1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

1.1. General

Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) has planned
to augment the water supply to Chennai city by setting up a 100 MLD Seawater
Desalination Plant in Kattupalli village, near at Minjur, north Chennai. The scheme
has been proposed on Design, Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (DBOOT) basis
under twenty five years license. The project location identified for development is
shown in Fig. 1. The satellite imagery depicting the project region is shown in Fig.
2. The project has been awarded to Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) named as
Chennai Water Desalination Limited (CWDL) constituted of IVRCL
Infrastructures & Projects Ltd., Chennai and BEFESA Construccion y Tecnologia
Ambiental, S.A., Spain.

The project activities concerned with the installation of the desalination plant
comprise of: i) site preparation, ii) drawing sea water of 237 MLD (10000
m3/hour) through an intake system comprising of intake head and submarine
pipeline (or) from the existing NCTPS intake collection sump located inland
(which would receive sea water from Ennore Port basin), iii) pump house, iv) pre-
treatment including flocculation-coagulation, gravity settling, two steps filtration,
ultra-filtration and chemical dosing, v) desalting of sea water using reverse
osmosis, vi) discharge of brine of 137 MLD (5700 m3/hour) at sea using
submarine pipeline and diffuser ports outfall system, and vi) related electrical and
mechanical installations.

1.2. Process description

The general layout of the plant facilities is shown in Fig. 3. The options are
envisaged for drawing seawater viz., (i) The sea water will be drawn by gravity
flow from the sea through a sea water intake head and pipeline laid on the sea bed
(or) (ii) sharing with NCTPS seawater intake which is drawn from Ennore Port
basins. A capture tower will be installed at the shore end in order to avoid the entry
of sand and floating debris. The water will be pre-filtered through rotating filters
and chlorinated by applying a dose of sodium hypochlorite in the underwater
intake channel and in the pump aspiration chamber. In order to eliminate
suspended matter and colloids present in the sea water, a dose of ferric chloride
(coagulant) will be applied, enabling the formation of flakes. The suspended solids
will be eliminated in gravity settlers. The seawater will then be filtered in two
stages i.e., through the sand filters and anthracite filters. Sulphuric acid addition is
made to reduce the pH of sea water and prevent precipitation of carbonates and
bicarbonates, as well as to generate sufficient CO2 for post-treatment with
dolomite. Sodium bisulfite dosing is added in order to eliminate residual chlorine
from the dose of sodium hypochlorite. In order to prevent the precipitation of ferric
hydroxide, calcium fluoride, calcium sulphate and strontium sulphate salts, an
antiscalant will be metered to prevent the formation of crystalline networks. Due to
the characteristics of raw water, and in order to prevent fouling in the reverse
osmosis membrane, an ultrafiltration unit will be installed. It goes through then
energy recovery equipment consists of high-pressure pumps, a unit for recovering
energy from the brine with hyperbaric chambers, and recirculation or booster
pumps to increase the pressure of the rest of the water transferred in the direction
of the reverse osmosis membranes. The water discharged from the reverse osmosis
modules is used to feed the hyperbaric/compression chambers, thus achieving
maximum energy economy due to the performance of these groups. The pH levels
will be adjusted between 6.5 and 8.5 by means of treatment with dolomite. The
plant will also be equipped with fire prevention system, communications system
and laboratory.

1.3. Project region

The Desalination plant is proposed to be set up about 4 km north of Ennore Port,

which is 22 km north of Chennai. The project site lies in Kattuppalli village,
Minjur, between the Buckingham canal and the Bay of Bengal. The Land Fall
Point (LFP) of the water intake pipeline will be located approximately at latitude
13o 19’01” N and longitude 80o 20’25” E (WGS 84). The Pulicat Lake, second
largest brackish water lake in India, lies north of the project area, with its mouth
located about 15 km north of this region. The region inland of the project area is a
plain and barren land with thorny bushes and sparse wild vegetation. On the
eastern side of the area, we have a long and nearly straight coastline that is exposed
to an open sea, the Bay of Bengal. This coastal region comprises of fairly wide
beaches with well-defined foreshore, elevated backshore and with small dunes at
some places. The morphology of this region is influenced by 3 climatic conditions,
viz., southwest monsoon (June – September), northeast monsoon (Mid October to
Mid March) and fair weather period from April to May. Unlike the northern part of
the east coast of India, this part of the coast is influenced more by the northeast
monsoon weather conditions than those during the other two seasons. The
nearshore remains relatively steeper due to the action of high waves during
monsoon seasons. The seabed in nearshore primarily comprises of sand without
any complex bathymetric features. Sand banks are observed at offshore which
perhaps have been formed over the geological period from sediments transported
through the Ennore creek and the Pulicat Lake. The newly constructed Ennore Port
breakwaters also influence the littoral drift in this region in recent years.

1.4. Proposed marine facilities

The development of marine facilities consists of a sea water intake system with
chlorination pipe, and a brine reject outfall system with a submarine pipeline and
outfall diffuser. The lay out of various marine facilities are shown in Figs. 3, 4 and
5.

Seawater intake: The intake is designed to draw the seawater having the ambient
salinity of around 35 PSU, at the rate of 237 MLD (10000 m3/hour) through an
intake system having two options: Option 1- drawing through a gravity flow
system from an intake head located offshore with chlorination pipe and HDPE
submarine pipelines, 3 nos. X 1400 mm dia. (or) 2 nos. X 1600 mm dia. with a
pump house at shore, and Option 2- sharing seawater from the existing NCTPS
intake collection sump located inland (which would receive sea water from Ennore
Port basin) and transport to the project site through on land buried pipeline.

Brine reject outfall: The brine reject will be of the order of 137 MLD (5700
m3/hour) with a salinity of 70 PSU released into the sea using HDPE submarine
pipeline of 1 no X 1400 mm dia. and diffuser ports outfall system which will be
designed to have mixing in order to attain ambient salinity within a short distance.

Seawater Sump: Sea water collection sump and pump house will be installed at
shore.

1.5. Ecology

The fishery potential of the region off the project area is relatively good. The
nearshore supports certain type of demersal fishery with moderate bottom animal
community.

1.6. Economy

In general no inhabitation is found in the project region. Fishing is one the main
occupations of the people living at far away surrounding villages. Scanty
agricultural and limited aquaculture activities in certain parts of the coastal belt
also take place away from the project region. Saltpans are observed far from the
project site on the southwestern side. The increased industrial and transport
activities associated with the recently developed Ennore Port are seen about 10 km
away on the southern side of the project region.

2. SCREENING

The acute drinking water supply of the rapidly developing Metropolitan Chennai
City has the only viable option of augmenting with desalination plant. The project
region is a dry and barren land without any inhabitation. Further, the region
surrounding the project area remains economically under developed. The proposed
desalination plant if commissioned would invite defined improvement in the
community of the region and in the land use. The proposed project related
activities are mainly concerned with the marine environment and thus a marine
EIA study will be essential in order to identify the impacts and mitigation measures
and plan an appropriate Environmental Management Plan.

3. SCOPING

The proposed activity in the identified coastal region will have a direct relevance
on the key issues like fishing - marine pollution - land use - industrialization -
human welfare. The oceanographic investigations and the marine EIA must focus
on deciphering these issues. The latest tools should be used to study the
environment and thus the associated impacts with relevant mitigation measures.

4. ALTERNATIVES

i) Drinking water supply can be explored from different sources, but no such
sources are available to meet the acute shortage of drinking water supply of the
Chennai city.

ii) Ground water source is also not viable to meet such large requirement. The
meager quantity of existing potential of ground water also remains very brackish.
Continuous drawl of ground water will seriously hamper the environment by large
scale sea water intrusion.

Types of mitigation:

Suitable mitigation has to be worked out with least anticipated impact. In the
present case, there is no alternative other than installing the desalination plant with
seawater intake and brine reject outfall system at the project region. The main
reasons are:
i) the Chennai metropolitan city has the long history of acute shortage of water
supply in India,

ii) there is no possibility of obtaining fresh water from alternate sources like nearby
rivers etc. , and

iii) there is only limited ground water potential, which had already turned brackish
due to sea water intrusion.

Hence, the present project at the proposed location is found more suitable for the
development of desalination plant and the sea water intake / outfall facilities.

5. ZERO ALTERNATIVES

If the project is not installed, the effect will be more detrimental to: i) drinking
water supply, ii) economical growth of the Chennai Metropolitan city and in turn
the Tamilnadu state, iii) human welfare and iv) regional development.

On the other hand, the cessation of such developmental project, may, to a very
limited extent help in maintaining the marine environment.

