IRC SP 108:2015 provides comprehensive guidelines for preparing and implementing Environment Management Plans (EMP) specifically for highway and road construction projects in India. It assists project authorities, contractors, and planners in minimizing environmental impacts such as air and water pollution, soil contamination, noise, and social disruption during construction. The standard outlines responsibilities, mitigation measures, monitoring protocols, and compliance requirements aligned with statutory environmental regulations to ensure sustainable infrastructure development.
Overview
IRC SP 108:2015 provides comprehensive guidelines for preparing and implementing Environment Management Plans (EMP) specifically for highway and road construction projects in India. It assists project authorities, contractors, and planners in minimizing environmental impacts such as air and water pollution, soil contamination, noise, and social disruption during construction. The standard outlines responsibilities, mitigation measures, monitoring protocols, and compliance requirements aligned with statutory environmental regulations to ensure sustainable infrastructure development.
Audience
Contents
Structure
IRC SP 108-2015: Introduction - Key Points
| Table/Annex | Description | Page No. |
|---|---|---|
| Table in Clause 4.2 | Environmental parameters & monitoring | Refer Clause 4.2 |
| Appendix-IA | Environment Management Action Plan | 20 |
| Annex-5 | Guidelines for Sediment Control | 58 |
| Annex-6 | Construction Camp Siting & Layout | 59 |
| Annex-7 | Mitigation in Protected Areas | 62 |
flowchart TD
A[Project Planning] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
B --> C[Environmental Management Plan]
C --> D[Technology Selection]
D --> E[Implementation & Monitoring]
E --> F[Mitigation & Reporting]
Note: For detailed formulas or tables, refer to Clause 4.2 and respective annexes in IRC SP 108-2015.
Key Points:
| Parameter | Monitoring Frequency | Threshold Limits (µg/m³) | Applicable Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| SO2 (Sulphur Dioxide) | Annual / 24 hours | 50 / 80 (Industrial, Residential) <br> 20 / 80 (Ecologically Sensitive) | All construction sites |
| NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide) | Annual / 24 hours | 40 / 80 (Industrial, Residential) <br> 30 / 80 (Ecologically Sensitive) | All construction sites |
| PM10 (Particulate Matter <10 µm) | Annual / 24 hours | 60 / 100 | All construction sites |
| PM2.5 (Particulate Matter <2.5 µm) | Annual / 24 hours | 40 / 60 | All construction sites |
| O3 (Ozone) | 8 hours / 1 hour | 100 / 180 | All construction sites |
Monitoring Methods:
flowchart TD
A[Highway Project] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
B --> C[Environmental Management Plan]
C --> D[Monitoring: Air, Water, Noise]
C --> E[
IRC SP 108-2015: General Specifications & Key References
The General section (Clause 3, Page 2) in IRC SP 108-2015 primarily sets the foundation for environmental management in road construction projects. While it lacks explicit formulas, it emphasizes:
| Reference | Description | Page No. |
|---|---|---|
| Appendix-I | Check List for Environmental Management | 18 |
| Appendix-IA | Environment Management Action Plan | 20 |
| Annex-1 | Guidelines for Identification of Debris Disposal Sites | 47 |
| Annex-2 | Guidelines for Rehabilitation of Dumpsites, Quarries, Borrow Areas | 48 |
| Annex-3 | Guidelines for New Quarry Management | 50 |
| Annex-5 | Guidelines for Sediment Control | 58 |
| Annex-6 | Guidelines for Siting and Layout of Construction Camp | 59 |
| Annex-7 | Guidelines for Mitigation of Impacts on Protected Areas | 62 |
flowchart TD
A[General Specifications] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
B --> C[Environmental Management Plan (EMP)]
C --> D[Implementation & Monitoring]
D --> E[Mitigation Measures]
E --> F[Site Rehabilitation & Maintenance]
For structural or design formulas, refer to specific IRC codes related to materials or design, as IRC SP 108 focuses on environmental and procedural guidelines.
