-
Conformities and Corrective, Preventive Actions (MR/ EMS/P/07) exists for control on environmental
non-conformities relating to various processes of EMS such as non adherence to set objectives, targets,
standards of emission or discharge or lack of control on significant environmental aspects or emergency
preparedness measures etc. It provides for:
• Identification of actual non-conformities and correct/mitigate their environmental impacts.
• Investigation of causes of actual non-conformities and their elimination in order to prevent their
re-occurrence.
• Detection of potential non-conformities and determination of actions to eliminate the causes of
potential non-conformities to prevent their occurrence.
• Recording of the results of corrective action (s) and preventive actions taken.
• Reviewing the effectiveness of the actions taken.
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Care is taken to ensure that action programme (rectification, corrective, mitigative or preventive) is
commensurate with magnitude or scale of problem and its environmental impacts. The procedure provides
for review of actions taken and implemented and changes made in documents as a result of corrective and
preventive actions to ensure proper communication and implementation of changes at relevant level within
BBMB.
The Management Review is conducted at the top-most level for the entire EMS as well as the level of each
MR for the area under their jurisdiction. These reviews are conducted in accordance with the documented
Procedure for Management Review (MR/MRM/P/05) at a frequency of once in 6 months or earlier, to
ensure the continuing suitability and effectiveness of the EMS in meeting the Environmental Policy and
Environmental Objectives.
The inputs to each Management Review meeting are to include the following:
• Results of EMS audits and evaluations of compliance with legal requirements and with other
requirements to which BBMB subscribes.
• Communication including complaints on environment related issues from external interested
parties such as SPCB, local community, local administration, NGOs and State/Central
Government agencies.
• Performance of EMS of BBMB.
• Extent to which objectives and targets have been met.
• Status of corrective and preventive action.
• Follow-up actions from previous Management Review.
• Changing circumstances, including developments in legal and other requirements related to
environmental aspects of BBMB.
• Recommendations for improvement.
The outputs of each meeting are documented in the form of Minutes of the Meeting and are to include the
following:
• Improvement for the effectiveness of the EMS and its aspects.
• Improvement related to Environmental Objectives.
• Resources needed to carry out identified improvements.
The Minutes are to be recorded and circulated for implementation of actions taken and continual
improvement of the EMS and / or corrective and preventive actions, as the case may be.
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The records show the element of management review works well at BBMB with actions proposed,
directions and responsibilities.
4.16 EMS Implementation at BBMB CDM Project Sites: EMS implementation at CDM project sites
was gauged through one field visit to each site. Discussions were held with on-site Environmental Officers.
Documents and records relating to the EMS on-site were also reviewed for completeness and accuracy.
CDM site was found to be compliant with the EMS requirements as laid down by the EMS Manual of
BBMB. The documentation on consents (as per Water Act of 1974, Cess Act of 1977) and authorizations
(as per Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules 2003, Biomedical Waste (Management and
Handling Rules) 1989 and Batteries Rules 2000) were found to be up to date and in order. Raw data on
environmental monitoring was also reviewed to assess coverage in terms of parameters and compliance.
Training records were also seen to check extent of training imparted to the site staff on EMS and related
environmental matters.
4.17 Overall Observations on the EMS: The following points about the EMS at BBMB are
noteworthy:
• The EMS at BBMB identified environmental issues in the form of environmental aspects, which
in turn are delineated as activities in the relevant Environmental Management Programmes or
EMPs.
• Since there is a provision for budgeting in the EMPs, implementation is assured.
• The Legal Compliance Register is anticipatory, thus precluding situations where non-compliance
may arise.
• The Internal Audits and periodic Management Review Meetings serve as cross-checks for the
system as a whole.
• The effectiveness of completed tasks is also evaluated as part of the Management Review
Meetings
• Integration of EMS with QMS has been well done. The documentation to this effect is clear and
well organized in terms of common and specific procedures.
