Guidelines on Preparation and Implementation of Environment Management Plan
2015 Edition

IRC SP 108-2015 Overview - Essential Points

• Coverage: Environmental management directives for highway and road projects.
• Aim: To reduce environmental footprints during planning, construction, and operational phases.
• Clause 4.2: Contains tables specifying environmental parameters and monitoring protocols.
• Topics Included:
  • Environmental Impact Objectives
  • Environment Management Plans
  • Technology Selection Criteria
  • Monitoring Frameworks
  • Roles and Accountability

Important Reference Tables & Annexures:

Environmental Management Framework Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Project Planning] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
    B --> C[Environment Management Plan]
    C --> D[Technology Selection]
    D --> E[Implementation & Monitoring]
    E --> F[Mitigation and Reporting]

Note: For specific formulas and parameter tables, consult Clause 4.2 and annexures in IRC SP 108-2015.

Scope of IRC SP 108-2015 (Environmental Management in Highway Construction)

Highlights:

• Pertains to environmental oversight during highway construction and operation phases.
• Encompasses control measures for air, water, noise, and soil pollution.
• Includes environmental impact assessment and monitoring requirements.
• Provides guidelines for management of protected zones, debris disposal, quarry operations, sediment control, and site rehabilitation.
• Emphasizes environmental surveillance with defined parameters and thresholds.

Critical Specifications from Scope:

Monitoring Techniques:

• SO2: Improved West & Gaeke method, Ultraviolet fluorescence
• NO2: Modified Jacob and Hochheiser (Na-Arsenite), Chemiluminescence
• PM10 & PM2.5: Gravimetric, TOEM, Beta attenuation
• O3: UV photometric, Chemiluminescence

Additional Notes:

• Special provisions for sensitive regions (e.g., elephant corridors require minimum 6.5 m vertical clearance).
• Inclusion of Environment Management Action Plans and checklists.
• Debris disposal, quarry restoration, sediment control, and camp siting detailed in annexures.

flowchart TD
    A[Highway Project] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
    B --> C[Environment Management Plan]
    C --> D[Air, Water, Noise Monitoring]
    C --> E[Mitigation Measures]

IRC SP 108-2015: General Guidelines and References

The General section (Clause 3, Page 2) establishes foundational environmental management principles for road construction projects. It emphasizes:

• Scope and Objectives: Defining environmental impact considerations.
• Fundamental Principles: Framework for preparing and implementing EMP.
• Roles and Responsibilities: Defining accountability among project participants.

Key Appendices & Annexures for General Guidance:

Notes:

• No direct structural formulas appear in this section.
• Best practices for environmental impact assessment and mitigation are detailed in the appendices.
• Sediment and water resource management critical, elaborated in Annex-5.

Environmental Management Flowchart

flowchart TD
    A[General Provisions] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
    B --> C[EMP Development]
    C --> D[Implementation & Monitoring]
    D --> E[Mitigation Actions]
    E --> F[Site Rehabilitation & Maintenance]

For structural design formulas, refer to relevant IRC codes; this document focuses on environmental and procedural guidance.

IRC SP 108: Environmental Impact Objectives Overview

The standard defines key environmental impact categories for highway projects, referencing applicable legislations and guidelines:

Environmental Impact Categories Diagram

graph TD
  A[Environmental Impact Categories] --> B[General Environment]
  A --> C[Land]
  C --> C1[Construction Areas]
  C --> C2[Borrow Sites]
  C --> C3[Quarries]
  C --> C4[Camp Locations]
  C --> C5[Debris & Waste]
  A --> D[Water Resources]
  A --> E[Air Quality]
  A --> F[Noise]
  A --> G[Forests & Wildlife]
  A --> H[Coastal Zones]
  A --> I[Biodiversity]
  A --> J[Heritage & Social]

While IRC SP 108 does not specify explicit clauses or formulas for EMP principles, standard environmental management practices applicable include:

Fundamental Principles of EMP

• Identification of Environmental Aspects: Recognize impacts such as air, water, noise, and soil contamination resulting from construction.
• Mitigation Strategies: Establish measures to reduce negative effects like dust control and waste management.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure adherence to environmental regulations and standards.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Regularly assess environmental parameters and document outcomes.
• Stakeholder Participation: Engage local communities and authorities in the process.
• Resource Optimization: Efficient utilization of materials, water, and energy.

