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GOVERNMENT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT HIMACHAL PRADESH ROAD AND OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (HPRIDC), HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE ROADS PROJECT (HPSRP),

Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km Roads for the HPRIDC-World Bank Supported Himachal Pradesh State Roads Improvement Project

THE LOUIS BERGER GROUP, INC. 2300 N Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20037, USA Tel.: 202 331 7775; Fax: 202 293 0787

Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km List of Tables Table Table Title Number 1 Details of the proposed Phase I (Stage 1) 250 Km project roads 2 Explanation and Examples of Direct and Indirect Impacts 3 Important species, area and growing stock volumes 4 Recorded number of faunal species in Himachal Pradesh 5 Census figures of some wild animals and birds in HP 6 Geographical distribution of the forests of HP 7 Legal Classification of Forest 8 District wise Forest Area (sq km) 9 Various Forest Types in HP and their Assessment 10 Overview of the Injuries, Deaths and Compensation Paid due to Wildlife Attacks on Humans and Cattle 11 District-wise list of Protected Areas and their Important Fauna 12 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road) 13 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Una-Barsar-JahuNerchowk Road) 14 Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Theog-KotkhaiKharapathar-Rohru Road) 15 Biodiversity Aspects of Faunal Species (Mammals, Birds and Reptiles) Observed Along the Three Road Corridors Page Number 3 4 7 7 8 8 8 9 9 11 12 17

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter No. 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 2 3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 4 4.1 4.2 4.3 5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 6 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 7 Annexure I Annexure II Annexure III Title List of Tables INTRODUCTION Need for the project Project brief Need for Biodiversity Impact Assessment ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING BIODIVERSITY PROFILE Floral diversity Faunal diversity Status of forests Assessment of forest types Wildlife issues and concerns Measures to protect biodiversity METHODOLOGY Reconnaissance Survey
Stakeholders Workshop & Consultative Meetings Compilation and Analysis KEY FINDINGS ECOLOGICAL/FLORAL/FAUNAL FEATURES ALONG ROADS Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road Faunal Diversity on the Three Roads (250 km) PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES General Project Impacts and their Mitigation Measures Location Specific Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures Location Specific Wildlife Crossing Corridors and their Mitigation Measures Other Mitigation Measures for Areas of Animal Movement Corridors MONITORING PLAN

Page No. i 1 1 1 4 5 6 6 7 8 9 11 11 12 14 14 14 15 15 21 28 34 39 40 43 50 54 56 I II VII

LIST OF ANNEXURES
Red Listed Medicinal Plants of Himachal Pradesh Proceedings and Recommendations of the Consultative Workshop on Impact Assessment of H. P. Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity Summary of Responses of Participants in the Workshop

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km 1 Introduction
Roads, especially highways have been recognized as arteries providing a range of services and carrying vital goods and people that are key drivers of a growing economy. Roads are known to boost economic growth in many sectors, like farm sector through faster and timely transport of farm produce to markets and tourism sector, particularly to remote locations. India has also embarked on developing and expanding the road network, as part of infrastructure development for its growing needs.

1.1 Need for the project With only 60% metaled and 90% single-laned roads , Himachal with a total of 24,9221 km of motorable roads is in urgent need to improve the road network and conditions. In fact less than 50% of all the census villages in the state are connected by all weather roads. Even the existing roads lack longitudinal and cross drainage, retaining walls, roadside parapets and good road geometrics leading to longer journey times, slow speeds and increased wear-tear of vehicles. To reduce traveling time and to ensure faster movement of perishable farm produce (fruits and vegetables), better roads are the only feasible alternative, as the mountainous topography of the state makes railways and civil aviation unviable. Upgradation of the road network in the state will increase the connectivity of places, safe mobility of goods and people, resulting in greater utilisation of resources and socio-economic development of the people. The success of the various investments by the government in the different sectors depend to a great extent on the adequacy of the transport infrastructure i.e. road network in the state. 1.2 Project Brief It is in this background that the state government has undertaken widening and improving/upgrading the road network in the state to meet the demands of growing economy. It has completed Strategic Option Study and identified 1675 km road length covering some of the state highways and district roads. Out of this, planning and designing work in respect of following five high priority roads is being taken up in Phase I of the project, of which detail designs and alignments have been completed for 250 km length. Mehatpur-Una-Amb Una-Badsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Theog- Kotkhai- Kharapathar-Rohru Ghumarvin-Sarkaghat-Jogindernagar Kumarhatti-Nahan-Dosarhka

Table 1 gives the details of the 250 km road that are being taken up currently. Besides, an environmental and social screening of the priority roads has also been completed.

March 2005

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Table 1: Details of the Proposed Phase I (Stage 1) 250 Km Project Roads
S. No. 1 2 3 Proposed roads for improvement Mehatpur-Una-Amb Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Theog-Kothkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru SH/MDR No SH-25 SH-32 Road Length (km) 44.200 126.270 80.730 Existing Carriageway (CW) Width 7.0 m 5.5 / 3.5 m -

Location map of Mehatpur-Una-Amb and Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk

Location map of Theog-Kothkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru

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1.3 Need for Biodiversity Impact Assessment Keeping in view of the high forest percentage and rich floral and faunal diversity of the state, GoHP and the World Bank are concerned about the negative impact that road development might have on the biodiversity of the area, which might be direct impact or indirect and/or short- and long-term. Direct and indirect impacts are explained below in Table 2. Table 2: Explanation and Examples of Direct and Indirect Impacts
Direct Impacts Destroy, displace or in some way adversely affect the plants and animals themselves. Examples are: habitat loss habitat fragmentation corridor restrictions increased animal mortality due to collision with road vehicles and aquatic habitat damage. Indirect Impacts Destroy or disrupt patterns, processes or behaviour leading to alterations in habitats, ecosystems or other physical or biological factors upon which a species depends. Examples are: habitat degradation resulting from increased human access to wildlife habitats habitat degradation due to altered hydrology ecological disequilibrium ecosystem simplification introduction of exotic species that alter community patterns and processes transmission of diseases.

Integrating forests and wildlife concerns into road project planning at an early stage can limit the adverse impacts on biodiversity, particularly, wildlife and wildlife habitats, as improper practices could often result in irreversible adverse impacts leading to local extinctions of species. Keeping the above-mentioned context in mind and to minimize any of the direct and indirect impact of road development/improvement on biodiversity, a rapid BIA has been carried out with the following objectives: To assess the impacts the project will have on forest, wildlife and wildlife habitat To identify and establish the most probable road-crossing locations of Wild animals To prepare a multi-purpose mitigation plan that details the strategies and measures to address forestry and wild life concerns in the project

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2 Environmental Setting Environment is a critical element for sustaining life. Various environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, and rainfall besides components of the physical environment like soil) determine the composition of species within plant communities that, in turn, affect colonization by and movement of animals. Consequently, it is important to take a brief look at the environmental setting, particularly of the areas though which the project road passes. Himachal Pradesh is a mountainous state in northern India known for its forests, rivers, and valleys, a rich cultural heritage. The Outer and lesser Himalayan watersheds of the state covering 28,970 sq km area are of great national importance, as entire northern India depends largely for water and power produced by runoff from this region. Himachal Pradesh extends from the Shivalik Hills in the south to the Great Himalayan ranges including a slice of trans-Himalayas in the north. The state falls between latitude 3022 and 3012 north and longitude 7545 and 7904 East. It is located between the Ravi river in the west and Yamuna river in the east. Its greatest length is 355 Km from the northwestern extremity of Chamba to the Southeastern tip of Kinnaur and the maximum width is 270 Km from Kangra in Southwest to Kinnaur in the northeast. The altitude ranges from 450 to 6500 meters above sea level, which increases from West to East and South to North. The state experiences climate ranging from hot summer to cold winters, as a result of differences in aspect and elevation. Areas towards north and located just below the high altitude zone, receives adequate snowfall and often remain snow covered for months. The various climatic zone range from sub tropical (450-900 meter), warm temperate (900-800 m), Cool temperate (1800-2400 m), cold high mountains (2400-4000 m) and snowy and frigid (above 4000 m). Areas in the Shivaliks, for example, regions in Una and Hamirpur districts are warmer with mean maximum temperature reaching up to 38 C. Shimla, the state capital, located in the mid hills also get occasional snowfall and the average minimum temperature is around 4.9 C. The average rainfall for the state is about 115 cm, however, 70% of this falls during monsoon (June-September), 20% from October to March and 10% from April to June. District Kangra followed by Shimla receives maximum rainfall. Dharamsala in Kangra gets highest rainfall (rainfall over 3400 mm). Some rains are received during winters as well. The annual rainfall in the outer Himalayas varies from 150 to 175 cm, while the inner Himalayas receives about 75 to 100 cm. Beyond Manali, towards Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur rainfall is low due to rain shadow area.

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3 Biodiversity Profile The altitudinal variation, environmental setting and distinct climatic zones has endowed the state with rich biodiversity, which includes all living forms (species diversity), their intra-specific variation (genetic diversity) and places they are found (ecological diversity). It is, therefore, essential how much biodiversity is present so as to develop mitigation strategies and plans for its protection through limiting the negative project impacts. 3.1 Floral diversity Out of total 45,000 to 47,000 floral species found in the country, as many as 3,295 species (7.32%)2 are found in HP. Himachal has 3,120 species of flowering plants, 38 species of orchids, 13 species of conifers and 124 species of pteridophytes (including ferns). The floristic elements also show high degrees of endemism with almost 95% of the species being native of Western Himalayan flora, while about 5% (150 species) are exotic, introduced over the last 150 years. The introduction of exotics has disturbed the natural composition of many plant communities and is a cause of concern. In fact HP has 12 critically endangered, 21 endangered and 27 vulnerable plant species (Annex 1). While the Shivaliks once harboured diverse species, presently, these are in various stages of degradation. There are only a few natural patches that still have the natural species composition comprising of native species. Most other plant communities have been disturbed on account of habitat loss, degradation, soil erosion and biological invasions. The Mehatpur-Una-Amb road passes through many such degraded forest patches. However, the Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk road passes through a few forest patches that show high degree of native species compositions. At higher elevations (mid hills), particularly at the transition zone between the Shivaliks and the mid hills, the arboreal element is dominated by Pinus longifolia. In the middle hills, when elevation further increases, Pinus longifolia is replaced by Cedrus deodara (above 6,000 7,000 feet). Other shrubby plants in this zone are Cotoneaster racimiflora, Daphne oleoides, Desmodium tiliaefolium, Indigofera heterantha, Parrotiopsis jacquemontii, etc. The ground vegetation is dominated by grasses like Agrostis stolonifera, Andropogon tristis, Chrysopogon echinulatus and Dichanthium annulatum. Common trees are Quercus incana and Rhododendron sp. The Theog-Rohru road passes through some forest patches with such a composition, especially near Khara Pathar and Jubbal areas. The mid hills abound in conifers, as they start appearing just above the Shivaliks. Barring a few, most conifers are present in mid hills. The conifers of HP are ecologically very important covering a large area of the temperate and sub-alpine zones. There are thirteen species of conifers in HP - 1. Pinus wallichina, 2. Pinus roxburgii, 3. Pinus gerardiana, 4. Picea smithiana, 5. Abies pindrow, 6. Abies spectablis, 7. Cupressus torulosa, 8. Cedrus deodara, 9. Juniperus macropoda, 10 Juniperus excelsa, 11 Juiperus Sequamata, 12 Ephedra Gerardiana and 13.Taxus baccata In order to protect these species from large-scale commercial felling there is a greenfelling ban imposed in the state. This has been implemented, as these species have a large turnover cycle (100 or more years), poor germination percentages, poor seedling recruitment and slow growth rates. Among these 13 species, Cedrus deodara or commonly known as Deodar is one of the finest timber species, which fetches a very
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per cent of 45,000 species

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high price in the market. Another important species is Taxus baccata, the bark of which has been found to contain wonder medicinal properties in anti-cancer treatments. There is a large growing stock of timber in HP forests. Species-wise area coverage and growing stock figures are given in Table 3 below. Chir (Pinus roxburghii) and Fir/Spruce (Abies pindrow/Picea smithiana) forests are the most widespread in terms of area coverage. In terms of growing volume Fir/Spruce and Deodar (Cedrus deodara) are amongst the top. Table 3: Important Species, Area and Growing Stock Volumes
Name of species Cedrus deodara (Deodar) Pinus excelsa (Kail) Pinus roxburghii (Chir) Abies pindrow/Pcies smithiana (Fir/spruce) Shorea robusta (Sal) Quercus incana (Ban Oak) Quercus dialatata (Mohru Oak) Quercus semicarpifolia (Kharsu) Total Forests Area (Km) 811 809 1436 1343 183 540 35 246 5403 Growing Stock (000 M) 16129 15074 12648 46357 2,563 7988 893 5880 107532

3.2 Faunal diversity Wide altitudinal ranges and varied topography of Himachal Pradesh has resulted in making the state a very rich repository of wild fauna. Table 4 gives an account of faunal species of the state. From dry deciduous to luxuriant temperate forests to alpine scrub, the state has free ranging animals in all the climatic zones. Whereas, Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Ibex, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer and Snow Cock have made cold deserts their home, the cold temperate regions of the state form natural habitat of Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Monal, Chir Pheasant, Koklas and Western Tragopan. The lower reaches of the state abound with Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Ghoral, Blue Bull, Rhesus Macaque, Hanuman Langur, Martens, Jungle Cat and Leopard amongst mammals and pheasants including Cheer and White Crested Kaleej besides Red Jungle Fowl and Pea Fowl. Table 4: Recorded Number of Faunal Species in Himachal Pradesh
Taxa Mammals Birds Reptiles Fishes Aquatic Fauna Number of species 77 463 44 80 436

The state is endowed with a rich wildlife, and some of the species have witnessed considerable increase in population sizes and numbers after a ban on hunting was imposed in the State. Census figures in respect of some species (mammals and birds) are provided in Table 5. There are, however, lack of authentic data/figures regarding lower groups of species, such as, amphibians, mollusks etc. Soil-borne micro-fauna, for example, soil nematodes, ciliates etc are also not documented.