6. BASELINE DATA

The marine environment off the project region as shown in Fig. 1, has been studied
for the evaluation of baseline information as per the norms stipulated by the
Ministry of Environment and Forests, Govt. of India. The baseline data were
collected along three transects separated each by 2.5 km apart with three sampling
stations (1 km, 2 km, and 3 km off the coast into the sea) along each transect. The
study area covers around 30 km2. The details of the sampling locations are
presented in Table 1 and also shown in Fig. 6. The details of the studies carried out
in the coastal region on physical, chemical and biological aspects are explained
below. The field studies were conducted in August 2005 representing the
southwest monsoon period of the project region.

Physical parameters
Winds,
Storm,
Waves,
Tides,
Currents,
Salinity and Temperature,
Littoral Drift,
Dispersion,
Computer modelling on mixing,
Bathymetry and
Seabed characteristics.

Water quality parameters

Temperature,
pH,
Salinity,
Dissolved Oxygen,
Bio-Chemical Oxygen Demand,
Turbidity,
Ammonia-N,
Nitrite-N,
Nitrate-N,
Inorganic phosphate,
Total suspended solids,
Phenolic Compounds,
Petroleum Hydrocarbons,
Cadmium,
Lead and
Mercury.

Sediment quality parameters

Sediment structure,
Total Nitrogen,
Total Phosphorous,
Total organic carbon,
Cadmium,
Lead and
Mercury.

Biological parameters

Primary Productivity,
Phytoplankton, its biomass and diversity,
Zooplankton, its biomass and diversity,
Macro benthos, its biomass and diversity,
Microbial population in water and sediments,
Biological status of floral and faunal communities and
Fisheries.

Environmental study

Assessment of fishery resources in the area,

Assessment of coastal and marine ecosystem,
Assessment of impact on the intake of sea water through pipeline,
Assessment on the impact of the discharge of brine into the sea,
Recommendation on mitigation measures and
Preparation of an environment management plan.

6.1. Plan of work

The data collection was carried in August 2005 covering the southwest monsoon
season in order to prepare the Rapid Marine EIA report.

6.2. Method of collection / analysis

6.2.1. Physical

Wind

To understand the wind pattern prevailing in the project region, the data on daily
variation of wind speed and direction at 0830 hours and 1730 hours available for
Chennai region were compiled from the Bay of Bengal Pilot (1978).

Storm

The information on cyclonic storm is essential for the environmental assessment.

Occasional occurrence of severe cyclonic storm is found to occur in this region.
Based on the IMD data on the Tracks of Storms and Depressions in the Bay of
Bengal and the Arabian Sea, (1979), and the Addendum (1996) published by IMD,
the details on the storms occurred between 1877 and 1990 were compiled.

Waves

The ship reported visual observations documented in Indian Daily Weather

Reports (IDWR) published by the India Meteorological Department, Pune,
compiled over the period from 1968 to 1986 were used for the base line data. The
data reported for the region between the latitude 10°N - 15°N, and longitude 80°E -
85°E were considered for the present project (Chandramohan, et.al., 1990).

Tides

Tides were measured by installing the tide gauge at Chennai Fishing Harbour. The
variation of tides was recorded at 15 minute interval for a period of 15 days from
11.9.2005 to 26.9.2005 to cover a lunar tidal cycle. The measured tides were
compared with the predicted tides reported for Chennai in Indian Tide Table,
Surveyor General of India.

Aanderaa WTR9 is a Self Recording Tide Gauge, manufactured by Aanderaa

Instruments, Norway was used for the measurement of tides. It has a pressure
sensor which is based on a high precision quartz crystal oscillator. The pressure is
measured every 0.5 seconds and 1024 samples are taken (512 seconds) and stored
in internal RAM. It has a range of 0-690 kPa with an accuracy of 210 Pa and a
resolution of 7 Pa.

Currents

Variation of current speed and direction were continuously measured for a period
of 14 days at 2 locations, i.e. 7 days at each location. The details of measurement
locations, viz., Stns. C1 and C2 are shown in Fig. 6 and Table 1. The current speed
and direction were recorded at 20 minute interval close to water surface.

Aanderaa RCM 7 Self-Recording Current Meters manufactured by Aanderaa

Instruments, Norway were used for current measurements. They are the self-
recording type and used in the sea to obtain the vector averaged current speed and
direction. The measurable speed range is 2 to 295 cm/s with an accuracy of + 1
cm/s. The current direction is measured with a resolution of 0.35o and accuracy of
+ 5o. The Clock is of Quartz crystal having an accuracy of better than + 2 s/day.

Littoral Drift

Based on the ship reported wave data, the longshore sediment transport rate at the
study region was estimated using the following equation (Shore Protection Manual,
CERC, US Army, 1975).

Where, Q = longshore sediment transport rate in m3/year,

? = mass density of the sea water in kg/m3,
g = acceleration due to gravity,
Ho = deepwater wave height in m,
T = wave period in seconds,
kr = refraction coefficient, and
?b = wave breaking angle.

Salinity and Temperature

A self-recording conductivity-temperature-depth instrument manufactured by

Aanderaa Instruments, Norway was installed at stns. C1 and C2 as indicated in Fig.
6. The measurements were made 2 m below the sea surface. The time series
profiles on salinity/temperature variation were collected at 20 minute interval.

Dispersion

Fluorescent tracer Rhodamine-B was used to conduct the dispersion experiment at

nearshore. The concentrated dye solution was prepared and released at 700 m
distance from the shoreline along the proposed corridor of the outfall (Fig. 6). The
experiment was conducted during a relatively calm sea condition, which prevailed
on 8.9.2005. The dye patch was allowed to spread without any external disturbance
and the extent of spread was measured using DGPS. The dye samples were
collected along and across the spread of the dye patch. The collected samples were
analyzed using Spectrophotometer. Based on the analysis of the dye samples and
the spread of the dye patch, the dispersion characteristics of the coastal region were
estimated.

Bathymetry

The nearshore region proposed for laying intake and outfall pipelines as shown in
Fig. 7. was surveyed in August 2005.

Echosounder: ODOM HYDROTRAC Survey Echosounder manufactured by

ODOM Hydrographic Systems, USA was used for carrying out the bathymetry.
The unit is a single frequency echosounder with a standard transducer having the
frequency of 200 kHz. It measures the depth ranging between 0 and 200 m with the
accuracy of 0.01 m and a resolution of 0.01 m. The system works on 9 - 18 VDC
or on 220 VAC.

The horizontal positioning was carried out using the GBR21 and GPS12XL DGPS
Beacon Receiver manufactured by Garmin Limited., USA. It is a 12 channel GPS
receiver with an integrated Beacon receiver. The system provides accuracy close to
1 m. It has two programmable RS422 serial ports with NMEA output. The system
can be powered with 12/24 VDC. It updates at 5 Hz with a differential speed of 0.2
km/hr. The Beacon receiver works in the frequency range of 283.5 - 325 kHz with
a channel spacing of 500 Hz. For the present surveys, the DGPS Beacon
Transmitter operated at Pondicherry at 315 kHz was interfaced.
Shallow seismic survey

The nearshore upto 3 km into the sea, i.e. the proposed corridor for laying the
intake and outfall pipelines as shown in Fig. 7 was surveyed to understand the
geological structure beneath the seabed.

CAP 6600 Chirp II Acoustic Sub-Bottom Profiler manufactured by BENTHOS,

INC., USA was used for carrying out the shallow seismic survey. It is a fully
integrated dual channel, single frequency sonar system. The system uses advanced
Chirp technology to produce high resolution sub-bottom profiles of both the
shallow layers (layer 1 and layer 2).

Side scan sonar survey

The nearshore upto 3 km into the sea, i.e. the proposed corridor for laying the
intake and outfall pipelines as shown in Fig. 7. was surveyed to understand the
geology of the top of seafloor.

The Side Scan Sonar model SS-340 manufactured by Odom Hydrographic System
Inc., USA was used. It operates on the central frequency of 340 kHz. It employs
the latest in Microelectronic Technology to provide sonar image that one fully
corrected for slant range, and amplitude providing a plan view map of the seafloors
topographical features. It also maintains a high quality and high resolution image.
The acoustics, signal processing, and graphic recording are consistent.

6.2.2. Water quality

Water samples were collected at 9 stations along 3 transects covering

approximately 30 km2 of the coastal region (Fig. 6). The details of the sampling
locations are also presented in Table 1. Samples were collected at surface, mid
depth and bottom using Niskin water sampler. Sampling was carried out at 3
stations along transect 1 (W13, W14 and W15), 3 stations along transect 2 (W7,
W9 and W11) and 3 stations along transect 3 (W16, W17 and W18). While the
transect 2 was planned along the proposed pipeline corridor, transects 1 and 3 lie
2.5 km at north and south respectively.
Samples for Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was collected in DO bottles (125 ml
capacity) soon after the sampler was recovered. The bottles were rinsed with the
water sample. The end of the nozzle tube was inserted into the sample bottom and
filled till 100 ml and the water was allowed to overflow from the bottle to ensure
that no bubble is trapped is carried out in the bottle. To the brimful DO bottles 1 ml
of Winkler A (manganese chloride) and 1 ml Winkler B (alkaline KI) were added.
The stopper is then inserted and the bottle shaken vigorously for about 1 minute to
bring each molecule of dissolved oxygen in contact with manganese (II)
hydroxide. After fixation of oxygen, the precipitate was allowed to settle. The DO
bottles were kept in dark and transported to the laboratory for analysis.
Samples for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) was also collected in the similar
fashion as described for DO in 300ml glass BOD bottles. Winkler A and Winkler
B were added after 5 days of incubation at 20°C in a BOD incubator.