On the side of possible improvements, following are the observations
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• BBMB is already an ISO 14001 certified organization and has a system of training its personnel
regularly in various areas including environment. These training programs are both conducted in
house and externally through workshops, seminars and training by expert organizations.The
existing Environment Management System is well established, implemented and maintained in
BBMB. It is adequate and effective and complies/addresses various legal requirements and with
also those of IS/ISO 14001:2004. The EMS shows continual improvement in environmental
performance. For the purposes of training however, additional topics such as those listed in
section 4.13.2 may be considered. In addition, officers may be sent for formal accreditation
programmes on EMS ISO 14001. It may be strategic for BBMB to develop Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with universities and research institutions (e.g. with University of Roorkee,
National Environmental Engineering Research Institute etc) for undertaking training & capacity
building as well as supplemental research.
. • BBMB has already designated environmental officials for respective duties as per the
requirements of Environment Management Plan (EMP) and it also meets the ISO 14001
certification guidelines In specific however, BBMB should induct qualified core environmental
professional trained in EIA to manage the environmental matters. Ideally, such a person should
serve as the MR.
• Much of the environmental monitoring data generated at BBMB is not put in the form of a
Management Information System (MIS). Records are kept in hard copy or entered in various
formats without linkages. It is recommended that BBMB establishes an Environmental
Management Information System (EMIS) supporting the monitoring formats as laid out by the
EMS. Such an EMIS will be useful to analyze the effectiveness of mitigation and enhancement
measures, prepare reports and assess the level of compliance in a more systematic manner. A web
based application may be considered to allow sharing of data with stakeholders on 24x7 basis At
a later stage, since the BBMP operations are spatial, the MIS may be enhanced to integrate with a
Geographic Information System (GIS) with Remote Senses (RS) imageries. RS imageries in
specific will allow change detection over a regional scale. BBMB is also executing World Bank
aided “Hydrology Project-II” for developing Real-Time Decision Support System (RT-DSS) for
integrated operational management of its reservoirs by providing sophisticated data acquisition for
processing & monitoring the hydrology parameters. This RT-DSS may be integrated with the
EMIS.
• Presently, Special Secretary, BBMB has been designated as Director – Grievances for BBMB as a
whole. Mechanisms thus exist at project sites and local level to report complaints/grievances.
These mechanisms may be used to channel concerns arising due to environmental issues. BBMB
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
operates a website (www.bhakra.nic.in) where project profile/ salient features / capabilities and
strengths of BBMB are reported on a regular basis. BBMB follows the stipulated
guidelines for collection, collation and retention of data as per Government
norms and the website is updated regularly on the information for public use.
Website also solicits any feed back / suggestion from various stakeholders
and has a designated official to respond to any of the information /
feedback requested by stakeholders. This website could include more information on
the environmental management at BBMB and have a dedicated facility to report/lodge any
grievances/concerns specific to environmental matters.
.
.
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CHAPTER 5
SOCIAL WELFARE RELATED INITIATIVES AT BBMB
5.1 Spirit and the Background : Environmental and social aspects are intimately linked and hence it
becomes important to assess the social orientation of the organization in conducting Environmental Audit,
especially in the case of multipurpose hydropower projects.
BBMB is aware of the problems faced by the oustees of its projects who have shifted and re-settled in the
adjoining villages. Keeping the problems of these oustees in view, BBMB started some measures of its
own for the welfare of the local people. Since 2003-2004, BBMB has been giving a new dimension to
Project activities by undertaking Community Development Programmes for the welfare of the local people
in the vicinity of Pong Dam and Maharana Partap Sagar Reservoir in Himachal Pradesh. At the Bhakra-
Nangal Project, these activities were started from the year 2004-05.
5.2 Projects Sponsored: Under these welfare activities, BBMB has organized free medical camps at
different places in villages in which patients are checked by the BBMB team of Doctors, like Medical
Specialists, Dental Surgeons, Gynaecologists, Eye Specialists, Pathologists, etc. In these camps, medicines
are distributed free of cost to the patients. These camps have become very popular in the area and are
highly beneficial to the aged people and the women, who are being checked medically at their door-step.