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Table 5: Census figures of some wild animals and birds in HP
S. No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Census Year June 2004 Species Leopard Rhesus Macaque Hanuman Langur Indian Peafowl Red Jungle Fowl Kaleej Pheasant Cheer Pheasant Koklas Himalayan Monal Western Tragopan Numbers 761 319168 56986 6418 27848 24831 1664 6533 3812 284

May 2005

3.3 Status of Forests Forests are the storehouse of the rich biodiversity of the state and are life support systems. A recent estimate done during Forest Sector Review in 2000 of direct and indirect values of HPs forests indicated that the total economic value of forest resources is around Rs 106,664 crore, not including the Rs 40,860 crore value given to the growing stock. The economic value of HP forests watershed functions appeared to be the single highest value, at nearly Rs. 74,000 crore. Forests in HP are legally defined and classified as forest area under tree cover, dense and open forests. Table 6 gives the geographical distribution of forests of HP, based on Forest Survey of India report. Table 6: Geographical Distribution of the Forests of HP
Forest Area Forest Area (Legally defined) Area under tree cover Dense forests (Crown density above 40%) Open Forest (Crown density 10-40%) Area Km 37,033 13,082 9,120 3,962 Percent of Geographical area 66.52 23.50 16.38 7.12 Percent of Forest Area 100.00 35.3 24.6 10.7

Although legally defined forest area is 66%, as per the National Forest Policy, area under tree cover is only at about 23%, which is far less than the target of 50%3 set by the State Government. A strikingly positive point from Table 7 is that HP has a higher percentage of dense forest compared to open forest, which is not seen in many other states. Table 7: Legal Classification of Forest
Management Classification 1. Reserved Forests 2. Demarcated protected Forests 3. Un-demarcated Protected Forests 4. Unclassed Forests 5. Others (managed by Forest Department) 6. Not managed by Forest Department. Total Area ( Km ) 1896 11387 21656 976 370 748 37033 Percentage 5.12 30.75 58.48 2.63 1.00 2.02 100.00

50% of the States geographical area

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Table 8 gives the district wise forest cover in the state. Except two districts (Lahul-Spiti and Kinnaur), the proposed road improvement project, covering over 1600 km of roads will eventually pass through all other districts. Table 8: District-Wise Forest Area (sq km)
District Bilaspur Chamba Hamirpur Kangra Kinnaur Kullu Lahaul & Spiti Mandi Shimla Sirmaur Solan Una Total Geographic Area of District 1,167 6,528 1,118 5,739 6,401 5,503 13,835 3,950 5,132 2,825 1,936 1,540 55,673 Legally Classified forest area 428 4917 219 2842 5093 4956 10132 1860 3511 1843 728 487 37016 Tree covered area Dense Open Total 65 1585 93 1338 436 1631 34 982 1808 742 274 132 9120 170 716 95 301 213 343 116 557 582 366 218 185 3962 235 2301 188 1639 649 1974 150 1539 2390 1108 492 417 13082 Percent of Geographic Area 20.14 35.25 16.82 28.56 10.14 35.87 1.08 38.96 46.57 39.22 25.41 27.08 23.50

3.4 Assessment of Forest Types The forests are unevenly distributed, with some areas having more forests than others. This is expected due to climatic, topographic and altitudinal variations within the state. An assessment of the various forest types is given in Table 9. These are assessed on the basis of their distribution, composition and pressures faced. Table 9: Various Forest Types in HP and their Assessment
Forest Type 1. Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests Area ( Km ) 2,140 Assessment Distributed in the lower altitudes in the Shivaliks (lower Montane zone up to 1,000 m). Main tree species observed are Khair, Siris, Kachnar, Semal, Tun, Mango, Behul, Shisham, Ritha, Tut, Behera & Chil. This forest has witnessed large-scale degradation in terms of quality as also reduced distribution due to expansion of industry in some areas of Shivaliks (e.g. Baddi, Nalagarh etc). High resource extraction, firewood and fodder, along with overgrazing has also led to degradation of habitat quality. Tropical dry deciduous forests are also facing threats from biological invasions of exotic species, like Lantana camara, Prosopis juliflora and other common exotic weeds, as a result natural regeneration is severely affected and species diversity is decreasing. Distributed in the lower altitudes in the Shivaliks (lower Montane zone up to 1,000 m). Essentially a sub-set of the tropical dry deciduous forests, but classified separately due to distinct species composition. Characteristically trees are missing but some thorny bushes takes shapes of small to medium-sized trees. Main species are Zizyphus, Carissa, Balenitis & Acacia leucophloea.

2. Tropical Thorn Forests

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Forest Type Area ( Km ) Assessment This forest type has also witnessed large-scale degradation, primarily from change in the land-use pattern, as many people considered such vegetation composition as low productivity wastelands. Distributed in the mid altitudes (middle Montane zone - between 1,000 to 1,800 m). Pine is the main species and large tracts of good quality pine forests can be seen as monoculture stands. Usually, species diversity is less due to pure pine formations. Main species observed include Chir, Alder, Willow, Robinia, Blue Pine, Toon, Wild Apricot & Celtis. Uncontrolled and man-made (including accidental) fires are a major hazard for such forest types. These forests have relatively maintained their species composition, and are less disturbed compared to the deciduous forests of the lower altitudes although in some areas exotic weeds have proliferated, especially after landslides. Distributed in the mid altitudes (middle Montane zone - between 1,000 to 2,000 m). Patchy and small distribution area with in the mid hills. Main species found are Kachnar, Poplar, Willow, Ohi, Robinia, Drek, Kail, Chil, Toon, Behmi, Chulli, Vitex, Lolium, Dactylis & Phleum. Despite unevenly distributed rainfall pattern, the forest maintains its green cover throughout the year. Distributed in the temperate Zone (From 2,000m to 3,000 m) Most widely distributed forests of the HP, chiefly dominated by the conifers. Main tree species are Deodar, Fir, Spruce, Maple, Ash, BhojPatra, Horse Chestnut, Alder, Robinia, Poplar & Walnut. The habitat quality has reduced in some areas with high resource extraction in terms of firewood. This forest type has also suffered on account of large-scale illegal tree felling, as most species have high timber value and are needed for industrial and domestic (house construction) purposes (T.D. rights). Habitat conversion and encroachment, particularly in the applegrowing belt has also reduced its natural extent of distribution. Forests have been cleared and encroached for expanding apple orchards and cultivation of other agricultural crops. Distributed in the alpine zone (above 3,000 m) and is ecologically very important, as it is in these areas that the rivers originate from the glaciers. Vegetation is mostly herbs and shrubs with occasional trees of the temperate zone. But largely, the zone is above the tree line. Main species observed are Birch, Juniper, Cypress, Willow, Saussurea lappa, Cotoneaster microphylla, Artemesia, Festuca arundinacea, Dectylis glomerata, Podophyllum hexandrum, Kutki, Atis etc. The zone is rich in medicinal plants. Major threats faced by this forest type is overgrazing and unscientific and rampant extraction of medicinal herbs.

3. Sub-Tropical Pine Forests

3,853

4. Sub-Tropical Dry Ever Green Forests

470

5. Himalayan Moist Temperate Forests

4,064

6. Sub-Alpine and Alpine Forests

2,512

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3.5 Wildlife Issues and Concerns The State of Himachal has about 66% designated forests, which includes forests established and/or standing on private lands, much of which also supports natural vegetation and trees as part of traditional agroforestry practices. Such a landscape, irrespective of the legal designation of the area or ownership rights, provides suitable habitat for wildlife. The wild fauna, on its part, also does not differentiate between the forest and non-forest areas and, thus, wildlife encounters in the state are frequent, irrespective of the ownership of the land in which the forest is located. This often gives rise to conflicting issues at the human-wildlife interface, especially when land use changes are observed. 3.5.1 Wildlife-Human Issues Related to Injuries/Loss of Life Many cases of such conflicts where the wild animals, especially Himalayan Black Bear and Leopard, attack cattle or even human beings are reported every year from the state. Though there is a state policy and, therefore, rules to provide financial compensation where these conflicts result in injury or loss to the life, human-wildlife conflicts are becoming a major concern for the people as well as the forest department. Table 10 gives an overview of the injuries, deaths and compensation paid due to wildlife attacks on humans and cattle. Table 10: Overview of the Injuries, Deaths and Compensation Paid due to Wildlife Attacks on Humans and Cattle
Human beings Died Year No. 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 4 5 6 2 3 Amount paid (Rs in lacs) 1.00 5.00 6.00 2.00 3.00 Injury to Human beings Amount paid No. (Rs in lacs) 62 1.30 64 2.65 93 8.00 28 5.19 45 5.18 73 11.06 Cattle died No. 2409 2557 1552 261 1154 1096 Amount paid (Rs in lacs) 15.82 16.99 13.86 1.73 7.71 7.31 Grand Total (Rs in lacs) 17.12 20.64 26.86 12.92 14.89 21.37

3.5.1 Wildlife-Human Issues Related to Economic Losses Some of the wild animals including Blue Bull, Wild Boar and Rhesus Macaque, are also reported to cause extensive damage to the agricultural crops leading to economic losses to the farmers. However, there is no provision of compensation for crop damage by wild animals, which further increases the conflict. Farmers are, however, allowed crop protection licenses under which they can kill certain animals like Wild Boar, Rhesus Macaque in their fields to save their crops from damage. However, such option is seldom availed by the farmers due to procedural complexities or religious sentiments.

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3.6 Measures to Protect Biodiversity The State Government has taken initiatives for in situ conservation of the wide variety of floral and faunal species found in HP. A network of Protected Areas, comprising 2 National Parks and 32 Wildlife Sanctuaries has been established. Table 11 gives lists the PAs of the state along with the important faunal elements found in them. The two NP cover an area of 1440 sq km, whereas the 32 WLS have a total coverage of 6132 sq km. The total area, thus, covered by the NP and WLS stands at 7572 sq km. The PAs of HP cover all biotic provinces. Two PAs are located in the Trans-Himalayan; 17 PAs in Northwest Himalayan (west of Sutlej river); 13 PAs in west Himalayas (east of Sutlej river); and 2 PAs in Semi-Arid zone. No PA is located in Una and Bilaspur districts. Table 11: District-wise list of Protected Areas and their Important Fauna
S. No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Parabati Kullu Pooh Kullu Kinnaur Kangra Pangi Dharamshala Nurpur/Dehra Nurpur Nichar Dalhousie Chamba Chamba District Bilaspur Forest Division Bilasapur PA and Area (sq km) Naina Devi WLS Govind Sagar WLS Gamgul-Siyabehi WLS Kugti WLS Kalatop-Khaijiar WLS Tundah WLS Sechu-Tuan Nalla WLS Dhauldhar WLS Pong Dam Lake WLS Bassa-Waziram Game Reserve Sangla WLS Rupi Bhaba WLS Lippa Asrang WLS Kanawar WLS Sainj WLS Khokhan WLS Kias WLS Fauna Sambhar, Wild Boar, Monkey, Goral, Red Jungle Fowl, Barking Deer, Pea Fowl Egrets, Ducks, Pochards, Mallards etc Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Goral, Monal, Koklas Himalayan Tahr, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Leopard, Monal, Koklas, Snow Pheasants Serow, Goral, Black Bear, Barking Deer, Monal. Koklas Himalayan Tahr. Ibex, Goral, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Martins, Monal, Snow Cock, Koklas, Chukor Himalayan Tahr. Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Snow Leopard, Monal, Snow Cock, Chukor, Tragopan

Sambhar, Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Partridges Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Sambhar Bharal, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Monal, Tragopan, Snow Leopard Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Goral, Monal, Koklas, Tragopan Ibex, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Chukor, Monal, Tragopan Himalayan Tahr. Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Monal, Snow Leopard, Tragopan Leopard, Black Bear, Kalij, Ibex, Snow Cock Black Bear, Musk Deer, Snow Partridges, Monal, Koklas Musk Deer, Black Bear, Tragopan, Goral

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S. No. 18. 19. 20. District Kullu Forest Division Kotagrh Seraj Parbati PA and Area (sq km) Manali WLS Tirthan WLS Great Himalayan National Park Kibber WLS Pin Valley National Park Nargu WLS Shikari Devi WLS Bandli WLS Shimla Water Catchment Area WLS Daranghati I & II WLS Talra WLS Simabalbara WLS Renuka WLS Chail WLS Majathal WLS Daralaghat WLS Ghanna Ki Hatti Game Reserve Shili WLS Taradevi Game Reserve Churdhar WLS Fauna Black Bear, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Goral, Monal Himalayan Tahr. Ibex, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Koklas, Monal, Snow Leopard Musk Deer, Barking Deer, Snow Cock, Ibex, Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Monal, Cheer Pheasant, Kalij, Koklas, Black Bear, Western Tragopan Snow Leopard, Goral, Monal, Koklas Snow Leopard, Snow Wolf, Chukor, Snow Pigeon, Marmots, Ibex, Snow Cock, Bharal Goral, Barking Deer, Serow, Black Bear, Musk Deer, Monal, Kalij Musk Deer, Serow, Barking Deer, Goral, Black Bear, Monal. Koklas Goral, Barking Deer, Black Bear, Kalij, Red Jungle Fowl Goral, Barking Deer, Koklas, Red Jungle Fowl, Kalij Goral, Serow, Black Bear, Monal, Kalij, Koklas, Chukor Musk Deer, Goral, Black Bear, Panther, Kalij, Koklas, Monal, Chukor Sambhar, Goral, Cheetal, Nilgai, Barking Deer, Leopard, Wild Boar, Red Jungle Fowl, Partridges Sambhar, Goral, Barking Deer, Red Jungle Fowl Red Deer, Sambhar, Goral, Barking Deer, Red Jungle Fowl, Kalij Goral, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Panther, Sambhar, Chir Pheasant, Red Jungle Fowl, Chukor, Kallej Barking Deer, Goral, Langoor, Wild Boar, Chukor, Kalij, Red Jungle Fowl Ghoral, Langour, Barking Deer, Leopard, Kalij, Chukor Goral, Barking Deer, Panther, Kalij, Chukor, Black Partridges Barking Deer, Kalij, Red Jungle Fowl Goral, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, Panther, Black Bear, Monal, Koklas, Kalij, Chukor

21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37.