IRC SP 108 - Object of Environment Impact: Key Specifications
The code outlines environmental impact objects for highway projects, referencing relevant standards:
| Object | Applicable Standards & Guidelines |
|---|---|
| General Environment | EIA Notification (14.09.2006), MoEF Manual on norms for large projects |
| Land | EIA Notification (14.09.2006), Hazardous Wastes Rules (2008) |
| - Construction | Refer above |
| - Borrow areas | Refer above |
| - Stone quarries | Refer above |
| - Camp sites | Refer above |
| - Debris & waste | Refer above |
| Water | CPCB Guidelines for Water Quality (2008), Environment Protection Rules (1986) [Schedule VI], Hazardous Wastes Rules |
| - Surface runoff | CPCB Guidelines |
| - Effluent discharge | Environment Protection Rules (1986) |
| - Heavy metal leaching | Hazardous Wastes Rules (2008) |
| Air | MoEF Notification (16.11.2009) - National Ambient Air Quality Standards (SO2, NOx, PM10, PM2.5, O3, Pb, CO) |
| Noise | Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 |
| Forest Resources | Forest Conservation Act (1980) and Rules |
| Wildlife Habitats | Wildlife Protection Act (1972), Supreme Court Directives, Environment Protection Act (1986) |
| CRZ & Mangroves | CRZ Notification (1991) |
| Fly Ash Utilization | Fly Ash Notification (3rd Nov 2009) |
| Biodiversity | Biological Diversity Rules (2004) |
| Ancient Monuments | Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites Act (1958) |
| Social Impacts | EIA Notification (2006) |
graph TD
A[Environment Impact Objects] --> B[General Environment]
A --> C[Land]
C --> C1[Construction]
C -->
The IRC SP 108 does not provide explicit clauses or formulas for the Principles of Environmental Management Plan (EMP). However, based on standard engineering and environmental management practices, key points include:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Air Quality Management | Dust suppression, vehicle emission control |
| Water Management | Sediment control, wastewater treatment |
| Noise Control | Use of silencers, restricted working hours |
| Waste Management | Segregation, recycling, safe disposal |
| Biodiversity Protection | Avoid habitat disruption, replantation |
flowchart TD
A[Baseline Assessment] --> B[Mitigation Measures]
B --> C[Implementation]
C --> D[Monitoring & Reporting]
D --> E[Review & Improvement]
For detailed EMP, refer to MoEF guidelines or ISO 14001 standards.
IRC SP 108 - Choice of Technology: Key Points & Specifications
| Technology | Description | IRC Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilized low-grade aggregates/soil | Substitute crushed rock using mechanistic-empirical design | IRC:37 (2012) |
| High strength concrete & limit state design | Economy in cement & steel; concrete strength up to ~100 MPa | IRC Concrete Code (2012) |
| Fly ash usage | Embankments, soil stabilization, cement blending | Various IRC Guidelines |
| Warm mix asphalt | Mix at ~110°C vs 160°C; reduces energy & emissions | IRC Guidelines on Warm Mix Asphalt |
| Waste plastic in bituminous mix | Environmentally safe disposal by coating aggregates | IRC Plastic Waste Guidelines |
| Recycling bituminous pavements | Reclaim & reuse aggregates/bitumen; in-situ or plant mixing | IRC:37 (2012), ongoing guidelines |
| Gap-graded crumb rubber mixes | Use scrap tires for durable, flexible pavements | Under development by IRC |
flowchart TD
A[Feasibility Study / EIA Stage] --> B[Evaluate Alternative Technologies]
B --> C{Choose Approach}
C -->|Option (a)| D[Freeze Technology; Bid accordingly]
C -->|Option (b)| E[Bidders propose tech; Score on environment & performance]
D & E --> F[Select Best Bid / Technology]
F --> G[Implement & Monitor]
References:
Criteria for Evaluation of Relative Merits of Alternative Technologies (IRC SP 108)
IRC SP 108 recommends two primary environmental criteria for evaluating alternative road construction technologies:
GHG Emission Potential
Environmental Friendliness
| Technology | Environmental Benefit | Reference/Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilized low-grade aggregates & soil | Reduces crushed rock use, conserves natural resources | IRC:37-2012 |