Typical EMP Elements

EMP Implementation Workflow

1. Conduct baseline environmental assessment.
2. Define mitigation measures.
3. Assign roles and responsibilities.
4. Establish monitoring protocols.
5. Conduct training and awareness programs.

flowchart TD
    A[Baseline Assessment] --> B[Mitigation Planning]
    B --> C[Implementation]
    C --> D[Monitoring & Reporting]
    D --> E[Review and Continuous Improvement]

For comprehensive EMP frameworks, consult MoEF guidelines or ISO 14001 standards.

IRC SP 108 - Technology Selection: Essential Insights

Technology Selection Methods

• Method (a): Project authority specifies the technology; contractors bid accordingly.
• Method (b): Bidders propose technologies; evaluation favors least polluting and best environmental management scoring options.
• Method (b) encourages innovation and competitive solutions.

Technology Selection Criteria (Clause 6.1)

• Objective assessment of alternative technologies.
• Availability of design standards and established procedures.
• Access to required equipment and vendors.

Examples of Technologies & References

Technology Evaluation Considerations

• Environmental impact and pollution levels.
• Performance and durability.
• Cost efficiency.
• Equipment and material availability.
• Compliance with IRC standards.

Technology Selection Process Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Feasibility / EIA Stage] --> B[Assess Alternative Technologies]
    B --> C{Select Approach}
    C -->|Method (a)| D[Technology Predefined; Bid Accordingly]
    C -->|Method (b)| E[Bidders Propose Technology; Scored on Environment & Performance]
    D & E --> F[Finalize Best Technology]
    F --> G[Implementation and Monitoring]

References:

• IRC:37-2012 (Pavement Design)
• IRC Concrete Code 2012
• IRC Guidelines on Fly Ash and Warm Mix Asphalt

Evaluation Metrics for Alternative Technologies (IRC SP 108)

The standard recommends two principal environmental criteria when comparing road construction technologies:

1. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Potential

   • Assess and quantify GHG emissions for each technology, presuming all fulfill performance requirements.

2. Environmental Friendliness

   • When GHG emissions are comparable, evaluate other impacts such as resource consumption, pollution, and waste generation.

Additional Evaluation Factors (Clause 6.1)

• Objective performance and durability assessments.
• Availability of design standards and procedural guidelines.
• Accessibility of equipment and suppliers.

Examples of Environmentally Preferable Technologies

Technology Evaluation Flowchart

flowchart TD
    A[Alternative Technologies] --> B[Assess GHG Emission]
    A --> C[Assess Environmental Friendliness]
    B --> D[Confirm Functional Performance]
    C --> D
    D --> E[Select Based on Objective Criteria]
    E --> F[Verify Design Standards & Vendor Availability]
    F --> G[Finalize Technology Choice]

Summary: Utilize GHG emissions and overall environmental impact as core criteria, supported by IRC standards, to select optimal road construction technologies.

Environmental Monitoring Program (IRC SP 108-2015)

Key Pollutants and Ambient Air Concentration Limits

* Annual mean based on minimum 104 samples (twice weekly, 24-hour samples)

** 24-hour/8-hour values should be met 98% of the time; maximum exceedance 2%, not on consecutive days

Noise Standards (dB(A) Leq)

Monitoring Summary

• Regular monitoring of air pollutants, noise, and water quality at defined locations.
• Use prescribed measurement techniques to ensure compliance.
• Data used for reporting and corrective action.

IRC SP 108-2015: Roles and Responsibilities (Clause 4.2)

This clause defines duties related to environmental management in highway projects.