Lanhaul & Spiti

Spiti Spiti

Mandi

Mandi Suket/ Nachan Suket

Shimla

Shimla Kotgarh Rohroo Chopal Nahan Rajgarh

Sirmour

Solan

Solan Kunihar

Solan

Sirmour/ Shimla

Renuka/ Chopal

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4 Methodology The present BIA report is based on rapid assessments, involving a review of secondary information, research reports, departmental documents, forest working plans, on site stakeholder consultations, interactions with forest officials using pre-designed questionnaires, ecological sampling techniques involving line transects and quadrates and visual observations etc. Direct sightings, presence of indirect evidences (dung, foot marks etc) and stakeholder accounts were considered while recording presence/absence of wild animals. 4.1 Reconnaissance Survey Reconnaissance survey of the proposed road corridors was conducted by traveling along the proposed road alignment, recording the major habitat types, recording the vegetation composition and wildlife diversity, particularly, occurrence of any red-listed plant or animal species along the road corridor. Field survey of the critical wildlife habitats highlighted during stakeholder consultations and short-listed from secondary sources was carried out and assessment of the wildlife and floral status made through a stratified sampling design. This was necessitated due to the short working period and the time of the year when most of the broad-leaved trees, shrubs and herbaceous flora was without leaves. Line transects were laid along the road corridors and floral diversity recorded in randomly laid Quadrats (25m x 4 m) along these line transacts. The herbaceous flora was recorded in sub-quadrats (5m x 2m) laid at the beginning and the end of the main quadrat. Field data was recorded in specially designed formats. Information related to occurrence of any specific habitat, key-stone species and signs of wildlife, etc. was also recorded during these surveys. 4.2 Stakeholders Workshop & Consultative Meetings A stakeholders Consultative Workshop was organised at Shimla on 14 December 2006 and issues related to biodiversity and wildlife impacts due to the roads project were discussed. A number of issues of concern cropped up during the discussions and recommendations for mitigation of these concerns were made. Copy of the proceedings & recommendations of the workshop is appended at Annex-2. Views of the local people, road users and field staff of Forest department were also recorded during the survey of these roads on the basis of a semi-structured questionnaire specially designed for the work through one to one interactions either in person or over telephone. Summary of responses by foresters, villagers and road users are appended as Annex 3. 4.3 Compilation and Analysis Data collected during stakeholder interactions was collated and clubbed into major groups. The information was then used while describing the wildlife movement and suggesting mitigation measures. Similarly, the floristic data collected during vegetation recording was collated and the major vegetation formations at various locations of survey worked out. This information has been used and portrayed while describing the forest/ vegetation details along each road corridor. The information collected from the field forms the basis of bringing out likely impacts of the roads project on biodiversity and in suggesting mitigation measures.

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5 Key Findings Ecological/Floral/Faunal Features Along Roads 5.1 Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road An old pilgrim road that provides connectivity from Nangal in Punjab to Amb and thereafter to the temple places of Chintapurni and Jawalaji in Himachal Pradesh serving pilgrims and other visitors from as far places as Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, etc. The road witnesses heavy traffic during festival seasons and during congregations at one or the other temple places. 5.1.1 Key Findings from Ecological/Biological Survey The road passes through the Shivalik foothills with agriculture and private scrub lands as the major land use type in the area. There is neither any Protected Area nor any legally classified forest land along the road or in its zone of influence4. However, there are a number of places along the road corridor where biodiversity values are high and such areas would need to be protected during construction and operational phases of road development. A list of such places, likely project impacts and their mitigation measures for the Mehatpur-Una-Amb road is provided in Chapter 6. The area along the road is characterized by the following type of vegetation: Strip plantations along road: Most of the road length is lined with plantation of avenue trees, which are designated as protected forests. - Eucalyptus sp and Populus deltoids planted in a single row form the major avenue plantation along the road. Being about 50 years old5, these are perceived as threat to life and property by the local people, as at many places these have already fallen due to rot and heavy winds. As far as biodiversity issues are concerned, both these species are exotic and do not make part of the native biodiversity, or support any significant undergrowth. - Native species that are planted as avenue include Mangifera indica, Terminalia arjuna, Bombax ceiba, Albizzia procera, Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Morus alba, Dalbergia sissoo, Syzygium cumini and Acacia nilotica. Most of these good canopy trees provide good shelter and nesting places to the avifauna and other arboreal animals. Fungal infestations have killed many Dalbergia sissoo and Acacia nilotica trees and many are showing signs of progressive dying. - Generally along the road side the herbaceous flora is poor and chiefly comprises of common weedy species, such as, Sida acuta, Achyranthes aspera, Barleria cristata, Dicliptera sp, Xanthium strumarium, Solanum nigrum, Solanum surattense, Boerhavia diffusa, etc. Miscellaneous scrub forest: The road at some places touches the Shivaliks passing through undulating terrain bearing miscellaneous scrub forest vegetation just outside Una and between Dusada and Amb. Species composition comprises mainly of Acacia catechu, Dendrocalamus strictus, Mallotus philippinensis, Zizyphus nummularia, Murraya koenigii, Dodonea viscosa, Anogeissus pendula, Cordia dichotoma, Bombax ceiba, Cryptolepis buchanani, Riccinus communis, Cynadon

4 5

As told by DFO Una during stakeholder consultations As told local inhabitants and road side traders during stakeholder consultations

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dactylon, Vitiveria zizynioides, Rumex sp, Cannabis sativa, Jasminum sp, Lantana camara, Parthenium hysterophorus etc. These miscellaneous scrubs are good habitat for Blue Bull, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Jackal and Leopard6. Grassy Flood Plains: The tract is characterized by the presence of a number of Chos (natural drainage lines) that overflow during rainy season inundating large areas adjoining the streams. Moreover, the Chos also brings and deposit silt and pebbles in these areas. Repeated inundation has resulted in formation of extensive grassy plains along the Chos. These grassy patches provide a good edge and grazing ground for blue bull and wild boar, as well as provide a habitat for small mammals. Agriculture Fields: The area supports good agriculture with most of the area cultivated under two-crop system alternating between rabi and kharif crops. Mustard, Wheat, Maize, Sugarcane and Rice7 are major crops along the roads. Important tree species grown as traditional agro-forestry practices include Morus alba, Dalbergia sissoo, Acacia nilotica, Terminalia bellirica, Celtis australis, Mangifera indica, Albizzia lebbek and Syzygium cuminii. These occasionally provide a continuum of tree line from the road end to the miscellaneous scrub tracts in the adjoining areas and as such provide shelter and nesting places to the avifauna and arboreal animals.

A check list of plants observed during the survey on this road (within and outside the quadrates) is given in Table 12. List of fauna observed/reported from the region (and possible to site along the road) is given in Table 15. 5.1.2 Key findings from Quadrate Data Analysis No threatened (endangered and/or vulnerable) and endemic plant species were observed in the direct impact zone of this road. Some species (Ageratum conyzoides, Dicliptera bupleuroides, Sida acuta and Xanthium strumarium) are wide-spread throughout the road segment, as is reflected from their frequency (100%). However, these are wayward weeds and common plants distributed throughout the northern Indian plains, low hills and the central Indian highlands. The high frequency, density and abundance measures for the roadside weeds and other common plants are a reflection of the disturbed state of the forest areas. The density for tree species is lower (range bound from 1.0 to 2.7) for this area, as largely there is mixed land use along the road (semi-urban, commercial and agricultural) with little natural forest. On the other hand, herbaceous and shrubby species show higher density (1.3 to 14.0 and 1.3 to 6.5 respectively) due to the spread of scrublands and thorny scrub forests. Such forest types are characteristic of this region and climate.

Table 12 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of the plant species found in and outside the quadrates.

6 7

Not very common Only where water is plenty

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Table 12: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road)
S. No. Species Frequency (%) 40 60 90 70 30 100 80 10 30 90 20 40 30 30 20 100 50 20 30 60 60 Density Abundance RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Abutilon indicum Acacia catechu Achyranthus aspera Adhatoda vasica Aerua sanguinolenta Ageratum conyzoides Barleria cariatata Bauhinia variegata Bombax ceiba

0.5 1.5 6.4 3.9 0.4 14.4 3.2 0.1 0.7 5 0.2 0.9 0.6 0.9 0.5 5 4.4 0.2 0.3 1.3 1.6

1.3 2.5 7.1 5.6 1.3 14.4 4.0 1.0 2.3 5.6 1.0 2.3 2.0 3.0 2.5 5.0 8.8 1.0 1.0 2.2 2.7

Herb Tree Herb Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Tree Tree Shrub Tree

10. Carissa carendus 11. Cassia fistula 12. Cissampelos pareira 13. Cordia dichotoma 14. Cryptolepis buchanain 15. Dalbergia sissoo 16. Dicliptera bupleuroides 17. Eupatorium species 18. Ficus palmate 19. Ficus religiosa 20. Lantana camara 21. Mallotus phillipensis

Not Threatened Climber Not Threatened Tree Not Threatened Climber Not Threatened Tree Not Threatened Herb Herb Tree Tree Shrub Tree Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened

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S. No. Species Frequency (%) 50 30 60 20 100 40 50 100 Density Abundance RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

22. Malva parviflora 23. Morus alba 24. Murraya koenigii 25. Phoenix sylvestris 26. Sida acuta 27. Tinospora cordiolia 28. Urena lobata 29. Xanthium strumarium

2.6 0.5 2.1 0.3 4.8 0.4 1.8 4

5.2 1.7 3.5 1.5 4.8 1.0 3.6 4.0

Shrub Tree Shrub Tree Herb

Climber Not Threatened Shrub Not Threatened Shrub Not Threatened

Shrub Not Threatened 30. Zizyphus mauritiana 40 2.6 6.5 No Other plants observed during the survey but not recorded from the quadrates Tree 31. Acacia nilotica ---Not Threatened No 32. Albizzia procera 33. Boerhavia diffusa 34. Celtis australis 35. Datura stramonium 36. Dodonia viscosa 37. Eucalyptus sp. 38. Euphorbia royleana 39. Ficus benghalensis 40. Ficus rumphii 41. Jasminum dispermum 42. Mangifera indica 43. Populus deltoidea ------------------------------------Tree Herb Tree Shrub Shrub Tree Shrub Tree Tree Shrub Tree Tree Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No

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S. No. Species Frequency (%) -----Density Abundance RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No

44. Solanum nigrum 45. Solanum surattense 46. Terminalia arjuna 47. Terminalia bellirica 48. Terminalia chebula

------

------

Herb Shrub Tree Tree Tree

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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 1.0842 (Shannon H Log Base 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from within the quadrates during the survey. This value is indicating that the few identified forest habitat patches harbour good biodiversity in terms of species richness and distribution within the forests. Such identified patches need to be protected during the construction and operational phase of the roads. 5.1.3 Key Findings from Stakeholder Discussions Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holding direct discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held on the Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity. Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2. A summary of responses of various stakeholders are provided in Annex 3 and key findings are mentioned below:

Local people are of the view that the old avenue plantations of Eucalypts and Poplars should be removed, as they are becoming hazards for traffic and life. Some farmers along the roads have seen Blue Bull and Wild Boar crossing the road in search of water and food. Local residents could not confirm frequent animal-hits due to vehicles. Most common animals sighted along the road are Monkeys (in large troupes), Jackals (packs of two to three) and solitary or four to five Blue Bulls (during dusk and dawn). The DFO Una and other residents informed that due to good visibility along the road, slow traffic speed and agility of monkeys allow them to escape collisions with vehicles.

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5.2 Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road This is a very old erstwhile Hoshiarpur - Jahu road section linking Jahu, the last town in the pre-independence Punjab bordering Mandi state, with Hoshiarpur in Punjab. In the recent times, this extended road has assumed significance as an alternative route to Mandi. 5.2.1 Key Findings from Ecological/Biological Survey The road passes through the Shivalik hills and the doons (valleys) between the Shivaliks and the outer Himalayas. No Protected Wildlife Area or Reserve Forest falls along the road or in its zone of influence. However, there are a number of places along the road corridor where biodiversity values are high and such areas would need to be protected during construction and operational phases of road development. A list of such places, likely project impacts and their mitigation measures for the Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk road is provided under section 6. The characteristic vegetation complexes observed along the road are as follows:

Miscellaneous Scrub: The characteristic miscellaneous scrub of Shivaliks, starts immediately outside Una as the road cuts through the remnants of privately owned lower hills. The scrub becomes prominent as it enters the regular undulating terrain. Species composition is mainly of thorny species like Acacia catechu, Zizyphus mauritiana, Aegle marmelos, Carissa opaca, Randia dumetorum, Flacaurtia ramontchi, Mallotus philippinensis, Murraya koenigii, Dodonea viscosa, Woodfordia floribunda, Euphorbia royleana, Adhatoda vasica and Cryptolepis buchanani. Bushes of Lantana camara has encroached the habitat in a number of places but in some places composition of palatable grasses is good. Tropical Dry Deciduous Mixed Forest: The scrub gradually transforms into a verdant patch of mixed deciduous forest as at about 9 kilometres from Una on UnaBadsar section and continues till the boundary of Una and Hamirpur districts near Badsar. The typical dominant species of this habitat includes Anogeissus latifolia and Acacia catechu. Some of the other prominent associate species are Cassia fistula, Bombax ceiba, Mallotus philipensis, Butea monosperma, Lannea grandis, Ehretia laevis, Ougenia dalbergioides, Wrightia tomentosa, Flacourtia ramontchi, Aegle marmelos, Oroxylum indicum, Acacia modesta, Litsea chinensis, Wendenlandia excelsa, Loranthus longiflorus, Grewia oppositifolia, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, Carissa carandas, Woodfordia floribunda, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Dodonea viscosa, Adhatoda vasica, Zizyphus mauritiana, Bauhinia vahlii, Murraya koenigii, Holarhenna antidysentrica, Puereria tuberosa, Cryptolepis buchanani, Clematis gauriana, Cuscuta reflexa, Kydia calycina, Syzygium cumini and Jasminum sp. Some medicinal important herbs recorded from this area include Plumbago zeylanica, Barleria cristata, Tinospora cordifolia and Asparagus racemosus. Montane Sub-Tropical Pine Forests: As the altitude increases and cooler niches are found, especially at locations where the basic rock formation is of lime and sand stone, almost pure stands of Pinus roxburghii replace the mixed dry deciduous forests. Acacia catechu, Terminalia chebula, Mallotus philipensis, Albizzia odoratissima, Syzygium cumini, Pyrus pashia, Phyllanthus emblica and Toona ciliata make scattered associates of Pinus roxburghii. The forest floor is generally devoid of ground cover. However, along depressions, water courses and along forest edges,

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there is good ground cover consisting of Carissa carandas, Murraya koenigii, Achyranthes aspera, Dioscorea sp, Cryptolepis buchanani, Solanum sp, Barleria cristata, Rubus ellipticus and diverse grasses. At places Pinus roxburghii forests show signs of forest fires and felling to meet the demands of right holders. Avenue Plantations: Where the road is not passing through designated forest area, the road is lined with avenue plantations of Mangifera indica8, Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Eucalyptus sp etc. Trees older than100 year have formed large and spreading canopies that provide good shelter and nesting places to the avifauna. Agriculture Fields: Wherever, the road passes through the valley portion, there are good agricultural fields along both sides of the road. Most farmlands have trees on farm bunds and fallow lands (technically recorded as Charagah Darakhtan Malkiat Sarkar). The important tree species grown as traditional agroforestry practices include Toona ciliata, Grewia optiva, Morus alba, Terminalia bellirica, Celtis australis and a few others. These tree species mainly form a ready source of leaf fodder, small timber and fuel to the land owners and at a few locations also provide a continuum of tree line from the road end to the broad-leaved and Pine forests in the adjoining areas.