Water samples for salinity, total suspended solids, nutrients, trace metals and
phenolic compounds were stored in PVC bottles directly from the water sampler,
after rinsing the same with the water sample. The samples were then transported to
the laboratory in an ice box. Water samples for Petroleum hydrocarbons were
collected separately in 5 litre glass bottles. The sample for Phenol was collected in
a pre cleaned 1 litre plastic container.

Method of analysis

Temperature: Temperature was noted immediately after the water sampler was
retrieved using a graduated centigrade thermometer, which was graduated from 0
to 5°C with 0.1 °C accuracy up to 50°C.

pH: pH was measured immediately after collection of water samples using a

portable digital pH meter (Hanna Instruments, model RI 02895) having an
accuracy of ? 0.2 pH. The instrument was calibrated using standard pH buffer.

Salinity: Salinity values were determined by Mohr-Knudsen titration method,

wherein the chlorosity was first obtained by titration of sample with silver nitrate
solution. From chlorosity value, salinity was determined from the Knudsen
hydrographic table (Strickland and Parson, 1968).

Dissolved Oxygen (DO): Dissolved Oxygen content of the water samples were
analysed by Winkler’s method. The precipitate of manganese (II) hydroxide is
dissolved by acidification (50% HCl), liberating the manganese (III) ions, which
reacts with iodide ions previously added to water sample together with potassium
hydroxide. The iodine ions liberated by oxidation of iodine ions was titrated
against sodium thiosulphate. The end point of the titration (blue? colourless) is
indicated by using starch as an indicator.

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD): BOD was determined by the same

procedure (Winkler method) as that for DO, after 5 days of incubation at 20°C in a
BOD incubator. The difference in the amount of oxygen on the 1st and 5th day
gave the measure of Biochemical Oxygen Demand.

Turbidity: Turbidity was measured by the Nephelometric method after calibrating

the Nephelometer using known dilutions of standard prepared from hydrazine
sulfate and hexamethylene tetramine in distilled water.

Ammonia-Nitrogen (NH3-N): This nutrient was estimated by following method

suggested by Grasshoff etal (1983). Ammonia from the seawater sample reacts in
moderately alkaline solution with hypochlorite to monochloramine, which in the
presence of phenol, trisodium citrate buffer and excess hypochlorite and gives
indophenol blue. The reaction temperature of 37 - 40°C was used for the
estimation of ammonia-nitrogen. The concentration was measured
spectrophotometrically at 630 nm to obtain NH3-N.
Nitrite-Nitrogen (NO2-N): The nitrite was estimated by following method of
Parsons et al (1984). The nitrite from known volume of sea water (25 ml) was
allowed to react with sulfanilamide in an acid solution. The resulting diazo
compound was allowed to react with N-(1-naphthyl)-ethylenediamine to form a
coloured azo dye which was spectrophotometrically measured at 543 NM.

Nitrate-Nitrogen (NO3-N): It was determined using the method given by Parson et

al (1984). Nitrate in the sea water was quantitatively reduced to nitrite by running
the sample through a column containing cadmium filings coated with metallic
copper. The nitrite produced is diazotised with sulfanilamide and coupled with N-
(1-naphthyl)-ethylenediamine to form a pink coloured azo dye, which was
measured spectrophotometrically at 543 NM. Nitrate values were corrected for
nitrite in the sample.

Inorganic Phosphate (PO4-P): It was determined by following the procedure of

Parsons et. al., (1984). In this method the seawater sample was allowed to react
with a composite reagent containing molybdic acid, ascorbic acid and trivalent
antimony. The resulting phosphomolybdate complex is reduced to give a blue
colour solution, which was measured using in spectrophotometer at 880 nm.
Total Suspended Solids (TSS): The TSS of seawater samples was determined by
filtering a known volume (500 ml) of seawater sample through pre-weighed 4.5 cm
Whatman GF/C glass microfibre filter paper. Filtration was carried out under
controlled vacuum source. The filter papers were then dried (40°C) till a constant
weight was obtained. The difference between the final and initial weight of the
filter paper resulted in the estimation of TSS from the water samples.

Phenols: Phenols in seawater (500 ml) was converted to yellow coloured antipyrine
complex by adding 4 –amino antipyrine. The complex was extracted in chloroform
(25 ml) and the absorption was measured at 460 nm using phenols as a standard.

Petroleum Hydrocarbons (PHC): Water sample (5 litre) was extracted with HPLC
grade n-hexane. The organic layer was separated and dried over anhydrous sodium
sulfate. The fluorescence of the extract was measured using Fluorometer with
calibration using Saudi Arabian Crude Oil. Cadmium and Lead: Known volume of
sample was acidified to pH 2.0 using HCL. APDC (Ammonium Pyrrolidine
Dithiocarbamate) was added and sample shaken well for complete mixing. Known
volume of MIBK (Methyl Isobutyl Ketone) was added to the sample followed by
thorough mixing. Metals’ forming a yellow ring over the sample was separated and
this extract was kept for further analysis of trace metals (Cd and Pb) using AAS
(Model- HITACHI-Z-7000, Polarized Zeeman Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometer, Graphite Furnace, Tube type covet). Samples were analysed
with standards NOAA and BCSS-1 and chemical standards Lead Nitrate and Zinc
chloride for different trace metals.

Mercury: Seawater samples for the determination of mercury was transferred from
Niskin sampler to acid washed bottles and acidified to a pH below 2 by adding 0.1
N hydrochloric acid which was previously tested for traces of mercury. Pre-
concentration of mercury in seawater was achieved by complexing with dithiozone
at pH below 2. The complex was extracted in carbon tetrachloride and back
extracted in 5 M hydrochloric acid. The acid extract was shaken with sodium
nitrite to decompose the dithizone and revert mercury to the aqueous phase. Excess
of nitrite was reduced to hydroxylamine hydrochloride. Inorganic mercury
compounds in the final solution was reduced to the elemental mercury with
stannous chloride and measured by cold vapor Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.

6.2.3. Sediment characteristics

Method of collection
Seabed sediment samples were collected at all 9 water sampling locations (Fig. 6).
Seabed sediments were collected using Vanveen grab, whereas shore sediments
were collected using handheld shovel. After collection, the scooped sample was
transferred to polythene bags, labeled and stored under refrigerated conditions. On
reaching the laboratory the sediment samples were thawed, oven dried at 40?C and
ground to a fine powder.

Method of analysis

Size distribution: The sediment samples were dried and sieved. The fractions
retained in each mesh size were weighed.

Total nitrogen: Total nitrogen from the sediment sample was estimated by
extracting the sediment with an extracting reagent (CuSO4 and silver sulfate) and
shaking the experimental flask for 15 minutes. Later Ca(OH)2 and MgCl2 was
added and the contents filtered through Whatman filter paper. A known volume (5
ml) of the filtrate was used for total nitrate estimation similar to the process used
for water samples (reduction by passing through a cadmium column).

Total Phosphorus: Total Phosphorus of the sediments was estimated by initially

digesting the sediment samples in sulfuric acid for 30 minutes to oxidize
phosphorus to phosphate. After filtration, a known volume of the filtrate was
allowed to react with ammonium molybdate and reduced using ascorbic acid to
form a blue coloured complex which was measured at 880nm using a
spectrophotometer.

Total Organic Carbon: TOC was determined by Wet oxidation method. The
sample was added with potassium dichromate followed by Sulfuric acid and after
cooling by adding distilled water a drops of diphenylamine indicator and pellets of
sodium fluoride was added, and sample was titrated against Ferrous ammonium
sulfate.

Cadmium and Lead: Sediment sub-samples were collected and sealed in plastic
bags and frozen till the analyses were carried out at the shore laboratory. These
were thawed and dried in oven at 40°C. The dried sediment was then finely ground
and digested with hydrofluoric acid in a pre cleaned acid washed Teflon beaker.
During this process the silica volatized as silicon tetrafluoride. This was followed
by treatment with nitric and perchloric acid to destroy the organic matter. The
residue after the evaporation of acids was dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid.
The metals were determined on a graphite furnace Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometer, calibrated with suitable standards digested similarly and
measured at recommended wavelengths.