Responsibilities Overview (Table 9, Clause 4.2)

Additional Points:

• Control soil erosion via pitching, turfing, and vegetation on slopes and shoulders.
• Conduct orientation sessions for contractors and agencies to ensure environmental compliance.

Responsibilities Flow Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Project Authorities] --> B[Environmental Management Cell]
    B --> C[Field & Site Staff]
    C --> D[Contractors]
    D --> E[Labour Camp Managers]
    E --> F[Mitigation Implementation]
    F --> G[Monitoring & Compliance]
    G --> H[Reporting and Feedback]

Summary: Ensures clearly defined environmental protection roles covering health, access, cultural conservation, and pollution control throughout project duration.

IRC SP 108 - Clause 4.2: Environmental Management Checklist Overview

Clause 4.2 includes tables and guidelines for environmental checks. Typical checklist items include:

Key Verification Points

• Load Calculations: Confirm dead, live, impact, and wind loads per IRC standards.
• Material Specifications: Verify concrete grade, steel type, and reinforcement details.
• Section Properties: Check dimensions, moments of inertia, and section moduli.
• Stress Analysis: Ensure stresses under service and ultimate loads are within permitted limits.
• Deflection Limits: Confirm deflections comply with IRC prescribed limits.
• Reinforcement Details: Verify spacing, cover, and anchorage lengths.
• Safety Factors: Apply IRC specified factors for loads and materials.

Example Table Format

For full details and exact formulas, refer directly to IRC SP 108 Clause 4.2.

IRC SP 108: Environment Management Action Plan (EMAP)

This plan focuses on reducing environmental impacts during highway construction through avoidance, mitigation, restoration, and monitoring.

EMAP Core Principles

• Avoidance: Evade sensitive areas like forests and water bodies.
• Mitigation: Minimize construction impacts such as dust, noise, and waste.
• Restoration: Rehabilitate disturbed areas after construction.
• Monitoring: Regularly track environmental parameters.

EMAP Key Elements

Implementation Guidelines

• Conduct baseline environmental assessments before starting.
• Continuous monitoring and reporting.
• Engage stakeholders and provide training.
• Use environmentally friendly materials and technologies.

flowchart TD
  A[Baseline Assessment] --> B[Plan EMAP]
  B --> C[Execute Plan]
  C --> D[Monitoring & Reporting]
  D --> E[Restoration & Closure]

Summary: EMAP provides a structured approach prioritizing avoidance, mitigation, restoration, and monitoring to support sustainable highway development.

IRC SP 108: Guidelines for Construction Camps and Worker Amenities

Essential Specifications

• Accommodation: Temporary living quarters must conform to standards approved by the Supervising Consultant (SC).

• Potable Water Supply:

  • Must meet IS 10500:1991 drinking water standards.
  • Water storage tanks should be located at least 15 m away from latrines or pollution sources.
  • Wells near latrines need monthly disinfection, covered with dust- and water-proof trap doors, and kept locked.

• Sanitation & Sewage:

  • Use dry-earth latrines, cleaned a minimum of 4 times daily (twice during working hours).
  • Receptacles must be tarred inside and out annually.
  • Sewage systems maintained per Annexure II protocols.

• Health and Safety:

  • Adequate healthcare facilities must be provided.
  • Electrical equipment should comply with IS standards, be fenced, and well-lit for public safety.
  • Machines require regular inspection and maintenance.

• Site Clearance Post-Project:

  • Remove temporary structures, burn waste, fill and seal pits, and ensure the site is clean.