Some other welfare activities at the demand of the local people/government are also undertaken, such as:
• Drinking Water Supply Scheme to Village Bhakra: BBMB has been providing drinking & irrigation
water free of cost to rural population through a number of schemes in some areas of Himachal
Pradesh. In addition, BBMB gave Rs. 65 lakhs to Himachal Govt. for development of infrastructure
for drinking & irrigation water in the vicinity of BSL Project.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
A Water Supply Scheme for providing drinking water (about 60000 litres / day) to the residents of Village
Bhakra was constructed & commissioned by Bhakra Beas Management Board and handed over to the
Irrigation & Public Health Department of H.P. during the year 2005-06.
• Free Medical Camps: Medical Camps are organized in villages in which medicines and spectacles are
distributed free of cost.
• Hospital & Schooling facilities to local people: About 50% of medical facilities of BBMB hospitals at
Nangal, Talwara & Sundernagar are being availed by the people of surrounding rural areas. Free
medical treatment & medicines are provided to poor patients. BBMB is also running schools at project
sites. These schools benefit the wards of the rural adjoining population also.
• Blood donation camps: Blood Donation Camps are organized at all project stations and at Chandigarh
every year for the benefit of society at large.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
• Providing facilities to schools: Benches, fans, wall-charts, etc. are provided in Govt. Schools of HP
Govt. Playgrounds and parks are prepared for the children at Schools and villages. Books are donated
to School Libraries to inculcate the habit of reading among school children.
• Welfare activities for locals: Ponds are desilted for rain water harvesting. After desiltation, these ponds
are available to the villagers with increased storage capacity. Grading and improvement of village
paths and roads is also done with BBMB machinery. Renovation of school buildings and other
development works like improvement of Staircases at public places, construction of rain-shelters, etc
are carried out as well.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
(Before desiltation) (After desiltation)
The total expenditure incurred for Community Development Works during the year 2008-09 is about Rs.
40 lakhs.
Presently, the social initiatives listed above are not explicitly linked to the EMS at BBMB. However it may
be observed that these projects and programmes have been both catalytic as well as supportive to help
BBMB to operate in partnership with its staff, families and local communities towards achieving
organization wide as well as project/location specific environmental goals.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
CHAPTER 6
OVERALL OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This Environmental Audit report outlines the environmental management structure at BBMB, its operation
in the framework of EMS ISO 14001 and assesses the status of compliance with environmental
regulations. Review of documentation provided by BBMB and visits to the Project Sites confirm the
following
• BBMB has operational EMS as per ISO 14001 complete with documentation, training, monitoring
and audit procedures
• The EMS is integrated with QMS to achieve integration of environmental considerations into
business operations
• BBMB at its project sites is in environmental compliance with applicable regulations.
Documentation provided in this regard is complete and satisfactory. A proactive or anticipatory
system exists to remain in environmental compliance all across BBMB’s operations
• Budgets are provided and monitored to ensure implementation of agreed EMPs
• BBMB has an institutional structure in place for operating the EMS with training imparted on a
regular basis
• BBMB has undertaken several social welfare initiatives that support the organization-wide and
project specific environmental goals
The CDM transaction with BBMB therefore meet World Bank’s safeguard requirements .
In order to further strengthen the environmental management at BBMB however, following
recommendations are made,
• BBMB is already an ISO 14001 certified organization and has a system of training its personnel
regularly in various areas including environment. These training programs are both conducted in
house and externally through workshops, seminars and training by expert organizations.The
existing Environment Management System is well established, implemented and maintained in
BBMB. It is adequate and effective and complies/addresses various legal requirements and with
also those of IS/ISO 14001:2004. The EMS shows continual improvement in environmental
performance. For the purposes of training however, additional topics such as those listed in
section 4.13.2 may be considered. In addition, officers may be sent for formal accreditation
programmes on EMS ISO 14001. It may be strategic for BBMB to develop Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with universities and research institutions (e.g. with University of Roorkee,
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
National Environmental Engineering Research Institute etc) for undertaking training & capacity
building as well as supplemental research.