Mercury: Sediment samples were oven-dried at 40°C and crushed to fine powder.
About 0.5 gm aliquot of the sample was transferred into 300 ml BOD bottles (in
duplicate). 5 ml of Milli Q water and 5 ml Aqua Regia were added and mixed with
the sample. The samples were heated for 2 minutes in a water bath at 90°C. On
cooling 20 ml of Milli Q water and 15 ml of KMnO4 solutions were added to each.
After thorough mixing, the samples were again heated in the water bath for 30
minutes at 90°C. On cooling 6 ml of sodium chloride- Hydroxylamine
hydrochloride reagent was added to each bottle to reduce the excess permanganate
and the final volume was made up to 75 ml. Blanks and standards were also
digested similarly. Mercury compounds in the final solution were reduced to
elemental mercury with 5 ml of 20% stannous chloride and measured by cold
vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer at 253.7 nm.

6.2.4. Biological parameters

Primary Productivity: Primary Production was estimated at all 9 locations where

water samples were collected (Fig. 6). From the water sampler, the samples were
immediately transferred to 125 ml Dissolved Oxygen (DO) bottles (two light
bottles and one dark bottle). One light bottle containing sample was fixed with
Winkler A and Winkler B for analysis of initial oxygen content. The other light
bottle and dark bottle with sample were kept in a bucket containing same water
sample for 6 hours to allow photosynthesis and respiration. After 6 hours the
samples were fixed with Winkler A and Winkler B, and later the DO was analyzed
in the laboratory. The increase in dissolved oxygen of water as a result of
photosynthesis was measured in the light bottle, simultaneously the decrease in
oxygen content in the dark bottle was measured to estimate the respiration alone in
the same sample of water. From the DO values the amount of organic carbon
synthesized during photosynthesis was calculated.

Phytoplankton: Phytoplankton samples were collected at 5 locations viz., station

W14 along transect 1, station W7, W9 and W11 along transect 2 and station W17
along transect 3 (Fig. 6). Phytoplankton net (60 micron) was towed 0.5 m below
the water surface for 10 minutes and the collected samples were immediately
preserved in 5% formalin. The preserved phytoplankton samples were transferred
into sedimentation chamber for settlement. After settlement, 1 ml aliquot of sample
was taken for quantitative population analysis. Depending upon the biomass
concentration, sub samples were taken to study the whole species diversity.
Organisms were counted and identified upto genus level under a microscope using
standard identification key and Sedgwick rafter counting chamber.

Zooplankton: Zooplankton samples were collected at 5 locations viz., station W14

along transect 1, station W7, W9 and W11 along transect 2 and station W17 along
transect 3 (Fig. 6). Zooplankton net (300 micron) was towed 0.5 m below water
surface for 10 minutes and the collected samples were immediately preserved in
5% formalin. The preserved zooplankton samples were transferred into
sedimentation chamber for settlement. After settlement, 1 ml aliquot of sample was
taken for quantitative population analysis. Depending upon the biomass
concentration, sub samples were taken to study the whole species diversity.
Organisms were counted and identified upto genus level under a microscope using
standard identification key counting chamber. The biomass values of zooplankton
were calculated from the displacement volume of water.

Macro Benthos: Seabed sediment samples for macro benthos were collected using
Van Veen grab sampler at 9 locations where the water samples were collected (Fig.
6). The intertidal benthos samples were collected at three stations (B1, B2 and B3)
as shown in Fig. 6. The benthic organisms were separated by sieving through 500
micron mesh and preserved using formaldehyde with rose bengal. The samples
were sorted and identified upto groups/Genera level using stereo zoom microscope.
The wet weight was taken to calculate the biomass of benthic organisms.

Microbiology: The microbiological samples were collected at 9 locations where

water samples were collected (Fig. 6). Samples were collected in sterilized bottles
and preserved for analysis. Pour plate method was used to culture the
microorganisms. The agar media used for analysis were: Nutrient agar,
MacConkey agar, M.FC agar, Thiosulphate Citrate Bile Sucrose agar, Xylose
Lysine Deoxycholate agar, M. Enterococcus agar and Cetrimide agar. Plates were
incubated at 37oC except for total viable bacterial count, for which the plates were
incubated at room temperature (28oC). After 3 days, the organisms were counted
and identified based on their colour characteristics.

Fisheries: The information on fisheries and their potential were collected from
local fishing villages and from the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of Tamilnadu.

Coastal vegetation and Seaweeds: The shore plants over the sand dunes and
seaweeds were collected and Herbarium was prepared for further identification in
the laboratory.

6.3. Results
6.3.1. Physical

Wind

The month wise distribution of wind speed and direction are shown in Table 2. It is
observed that during April, May, June and December wind speeds were around 10
-11 knots and during the remaining months wind speeds were varying between 7
and 9 knots. During April to September, the morning wind mostly prevailed from
SW and W, and during November to February, it mostly prevailed from NW. The
wind patterns during morning hours and evening hours show the influence of land-
sea breeze system in this region. During the days of depressions and cyclones, the
wind speed commonly exceeds 50 kmph.

Storm

The tracks of cyclones which have crossed the coast near Chennai (within 150 km
on either side) during 1877 to 1990 are presented in Table 3. It indicates that
totally 58 storms had occurred within 300 km off the project region. The
occurrence of storms in this region are more frequent in November (23) and in
October (19). Among them about 37 number of storms had crossed the coast
within 300 km distance during 1877 to 1990.

Currents

The variation of current speed and direction measured at stn. C1 (1000 m into sea),
and stn. C2 (2000 m into sea) are shown in Figs. 8 and 9 respectively.

At stn. C1 (1000 m from shore), the current speed persisted between 0.02 and 0.30
m/s. The current direction remained unidirectional towards 350o consistently
during the measurement period. At stn. C2 (2000 m from shore), the current speed
persisted between 0.02 and 0.20 m/s. The current direction remained unidirectional
towards 350o consistently during the measurement period.

The measurement shows that in general, the currents are moderate and has the
major influence of wind followed by tides. The wind appears to have significant
impact on the direction of flow. The currents flow parallel to the coastline, with a
slight tendency towards the shore. Shoreward tendency is normally observed
during rough seas due to mass transport by waves and shoreward wind.

The earlier study shows that the tidal effects on currents are relatively of small
order compared to the contribution from the wind. By the onset of northeast
monsoon (i.e. from mid October to mid March) the currents set in towards south,
During the rest of the year, i.e. in southwest monsoon and fair weather period, the
coastal currents turn towards north consistently.

ides

The variation of tides measured from 11.9.2005 to 26.9.2005 is shown in Fig. 10.
The tides in this region is semi diurnal with an average spring tidal range of 1.0 m
and a neap tidal range of 0.4 m. The various tide levels with respect to Chart
Datum (CD) for Chennai region as presented in Surveyor General of India
publications are given below:

Mean High water Spring : 1.15 m

Mean High Water Neap : 0.84 m

Mean Sea Level : 0.65 m

Mean Low Water Neap : 0.43 m

Mean Low Water Spring : 0.14 m

Waves

The data compiled based on the ship observed deep-water waves over the region
between the latitude 10°N - 15°N, and longitude 80°E - 85°E is considered for the
present project. The occurrence of predominant wave characteristics is presented in
Table 4. It is observed that the significant wave heights varied between 0.5 and 1 m
during February to April, 1 and 3.0 m during May to September and, between 1
and 2 m during rest of the year. The zero crossing period of the waves varied
between 5 and 8 s. The project region is located on the region which is
significantly influenced during the northeast monsoon. The wave climate remains
rough from May to November. The occurrence of storms and depressions during
northeast monsoon often increase the wave activity in this region.

Tsunami

Though the occurrence of Tsunami is a rare phenomenon, it appears to occur

periodically over a span of 50 to 500 years. One such worst event was witnessed
on 26.12.2004, and during this tsunami, the water level rise (Tsunami run up)
along the project region was around 3.5 m. The coastal form in the project region is
well raised with sand dunes and hence the momentary increase in water level
during the Tsunami did not intrude much inland. Planting Casuarina trees along the
coastal front can considerably protect the region from the impact of Tsunami.

Salinity and temperature

The variation of salinity and temperature measured at stns. C1 and C2 are shown in
Figs. 11 and 12 respectively. The salinity value remained close to 34.5 ppt at both
the stations. The seawater temperature remained between 28.5o C and 30o C at
both the stations.

The available literature (Rao, 1995) on annual variation for the offshore region
indicates that the temperature varies between 27o C in December and 30o C in
May (Table 5). During southwest monsoon period (June-September), no wide
fluctuation in temperature was observed.

The available literature (Wyrtki, 1971) on annual variation of surface salinity for
this offshore region indicates that the salinity values ranged between 32.3 ppt and
34.5 ppt over different months of the year (Table 5). The vertical salinity gradient
is not relevant in shallow coastal waters off Minjur (Chennai) and also no
appreciable density stratification can be expected in this region.