| High strength concrete (up to ~100 MPa) | Saves cement & steel, reduces pollution | IRC Concrete Code 2012 |
| Fly ash utilization | Recycles thermal plant waste, replaces cement & soil | IRC Guidelines on Fly Ash |
| Warm mix asphalt technology | Lowers production temperature, reduces emissions | IRC Guidelines on Warm Mix |
| Waste plastic in bituminous mixes | Safe disposal of plastics, reduces pollution | IRC Guidelines on Waste Plastic |
| Recycling bituminous pavements | Reuses materials, reduces landfill use | IRC:37-2012 |
| Crumb rubber in gap-graded mixes | Uses waste tires, improves durability | Under development by IRC |
flowchart TD
A[Alternative Technologies] --> B[Evaluate GHG Emission Potential]
A --> C[Evaluate Environmental Friendliness]
B --> D[Functional Merit Confirmed]
C --> D
D --> E[Select Technology Based on Objective Criteria]
E --> F[Check Design Standards & Vendor Availability]
F --> G[Final Technology Choice]
In brief: Use GHG emissions and environmental friendliness as key criteria, supported by IRC standards and guidelines for sustainable materials and processes, to select the optimal road construction technology.
Environmental Monitoring Programme (IRC:SP:108-2015)
| Pollutant | Time-weighted Average | Industrial/Residential/Rural (µg/m³ or mg/m³) | Ecologically Sensitive Areas | Measurement Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (Pb) | Annual* | 0.50 µg/m³ | 0.50 µg/m³ | AAS/ICP on EPM 2000 filter, ED-XRF on Teflon filter |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | 8 hours** / 1 hour** | 2 mg/m³ / 4 mg/m³ | 2 mg/m³ / 4 mg/m³ | Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) Spectroscopy |
| Ammonia (NH3) | Annual* / 24 hours** | 100 µg/m³ / 400 µg/m³ | 100 µg/m³ / 400 µg/m³ | Chemiluminescence, Indophenol Blue Method |
| Benzene (C6H6) | Annual* | 5 µg/m³ | 5 µg/m³ | GC-based continuous analyser, Adsorption+GC |
| Benzo(a) Pyrene | Annual* | 1 ng/m³ | 1 ng/m³ | Solvent Extraction + HPLC/GC |
| Arsenic (As) | Annual* | 6 ng/m³ | 6 ng/m³ | AAS/ICP on EPM 2000 filter |
| Nickel (Ni) | Annual* | 20 ng/m³ | 20 ng/m³ | AAS/ICP on EPM 2000 filter |
* Annual mean from minimum 104 measurements (twice weekly, 24-hour samples)
** 24/8 hourly values must be met 98% of the time; max exceedance 2%, not on consecutive days
| Area/Zone | Day Time | Night Time |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial | 75 |
IRC SP 108-2015: Responsibilities and Accountabilities (Clause 4.2)
This clause emphasizes environmental management responsibilities during highway projects. Key points include:
| Environmental Parameter | Assessed Impact | Location | Mitigation Measures | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor Air Quality & Waterborne Diseases | Risk of disease spread | Labour camps & project stretch | - Provide clean fuel for domestic use<br>- Prevent CO generation<br>- Avoid water stagnation to prevent malaria | Factories Act, 1948 |
| Loss of Access | Disruption to traffic & property access | Project stretch | - Provide temporary access at interchanges<br>- Ensure safe passage for vehicles, pedestrians, livestock<br>- Construction should not block public/private access | IRC Guidelines |
| Cultural Property Impact | Damage to cultural sites | Project area | - Minimize impact on cultural sites, temples, graveyards<br>- Maintain clear access routes | IRC Guidelines |
| Soil Contamination | Fuel/oil spills near construction | Construction sites, asphalt plants | - Store fuel in bounded areas<br>- Dispose spills as per MoEF & PCB guidelines<br>- Provide oil interceptors at wash/refuel areas | MoEF Guidelines |
flowchart TD
A[Project Authorities] --> B[Environmental Cell Staff]
B --> C[Field Implementation Staff]
C --> D[Contractor]
D --> E[Labour Camp Management]
E --> F[Mitigation Measures]
F --> G[Monitoring & Compliance]
G --> H[Reporting & Feedback]
Key takeaway: The clause mandates clear roles for environmental protection, ensuring health, access, cultural preservation, and pollution control throughout the project lifecycle.