A check list of plants observed during the survey on this road (within and outside the quadrates) is given in Table 13. List of fauna observed/reported from the region (and possible to site along the road) is given in Table 15. 5.2.2 Key findings from Quadrate Data Analysis No threatened (endangered and/or vulnerable) and endemic plant species were observed in the direct impact zone of this road. The frequencies are range-bound from 4.76% to 52.38%, with Asparagus racamosus, Bauhinia vahlii, Hymenodictyon excelsum, Myrsine Africana, Nyctanthus arbor-tristis and Randia dumentorum having the lowest frequencies and Murraya koenigii having the highest value. Along this road, shrubs were abundant, as the lower Shiwaliks abound in bushy growth. Whereas, higher up in sub-temperate zones, mostly Pinus roxburghii or the Chir pine forests are present, which do not allow luxuriant undergrowth. Murraya koenigii has the highest frequency and density on this road stretch, but is not the most abundant plant, indicating its uneven distribution across the landscape. The distribution of species, as indicated by their quantitative phytosociological profiles, indicate a diverse community with uneven spread of species populations.

Table 13 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of the plant species found in the quadrates.

Local enquiries reveal that the mango trees are more than seventy year old

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Table 13: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road)
S. No. Species Frequency Density Abundance (%) 23.81 38.10 47.62 47.62 19.05 4.76 14.29 4.76 9.52 42.86 19.05 9.52 23.81 14.29 9.52 33.33 19.05 19.05 33.33 19.05 4.76 0.76 1.57 1.67 2.57 0.52 0.10 0.57 0.10 0.10 2.71 0.38 0.14 0.43 0.24 0.19 1.86 1.71 1.52 0.86 0.57 0.10 3.20 4.13 3.50 5.40 2.75 2.00 4.00 2.00 1.00 6.33 2.00 1.50 1.80 1.67 2.00 5.57 9.00 8.00 2.57 3.00 2.00 RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Acacia catechu Achyranthus aspera Adhatoda vasica Ageratum Anogeissus latifolia Asparagus racamosus Barleria cristata Bauhinia vahlii Bombax ceiba

Tree Herb Shrub Herb Tree Climber Herb Climber Tree Shrub Tree Tree Climber Bamboo Climber Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Shrub

10. Carissa carendus 11. Cassia fistula 12. Crataeva adansonii 13. Cryptolepis buchanain 14. Dendrocalamus strictus 15. Dioscorea sp 16. Eupatorium sp 17. Euphorbia sp 18. Ferns 19. Flacourtia ramontchi 20. Flemengia sp Hymenodictyon 21. excelsum

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S. No. Species Frequency Density Abundance (%) 9.52 9.52 33.33 19.05 52.38 4.76 4.76 33.33 23.81 4.76 19.05 28.57 14.29 23.81 14.29 0.19 0.14 1.52 0.71 3.90 0.05 0.19 2.14 0.48 0.05 2.62 0.90 0.19 0.29 0.29 2.00 1.50 4.57 3.75 7.45 1.00 4.00 6.43 2.00 1.00 13.75 3.17 1.33 1.20 2.00 RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

22. Jasminium sp 23. Kydia calycina 24. Lantena camara 25. Mallotus phillipensis 26. Murraya koenigii 27. Myrsine Africana 28. Nyctanthus arbor-tristis Parthenium 29. hysterophorus 30. Pinus roxburghii 31. Randia dumentorum 32. Rumex hastatus 33. Solanum nigrum 34. Syzygium cuminii 35. Tinospora cordifolia 36. Woodfordia floribunda

Shrub Tree Shrub Tree Shrub Shrub Tree Herb Tree Herb Herb Shrub Tree Climber Shrub Shrub Shrub

37. Xanthium strumarium 19.05 0.90 4.75 Not Threatened No 38. Zizyphus mauritiana 9.52 0.14 1.50 Not Threatened No Other plants observed during the survey but not recorded from the quadrates Tree 39. Acacia modesta ---Not Threatened No 40. Acacia nilotica 41. Aegle marmelos 42. Albizzia odoratissima 43. Albizzia procera ------------Tree Tree Tree Tree Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No

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S. No. Species Frequency Density Abundance (%) ------------------------------------------------------------------RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

44. Boerhavia diffusa 45. Butea monosperma 46. Celtis australis 47. Clematis gauriana 48. Cuscuta reflexa 49. Datura stramonium 50. Dodonia viscosa 51. Ehretia laevis 52. Eucalyptus sp. 53. Euphorbia royleana 54. Ficus benghalensis 55. Ficus glomerata 56. Ficus religiosa 57. Ficus rumphii 58. Grewia optiva Holarhenna 59. antidysenterica 60. Lannea grandis 61. Litsea chinensis 62. Mangifera indica 63. Oroxylum indicum 64. Ougenia dalbergiodes 65. Plumbago javanica

Herb Tree Tree Climber Climber Shrub Shrub Tree Tree Shrub Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Shrub

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S. No. Species Frequency Density Abundance (%) ------------------------RLF Conservation Whether Whether Status listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

66. Populus deltoidea 67. Puereria tuberosa 68. Rubus ellipticus 69. Solanum nigrum 70. Terminalia arjuna 71. Terminalia bellirica 72. Terminalia chebula 73. Toona ciliata

Tree Climber Shrub Herb Tree Tree Tree Tree

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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 0.0777 (Shannon H Log Base 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from within the quadrates during the survey. This value is slightly lower than expected and perhaps a reflection that the distribution of individuals of a species found within the quadrates is more evenly arranged in the landscape. This is expected, as large parts of the forests on this road are pine forests, which are mostly homogenous in pattern. Not withstanding the Shannon value, certain identified forest habitat patches indeed harbour good biodiversity in terms of species richness and distribution within the forests and should be buffered, through the mitigation measures suggested, from project impacts during the construction and operational phase of the roads. 5.2.3 Key Findings from Stakeholder Discussions Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holding direct discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held on the Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity. Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2. A summary of responses of various stakeholders are provided in Annex 3 and key findings are mentioned below: Generally, the road side population was in favour of improving the road conditions. The bus, truck and commercial vehicle drivers were particularly interested in cutting traveling time and improve ride quality. Forest officers posted at Bhamla check post reported that wildlife movement, including that of leopard and Sambar is observed in the area. Local residents could not confirm frequent animal-hits due to vehicles. However, DFO Wildlife (Hamirpur) shared that vehicle-wildlife hit cases are reported only for non-edible animals. Edible animals are taken away by either drivers or locals and are, therefore, not reported. Local people close to forest patches (scrub and tropical dry deciduous) reported sightings of many wild animals and occasionally of small mammals. Some of the residents were of the view that road improvement on this sector, particularly from Jahu to Nerchowk is long-overdue.

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5.3 Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road This is an important road, as it connects the apple growing areas of Kotkhai, Jubbal, Rohru etc to the markets and, therefore, requires faster transportation of perishable fruits. The road bears heavy traffic during the apple season and most vehicles plying at the time are trucks. 5.3.1 Key Findings from Ecological/Biological Survey This is a hill road passing through ridges and river valleys and traverses through some undisturbed temperate forest patches and moderate to severe cold climatic zone. On this road section there are a number of places along the road corridor where biodiversity values are high and such areas would need to be protected during construction and operational phases of road development. A list of such places, likely project impacts and their mitigation measures for the Theog-KotkhaiKharapathar-Rohru road is provided in Section 6. There are a number of orchards located on this road. Parts of road pass through areas that receive snow. The major vegetation types observed along the road are as follows:

Grasslands: Locally called as ghasini, these are located on the steep slopes with a few scattered and interspersed woody perennials and were seen primarily on the Theog Chhaila section. Most of these are privately owned and protected for fodder. The woody perennials in these grassy slopes include Pinus roxburghii, Prunus armeniaca, Pyrus pashia, Morus alba, Berberis aristata, Prinsepia utilis, Elaeagnus umbellata, Rosa moschata, Hypericum etc. The scrubby plants provide shelter to Chukors, Partridges, Red Jungle Fowl and Kaleej pheasant common bird species of these slopes. Agriculture Fields: From Chhaila to Premnagar, the road passes through private areas, most of which have been converted into terraced agricultural fields or orchards. Along the commercial crops raised in the terraces, the farmers maintain a number of miscellaneous tree species along the terrace bunds. These species provide firmness to the bunds and also form a source of small timber, fuel wood, fodder and sometimes fruit. Major native tree species used are Ficus roxburghii, Toona ciliata, Grewia optiva and Celtis australis. Off-season vegetables are also grown, including tomato, cabbage and cauliflower. Orchards: There are a number of orchards between Kotkhai and Gazta. Mostly the orchards are of apple, but other fruits are also grown in some orchards. Many apple growers also take crops of potato within the orchards. Riparian Habitats: Mostly located below the road corridor and a little distance away along the course of rive Giri. Such habitats support good stands of Alnus nitida with a few trees of Salix tetrasperma. Coniferous Forests: These are typical temperate forests with diverse conifers. Main species found include Pinus wallichina, Pinus roxburgii, Pinus gerardiana, Picea smithiana, Abies pindrow, Abies spectablis, Cedrus deodara, Taxus baccata etc. Ecologically these forests are very important as they constitute the catchments of the greater Himalayan ranges. They are also habitats for a range of wild animals including the Himalayan Black Bear, Ibex and a number of pheasants. A number of

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important woody perennials like Berberis aristata, Berberis lycium, Rubus ellipticus, Lonicera quinquelocularis, Cotoneaster bacillaris, Viburnum grandiflora, Prinsepia utilis, Daphne cannabina, Vitis himalayana, Rosa moschata, Hedera helix, Ajuga parviflora, Jurinea macrocephala, Aconitum heterophyllum, Angelica glauca, Chaerophyllum villosum, Polygonatum sp, Dactylorhiza hatageria and Morchela esculenta etc are also found in theses forests. Broad-Leaved Forests: Observed below the road from Nihari to Garog diversion bearing Quercus dilatata, Prunus cornuta, Populus ciliate and Aesculus indica with a few scattered trees of Cedrus deodara and Pinus wallichiana.

A check list of plants observed during the survey on this road (within and outside the quadrates) is given in Table 14. List of fauna observed/reported from the region (and possible to site along the road) is given in Table 15. 5.3.2 Key findings from Quadrate Data Analysis Only one endangered plant species, namely, Taxus wallichiana was observed along the road. This is the most diverse and species rich road corridor of the three proposed roads for up-gradation and improvement with as many as 17 tree species recorded from the quadrates. The minimum frequency observed is just 5% for Abies pindrow, Astilbe Sp, Berginia ciliate, Carpinus viminea, Thalictrum foliolosum and Valeriana hardwickii. The maximum frequency observed is for Picea smithiana at 85%. Fragaria vasica, a Himalayan herb species is having maximum density (4.65), as compared to the lowest density of (0.05) shared by Abies pindrow and Carpinus vminea. Tree diversity is relatively higher in this road corridor, as the road traverse through mixed broad-leaved forests to temperate forests with diverse conifers along the way. Also with respect to species richness, this road corridor is the richest of the three (250 km roads). The vegetation complexes in the form of long and contiguous stretches of forests (including both government and private forestlands) constitute important watershed areas of the region and are, therefore, eco-sensitive in nature.

Table 14 profiles the conservation status, endemism, and phytosociological details of the plant species found in the quadrates.