Littoral Drift

The monthly volume of littoral drift at project region is shown in Table 6. The
sediment transport rates were high (>1.98 x 105 m3/month) in May and December.
It was lowest (< 0.75 x 105 m3/month) in March. The littoral drift was towards
north from April to October and towards south during the remaining months of the
year. The annual northerly transport is 0.98 x 106 m3/year and the annual southern
transport is 0.51 x 106 m3/year.

Dispersion

The spread of dye patch is shown in Fig. 6. The concentrations of the dye
dispersion at various times are presented in Fig. 13. The dye patch was advecting
at a speed of 0.15 m/s till it totally mixed in the sea. The dye patch was moving
towards northeast during the day of experiment.

Based on the concentration of dye patch measured at every 30 minutes, the

longitudinal dispersion coefficient (Dx) was estimated as 5.5 m2/s and lateral
dispersion coefficients were estimated (Dy) as 0.9 m2/s during the study period.
The order of dispersion coefficient is expected to increase during afternoon hours
and monsoon periods due to the prevalence of strong wind, high waves and the
associated strong currents.

Bathymetry
The nearshore bathymetry off the study region covering 3 km along the coast and
3.5 km into the sea is shown in Fig. 14. The variation of water depth with distance
from the coast in given in Table 7. It shows that the nearshore remains steep till 9
m depth with 1:50 slope and thereafter the slope is relatively less (1:150) upto 12
m depth. Beyond 12 m depth, the seabed rises to 10 m and then falls steadily with
18 m depth occurring at 4300 m distance from the coast. The survey reflects the
existence of Ennore shoal at offshore beyond 12 m depth, i.e. at a distance of 2000
m from the coast.

Shallow seismics ( Characteristics beneath seafloor)

The isopach map off the study region, based on the shallow seismic survey
conducted 3 km along the coast and 3.5 km into the sea is shown in Fig. 15. The
contour levels indicate the depth of acoustic basement. The study confirms that
there is no presence of any hard strata till 22 m below seabed at pipeline corridor.
The nearshore remains with the accumulation of soft material.

Side Scan ( Characteristics of surface seafloor)

The geological characteristics of the seafloor based on the side scan survey
conducted 3 km along the coast and 3.5 km into the sea is shown in Fig. 16. This
shows that surface of the seabed is uniform without the presence of any
obstructions or rocks or sunken materials. It reflects primarily the composition of
sand and carpeted with clay at few places along the pipeline corridor.

Very detailed results on bathymetry, shallow seismic and side scan surveys are
presented separately in the report ‘Marine geophysical investigations for CWDL
desalination plant at Minjur’.
6.3.2. Water quality

The estimated water quality parameters on temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved

oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, turbidity, ammonia-nitrogen, nitrite-
nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphate-phosphorus and total suspended solids are
presented in Table 8 and 9. The results of cadmium, lead, mercury, phenols and
petroleum hydrocarbons are presented in Table 10.

The additional parameters on water quality at 12 stations along the middle transect
are presented separately in the report ‘Water quality analysis for CWDL
desalination plant at Minjur.

Temperature

Steep gradients of sea water temperature across the depths bear direct impact on
the productivity and animal colony of the region. The temperature varied between
29.0°C and 31.0°C among all 9 locations. There was no significant variation in
temperature with the distance from the shore. The variation of temperature at
surface, mid depth and bottom is insignificant which indicates the absence of
thermal stratification.

pH

Variations in pH due to chemical and other industrial discharges render a water

column unsuitable for the rearing of fish and other aquatic life. pH is a very
sensitive and most important parameter of an environmental study. Primary
production, respiration and mineralization are able to alter the redox and pH of
aqueous system due to the changes in oxygen and carbonate concentration.
Identifying pH for acidic or alkaline disturbances enables one to locate zones of
pollution and other quality conditions for the use of seawater.
During the present study, the pH of the seawater samples varied from 8.1 to 8.2 at
all 9 locations. The values show the normal trend of the seawater.

Salinity

The assessment of salinity variation and the consequent stratification is extremely

important, particularly for seawater intake for the desalination plant and brine
reject discharge in to the sea. The estimated salinity of the collected water samples
shows that it varied between 33.53 and 34.27 ppt at middle transect (stns. W7, W9
and W11), between 33.16 and 34.01 ppt at northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and
W15) and between 33.16 and 34.21 ppt at southern transect (stns. W16, W17 and
W18). The salinity of the study region shows a normal trend for the coastal waters.

Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

Of all the dissolved gases in water, oxygen is the most important one for the
survival of aquatic biota. The amount of oxygen dissolved in the water column at a
given time is the balance between consumption and replenishment. In an ideal
ecosystem, these two processes should be at equilibrium to keep the water column
saturated with DO. Generally, the coastal waters are always found to be saturated
and this is so in the present study area.

DO value varied from 4.67 to 5.19 ml/l along the middle transect (stns. W7, W9
and W11), from 4.15 to 5.71 ml/l along the northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and
W15) and from 4.28 to 5.50 ml/l along the southern transect (stns. W16, W17 and
W18).

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

Rate of aerobic utilization of Oxygen is a useful tool to evaluate the intensity of
deterioration in an aquatic medium. The Oxygen taken up for the break up of
organic matter leads to a reducing environment or in the event of release of excess
nutrients, it may cause eutrophication.

For the present study the BOD varied from 2.7 to 3.63 mg/l along the middle
transect (stns. W7, W9 and W11), 2.7 to 3.21 mg/l along the northern transect
(stns. W13, W14 and W15) and from 2.64 to 3.21 mg/l along the southern transect
(stns. W16, W17 and W18). Not much variation has been observed in the pH
values which shows that the water column is well mixed in the project area.

Turbidity

Turbidity is the another measure to understand the suspended particulate matter

which controls the photosynthesis in the water column. The measured turbidity
varied between 1.6 and 8.4 NTU along the middle transect (stns. W7, W9 and
W11), between 1.8 and 6.6 NTU along the northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and
W15) and between 2.0 and 5.1 NTU along the southern transect (stns. W16, W17
and W18). The turbidity the nearshore water are within normal ranges indicating
the existence of unturbid and clean water.

Nutrients

Nutrients determine the potential fertility of an ecosystem and hence it is important

to know their distribution and behavior in different geographical locations and
seasons. The fishery potential of an area is in turn, dependent on the availability of
primary nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Enrichment of these nutrients by
anthropogenic inputs in the coastal waters having limited ventilation may result in
water causing eutrophication.

The major inorganic species of nitrogen in water are ammonia, nitrite and nitrate of
which nitrite is very unstable and ammonia is biochemically oxidized to nitrate.
Hence, the concentrations of nitrite and ammonia are often very low in natural
waters. The utilization of nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates can be taken as
a measure of the productivity of the area.

Inorganic phosphate and nitrogen compounds in the sea play a decisive role in the
biological production. Normally they occur in low concentrations. Their
distribution in the coastal waters is mostly influenced by land run off. Since
nutrients form an important index to the primary productivity of an ecosystem, the
study of its distribution is important from the point of view of its role in the
biological productivity and also as an indicator of pollutant. Values of various
nutrient parameters analyzed at different stations are presented in Table 8.

Ammonia-Nitrogen (NH3-N)

Unpolluted waters are generally devoid of ammonia and nitrite. However, coastal
input by sewage and other nitrogenous organic matter and fertilisers can increase
these nutrients to higher levels. Ammonia in seawater is released by various
organisms as an excretory product due to the metabolic activity. It is also released
to the environment by the decomposition of organic matter by micro-organisms.

The concentrations of NH3-N varied from 0.54 to 0.93 ?mol/l along the middle
transect (stns. W7, W9 and W11), from 0.46 to 1.02 ?mol/l along the northern
transect (stns. W13, W14 and W15), and from 0.62 to 1.12 ?mol/l along the
southern transect (stns. W16, W17 and W18). The low values observed in the
coastal waters are indicative of oxygenated and unpolluted water.

Nitrite-Nitrogen (NO2-N)

Nitrite is an important element, which occurs in seawater as an intermediate

compound in the microbial reduction of nitrate or in the oxidation of ammonia. In
addition, nitrite is excreted by phytoplankton especially, during plankton bloom.

The values of nitrite ranged from 0.10 to 0.23 ?mol/l along the middle transect
(stns. W7, W9 and W11), from 0.10 to 0.26 ?mol/l along the northern transect
(stns. W13, W14 and W15) and from 0.15 and 0.31 ?mol/l along the southern
transect (stns. W16, W17 and W18).

Nitrate- Nitrogen (NO3-N)

Nitrate values are in general higher as compared to nitrite values. Nitrate is the
final oxidation product of nitrogen compounds in seawater and is considered to be
the only thermodynamically stable oxidation level of nitrogen in seawater. Nitrate
is considered to be the micronutrient, which controls primary production in the
euphotic surface layer. The concentration of nitrate is governed by several factors
of which microbial oxidation of NH3 and uptake by primary producers may be
important in the present study area.