. • BBMB has already designated environmental officials for respective duties as per the
requirements of Environment Management Plan (EMP) and it also meets the ISO 14001
certification guidelines
• Much of the environmental monitoring data generated at BBMB is not put in the form of a
Management Information System (MIS). Records are kept in hard copy or entered in various
formats without linkages. It is recommended that BBMB establishes an Environmental
Management Information System (EMIS) supporting the monitoring formats as laid out by the
EMS. Such an EMIS will be useful to analyze the effectiveness of mitigation and enhancement
measures, prepare reports and assess the level of compliance in a more systematic manner. A web
based application may be considered to allow sharing of data with stakeholders on 24x7 basis At
a later stage, since the BBMP operations are spatial, the MIS may be enhanced to integrate with a
Geographic Information System (GIS) with Remote Senses (RS) imageries. RS imageries in
specific will allow change detection over a regional scale. BBMB is also executing World Bank
aided “Hydrology Project-II” for developing Real-Time Decision Support System (RT-DSS) for
integrated operational management of its reservoirs by providing sophisticated data acquisition for
processing & monitoring the hydrology parameters. This RT-DSS may be integrated with the
EMIS.
• Presently, Special Secretary, BBMB has been designated as Director – Grievances for BBMB as a
whole. Mechanisms thus exist at project sites and local level to report complaints/grievances.
These mechanisms may be used to channel concerns arising due to environmental issues. BBMB
operates a website (www.bhakra.nic.in) where project profile/ salient features / capabilities and
strengths of BBMB are reported on a regular basis. BBMB follows the stipulated
guidelines for collection, collation and retention of data as per Government
norms and the website is updated regularly on the information for public use.
Website also solicits any feed back / suggestion from various stakeholders
and has a designated official to respond to any of the information /
feedback requested by stakeholders. This website could include more information on
the environmental management at BBMB and have a dedicated facility to report/lodge any
grievances/concerns specific to environmental matters.
.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
ANNEXURE 1
COMMON SYSTEM MANAGEMENT DOCUMENTS AT BBMB11
Procedure(s) /Format(s)/ Instruction(s) Common to both QMS and EMS
No. Title of the Document Procedure/ Format/
Instruction Number
1 Procedure for Control of Internal Documents. MR/DC/P/01A
2 Procedure for Control of Internal Documents-
Upkeep of Common Document Folders.
MR/DC/P/01B
3 Procedure for Documents of External Origin. -
Standards and Product Manual.
MR/DC/P/02
4 Procedure for Documents of External Origin. -
Government Circulars Memos /Rules/Regulations
etc. issued by various Govt. agencies from time to
time.
MR/DC/P/03
5 Procedure for Handling Request for Information
from Indian Citizens Under Right to Information
Act- 2005.
MR/DC/P/03 A
6 Procedure for Handling of Appeals from Indian
Citizens Under Right to Information Act- 2005.
MR/DC/P/03 B
7 Procedure for Control of Records.
MR/REC/P/04
8 Procedure for Management Review.
MR/MRM/P/05
9 Procedure for Training. MR/TRG/P/06
10 Procedure for Internal Audit of Quality and
Environmental Management System.
MR/AUD/P/07
11 Procedure for Control of Non-Conformities.
MR/NC/P/08
11 Source: BBMB Common Management System Documents, DOC: BBMB/COM/MS, Issue No : 2, Effective Date: 15 December, 2005.
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
12 Procedure for Corrective / Preventive Actions.
MR/CPA/P/09
13 Procedure for Providing Technical Consultancy
Services.
MR/CONS/P/10
14 Procedure for Filing Service Tax Returns. MR/CONS/P/11
15 Guidelines/ Generic Steps/Guidelines For
Preparing, Monitoring And Display Of “Customer
Satisfaction Indexes”.