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Table 14: Plant Species and their Phytosociological details, Conservation Status and Endemism (Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road)
S. No. Species Frequency (%) 5 25 25 15 25 30 20 20 5 20 20 5 10 25 5 30 10 15 40 15 10 Density Abundance RLF Conservation Status Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Whether Whether listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Abies pindrow Acer caesium Adiantum Aesculus indica Ainselia aptera Ajuga parviflora Alnus nitida Aster sp Astilbe Sp

0.05 0.35 1 0.15 3.15 0.85 0.6 1.5 0.1 0.55 0.65 0.25 0.9 1.4 0.05 0.5 0.4 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.3

1 1.4 4 1 12.6 2.83 3 7.5 2 2.75 3.25 5 9 5.6 1 1.67 4 4 1.25 4 3

Tree Tree Herb Tree Herb Herb Tree Herb Herb Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Herb Tree Tree Herb Climber Tree Shrub Shrub

10. Berberis aristata 11. Berberis lycium 12. Berginia ciliata 13. Calenthe tricarinata 14. Campanula colorata 15. Carpinus viminea 16. Cedrus deodara Chaerophyllum 17. villosum 18. Clematis sp 19. Corylus columa 20. Cotoneaster bacillaris 21. Daphne cannabina

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S. No. Species Frequency (%) 5 25 20 15 20 25 20 30 30 20 25 35 5 15 5 10 85 65 20 15 15 30 Density Abundance RLF Conservation Status Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Whether Whether listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

22. Desmodium sp 23. Deutzia corymbosa 24. Deutzia staminea 25. Dioscorea deltoidea 26. ferns 27. Ficus sp 28. Fragaria indica 29. fragaria Vasca 30. Galium sp Geranium 31. wallichianum 32. Girardinia heterophylla 33. Hedera helix 34. Hypericum sp 35. Ilex dipyrena 36. Indigofera Sp 37. Juglans regia 38. Picea smithiana 39. Pinus wallichiana 40. Plectranthus sp 41. Primula sp 42. Princepia utilis 43. Prunus cornuta

0.15 0.6 0.45 0.3 4.35 0.4 0.75 4.65 6 1.4 0.6 2.9 0.1 0.75 0.15 0.15 2.8 1.65 0.65 0.8 0.75 0.4

3 2.4 2.25 2 21.75 1.6 3.75 15.5 20 7 2.4 8.29 2 5 3 1.5 3.29 2.54 3.25 5.33 5 1.33

Shrub Shrub Shrub Climber Herb Climber Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Climber Shrub Tree Shrub Tree Tree Tree Herb Herb Shrub Tree

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S. No. Species Frequency (%) 15 65 40 25 15 25 20 10 15 25 25 5 5 25 50 10 Density Abundance RLF Conservation Status Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Endangered Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Whether Whether listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area No No No No No No No No No No Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

44. Pyrus pashia 45. Quercus dilatata Quercus 46. leucotrichophora Rhododendron 47. arboreum 48. Rosa moschata 49. Rubus ellipticus 50. Rubus niveus 51. Sarracoca Saligna 52. Smilax sp 53. Taraxacum officinale 54. Taxus wallichiana 55. Thalictrum foliolosum 56. Valeriana hardwickii 57. Valeriana jatamansii 58. Vibernum grandiflora 59. Viola sp

0.45 1.2 0.85 0.6 0.45 0.8 0.55 2.65 0.65 1.55 0.55 0.2 0.15 2.9 2.2 1.1

3 1.85 2.125 2.4 3 3.2 2.75 26.5 4.33 6.2 2.2 4 3 11.6 4.4 11

Tree Tree Tree Tree Climber Shrub Shrub Shrub Climber Herb Tree Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb

Climber Not Threatened 60. Vitis himalayana 10 0.2 2 No Other plants observed during the survey but not recorded from the quadrates Tree 61. Ailanthus excelsa ---Not Threatened No 62. Arundinaria falcata 63. Celtis australis 64. Elaeagnus umbellata ---------Shrub Tree Shrub Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened No No No

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S. No. Species Frequency (%) -----------Density Abundance RLF Conservation Status Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Not Threatened Whether Whether listed in Red endemic to the Data Book project area No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No

65. Ficus palmata 66. Ficus roxburghii 67. Grevia optiva Lonicera 68. quinquelocularis 69. Prunus armeniaca 70. Prunus cerasoides 71. Punica granatum 72. Pyrus malus 73. Robinia pseudacacia 74. Salix tetrasperma 75. Toona ciliata 76. Ulmus wallichiana 77. Urtica dioica

------------

------------

Tree Tree Tree Shrub Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Tree Herb

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The Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index Value for the area is 0.97575 (Shannon H Log Base 10), which has been calculated on the basis of plant species observed from within the quadrates during the survey. This value is a reasonable value indicating good species richness and suggests that the species are evenly distributed among the forest habitats. Field observations also corroborate this value, as the coniferous forests of the region are contiguous and spread over a large area with more or less even distribution of species among them. Identified forest habitats on this road harbour good biodiversity, as they are also home for a variety of wild animals and birds. These intact forests should not be fragmented due to road construction and, therefore, on this road realignments would need to be carefully worked out. Widening of existing roads is not expected to fragment the habitat much. This rich biodiverse areas, as identified, should be buffered against the construction and operational phase impacts of the project, as per the mitigation plan and strategies given. 5.3.3 Key Findings from Stakeholder Discussions Stakeholder discussions were held at several locations along the road. Besides holding direct discussions with diverse stakeholders, a consultative workshop was also held on the Impact Assessment of HP Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity. Proceedings of the workshop are at Annex 2. A summary of responses of various stakeholders are provided in Annex 3 and key findings are mentioned below:
1. Local inhabitants and forest managers shared that pheasants are the most
2.

3. 4. 5.

commonly seen birds along the road. Kaleej and Red Jungle Fowl are commonly encountered between Kotkhai and Gazta in the mornings, the Koklas and Monal pheasants are sometimes encountered between Gazta and Kharapathar in the evenings. Truck drivers were very pleased that efforts are being made to improve the road. Apple growers were also pleased that the road along the orchards would be improved that will help them send the produce to the market in time. Near Kharapathar some people informed that Black Bear occasionally attack cattle and there are some reports of humans being attacked by it.

5.4 Faunal Diversity on the Three Roads (250 km) The proposed road improvement project on the three roads (250 km) will impact the wildlife found/reported along the roads. Table 15 lists the fauna found/reported along the three roads (250 km) and also gives their conservation status and whether the species enjoys protection under the Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Mitigation measures are provided under section 6 (6.1 to 6.4) to minimize the project impact on the regions diverse fauna.

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S. No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. Species Una Amb Road - -- - - - Una Nerchowk Road -- - - Theog Rohru Road - - - -- IUCN Conservation Status Lower Risk Vulnerable Lower Risk Lower Risk Vulnerable Common Lower Risk Common Common Common Common Vulnerable Common Lower Risk Lower Risk Lower Risk Lower Risk Lower Risk Common Lower Risk Common Vulnerable Lower Risk Common Common Common Common Common Whether Listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife protection Act No No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No No No No Yes No No No No No No

Mammals Indian Fox Black Bear Blue Bull Blue Sheep Brown Bear Five Stripped Palm Squirrel Ghoral Grey Mongoose Hanuman Langur House Mouse House Rat Ibex Indian Hare Indian Muntjac Jackal Leopard Musk Deer Porcupine Rhesus Macaque Sambar Short-Tailed Bandicoot Swamp Deer Wild Boar Yellow Throated Marten Reptiles Cobra Garden Lizard House Gecko Krait

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S. No. Species Una Amb Road - -- -Una Nerchowk Road Theog Rohru Road -- -- - - -- IUCN Conservation Status Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Rare Common Common Common Common Common Rare Common Common Rare Common Common Rare Whether Listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife protection Act No No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes Yes No No Yes No No No No No No No No Yes No No No

29. Pit Viper 30. Rock Lizard Birds 31. Ashy wren warbler 32. Bank myna 33. Barn owl 34. Bay backed shrike 35. Black drongo 36. Black red start 37. Black shouldered kite 38. Black stilt 39. Blossom headed parakeet 40. Blue throated barbet 41. Bush chat 42. Cattle egret 43. Chestnut shouldered petrunia 44. Chir pheasant 45. Chukor 46. Common iora 47. Common myna 48. Common peafowl 49. Common rock chat 50. Common tailor bird 51. Coppersmith barbet 52. Coucal 53. Egyptian vulture 54. Eurasian griffon 55. Flame backed woodpecker 56. Green bee eater 57. Grey francolin 58. Grey heron 59. Grey tit 60. Hill partridge

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S. No. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81. 82. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93. Species Hoopoe House crow Indian hornbill Indian ring dove Indian robin Indian roller Indian tree pie Jungle babbler Jungle crow Kaleej pheasant Koel Large billed crow Little blue kingfisher Little egret Mag pie robin Monal Paradise flycatcher Pariah kite Pied kingfisher Plum headed parakeet Pond heron Prinnia Purple sunbird Red cheeked bulbul Red jungle fowl Red vented bulbul Red wattled lapwing Ringed dove Rock pigeon Rose finch Rose ringed parakeet Shikra Silver billed munia Una Amb Road - - - - Una Nerchowk Road - - - Theog Rohru Road - - - -- -IUCN Conservation Status Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Endangered Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Whether Listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife protection Act No No Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes No No

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S. No. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98. 99. 100 101 102 103 Species Sirkeer malkoha Sparrow Spotted dove Spotted owlet Wagtail White browed fantailed flycatcher White throated kingfisher White wagtail White whiskered bulbul Yellow footed green pigeon Una Amb Road Una Nerchowk Road Theog Rohru Road - - IUCN Conservation Status Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Whether Listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife protection Act No No No No No No No No No No

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6 Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures Road projects including road up-gradation projects are known to have adverse impact on the natural environment through direct and indirect impacts. Often opening up of an area by connecting it with road leads to environmental damage of natural resources, as they become more accessible. Loss of forest cover along the road stretches is a common feature, which happens because of increased access of peoples to extract resources, as well as of timber smugglers by transporting timber through roads. Besides, the anthropogenic causes of loss of forest cover, destruction of forest habitats also happens due to edge effects brought in with the development of the roads. The edge effects results in increase light penetration into the forest edges that are created as a result of tree felling along road boundaries. This enhanced availability of light leads to changes in species composition, increasing the population sizes of light loving plants over the shade loving ones. Another impact of road projects on natural composition of forests arises due to introduction of many exotic species and road side common weeds, the propagules of which reach the road sides with materials transported for road building or brought in by travelers. These have severe biodiversity implications. It changes the amount of palatable food and fodder for the wildlife thriving on the habitat. Many weeds are not consumed by herbivores and this gives them an opportunity to spread and take over other natural habitats and niches. This escape from their predator makes them competitively superior over the native species and gradually these exotic weeds are able to out-compete the native species and establish themselves. These processes changes the biodiversity value of a habitat and may even render them unproductive in the long run. Consequently, the impacts of a road project are not limited to the design and construction phase but go much beyond into the operational phase. Mitigation strategy and measures are necessary for any road projects. Taking environmental concerns and biodiversity issues into consideration from the planning stage of the project results in minimizing the project impacts. Certain precautions, as part of a mitigation plan, could restrict the loss of natural capital and help protect the natural resource base, which is the basis for survival for all life forms on earth. The following pages lists the possible project impacts and suggests a mitigation plan for limiting the impacts on biodiversity, particularly on forests and movement of wildlife along and across roads so as to ensure that the proposed road improvement project does not change the biodiversity values of the region. Firstly, general project impacts on critical components of the environment are listed along with the mitigation measures that should be undertaken. This is followed by location specific project impacts on biodiversity and their mitigation strategy and finally project impacts on wildlife movement corridors and their mitigation measures are listed.

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6.1 General Project Impacts and their Mitigation Measures
Parameter Impacted Air Likely Impacts Health impacts Pollution Causes Dust blow a hazard during construction phase Burning of charcoal and wood Acrid smoke from burning Bitumen Mitigation Measures Spray water during road construction phase to reduce dust blow Do not allow roadside burning of firewood for melting of bitumen and only allow use of gas-operated bitumen hotmix plant Ensure through contract clauses that contractor has equipments to deal with fire and spill emergencies Bitumen hotmix plants should be suitably located away from natural areas to prevent acrid smoke and odour affecting wildlife Do not use dry riverbeds, ponds, small pools and wetlands as landfills for debris disposal Develop a material disposal policy and monitor it strictly by developing charts and inventorying the materials sent for disposal As far as possible finalize road alignments that does not alter water courses If any well is to be closed/removed, dug another before closing the first one Create ponds/pools if some are being closed for road widening Through contract clause the contractor cannot create bitumen disposal sites near any water body, near cross drainages and wetlands Ensure that bitumen mixing areas are contained and such activities are not undertaken throughout the road length

Water

Damage to aquatic habitat

Due to improper debris disposal on slopes adjoining the roads Changing of the water courses Changing the micro-drainage Silting of marshes and swamps Spilling of liquid bitumen and other petroleum products used for thinning

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Parameter Impacted Likely Impacts Causes Mitigation Measures Build in the contract that all waste petroleum products must be collected, inventoried and taken away to safe disposal sites In many places change in road alignment will result in abandoning of earlier black top surfaces. These should be scrapped and ploughed to make them fit for biological up gradation including tree planting so as to recover some of the land lost to road realignment Wherever on slopes rills and gullies are created due to erosion bioengineering measures such as gully plugging and fascines should be taken up Only controlled blasiting should be taken up in the Shivaliks Give adequate and proper cross drainage and create channels for outflow of water as a result of changed contours and flow dynamics of surface runoff Do not use road side farms (arable lands) as earth borrow areas or disposal sites In extreme cases where earth is to be taken from arable lands, remove and retain the top soil (up to 15 cm) and refill after excavation Use trails and narrow passages through farms for movement rather then creating new routes Do not allow heavy road machinery to park or move on farmlands as it will compact the earth. Road equipment should not move away from the Right of Way (ROW).