The nitrate values varied from 2.62 to 2.99 ?mol/l along the middle transect (stns.
W7, W9 and W11), 2.80 to 3.91 ?mol/l along the northern transect (stns. W13,
W14 and W15) and 2.79 to 3.32 ?mol/l along the southern transect (stns. W16,
W17 and W18).
Inorganic Phosphate (PO4-P)

Inorganic phosphate is also an important nutrient like nitrogen compound in the

primary production of the sea. The concentration of phosphate especially in the
coastal waters is influenced by the land run off and domestic sewage.

The values of phosphate ranged from 0.98 to 1.53 ?mol/l along the middle transect
(stns. W7, W9 and W11), 0.89 to 1.79 ?mol/l along the northern transect (stns.
W13, W14 and W15) and 0.67 to 1.86 ?mol/l along the southern transect (stns.
W16, W17 and W18).

Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total Suspended solids in seawater originate either from autochthonous (biological

life) or allochthonus (derived from terrestrial matter) sources. It varied from 36.8
to 74.2 mg/l along the middle transect (stns. W7, W9 and W11), 32.0 to 66.0 mg/l
along the northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and W15) and 34.8 to 60.0 mg/l along
the southern transect (stns. W16, W17 andW18). The results of total suspended
solids indicate a similar trend with the turbidity values, having low values at
surface compared to the bottom layers.

Trace metal concentration

Knowledge of the trace metal concentration in seawater is very important from the
point of view of their possible adverse effects on marine biota. Oysters by their
ability to concentrate some trace metals from the environment are considered to be
useful indicators of metal pollution. Many of the trace metals are adsorbed to the
particulate matter and are ultimately deposited at the bottom. Bottom sediments are
considered to provide a reliable estimate of metal pollution status. The relationship
between gross concentration of heavy metal in solution and its ability to cause
toxic effects in an organism is a complex one, and is mostly decided by the
speciation of metal and the condition of the organism. Whether or not a trace metal
can interact with the biota depends on its "bio-availability" in the medium.
Presence of other toxicants or metals can reduce or increase the additive toxicity of
each element. In addition to these factors, temperature, pH, salinity, turbidity and
dissolved oxygen concentration also significantly affect metal-organism
interactions.

Lead has been used by man for centuries and is amongst the most widely dispersed
environmental contaminant. The considerably greater toxicity of organo-lead
compounds compared to inorganic forms has led to studies whether, such
compounds may be formed by natural process. Available literature suggests that
alkylation of lead is purely a chemical process which may occur in organic-rich
anoxic sediment.

The nominal presence of trace metals, which occur in seawater are found to be
necessary to promote growth of marine organisms. The concentration levels of
Cadmium, Lead and Mercury measured at all 9 locations across the depth are
presented in Table 10.

Cadmium (Cd): The cadmium concentration in the study region varied between
0.01 to 0.08 µg /l.

Lead (Pb): The lead concentration for the sea water samples was estimated as lead
strongly gets accumulated in fishes especially with shell fish. The lead
concentration in the study region varied between 3.20 to 8.23 µg /l.
Mercury (Hg): Mercury is considered as a non-essential and toxic element for
living organisms. During the study period, the concentration of mercury varied
between 14.90 and 25.84 ng/l.

Phenol

The main source of phenolic compounds in seawater is through plants.

Additionally, they can also be released during humification processes occurring in
soil. Higher concentrations occur in industrial wastewaters. Phenols can be toxic to
marine organisms and can accumulate in certain cellular components. Chlorination
of phenol-containing waters can lead to formation of chlorophenols with
unpleasant odour and taste.

The concentration of phenol for the study area remained very low below detectable
range.

Petroleum Hydrocarbons

The coastal waters are susceptible to oil pollution due to various maritime
activities like fishing operation, spillage from oil tankers, port activities etc. In the
study area the dissolved and dispersed Petroleum hydrocarbons existed between
3.16 to 7.04 µg /l.

6.3.3. Sediment characteristics

Sediment size distribution

Sediment characteristics of the samples collected at various stations are shown in
Table 1. The seabed is predominantly composed of sand with patches of silt and
clay.

Total Nitrogen

The presence of total nitrogen, total phosphorus and total organic carbon are given
in Table 11. Total nitrogen content of the sediment samples varied between 1.152
and 1.905 mg/g along the middle transect (stns. W7 ,W9 and W11), 0.895 and
1.714 mg/g along the northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and W15), and 0.972 and
1.723 mg/g along the southern transect (stns. W16 and W18).

Total Phosphorus

The phosphorus content in the sediments varied from 0.875 to 2.750 mg/g along
the middle transect (stns. W7, W9 and W11), from 1.257 to 2.523 mg/g along the
northern transect (stns. W13, W14 and W15) and 2.125 to 2.250 mg/g along the
southern transect (stns. W16, W17 and W18). There was an increasing trend in the
values of phosphorus from the nearshore to offshore stations.

Total Organic Carbon

The TOC values varied between 0.749 mg/g and 1.087 mg/g along the middle
transect (stns. W7, W9 and W11). It varied between 0.652 mg/g and 0.924 mg/g
along the northern transect (stns. W13, W14, and W15) and between 0.563 mg/g
and 0.802 mg/g along the southern transect (stns. W16, W17 and W18) .
Cadmium (Cd)

The concentration of lead, cadmium, mercury and phenol in bottom sediments are
presented in Table 12.

The concentrations of cadmium varied between 0.01 µg/g and 0.11 µg/g along
middle transect (W7, W9 and W11), between 0.04 µg/g and 0.12 µg/g along
northern transect (W13, W14 and W15) and between 0.06 µg/g and 0.09 µg/g
along the southern transect (W16, W17 and W18).

Lead (Pb)

The concentrations of lead varied between 0.465 µg/g and 0.818 µg/g along middle
transect (W7, W9 and W11), between 0.545 µg/g and 0.672 µg/g along northern
transect (W13, W14 and W15) and between 0.780 µg/g and 0.910 µg/g along the
southern transect (W16, W17 and W18).

Mercury (Hg)

The concentrations of mercury shows below detectable level for all the samples.

Phenol

The results of phenol of water and sediment samples show that they are below
detectable levels for all the samples.
6.3.4. Biological parameters

Biological status of an area is an essential prerequisite for environmental impact

assessment and can be evolved by selecting a few reliable parameters from a
complex ecosystem. Whenever we consider assessment of the implications of
environmental pollution, we must be aware of the fact that despite many changes it
may cause in the physico-chemical properties of a water body and seabed
sediment, the ultimate consequences are inevitably of biological nature. The
biological parameters considered in the present study are Primary production,
phytoplankton biomass and population, zooplankton biomass and population,
macro benthic biomass and population, and fishery of the region. The first four
reflect the productivity of a water column at primary and secondary levels. Benthic
organisms being sedentary animals associated with the seabed, provide information
regarding the integrated effects of stress due to disturbances, if any, and hence are
good indicators of early warning of potential damage.

Phytoplankton and primary productivity

Phytoplankton is the primary source of food in the marine environment. The

concentration and numerical abundance of the phytoplankton indicate the fertility
of a region. The measured primary productivity results are shown in Table 13. The
results indicate that the area is productive and the values vary from 760.77 to
1955.93 mgC/m3/day. Various Phytoplankton groups were observed and their
percentage compositions are shown in Tables 14 to 18.

The faunal diversity fluctuates from 21 to 25 generae. Diatoms formed the major
group followed by Dinoflagellates and Cyanophyceae (blue green algae). The
common forms were Coscinodiscus sp., Trichodesmium sp., Thalassiosira sp.,
Eucampia sp., Skeletonema sp., Ditylum sp., Thalassiothrix sp., Triceratium sp.,
Biddulphia sp., Peridinium sp etc. Phytoplankton population analyzed at various
stations showed that their numerical abundance varied from 99301 to 480672
nos/100 m3. Highest phytoplankton population was observed at station W7 of
middle transect and the minimum was at station W9 of middle transect. The
biomass varied from 6.69 to 11.11 ml/100 m3 in this region.

Zooplankton

Various zooplankton groups and their percentage composition observed at various

stations are shown in Tables 19 to 23. The zooplankton data indicated a high
standing stock in the area of observation. The numerical abundance of zooplankton
varied from 679 to 1758 nos/m3. Zooplankton population mostly consists of
Copepods, Tintinnids, Crustacean nauplii, Chaetognaths, Euphausid larvae, Lucifer
sp., Anomuran larvae, Foraminiferans etc. Zooplankton population analysis at
various staions showed that their numerical abundance varied from 26832 to 88594
nos/100 m3. The percentage occurrence of various groups varied from place to
place. In general the faunal diversity was noticed around 21. The zooplankton
biomass at various stations varied from 6.08 to 17.21 ml/100m3.