MR/CI/G/01
16 Format for Master List of Documents (Internal
Origin).
MR/DC/F/1-01
17 Format for Master List of Documents of External
Origin.
MR/DC/F/2-02
18 Format for List of Files/Records. MR/QR/F/04
19 Format for Audit Plan. MR/AUD/F/7-01
20 Format for Quality Environmental Audit Report. MR/AUD/F/7-02
21 Format for Non Conformity Note. MR/NC/F/8-01
22 Format for Preparing Estimates for Consultancy
Jobs
MR/CONS/F/10-01
23 Document Amendment Sheet. Annexure A of
Common
Management System
Procedure Document
24 Distribution List. Annexure B of
Common
Management System
Procedure Document
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
ANNEXURE 2
PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS AND
EVALUATION OF THEIR SIGNIFICANCE (MR/EMS/P/01)
Step Description Responsibility
1 Review of processes for any emission / releases to air /
ground / water
a. Initial Environmental Review Report
b. NEERI Report
NOTE: Reviews may be repeated after all significant
aspects identified initially have been brought under
control
Team
nominated by
concerned MR
2 (Check) whether any of the activities / processes
reviewed above interact with the environment
-do-
3 Study how interaction affects environment
a. Compare with standards fixed by SPCB / internal
standards wherever defined by BBMB
-do-
4 List down:
a. Environmental aspects
b. Environmental impacts
-do-
5 Evaluate environmental impact through FMEA
technique
a. Use FMEA format
b. Use criteria for evaluation of environmental aspects
c. Calculate RPN (Probability of Occurrence X
Probability of Detection X Severity)
d. Determine significance based on following:
• Any non-conformity based on environmental legislation
will be considered as significant, irrespective of RPN
score
• Any aspect likely to result in complaint from local
community or non-governmental organizations will be
considered as significant, irrespective of RPN score
• NEERI Report of December 2000
• RPN more than 25
-do-
6 Determine countermeasures such as:
a. Technological improvements
b. Monitoring of significant aspects
c. Maintain the control so as to keep aspects within
-do-
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Step Description Responsibility
limits
NOTE: The Team shall submit the report to the
concerned MR for his approval for further
implementation
7 After implementation of the countermeasure (it may
take up to 6 months depending on type of
countermeasures), re-evaluate the aspect and re-
calculate the RPN
a. Follow environmental guidelines
-do-
8 Check whether there has been improvement such that
risk potential has decreased or not
a. In case the RPN has not decreased, re-determine the
countermeasures, implement the same and recalculate
the RPN
NOTE: The Team in consultation with the Nodal
Environmental Officers approved by Chairman, BBMB
shall submit the report to the concerned MR
-do-
9 Continue till aspects are brought under control.
Subsequently, continue to monitor its performance
a. File Final Report
MR through
his concerned
officers
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ANNEXURE 3
GUIDELINES FOR EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS (MR/EMS/G/01)
Sr.
No
.
Probability of Occurrence Score
1 Low 1-3
2 Medium 4-6
3 High 7-9
Sr.
No
.
Probability of Detection Score
1 Low 7-9
2 Medium 4-6
3 High 1-3
Sr.
No
.
Severity Score
1 Low 1-3
2 Medium 4-6
3 High 7-9
Note: If the answer to any of the following questions is affirmative, the aspect shall be considered
significant and no scoring shall be necessary:
a. Whether aspect in question relates to any environmental legislation?
b. Whether any external interested party is affected?
c. Can this aspect result in an emergency?
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ANNEXURE 4
PROCEDURE FOR TRAINING (MR/TRG/P/06)
Step Description Responsibility
1 Identification of training needs for executive and
non-executive employees will be carried out on
annual basis or as per emergent requirements.