Land

Loss of productive land Land slides/slips

Land acquired for roads Blasting in fragile Shivaliks or conglomerate rock systems Improper drainage mechanism leading to saturation of overhanging rocks

Soil

Soil erosion Loss of top soil Damage to soil biota

Allowing rill and gully erosion on moderate to very steep slopes No preventive mechanisms installed to control erosion during and post construction phase

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Parameter Impacted Likely Impacts Causes Mitigation Measures Liquid wastes should not be disposed on roadside farms. Establish protective vegetation on freshly exposed surfaces Road side erosion prone sites/slopes should be treated with bioengineering measures such as drainage fascines and palisades Undertake compensatory plantation on the ratio of 1:3 (three trees to be planted for every tree felled). Prepare a tree planting chart/schedule Of the 3 trees to be planted, 2 must be native species of the state and preferably the same species that has been felled The replacement planting must be at least 1.75 m in height at plantation time Do not use exotic species that may be fast growing Do not plant Eucalyptus, Prosopis juliflora and Jatropha quercus Along with tree planting, introduce ground flora as well, particularly grasses and other native herbs that will prevent weeds proliferation Maintain the ecology of the preferred routes of animal movement Plant native trees, herbs and palatable grasses and depending on the area create waterholes to encourage wildlife to continue use the same corridors Use flashers to prevent animals from crossing busy intersections Erect signboards (readable at night) that caution drivers about wildlife crossings

Forests

Permanent Habitat Loss Habitat Damage Habitat Fragmentation

Loss of forestland for roads Increased chances of weed invasion through creation of fresh road side degraded habitats Road passing through verdant forest patches

Flora

Biological invasions

Introduction of fast growing exotic species as choice material for planting Proliferation of road side common weeds

Fauna

Altered animal movement Changes in animal corridors

Blockage of favourite routes Increased traffic discourage animal to cross road Chances of increased accidents make animals change movement/ routes Disturbance may make animals change corridors

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6.2 Location Specific Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
S. No. 1 Chainage 6740 to 6900 Biodiversity Values Project Impact Mitigation Measures Dry stream crossing should not be disturbed No debris disposal in the riverbed due to convenience and considering them as vacant wastelands Design culverts and bridges so as not to change the natural drainage lines Do not treat them as borrow areas Dispose liquid wastes away from the riverbeds Protect the right hand side by not storing materials and not disposing debris Prevent labours from cutting firewood Similar to S. No. 1 above Plant palatable grasses along the channel boundary to ensure that wildlife uses the riverbed as crossover point Design the bridge in a -Cost Estimates9

Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road There are about three small Damage to aquatic habitat seasonal streams passing below the through disposal of debris road. These streams are the final Disturbance to the natural stage of natural drainage lines that water flow/drainage pattern carry the waters from upper due to road realignment catchments. These also sometimes and/or building of culverts retain small stagnant pools that act and bridges both as waterholes for wildlife and Removal of boulders by habitat for amphibians. treating streams as borrow areas Pollution of streams and water channels by disposing bitumen and other petroleum products A bamboo thicket on the right side of the road has emerged as a rich small patch of habitat conducive to many birds. A bridge passes over the dry river bed/seasonal stream. Such river beds/seasonal streams are important ecological features, as they are carriers of water coming from upper catchments. They also provide movement access to wildlife, particularly, Blue Bulls. Damage due to road building activity Cutting for firewood

10400 10600

to

--

3 11110 11130 to Similar to S. No. 1 above

Rs 20000.00 for grass planting

Details of cost estimates would be provided separately as appendices

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S. No. Chainage Biodiversity Values Project Impact Mitigation Measures way that allows sufficient space (at least 2.5 m high from the riverbed) for the Blue Bulls to pass under Protect the mud banks Do not alter the natural water course under the bridge Protect the left hand side slopes with nests Do not blast the fragile slopes and cut them manually Use bioengineering methods on the lower area only to stabilize fragile slopes Plant tall trees (about 2 m high) before cutting the existing ones Do not dispose off debris in swamps along the Khad Do not change natural drainage pattern in Khad Save the habitat patch by locating bus bay and widening the road on the other side Locate labour camps at least 1 km away from Cost Estimates9

11200

19720 19850

to

23120 23170

to

Bridge over seasonal stream with mud banks providing nesting sites for King Fisher. During monsoon, these riverbeds also provide viable food for many birds. Steep mud slopes on both sides prone to soil erosion. The soft substrata of the cut faces of Shivalik formations form a good nesting place to a variety of birds including Flycatchers, Bee-eaters, Mynas, Tits and Swallows that drill holes into these earthen walls and make their nests inside these holes. The left side slopes have nesting sites. Trees along the road at Raisry village are good habitats for Median Egrets with swampy areas nearby along the Khad. Bird nesting sites for Egrets and Herons.

Collapse of mud banks due to movement of heavy machinery, borrow of materials and disposal of debris Damage due to blasting Closing of nests due to soil erosion Damage to nests due to cutting of slope Disturbance to birds due to noise

--

Rs 50000 for bioengineering works

During construction phase, damage to nesting areas of Herons and Egrets by debris disposal in swamp Cutting of roadside trees

--

24500

A good patch of scrub forest that serves as a habitat for many small mammals.

Loss of habitat for road widening or making bus bay Hunting of animals by workers During construction phase debris deposition could

--

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S. No. Chainage Biodiversity Values Project Impact destroy parts pf scrub jungle along road 7 41140-42160 Good trees of Acacia nilotica at Theody village serve as perching sites for Median Egrets and Herons. Destruction of Acacia nilotica trees, which serve as perching sites for median Egrets Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road On the left hand side there is a Disposal of debris could continuous depression forming a damage the habitat narrow gorge like valley with a Debris disposal may block stream running parallel to the road the stream channel through it. An excellent moist place Pollution of water through with many characteristic native disposal of wastes, plastics plants. The place should be and other liquid petroleum conserved, as it has very good products habitat for supporting birds and other wildlife. Very good miscellaneous scrub Habitat loss forest giving way to dry deciduous Tree cutting mixed forest. The vegetation of Incidences of wildlife-traffic collisions these tracts falling under the forests namely UF-Shamur and UF-Boul. Proliferation of exotic weeds and biological invasion This patch of habitat has good potential to support diverse wildlife, Lopping for firewood by labours such as, Hares, Fox, Sambar, Wild Boars, Porcupine, Jackal, Barking Deer, Blue Bull and among birds Indian Tree Pie, Chukor, Grey Partridge, Black Partridge, Red Jungle Fowl and Pea Fowl. Mitigation Measures this habitat Strict vigil for stopping poaching Plant similar number of Acacia nilotica trees of about 2 m height prior to removal of existing ones Do not allow debris disposal in the gorge No labour camps along this stretch Cost Estimates9

--

4400-4800

--

5895

10

13850

Kuari Nala has developed into a

Loss of habitat due to road

Design road alignment to avoid encroaching on the habitat Undertake plantation of native trees in adjoining areas Protect the ecotone between the scrub and dry decisuous forest by not allowing firewood removal from this zone Plant shrubs, herbs and grasses along roadsides to prevent proliferation of exotic weeds Provide LPG to labours Design realignment so

--

--

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Chainage Biodiversity Values very good dense habitat for a wide variety of wildlife life including Leopard, Barasinga, Sambar and Barking Deer. Many tall trees, such as, Terminalia arjuna, Bombax ceiba, Mallotus phillipensis etc are growing here. Hill slopes with good forest cover having native species of mixed deciduous forests and a good habitat for wildlife, such as, Leopard, Sambar, Wild Boar etc. Project Impact realignment Habitat damage during construction phase Obstruction of water flow in nala due to falling debris during culvert construction Debris disposal in nala Loss of habitat due to road realignment Damage to habitat due to tree felling Habitat destruction due to debris disposal on valley side Firewood removal and poaching by construction workers Loss of habitat due to road alignment Damage to trees due to blasting Cutting of identified trees for road widening Collection of firewood would damage the habitat Mitigation Measures as to protect the habitat on the right hand side of the road Do not allow debris disposal in the nala while construction phase Design realignment to minimize loss of forest habitat Undertake plantation of tall native (at least 1.75 m) species Do not dispose debris along the valley side forest stretches No labour camps on this stretch of forest Design road alignments to minimize loss of forestland Undertake tree plantation using tall trees (at least 1.75 m tall) No labour camps along these forest stretch Do not allow extraction of forest resources in the form of firewood Design realignment so as to avoid encroaching on the valley side Undertake bioengineering works on Cost Estimates9

11

41210-43350

--

12

65500-66500

DPF-Bakroh, DPF-Cheli Satrukha, DPF-Dhar-Jajjar Jakh and UF-Karer comprises of almost pure stands of Pinus roxburghii. The animal diversity includes Sambar (near valley side), Barking Deer, Wild Boar and Leopard.

--

13

90400

A gorge like deep valley on the left hand side of the road with very good moisture and diverse native plant species providing a good habitat for many wild animals. This is a

Damage to habitat due to debris disposal Enhanced soil erosion on the right hand side slopes due to construction and cutting for

--

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Chainage Biodiversity Values Project Impact Mitigation Measures the erosion-prone slopes Do not dispose debris on the valley side Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above -Cost Estimates9

14

200-600

15

29100-29500 31000-32700 34000-35500 37700-40200

16

41300-41800 42200-43200 43600-44200 44600-45500

watershed created due to a road widening moderate to steep slope on the Loss of habitat due to road upper side (across the road) that realignment functions as its catchment. Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru Road Patches of designated forests Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above observed are U-323 (Jaish), U-326 (Bajheri) and U-327 (Nehra) with Pinus roxburghii, which is sometimes mixed with Cedrus deodara. Over the years, miscellaneous species like Berberis aristata, Punica granatum, Prinsepia utilis, Ficus palmata etc have come up either under the plantation or along the road side. Chukors, Partridges, Red Jungle Fowl and Kaleej Pheasant are reported from this region. Reserve Forest, R-12 Rontu. Just Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above before Kotkhai the road passes along the oundary of this reserve forest of Cedrus deodara and Pinus wallichiana. The major animal species that are commonly encountered along the road or reported from the adjoining forests include Himalayan Black Bear, Ghoral, Barking Deer, Musk Deer (?), Monal pheasant, Koklas, Kaleej, Red Jungle Fowl and Leopard. Just beyond Kotkhai is a large Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 Reserve Forest R-13 Chambi Kupar. above From Kotkhai till Nihari, the part of Chambi Kupar Reserve forest along

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

--

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Chainage 45700-51000 Biodiversity Values the road bears a mixture of Cedrus deodara and Pinus wallichiana. However, the vegetation changes to predominantly Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana formations as we move up towards the Chamnbi dhar with cooler niches bearing almost pure Abies pindrow crop with a few scattered trees of Taxus wallichiana, Prunus cornuta, Acer caesium, Aesculus indica etc interspersed in the forest. DPF-Gahan Jarahi extends from along Darkoti khad at its lowest part to almost near Giri temple at its uppermost boundary. This forest is characterized by mixed coniferous forest with some broad-leaved trees. A few pure Quercus dilatata and Quercus semicarpifolia patches are also present in this forest just above the road. The section between Patti Dhank and Kharapathar comprises of precipitous rocky slopes that bear a mixed forest of Cedrus deodara, Pices smithiana, Taxus wallichiana, Acer caesium, Prunus cornuta, Corylus colurna, Aesculus indica, Pinus wallichiana with under-storey formed by woody perennials like Viburnum grandiflora, Daphne cannabina, Sarcococca saligna, Lonicera sp, Berberis sp, Rhododendron iliate m, Rubus niveus, Lonicera sp, Deutzia Project Impact Mitigation Measures Cost Estimates9

51400-52000 53000-57000 58500-59000

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Chainage Biodiversity Values corymbosa, Indigofera sp, Desmodium sp and Hypericum sp. These forests also have good population of stragglers and climbers like Vitis himalayana, Clematis sp, Smilax sp, Hedera helix, Rubus sp and herbaceous species like Valeriana jatamansii, Ainseliea aptera, Galium sp, Fragaria indica, Viola canescens, Chaerophyllum villosum, Gernaium sp, Thalictrum foliolosum, Calanthe sp, Campanula sp, Berginia iliate and diverse ferns and grasses. DPF-Giri, DPF-Jukhala, UF-Ori, UFSanaba, UF-Giri, UF-Kolara, UFSundli, UF-Chhari, UF Miana and UF-Raika. Designated forests fall in Kharapathar Hatkoti section of the road. These forests bear a mixed tree crop of Pinus wallichiana and Cedrus deodara with Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana formations towards the ridge formed by Giri dhar. These forests have been selectively harvested in the past for providing wood for apple packing cases and to meet the timber needs of local Right Holders. Project Impact Mitigation Measures Cost Estimates9

64600-65300 68200-68700 70100-71400

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

Similar to S. No. 11 and 12 above

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6.3 Location Specific Wildlife Crossing Corridors and their Mitigation Measures
Chainage Wildlife Movement Mehatpur-Una-Amb Road Various Rhesus Macaque Reasons for Movement Crisscross the road at various location for chasing food and mate. Also reportedly cross road for crop raiding. Alpha males run wildly across the road while pursuing challengers. Crossing for water and palatable grasses, particularly during summer. Mitigation Measures For every kilometer of road where monkey menace is observed, put signboards every 250 m discouraging people from feeding the animals. Total affected km = 8 Loose stone pitching on the stream banks below the bridge to prevent it from paving in during construction phase. Pitching on both sides of stream for 40 m (total 80 m length). Planting with grass slips (Cynadon dactylon) in between the pitching Six signboards cautioning the drivers to watch for animals. Use fluorescent ink to make them readable after darkness. Create a live hedge of sturdy woody shrubs along the stream banks on either side for a length of about 100 m on the right hand side that would restrict the wildlife to cross below the bridge. Closely packed bamboo and tall grasses could be used. Erect signboards cautioning drivers to watch for animals. Signboards to indicate that animals have right of way. Four signboards using fluorescent Cost Estimates 4 signboards/km @ Rs 10000.00/signboard Total Rs 320000.00

16800

Seasonal stream with good grassy patches and availability of water. Blue Bull, Wild Boar etc cross through the dry stream bed. to This habitat seems adequate to support Blue Bulls and Wild Boars, which are frequently seen crossing the road A seasonal stream passage under bridge Number 5 has made the area a good microhabitat for supporting small mammals, including Hares, Jackals, Mongoose etc. Just outside Una, the miscellaneous scrub forest tract is a site where wildlife crosses the road

Total Rs 40000.00

18900 20300

In search of food, Blue Bull and Wild Boar crosses the road to reach farm fields.

6 signboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 60000.00

19640

Wild animals cross over the road, occasionally when they come out of the stream passage in search of food during summer months in the nearby farmlands.