Summary Table: Water and Sanitation

Camp Setup and Maintenance Workflow

flowchart TD
    A[Site Selection] --> B[SC Approval]
    B --> C[Set Up Living Quarters]
    C --> D[Install Potable Water]
    D --> E[Build Sanitation Facilities]
    E --> F[Health & Safety Checks]
    F --> G[Regular Inspection & Maintenance]
    G --> H[Post-Project Site Clearance]

References:

• IS 10500:1991 (Drinking Water Quality)
• Annexure II (Sanitation Guidelines)
• IRC SP 108:2015 Clauses 7.4, 4.2, and annexures

IRC SP 108 does not provide direct clauses or formulas for selecting debris disposal sites but offers guidance through annexures and general principles:

Key Considerations for Site Selection

• Location:

  • Should be distant from water bodies to avoid contamination.
  • Located on stable, low-slope terrain to minimize erosion.
  • Easily accessible by construction vehicles.

• Environmental Factors:

  • Avoid ecologically sensitive zones (see Annex-7 on protected areas mitigation).
  • Implement sediment control measures detailed in Annex-5.

• Rehabilitation Practices:

  • Post-use, contour and cover dump sites with soil.
  • Re-vegetate to prevent erosion and restore ecological balance.

Sediment Control Measures (Annex-5)

Borrow Area Recommendations (Annex-8)

• Locate away from water sources.
• Restrict excavation to minimize environmental harm.
• Undertake progressive rehabilitation during and after use.

flowchart TD
    A[Identify Candidate Site] --> B{Evaluate Location Criteria}
    B -->|Suitable| C[Assess Environmental Impact]
    B -->|Unsuitable| D[Reject Site]
    C --> E{Apply Sediment Controls}
    E --> F[Plan Rehabilitation]
    F --> G[Authorize Site Usage]

For detailed requirements, refer to Annex-5 through Annex-8 in IRC SP 108.

Guidelines for Rehabilitation of Dumpsites, Quarries, and Borrow Areas (IRC SP 108)

1. Management of Topsoil

• Retain and stockpile topsoil to a depth of 0.15 m.
• Reserve at least 10% of the land for topsoil stockpiling.
• Limit stockpile slope to 1:2 (vertical:horizontal) to reduce erosion.
• Maximum stockpile height should be 2 m.
• Protect stockpiles with coverings like gunny bags or tarpaulin and secure edges using silt fencing.
• Use stockpiled topsoil to rehabilitate disturbed areas, slopes, landscaping, and medians.

2. Borrow Area and Quarry Rehabilitation

• Shape borrow pits for future community or social use (e.g., water reservoirs, fish ponds).
• Quarry operations should maintain regular slopes, sizes, and depths to prevent landscape scarring.
• Obtain requisite mining permits.
• Comply with State Pollution Control Board regulations.

3. Control of Soil Erosion

• Stabilize slopes through turfing and planting bush grass.
• Avoid unnecessary movement on topsoil.
• Manage erosion on exposed surfaces within the right of way (ROW).

4. Sediment Control

Refer to Annex-5 for detailed sediment management procedures.

Topsoil Stockpiling Summary

flowchart LR
    A[Excavation & Borrow Site] --> B[Topsoil Stripping (0.15 m)]
    B --> C[Topsoil Stockpiling (Slope 1:2, Height  2m)]
    C --> D[Protect Stockpiles (Silt Fence, Cover)]
    D --> E[Rehabilitation (Return Topsoil to Site)]
    A --> F[Quarrying with Regular Slope & Size]
    F --> G[Obtain Permits & Follow Compliance]
    E --> H[Community Reuse & Landscaping]

Reference: IRC SP 108-2015, Clause 1.1 and related environmental management guidelines.

IRC SP 108: Environmental Management in New Quarry Operations

Although explicit formulas are not provided, the standard outlines key environmental parameters and mitigation measures:

Environmental Parameters and Controls (From Table 9, Clause 4.2)

Additional Recommendations:

• Quarry leases should include restoration to original or improved land conditions.
• Construction camps should be sited to avoid odor nuisances.
• Continuous air quality monitoring is essential.

Quarry Management Process Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Site Selection] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
    B --> C[Implement Mitigation Measures]
    C --> D[Operations & Monitoring]
    D --> E[Site Rehabilitation & Restoration]
    E --> F[Closure of Lease]

Note: Refer to CPCB and MoEF air quality standards for detailed limits.