Inputs for identification of training needs will be:
a. Training policy
b. Annual performance appraisal
c. Technological / system upgradation or
modification
d. Field problems / failures
e. Any other
CE (concerned) /
Secretary, BBMB
2 Training is planned at Chief Engineer’s level. CE (concerned)
3 Training is also planned at board level by
Director/ HRD.
Director/HRD/BBMB
4 Internal training programmes which include
trainings by regional training committee and
technical Training Calendar at each CE level.
CE (concerned)
5 Annual Training Calendar(s) indicating topics,
level of participation, venue, likely dates and
faculty shall be prepared at CE level and
submitted to HRD for review and approval by
Board office.
a. List of faculty and their experience.
CE (concerned)
6 Training Calendar prepared at CE level shall be
put up for review of Board by Director /HRD
/BBMB through Jt. Secretary looking after HRD
function. Review shall cover:
a. Adequacy of topics
b. Extent of coverage
c. Need for any eminent external faculty in the
field.
The Board may suggest modification/
improvement in Training Calendar and Training
Calendar shall be updated / modified
CE (concerned)
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Step Description Responsibility
accordingly.
7 Training Calendar shall be approved by the
Board.
Director/HRD/BBMB
8 Approved Training Calendar shall be sent back
to concerned CE and copy shall be retained by
Secretary /BBMB through Jt. Secretary looking
after HRD function. CE shall communicate
Training Calendar to concerned circle/ division
For organizing the training programme(s) as
planned.
CE (concerned)
9 CE shall organize to implement Training
Calendar as planned (or update / improve).
CE (concerned)
10 On monthly basis progress of training
programmes shall be reviewed at CE level and a
report shall be sent to Board office.
a. Monthly report on progress of trainings to
board office indicating training planned and
conducted, facility, no. of participants, feedback
etc.
CE (concerned) /
Nominated Officer
11 Training record which includes:
a. Attendance sheet
b. Certificate(s) if any
shall be maintained by officer nominated by CE
and Jt. Secretary looking after HRD function
CE (concerned) /
Director/HRD BBMB
12 External training which includes nominations in
workshops, conferences, seminars and training at
reputed institutions is controlled through
concerned CE as well as board office by
Secretary /BBMB through Jt. Secretary looking
after HRD function.
CE (concerned) /
Director/HRD
13 Proposal for external training, based on requests
of employee(s) or Training Calendar of reputed
training institute(s) shall be processed by CE.
However, Director/HRD/BBMB through Jt.
Secretary looking after HRD function on its own
CE (concerned) /
Director/HRD
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Step Description Responsibility
may also process such training proposals.
a. Requests / proposals for external training,
seminars, conference etc.
b. Training Calendar (s) of reputed training
institutes
After attending the training programme
employee shall report on duty.
14 Proposal put up by nominated officer shall be
reviewed by CE or board level as per schedule of
power.
a. Schedule of Power
Competent Authority
as per SOP
15 After review, modifications (if any) shall be got
incorporated in proposal and approval shall be
granted by Competent Authority.
Competent Authority
16 Approval of Competent Authority shall be
communicated to nominated officer promptly
(well in advance) to enable necessary actions
prior to attending the training.
CE (concerned) /
Director/HRD,
BBMB
17 Nominated employee(s) shall be relieved from
his / her duties to enable him / her to attend the
approved training programme. Training
programme shall be attended by nominated
employee(s) as per schedule. After attending the
training programme employee shall report on
duty.
Employee
18 Feed back / report shall be submitted by
concerned employee after attending the
programme. However, if a programme of
common interest has been organized for groups
of employees of BBMB, individual report /
feedback may not be essential. A common
feedback may be submitted by the organizer of
the programme/ complied by Jt. Secretary
looking after HRD function.
CE (concerned) /
Director/HRD,
BBMB
19 Review of report / feedback shall be carried out Concerned Officer /
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Environmental Audit Report – BBMB
Step Description Responsibility
for the effectiveness conducted of training. Such
feedback is considered while planning similar
future training programmes, if any.
Jt. Secretary looking
after HRD function
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