Total Rs 40000.00

24500

During summer and other pinch period, when the forests have less food resources to sustain animals, particularly, Blue Bull, the animals cross the road to venture into fields

1 signboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 40000.00

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Chainage Wildlife Movement Reasons for Movement for crop raiding. It also crosses the road from hill side to the river side for water. Peak summer makes the Blue Bull cross the road for crop raiding. Hares are often seen on roads during night time. Blue Bulls also cross the road for water while moving towards the river, mostly during late evenings and early mornings. The curvaceous road with many bends is often crossed by wild animals, particularly, Blue Bull, Wild Boar and Jackals. Since at a few places the existing road has fragmented the habitat, crossings by Sambar and Barking Deer are also possible. The lower portions of the forest patch towards the valley constitute the watershed for the upper hill forest catchment area and as a result have water. Road crossing happens as the animals move in search of water during summers. Sambar movement is also because it prefers moist habitats. Movement is from upper forested hill slopes towards the base of the hill to the valley which has abundant fertile farmlands and water. Crop raiding, availability of water and adequate opportunities to pick cattle are reasons for wildlife movement through this corridor. Mitigation Measures ink to make them readable after darkness. Erect signboards cautioning drivers to watch for animal movement. Four signboards with fluorescent ink for visibility at night. Cost Estimates

3160032100

Near Dusada, Blue Bull and other small mammal crossing area

1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 40000.00

Una-Barsar-Jahu-Nerchowk Road 14800-15110 A good patch of tropical dry deciduous forest supporting Sambar, Ghoral, Leopard, Blue Bull, Barking Deer, Wild Boar and Jackal, besides a large number of small mammals.

Night readable signboards are required at many places on this stretch. Speed limit signboards (maximum 50 kmph) also to be put up at a start and end chainages. Total of 8 signboards to be erected.

1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 80000.00

41210-43350

Leopard, Sambar, Barking Deer, Blue Bull and Jackal movement across road reported.

10 Signboards (readable at night) would be required at various locations for cautioning drivers. Besides there are a few small culverts over drainage lines, which need to be retained/rebuild allowing for unhindered movement of wildlife. Cost to be included in BOQ civil works contracts.

1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 100000.00

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Chainage 62000 Wildlife Movement Near 64/2 culvert Leopard, Sambar and other wildlife use the Khad (under the culvert) for movement across the road. Reasons for Movement Movement is due to the presence of water on the other side of the road. The Khad itself provides a safe passage to the wild animals while moving across the habitat. Mitigation Measures Since road realignment is involved and a bridge is to be built, design the bridge in such a way that it leaves good open space (at least 3 m high from Khad base and 4 m wide). Plant palatable grasses and develop a waterhole near the new bridge to encourage the animals to use the Khad as passage. 6 Signboards (night time readability) should be put up in this 1 km stretch of the road. 2 Double-sided flashers to be installed before and after the 1 km road stretch (total 4 flashers) to confine animal movement through this forest only. 6 signboards would be erected along the 2 km road stretch. These should be readable at night. Some plantation on the lower slopes of Jaboti Khad is required to improve the habitat for giving adequate camouflage to the wildlife while movement. Native tree species (broad-leaved) are to be planted along with palatable grasses. Cost Estimates Cost of plantation of grasses and other native species Total Rs 40000.00 Cost of building a waterhole Total Rs 25000.00 1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 60000.00 1 flasher 5000.00 @ Rs

65500-66500

Aghar forest compartment numbers C8 A/B/C are adjoining the road and have wildlife, which is reported to move across the road.

95000

Upper Bhamra Chowk (near check post). Movement of Leopard, Sambar, Wild Boar and Barking Deer reported from this area (about 2 km from the check post is the area from where the wildlife cross the road).

Compartments (8A, 9A, 9B, 10, 11,and 12) of forest of Dhar, Jhajar and Jakh are facing biotic pressures and as a result the wildlife, mainly, Sambar, Leopard, Blue Bull and Barking Deer are moving towards compartment C1 to C6, which are undisturbed. Therefore, wildlife movement across the road is observed. On the left side of the ridge is Jaboti Khad, which is a semi-perennial water source but has retained good forest on its upper slopes making it a preferred habitat for wildlife. On the right side of the ridge is Seer Khad, which is a perennial water source but not a very good forest habitat due to mixed land use with farmlands and residential areas. Consequently, wildlife movement is seen frequently across the road passing through the ridge top both to and fro between the two Khads for water, food and returning to the forested habitats.

Total Rs 20000.00 1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 60000.00 Total plantation cost Rs 50000.00

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Chainage Wildlife Movement Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Rohru 34200-45000 Between Kotkhai and Patti Dhank Leopard sightings reported on road 44000-48300 Between Gazta and Kharapathar the Himalayan Black Bear has been reported to sometimes cross the road, especially through the broadleaved forest patch. 48900 Black bear scat seen. Reasons for Movement Leopard crosses road in order to lift cattle occasionally from the area. The crossings are more frequent during summer when the bear visits the ripe corn fields at lower altitudes. During early snow also bear sightings on road are more. Mitigation Measures Six Signboards to be erected about wildlife movement, which are readable after darkness Signboards cautioning drivers about Black Bear to be put up along with signboards for slowing down. About 8 signboards to be put up, which could be read at night. Cost Estimates 1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 60000.00 1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 80000.00

This is a location where Black Bear sightings on road have been reported. Bear crosses the road while traversing through the forest, as the road passes through the forest.

Erect 4 signboards to caution drivers about the possibility of Black Bear crossing the road.

1 singboard @ Rs 10000.00 Total Rs 40000.00

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6.4 Other Mitigation Measures for Areas of Animal Movement Corridors Movement is a very essential part of animal ecology. Animals move across forest habitats in search of food, shelter, mates, escaping predators and for defending their territory. Road projects are known to alter animal movements. The mitigation measures presented below have been developed keeping in view minimizing the adverse impacts of the road improvement process and yet allowing the animals to use their preferred corridors and passages. No labour camps to be established in areas identified as animal movement corridors (between reported chainages). Road verges in these stretches to be maintained in as natural conditions as possible, lest they dissuade animals from crossing. There shall be no night work on these stretches and only day light working hours to be maintained. Wherever necessary, only controlled blasting to be undertaken. Large amount of dynamite is not to be used in one instance. This is also required to minimize flying of debris that might hurt any wildlife in the identified stretches. Keeping the alignment of the road in view, develop small waterholes (in consultation with the concerned Forest Department staff), which would allow the animals to continuously use these corridors. During road widening, some trees would be removed from such wildlife movement areas. Replant the road sides with trees that would ensure connectivity of canopies and give an overall woody appearance over a period. Such corridors that make the wildlife feel protected and camouflaged are used more frequently then stretch which are open. Rules for compensatory plantation (1:3) should be followed for trees on forestlands enumerated and permission obtained. Tress felled on private lands after grant of permission by the state government should also be subjected to the same rules of planting three tall plants per tree felled. Wildlife utilize the rich forests on private lands as much as they utilize government owned forests, as these divisions are only administrative and the wildlife is blissfully oblivious to this. Plantations must be systematically carried out in pits of appropriate sizes to accommodate sturdy tall plants with farm yard manure and compost. While undertaking plantations or developing avenues after the proposed road improvement, care should be taken to introduce some native herbs and shrubs along the avenues and in the nearby forest patches to ensure that common and way-ward weeds are not established. Since sturdy tall plants of native species are not readily available, special nurseries for the purpose should be established or the process could also be outsourced. If some good forest nurseries are available, the same may be upgraded by transferring funds for rearing of tall native plants for plantation. Restrict the removal of aggregate materials from dry riverbeds and stream beds that have been identified as important riparian habitats for amphibians, birds and other wildlife movement. Built a clause in contract document for the contractor that would not permit the labours, workers, supervisors, contractors and other employees to collect and utilize forest produce, including firewood. Frequent visitation to the forest habitats for collection of resources could scare the wildlife and may also result in human-wildlife conflicts.

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Include a clause in the contract document that makes it necessary to restrict the number of labour camps to be set up and that such camps would be provided modern cooking facilities (LPG) by the contractor. Undertake an education and awareness drive in labour camps to ensure that traps are not laid by the labours for trapping small mammals. Build a strong monitoring mechanism to ensure that wildlife trapping and trade is not taking place. Widening of existing alignments in likely to take toll of many exquisite roadside avenues (historically created in the pre-independence era during the rulers regimes). To speed up raising of continuous road-side tree avenues only tall plants of indigenous species (not less than 2 m) should be planted and enclosed in appropriate tree guards.

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7 Monitoring Plan During construction phase, it would be necessary to monitor the mitigation measures compliance scenario to ensure that the concern for minimizing the impacts on biodiversity is followed in letter and spirit. For monitoring purposes, a monitoring cell should be established and a compliance officer should be appointed. The cell will have a representative of the Himachal Pradesh Road and other Infrastructure Development Corporation, Technical Consultant, representative from the Forest Department, Contractors representative, Non-Governmental Organization representative and a representative from the State Pollution Control Board. For all suggested indicators, the project shall develop a baseline (pre-project status) and there should be provision for Mid-Term Evaluation by an external agency in close collaboration with the Project Directorate. Learning from monitoring of indicators should be built into project implementation processes for improving project performance. At MidTerm an outside agency be contracted for conducting an external audit of investments and expenditures done on minimizing project impacts on biodiversity. A final impact evaluation be also carried out. Key Indicator Debris disposal Afforestation Sub Indicator Monitoring Frequency Weekly Responsibility Compliance Officer, HPRIDC representative Compliance Officer, Forest Department representative

Debris generated Debris deposited in identified disposal site Area brought under Six months plantation

Number of tree saplings planted, survived and established Soil erosion Run off measurement through SOP/storage structures (take baseline data from watershed projects) Bird nesting Prepare a baseline along project roads on predetermined chainages and monitor the increase/ decrease in nesting Water quality Collect water samples from along road side rivers, streams, wetlands, marsh, Khads and nalas and assess key parameters Extraction of Assess amount of firewood firewood used by visiting labour camps

Six month

Compliance Officer, NGO representative

Three months

Compliance Officer, Forest Department representative Compliance Officer, SPCB representative

Three months

Weekly

Compliance Officer, NGO representative

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Annex 1 Red Listed Medicinal Plants of Himachal Pradesh
Critically Endangered (CR) 7 Gentiana kurroo Aconitum heterophyllum 8 Lilium polyphyllum Arnebia benthami 9 Rauvolfia serpentine Arnebia euchroma 10 Saussurea gossypiphora Atropa acuminata 11 Saussurea obvallata Dactylorhiza hatagirea 12 Swertia chirayita Dienia muscifera Endangered (EN) 12 Meconopsis aculeate Aconitum deinorrhizum 13 Nardostachys grandiflora Angelica glauca 14 Paris polyphylla Betula utilis 15 Picrorhiza kurrooa Datisca cannabina 16 Podophyllum hexandrum Dioscorea deltoidea 17 Polygonatum cirrhifolium Ephedra gerardiana 18 Rheum emodi Fritillaria roylei 19 Rheum moorcroftianum Habenaria intermedia 20 Taxus wallichiana Hyocyamus niger 21 Zanthoxylum armatum Juniperus polycarpos Jurinea dolomiaea Vulnerable (VU) 15 Hyssopus officinalis Aconitum violaceum 16 Litsea glutinosa Allium strachyeyi 17 Phsochlaena praealta Bergenia stracheyi 18 Polygonatum multiflorum Bunium persicum 19 Polygonatum verticillatum Cinnamomum tamala 20 Rheum speciforme Colchicum luteum 21 Rheum webbianum Didymocarpus pedicillata 22 Rhodiola heterodonta Embelia tsjeriam-cottam 23 Rhododendron anthopogon Eremostachys superba 24 Rhododendron campanulatum Ferula jaeschkeana 25 Rhododendron lepidotum Gloriosa superba 26 Roylea cinerea Heracleum lanatum 27 Valeriana jatamansi Hippophae rhamnoides Hypericum perforatum

1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Source: Ved et al (2003): CAMP Workshop Report, 2003

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Annex 2 Proceedings and Recommendations of the Consultative Workshop on Impact Assessment of H. P. Roads Project on Forest, Wildlife & Biodiversity Date: December 14, 2006 Venue: Holiday Home

The Consultative Workshop on the above subject was attended by 28 participants (list of participants attached) representing forestry professionals who are responsible for management of forests and wildlife in the state; environmental impact assessment experts; user agency and non-governmental agencies involved in biodiversity conservation. The workshop opened with welcome address by Mr. Arun Sharma, CEO-cum-MD, RIDC-HP PWD, GoHP. He also gave an overview of the HP Roads Project with special emphasis on the Phase-I roads that have been prioritized for development in the first phase of the project. He drew attention of the participants to the urgency to complete various studies related to the roads project so that the road development works could be initiated at the earliest. While referring to the study related to biodiversity impact due to roads project, he called upon the participants to make considered contribution towards successful completion of the study. Mr. Audie C. Pineda, Team Leader, Louis Berger Group Inc. (LBGI), USA explained the road design aspect of the proposed roads and briefed the participants about the proposed width of the project roads, proposed cutting involved for widening of the roads, the surface improvement, etc. He also emphasized on the importance of the present study. Mr. C V Sundara Rajan, Environment Management Specialist, LBGI, made a presentation on the environmental issues related to the roads project and explained the need for the present study. He informed the participants that during the preliminary environmental studies his team had encountered instances of the presence of some wildlife and its special along the road. He also pointed out that in view of the unique Himalayan habitat and species diversity in the state, there was all likelihood of some of endangered species and their habitats getting adversely affected by the roads project. The present study was, thus, a step towards enumerating such potential impacts and taking appropriate mitigation measures for their alleviation. Mr. D P Gupta, Forestry and Wildlife Specialist, gave details of the study and shared with the participants his findings on the basis of reconnaissance surveys carried out by

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him. He gave road-wise details about the phase-I roads. He opined that any development project, at least during the construction phase, was bound to create some impact on the local ecology and biodiversity. However, such negative impacts could be checked or minimized by adopting appropriate mitigation measures. Mr. Sundara Rajan then described the expectations from the workshop and called upon the participants to express their free and frank views about the project, its likely impacts on forests and wildlife and about the mitigation measures so that adverse impacts of the project could be addressed. After the initial orientation about the project and the present study, the participants were formed into three groups to deliberate upon the following issues: Group-1: Group-2: Group-3:

Issues and concerns regarding eco-sensitive areas and wildlife habitat along the project roads. Location of common sighting of wildlife along the project roads.