Benthos

Benthic faunal population in an environment depends on the nature of the

substratum and the organic matter content of the substratum.

Subtidal benthos: The sediment characteristics of the study area showed sandy with
little silt/clay. The percentage of organic matter is also low in the sediment and it
varied form 0.563 to 1.018 mg/g. The numerical abundance of the benthic fauna
varied from 125 to 1575 nos/m2 (Table 24). The faunal population mainly consists
of Branchiostoma lanceolatum, Amphipods, Polychaetes, Crustaceans and
Gastropods.

Intertidal benthos: The intertidal faunal population is shown in Table 24. The
existence of faunae appeared to be very poor. Out of 3 samples collected only
Polychaetes, Amphipods, Crustaceans and bivalves were present at stns. B1, B2
and B3. The numerical abundance of the Inter tidal benthic fauna varied from 400
to 775 nos/m2 (Table 24).

Micro- biology

Bacterial counts in the surface water and in sediment samples at all stations were
analysed, and are presented in Tables 25 and 26 respectively. The bacterial
colonies were identified up to generic level. Organism isolated were Escherichia
like organisms, Vibrio parahaemolyticus like organisms and Proteus/ Klebsiella
like organisms.

Pseudomonas sp. Shigella like organisms were totally absent in all the samples.
Other counts indicated smaller population.

The sediment samples also showed the absence of pathogens like Vibrio cholarae,
Salmoniella sp. and Vibrio parahaemolyticus like organisms.

Fishery

The fishery of the region is assessed based on the data obtained from the
Department of Fisheries, Tamilnadu.
The composition of annual marine fish landings along the Tamilnadu coast is
presented in Tables 27. The marine fish landing at Chennai and Thiruvallur district
(project region) for the year 2003 - 2004 are presented in Table 28. The various
fishing crafts and gears operating in Thiruvallur district (project region) are
presented in Tables 29 and 30. In general, the dominant group of species in the
Thiruvallur region consists of Chirocentrus, lesser sardines and other sardines,
Caranx, Mackeral, Seer fish, Crabs , Catfishes, Sciaenids, pomprets etc.

The biological productivity of this region is largely influenced by the seasonal

coastal circulation and to certain extent due to exchange of the Pulicat lake waters.
Phytoplankton and zooplankton population is quite high as seen by the biomass
and primary production values. The coastal waters are highly dynamic and enhance
mixing which minimizes any likely impact of domestic/industrial discharge in the
region. The fishery is well represented by various groups of pelagie and demersal
species. Based on the observations and results obtained, from the study area, it is
concluded that the coastal area of this region is biologically normal and free from
any adverse impact of coastal pollution.

7. DISPERSION MODEL

The tide and wind induced flow field over the project area is determined using the
flow module of the Delft3D package of WL|Delft Hydraulics. The Delft3D
modelling studies are being conducted at INDOMER in technical collaboration
with Alkyon Hydraulic Consultancy & Research, The Netherlands. The detailed
report on the modelling study has been separately submitted under ‘Mathematical
modelling study on the dispersion of brine reject from CWDL desalination plant at
Minjur’.
The basic equations in the curvilinear orthogonal system used in Delft3D-flow
module are given below:

Continuity equation:

Model Setup

A series of three nested grids are used to generate the open boundary conditions for
the simulation of the flow field over the project area, namely (i) an ‘overall model’
covering the entire Bay of Bengal (BoB model), (ii) an ‘area model’ covering the
area between Cuddalore and Nellore and (ii) a highly detailed ‘site model at the
designated project location.

For the overall model of the Bay of Bengal a spherical grid system was used. On
the other hand for the area model and detailed site model, curvilinear grid system
was used. The Bay of Bengal model covers the area between 70?E and 100?E and
between 0?N and 22.5?N and represents an area of approximately 3000 km x 2400
km (Fig. 17). The selected grid size of the spherical grid is 3.0 geographical
minutes in both directions (i.e. 0.05 geographical degrees). The grid comprises
approximately 1,86,537 active computational points.

Boundary conditions

The Bay of Bengal model is forced by the tidal water level variations along the
open sea boundaries. For generation of these boundary conditions, the
Topex/Poseidon database was used. The boundary conditions are represented using
16 short-period tidal constituents (Q1, O1, M1, P1, K1, J1, OO1, 2N2, MU2, N2,
NU2, M2, L2, T2, S2 and K2) and seven long-period tidal constituents (MTM,
MF, MSF, MM, MSM, SSA and SA) according to:

with:

ht = water level at time = t

Ao = mean value of the signal

Ai = amplitude of component i

fi = nodal amplitude factor of component i

?i = angular frequency of component i

(v0+u)i = astronomic argument of component i

gi = phase lag of component i

The boundary conditions for the area model and the detailed site model around the
project location are prescribed as time series of tidal water level variations along
the open boundaries of the model. Moreover, applying boundary conditions
described by water levels will enable us to model wind-driven currents, as they
will not be obstructed by this type of model boundaries.

Depth Schematization

As a result of the grid generation, the coordinates for each computational point
become available. The depth values for an individual point are determined by an
interpolation program using the digitized bathymetry from the field survey and
from the nautical charts.
Using the Delft 3D flow model, the simulations were done for no wind conditions
and strong wind conditions corresponding to NE monsoon and SW monsoon. In
each case, the currents were simulated for spring and neap tidal days. Further, on
each tidal days, the flow corresponding to flood and ebb tidal phases were
simulated. In total 12 cases (3 winds X 2 tides X 2 tidal phases) were simulated.
These simulations were repeated for the three typical outfall locations viz., 500 m ,
1000 m and 2000 m distance from the shoreline into the sea.

The characteristics of the brine reject used in the dispersion study are: (i) the
salinity value of the brine reject at the point of outfall is 70 ppt, (ii) the rate of
discharge is 5710 m3/hr (137000 m3/day). The ambient salinity of the seawater
considered for this region is 35 ppt.

Outfall at 500 m distance into the sea

The flow field and dispersion characteristics for no wind condition, wind during
northeast monsoon and southwest monsoon on spring & Neap tidal days for flood
and ebb phases of the flow (12 cases ) are presented in the detailed report. The
typical output of flow for no wind condition on spring tidal days for flood and ebb
phases are shown in Figs. 18 and 19. The mixing of the brine reject under these
flow conditions are shown in Figs. 20 and 21.

The tide induced flow field for the strong wind condition in NE monsoon during
the flood on the spring tidal day is shown in Fig. 22. The mixing of the brine reject
under these flow conditions are shown in Fig. 23.

The tide induced flow field for the strong wind condition in SW monsoon during
the flood on the spring tidal day is shown in Fig. 24. The mixing of the brine reject
under these flow conditions are shown in Fig. 25.
The flow field and the concentration and dispersion of the brine reject for outfall
point at 500 m from coast off Minjur for three different wind conditions namely no
wind, strong NE wind and strong SW wind are presented. The results show that the
current speed around the outfall location is generally weak. It remained around 5
cm/s, 15 cm/s and 35 cm/s during no wind condition, NE monsoon strong wind
condition and SW monsoon strong wind condition respectively.

It is also observed that the salinity in the vicinity of the outfall discharge point
reduces rapidly from 70 ppt to 35.1 ppt within a distance of 500 m under no wind
condition. The model shows a rapid dispersion of the reject around the discharge
point within 500 m radius which is on the otherhand normally expected. The
distribution of salinity of the brine reject is nearly symmetrical from the outfall on
either side of the coastline.

Under strong wind conditions during NE monsoon and SW monsoon, the wind
field dominates the current in the coastal region off Minjur. With the influence of
the tide and wind induced currents in this region, the brine reject coming out of the
diffuser, travel along the coast towards south during NE monsoon and towards
north during SW monsoon. The salinity of the reject gets diluted from 70 ppt to
35.1 ppt within 100 m distance from the outfall.

The tide and wind induced flow fields during different seasons would remain the
same for the cases of outfall located at 1000 m distance and 2000 m distance from
the coastline into sea.

Outfall at 1000 m distance into the sea

The typical case of mixing of the brine reject for no wind condition (worst
scenario) during the flood phases on the spring tide day is shown in Fig. 26. It is
also observed that the salinity in the vicinity of the outfall point reduced rapidly
from 70 ppt to 35.1 ppt within 500 m distance under no wind condition. The
distribution of dissolved salinity of the brine reject is nearly symmetrical from the
outfall on either side of the coastline. But, a small drift towards southeastern
direction is seen at water depths beyond 15 m due to the presence of offshore
submerged shoal.