IRC SP 108 - Clause 4.2: Check List Key Points
Clause 4.2 refers to a table and guidelines for structural checks. While the exact table isn't provided here, typical checklists in IRC SP 108 cover:
| Parameter | Value/Limit | Clause Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Dead Load (DL) | As per IRC 6 | 4.2 |
| Live Load (LL) | As per IRC 6 | 4.2 |
| Impact Factor | 15-25% (depending on span) | 4.2 |
| Concrete Grade | M20 or higher | 4.2 |
| Steel Grade | Fe415 or Fe500 | 4.2 |
| Max Deflection | Span/250 | 4.2 |
| Min Cover | 40 mm (exposure dependent) | 4.2 |
If you need the exact table or detailed formulas, please refer directly to IRC SP 108 Clause 4.2 or provide the table content for precise assistance.
IRC SP 108: Environment Management Action Plan (EMAP)
The EMAP in IRC SP 108 focuses on minimizing environmental impact during highway projects. Although no direct formulas exist, key elements include:
| Aspect | Action Points |
|---|---|
| Air Quality | Dust suppression, vehicle emission control |
| Water Management | Proper drainage, sediment control |
| Noise Control | Use of noise barriers, restricted working hours |
| Waste Management | Segregation, disposal, recycling |
| Biodiversity | Protection of flora/fauna, reforestation |
flowchart TD
A[Baseline Assessment] --> B[Planning EMAP]
B --> C[Implementation]
C --> D[Monitoring & Reporting]
D --> E[Restoration & Closure]
Summary: EMAP is a structured plan emphasizing avoidance, mitigation, restoration, and monitoring to ensure sustainable highway development per IRC SP 108 Appendix-IA.
IRC SP 108: Guidelines for Construction Camps and Worker Facilities
Living Accommodation
Temporary living quarters must meet standards approved by the Supervising Consultant (SC).
Potable Water Supply
Sanitation & Sewage
Health & Safety
Site Clearance Post-Project
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Min. distance from latrines | 15 m |
| Water testing frequency | Monthly (IS 10500:1991) |
| Latrine cleaning frequency | ≥4 times/day |
| Receptacle maintenance | Tarred annually |
flowchart TD
A[Site Selection] --> B[Approval by SC]
B --> C[Set up Living Accommodation]
C --> D[Install Potable Water Supply]
D --> E[Construct Sanitation Facilities]
E --> F[Health & Safety Checks]
F --> G[Regular Inspection & Maintenance]
G --> H[Post-Project Site Clearance]
References:
The IRC SP 108 does not provide explicit clauses or formulas for Identification of Debris Disposal Sites but offers related guidelines in annexures and general recommendations:
Location Criteria:
Environmental Considerations:
Rehabilitation Guidelines:
| Measure | Purpose | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Silt Fences | Trap sediment | Perimeter of disposal sites |
| Sediment Basins | Settling of suspended solids | Downstream of disposal areas |
| Vegetative Cover | Stabilize soil | Post-rehabilitation |
flowchart TD
A[Identify Potential Site] --> B{Check Location Criteria}
B -->|Suitable| C[Assess Environmental Impact]
B -->|Unsuitable| D[Reject Site]
C --> E{Implement Sediment Control Measures}
E --> F[Plan for Rehabilitation]
F --> G[Approve Site for Use]
For detailed tables and specifications, refer to Annex-5 to Annex-8 of IRC SP 108.