Wildlife-man interface in relation to conflict with local people and wildlifetraffic collision. Impact on wildlife habitats.

Threatened plant species along the project corridor. Mitigation measures.

The three groups discussed the issues and made presentation of their findings in the open house. Mr. Vinay Tandon, Chief Wildlife Warden, while participating in the discussion raised concerns about degradation of wildlife habitats due to improved roads on account of (i) increased tourist and vehicular flow, (ii) higher generation of solid waste, (iii) increased emissions, (iv) linear development along the road viz. setting up of motor garages/ workshops, dhabas/ food joints, and the like. He called upon the project authorities to build-in effective garbage disposal mechanism and employ it along the road. He highlighted the need to develop biodiversity monitoring indicators so that the impacts of improved roads on biodiversity could be periodically monitored for better understanding of the issues for future planning of hill roads. He requested the project authorities to commission a separate study to develop such indicators. Mr. Suyal highlighted the legal issues related to approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and called upon the user agency to prepare comprehensive proposals for quick approval under the Act. He also informed the house of the procedure for seeking such approvals.

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Many subject overlaps came up during open house discussions on the six broad categories formed for group discussions. Whereas only one specific case of wildlife crossing the road (Sambhar at Naina Tikkar) was reported, no instance of wildlifevehicular collision could come up during the discussions. Recommendations of the workshop in view of the group-wise presentations and open house discussions have been grouped as under:
S. No. Issues Recommendations towards Mitigation Measures

A. Issues and Concerns regarding Eco-sensitive areas and Wildlife Habitats along project roads 1. Immediate Rehabilitation of Lost Habitat Handling the Fragmented Habitat Preservation and maintenance of natural water sources along the road Under passes for small animals The cut slopes should be immediately rehabilitated to recreate the habitat at the earliest. The cut slopes may result in high walls along the uphill side of the road and may act as barrier to the movement of wildlife. May consider providing slopes for the easy passage of wild animals. The natural water courses and ponds need special care from dumping of muck and land slips. Similarly, care has to be taken while handling water springs along road as these are known to change course if not handled properly. The side drains and cross drains may act as under passes for safe passage to small animals. These will also help in providing guided passage to the rain water and help in protecting the road against damage. To keep the animals away from the road and into their habitats in the forests. As the road side plants have maximum deposits of vehicular exhausts, it will also help in reducing pollution-linked poisoning of animals. No open blasting. No blasting during nights and during breeding season. Indiscreet debris disposal is the major cause of concern from biodiversity point of view. Debris should be transported for disposal at carefully selected sites. The job for safe disposal of debris could be entrusted to local community. Stringent penalty should be levied on violation of dumping guidelines. Un-authorised quarrying from near the site of work, causes avoidable damage to the other-wise intact habitats Comprehensive measures to stabilize land slips caused due to road construction or those having potential threat to the road

2.

3.

4.

5.

Raise non-edible plants along road

6. 7.

Blasting of rocks Dumping of Debris at Pre-selected Sites only

8. 9.

Check on Unauthorised Quarrying Soil Conservation Measures

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Issues Recommendations towards Mitigation Measures should be taken. Nepals experience of stabilizing slopes through bio-engineering measures may be used. Plantations, especially along Una-Kalkhar road and MehatpurAmb road, where most of the mango trees would need to be removed. These should be replaced by native mango plants only. Moreover, road side plantation should start immediately after construction phase is over. No camps in forests. Provision for fuel and sanitation to be made. A fund to compensate adverse impact on wildlife to be used any where in the state for habitat improvement, retrieval and cure of injured animals and to put up caution signs.

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Plantations along Road Strips

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Management of Labour Camps Establish Wildlife Conservation Fund

B. Issue related to Wildlife-Man Interface: conflicts, traffic collisions and location of common Wildlife sighting along project roads 13. Sambhar Crossing Point Sambhar has been observed frequently crossing road for water near Naina-Tikkar over a distance of half kilometer.

C. Threatened Plant Species and Critical Habitats along Road Corridor 14. Identification of Redlist flora along road corridor Check-list of flora Assessing Direct Impact Area in respect of red-listed species. Habitats of small animals and nesting places of birds to be protected Handling of habitats of red-listed plant species and eco-sensitive habitats Tree selection for road side plantations Many Himalayan plants are known to be threatened. Reconnaissance along project roads may be carried out to identify the existence of any endangered plant species and their habitats. A check-list of the major plant species coming along the roads corridor should be prepared as baseline and for future reference. In case any red-list plant species is found to be occurring along the project roads, direct impact of the roads project on its populations may be assessed to form mitigation strategy. The trees along the roads are known to provide shelter and nesting place to a variety of birds and small animals. These nesting places should be critically identified and appropriate measures to protect the habitat may be taken. May consider re-alignment of the road or restricting the road width in the concerned section if the road project is likely to have irreversible damage to the populations of red-listed plants or to some critical habitats. Ideally a strip of 10 metres on both sides along the project roads, where the road does not pass through forests, should be brought under avenue plantation. Native trees should be selected for such plantations and should be planted in 2-3 rows on both sides of the road. 1st row be of avenue plants with the 2nd and 3rd row of

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. Issues Recommendations towards Mitigation Measures multipurpose trees. D. Legal Issues 20. Clearance under FCA, 1980 Comprehensive proposal needs to be prepared giving details of forest area, number of trees to be removed, mining area, locations of stone crushers to be installed, debris disposal plan for the project roads should be prepared by the user agency in consultation with concerned forest office and submitted for approval under FCA. Work could be started only after necessary approval has been obtained after depositing funds towards NPV and CA.

List of Participants
S. No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. Name & Address Arti Gupta Vandana Thaplial Dr. R.K. Verma Surinder Kumar Praveen Thaplyal Nagesh Kumar Anil Thakur Arun Sharma V. Tandon Vineet Kumar B.D. Suyal Y.P. Gupta D.P. Gupta Hari Parkash Audie Pineda A.K. Dutta Sudhir Siwal P.S. Patial Narender Singh B.K. Sharma Netrar Prakash Jiji Thomas A.K. Somal P.S. Verma Sanjeev Kumar R.S. Verma Rajesh Sharma Designation WWF Volunteer State Director WWF Scientist, HFRI, Shimla-9 Director HFRI, Shimla MD HPHHC, Shimla D.F.O. Shimla D.F.O. Rohru CEO cum P.D. RIDC HPPWD CWLW CF Shimla CF (PPL) Nodal Officer FC Act DFO Nahan Consultant Independent Review Consultant Team Leader, LBGI EE, HPPWD attached with LBG ACF Hamirpur DRBO Bundle R.F.O. Aghar EE (RIDC) J.E. (RIDC) LBG (Asstt. Env. Planner) DFO Una ACF Karsog LPG (Asstt. Env. Planner) R.O. Dharampur, Parwanoo R.O. Narag

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
28. C.V. Sundara Rajan Env. Specialist

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
Annex 3 Summary of Responses of Participants in the Workshop Summary of Response by Foresters Information in respect of biodiversity impact assessment survey was collected from the concerned forest officials on the questionnaire QA-1. A total of 10 responses (2 for Mehatpur-Una-Amb Rd., 5 for Una-Aghar-Barsar-Jahu-Kalkhar Rd. & 3 for TheogKotkhai-Rohru Rd.) were received during the survey. The relevant responses for the study from the questionnaire have been grouped as under:
S. No. 1 Questions Endangered Flora in the region Responses Dactylorhiza hatageria, Angelica glauca, Aconitum heterophyllum & Taxus wallichiana (High hills of Kotkhai-Jubbal area). None reported from along other roads. Leopard (Aghar area) Monal pheasant & Musk deer (High hills of KotkhaiJubbal area). Protection of forests & regeneration from fire, grazing, lopping, etc. Plantations/ afforestation Soil conservation, construction of water ponds Awareness creation Wildlife conservation Encroachments Inadequate staff Periodic forest fire incidents in Chir areas. Also winter fires in Kail forests (Kotkhai) Shivalik formations prone to soil erosion One baby girl killed by leopard (Aghar Range) during the last one year. 5 people mauled and injured by leopard (Aghar Range) over the past one year. On an average 5 cases of injury to the people by wildlife per year are reported from Shimla Circle. 5 cases of injury to human beings inflicted mainly by wild boar reported in Bhambla area. Leopard (in all areas) Himalayan Black Bear (Kotkhai-Jubbal area) Wild Boar (Aghar-Bhambla area) Leopard (mostly stray dogs, sheep, goat, cattle). 8-10 cases of animal kill reported per year from Una. 10-15 cases reported per year from Hamirpur. Himalayan Black Bear (mostly cattle)

Endangered Fauna in the region Common conservation measures

Major forest related issues

No. of people killed and injured by wild animals

Animals that commonly attack human beings Wild animals that lift domestic animals

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. 8 Questions Wild animals that cause crop damage Any nearby water body Responses Nilgai (Una-Amb area), Wild boar (Una-Amb & AgharBhambla area), Himalayan Black Bear (Kotkhai-Jubbal area), Monkeys (all over). Perennial streams (Bishkalti nala), rivers (Pabbar, Giri, Swan) & village ponds. Wild animals do cross the road for water to these water bodies. However, no concrete information came out. 2-3 cases per year reported from Una (mainly Nilgai & monkey). None

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Wildlife-traffic collision cases Any nesting/ breeding areas along the road that could be impacted during road construction work Any critical road sections needing fencing Any location from where the wild animals cross project roads frequently Best methods to avoid trafficwildlife collisions

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None Nilgai near Dussada khad Himalayan Black Bear between Patti dhank and Kharapathar Leopard near Theog, Kotkhai & Sanava. Caution signs at pre-identified places Speed check signs & speed regulation through speed breakers No feeding of monkeys on the roads Replant the tree avenues quickly Manage debris disposal scientifically Create tree line along Theog-Chhaila and HatkotiRohru roads Check on un-authorised quarrying Control over labour camps against poaching & wood collection from forests.

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Other measures to conserve flora and fauna in the region in respect of road widening

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
Summary of Response by Villagers Information in respect of biodiversity impact assessment survey was collected from the local villagers informally during meetings with them. However, information from them was also formally recorded on the questionnaire QA-2. A total of 11 responses (4 for Mehatpur-Una-Amb Rd., 4 for Una-Aghar-Barsar-Jahu-Kalkhar Rd. & 3 for TheogKotkhai-Rohru Rd.) were received during the survey. The relevant responses for the study from the questionnaire have been grouped as under:
S. No. 1 Questions Endangered Flora in the region Responses Aconitum heterophyllum, Dactylorhiza hatageria, Taxus wallichiana (High hills of Kotkhai-Jubbal area). Loss of big trees during road work. However, no specific species reported from along other roads. Not known. But Nilgai & wild boars have become nuisance (Una-Amb section). Porcupine and Martens are not as frequently seen as earlier (Aghar-Jahu section). Monal pheasant & Musk deer (High hills of KotkhaiJubbal area). Raising of plantations/ afforestation Distribution of seedlings Soil conservation, khad stabilisation Protection of forests from fire, encroachments Wildlife conservation, ban on hunting For TD (timber distribution) in Kotkhai-Jubbal During any forestry activities around the village, especially to seek panchayat consent for closing any area for plantations While fighting forest fires During van mahotsav celebrations Responses varied from no idea to no JFM to yes. Most of the respondents felt that JFM is a good programme as it gives them credit for forest conservation & they become aware of their responsibilites Fuel wood availability is reducing Unauthorised removal of forest produce No one killed in the area. Occasional cases of injury by leopard, black bear & wild boar, however, come to notice. No idea about actual numbers. Leopard (in all areas) Himalayan Black Bear (Kotkhai-Jubbal area) Wild Boar (Aghar-Bhambla area)

Endangered Fauna in the region

Common conservation measures

SFDs interaction with villagers

Any JFM measures in the area

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Major forest related issues No. of people killed and injured by wild animals

Animals that commonly attack human beings

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km
S. No. 9 10 Questions Wild animals that lift domestic animals Any nearby water body Responses Leopard (mostly stray dogs, sheep, goat, cattle). Himalayan Black Bear (mostly cattle) Perennial streams (Bishkalti nala, Dussada khad), rivers (Pabbar, Giri, Swan) & village ponds. Wild animals do cross the road for water to these water bodies. However, no concrete information came out. No case of wildlife-traffic collision involving big animal in the area has come to notice. One mongoose (Una-Amb section). Small animals like snakes, frogs keep on getting crushed (Aghar-Jahu section) Birds, especially in the morning hours Monkeys do come very close to traffic causing anxiety No case has come to notice

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Wildlife-traffic collision cases

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Do the lift the carcass for eating or throw it down the slope after collision Any nesting/ breeding areas along the road that could be impacted during road construction work

None Perching of egrets on shisham trees near Raisery bridge

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Himachal Pradesh State Road Project Draft Report on Bio Diversity Impact Assessment Report for 250 km

Summary of Response by Road Users Information in respect of biodiversity impact assessment survey was collected from the road users on the questionnaire QA-3. A total of 27 responses were received during the survey. The relevant responses for the study from the questionnaire have been grouped as under:
S. No. 1 Questions Any wild animal seen/ noticed along road corridors Responses Leopard (one in October 2004 going uphill near Gazta; one in November 2005 moving uphill from the road on Kotkhai-Kharapathar section; One in December 2005 moving downhill between Kharapathar & Sanava; one during June, 2006 going downhill near Barsar) Jackals in packs of 2-3. Many times. Troupes of Monkeys and Langurs during day time Wild boar occasionally at night Barking Deer during April 2006 near Bhambla Nilgai hit with car about 4 years back near Takrala. Car damaged, Nilgai ran away. One injured leopard cub hit by some vehicle was found some 2 years back along Una-Amb road. It was treated but did not survive. One porcupine near Balh village during November 2006. Only monkeys

Any wild animal hit by vehicles along project roads

Have you ever come close to hit wild animals

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