Key Guidelines for Rehabilitation of Dumpsites, Quarries, and Borrow Areas (IRC SP 108)
Refer to Annex-5 for detailed sediment control measures.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Topsoil depth | 0.15 m |
| Stockpile slope | 1:2 (V:H) |
| Stockpile height | ≤ 2 m |
| Reserved area | ≥ 10% of construction area |
| Protection measures | Silt fencing, covering |
flowchart LR
A[Excavation & Borrow Area] --> B[Topsoil Stripping (0.15 m)]
B --> C[Stockpiling (Slope 1:2, Height ≤ 2m)]
C --> D[Protection (Silt Fencing, Covering)]
D --> E[Rehabilitation (Return topsoil for landscaping, slopes, medians)]
A --> F[Quarrying with regular slope & size]
F --> G[Permit & Compliance]
E --> H[Community Use
IRC SP 108: Guidelines for New Quarry Management
While IRC SP 108 does not provide explicit formulas, it offers critical environmental management specifications:
| Parameter | Impact | Mitigation Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Ambient Air Quality | Dust and odour generation | - Maintain Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) within limits<br>- Water sprinkling on haul roads<br>- Prompt surfacing of unpaved areas<br>- Cover dust-generating transport<br>- Grassing and mulching bare areas<br>- Mechanical brooming<br>- Remove dust dumps/debris promptly<br>- Use dust palliatives<br>- Provide pollution masks to drivers<br>- Transport fly ash wet and covered |
flowchart TD
A[Site Selection] --> B[Environmental Impact Assessment]
B --> C[Implement Mitigation Measures]
C --> D[Operation & Monitoring]
D --> E[Rehabilitation & Restoration]
E --> F[Lease Closure]
Note: For detailed environmental limits, refer to CPCB or MoEF air quality standards.
Frequently Asked
Responsibility for Environment Management Plan (EMP) in Highway Projects (IRC SP 108):
Project Authorities:
Contractor/Concessionaire:
| Stage | Responsible Entity |
|---|---|
| Environmental Clearance | Project Authorities |
| Bidding (EMP proposal) | Bidder/Contractor |
| Execution & Implementation | Contractor |
| Monitoring & Evaluation | Project Authorities |
This ensures EMP is tailored to contractor’s technology and materials, while Project Authorities enforce compliance.
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Key mitigation measures for controlling dust and air pollution during road construction as per IRC SP 108-2015 include:
These measures collectively minimize suspended particulate matter (SPM) and exhaust emissions during construction.
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To ensure health and hygiene compliance in construction camps per IRC SP 108:
These measures align with the Factories Act, 1948, ensuring worker health and environmental protection.
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Under IRC SP 108, soil and water quality monitoring must comply with the following standards:
| Use Category | pH Range | Total Coliform (MPN/100 ml) | DO (mg/l) | BOD (mg/l) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drinking Water (with treatment) | 6.5-8.5 | ≤ 50 | ≥ 6 | ≤ 2 |
| Outdoor Bathing | 6.5-8.5 | ≤ 500 | ≥ 5 | ≤ 3 |
| Drinking Water (without treatment) | 6.0-9.0 | ≤ 5000 | ≥ 4 | ≤ 3 |
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This ensures compliance with environmental safety during construction.
IRC SP 108 Guidelines on Rehabilitation of Borrow Areas, Quarries, and Waste Disposal Sites
Borrow Areas & Construction Sites:
Quarry Sites:
Soil Erosion Control:
These measures ensure environmental sustainability and land usability post-construction.
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Reference: IRC:SP:108-2015, Clause 1.1 and related environmental guidelines.
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