Outfall at 2000 m distance into the sea

The mixing of the brine reject for no wind condition (worst scenario) during the
flood phase on the spring tide day is shown in Fig. 27. Once again, it is observed
that the salinity in the vicinity of the outfall point has been reduced rapidly from 70
ppt to 35.1 ppt within 500 m distance under no wind condition. The model shows a
rapid dispersion of the reject around the discharge point within 500 m radius,
which, otherwise is also normally expected. The distribution of salinity of the brine
reject is nearly symmetrical from the outfall on either side of the coastline.

From the results, it is concluded that even during the calm sea, the salinity of the
brine reject being discharged at outfall point gets diluted to nearly ambient value of
35.1 ppt within a distance of 100 m to 500 m. Such a dilution would help to keep
the seawater environment within the acceptable limits from the environmental
point of view.

Based on the present study, it is suggested to keep the outfall with designed
diffuser port arrangements anywhere in the sea with a minimum distance of 500 m
into the sea. Based on the dispersion pattern, it is preferred that a minimum of 500
m distance between the outfall diffuser and intake head may be maintained in order
to avoid the disposed brine reject re-entering the intake system before it is
appropriately diluted (Fig. 28). The outfall may be located on the northern side of
the intake as the flow remains northwards for eight months in a year. Outfall
placed closer to the shore at 500 m distance would induce good mixing due to
more turbulence. The consequent dilution will be maximum close to the nearshore
due to the presence of surf zone, longshore currents, strong orbital currents induced
due to shoaling waves, relatively stronger tidal currents, currents due to wave set
up etc.

8. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT

The schematic presentation of the coastal zone proposed for seawater intake and
return water outfall is shown in Plate 1. This coastal region adjoining the intake-
outfall system comprises of fairly wide beaches with well-defined foreshore,
elevated backshore and with small dunes at some places. The morphology of this
region is influenced by the 3 climatic conditions, viz., southwest monsoon (June –
September), northeast monsoon (Mid October to Mid March) and fair weather
period from April to May. Unlike the northern part of the east coast of India, this
part of the coast is influenced more by the northeast monsoon conditions than those
during the other two seasons. The environmental condition of this region gets
reversed with the seasonal changes, i.e. the southwest monsoon and the northeast
monsoon. The seabed in nearshore primarily comprises of sand without any
complex bathymetric features. Sand banks are observed offshore and northeast of
this coastal region. The newly constructed Ennore Port breakwaters, in recent
years, is also influences the littoral drift in this region.

Wave action prevails high during southwest monsoon and northest monsoon. The
coastal currents within 2 km distance from the shore is greatly influenced by wid.
The nearshore remains more dynamic and turbulent due to persistent action of
seasonal wind, high waves and coastal currents. The distribution of temperature
and salinity indicates that the nearshore water is well mixed without stratification.
The influence of littoral drift is significant, and the annual net drift takes place in
northerly direction. The beaches undergo seasonal changes during major part of the
year. The coastline remains almost stable along this stretch.
Examination of water quality of this region indicated that they do not differ
substantially both in vertical and spatial directions. Absence of marked vertical
gradients of the physical parameters indicate that the coastal waters are well mixed.
Various results on the chemical and biological parameters indicate that the water is
well oxygenated, nutrient rich and biologically productive at primary and
secondary levels. The sub-tidal benthic fauna is moderately rich in diversity and
numbers compare to the Inter tidal benthic fauna.

The marine flora and fauna also indicate the existence of diverse population. The
area is rich in fishery both pelagic and demersal. The study on various
oceanographic parameters and the information on adjacent region indicates that the
coastal water is clean and highly productive. Nevertheless, the values of PHC and
trace metals indicate that the area is influenced by the Ennore creek located in the
south of the project region which brings large industrial wastes from the upstream.
The Ennore Port situated north of Ennore creek also contributes to oil pollution due
to the operation of ships and tugs on the large scale. The bypassing of sand by
Ennore Port on the northern side will keep the seabed bathymetry non-steady.

9. IMPACT ASSESSMENT

9.1. Identification of impacts

The schematic scenario of various activities in the project region is shown in Plate
2. Providing seawater intake and the brine reject outfall for the development of
desalination plant with submarine pipelines will have marginal magnitude of
impact on:

i) Sea water
ii) Marine ecology

iii) Land use and

iv) Community

Major dimensions and the components under which activities with anticipated
impacts are presented in Plate 3. The magnitude of adverse impact appears to be
moderate. The expected impact on climate and soil condition are negligible.
Nevertheless, the proposed project would bring positive impact on people, their
living and state’s development.

The matrix of possible interaction between activities and on coastal resources is

shown in Plate 4. It depicts the different activities and their magnitude of
interaction with various effects and the possible preventive actions.

The impacts due to different activities are analyzed. The laying of submarine
pipeline into the sea would affect the flow pattern at the sea bottom initially. The
screen provided at the sea water intake head may cause trapping of small fishes.
Young fishes may undergo shock and physical damages, and become prey to
predators.

The residual chlorine present in the return water will affect the animal community
living in the area. Prolonged exposure of aquatic organism to chlorine at
concentration as low as 0.01 mg/l ( or even less to specially sensitive species) can
be toxic.

The brine discharge into the sea would initially rise the salinity of the water. Effect
of salinity changes present in a complex manner depending upon the corresponding
changes in temperature and dissolved oxygen content. Most fishes including
shellfishes can tolerate salinity outside their normal range for a period of minutes
to hours, however the more extended periods may be fatal.

The positioning of pipeline in the sea will interfere with the fishing activity till it
gets buried beneath the seafloor. The presence of intake head and outfall diffuser
would to some extent restrict the boats movement and use of drifting nets. The
coastal installation like pump house, process plant and other infrastructure facilities
would cause limited air and noise pollution on land. Any negative impacts on
historic/ cultural heritage and social-economic activities are appear to be absent.

9.2. Prediction of impacts

While the identification of the impacts provide the status of anticipated impact on
the environment, the prediction of impact will give the extent to which these
conditions can alter or improve the environment. Based on the prediction,
mitigation measures can be evaluated to minimize the impact on the environment.

The activities which need the prediction of impacts are:

i) Sea water intake,

ii) Return water outfall,

iii) Submarine pipeline and

iv) Brine reject.

i) Sea water intake

For option 1, the intake head has to be designed in order to avoid vortex formation.
The intake head can be deigned in cylindrical form to avoid interference of
currents. The top of intake head can be kept well below the sea surface so that it
will not cause obstruction to the movement of boat and craft. The intake screen can
be designed with small openings with velocity cap and trash bars to minimize the
entry of small marine organisms, fish larvae and fishes. In case of option 2, as the
sea water will be drawn from the NCTPS seawater collection sump and there will
not be any impact in the marine environment. A marker buoy placed close to intake
can help boats to avoid while enroute.

ii) Return water outfall

The outfall can be designed with proper ports, which can increase the mixing of the
brine discharge. The waste water discharged should reach the ambient quality
within a shorter distance and time. Like intake head, the outfall diffuser can also be
deigned in cylindrical form to avoid interference with currents. The top of outfall
diffuser may be placed well below the sea surface so that it will not cause
obstruction for the movement of any boat and crafts. A marker buoy placed close
to intake can help boats to avoid while enroute.

iii) Submarine pipeline

The pipelines may be buried or allowed for natural burial in the sea floor, so that it
will not cause any hindrance to fishing and navigation. The pipeline should be
buried in the beach so that the movement of men and materials will not be affected.

iv) Brine reject

High saline content is an important factor governing the occurrence and metabolic
activity of the marine organism. Besides high saline content affecting the salinity
of the seawater, the return water will also contain residual chlorine. The intensity
of impact depends on how soon the high saline water gets diluted in the
environment and also the concentration of the residual chlorine.

The super salination and the effect of residual chlorine on the following organisms
are as follows:

a) Primary Producers: The phytoplankton is the primary producers need optimum

salinity conditions etc., for their growth and survival. An increase of salinity in the
environment will lead to the death and decay of these primary producers. They are
also sensitive to the presence of chlorine concentration above 0.2 mg/l. Therefore,
it is advisable that the return brine may be discharged at a location where
maximum dilution takes place within a short time of discharge so that the
detrimental effect is minimum.

b) Macrophytes: Macrophytes are multicellular plants which are attached to

submerged rocks on the sea bed in the shallow water region they are sensitive to
salinity changes and the presence of free chlorine in the environment.

c) Zooplankton: Zooplankton organisms, which are pelagic, move with the water
current can be exposed to higher saline conditions resulting varying degrees of
stress due to changes in the osmoregulatory function. The residual chlorine present
in the return water would also affect the population.

d) Benthic animal community: As the benthic community is sedentary organisms

and they will be subjected to environmental changes more than the other
communities. Like other animal population, they are also sensitive to the drastic
changes in saline conditions, which may affect their body physiology. The free
chlorine present in the discharge water may also affect their living especially in
concentrations > 0.2 mg/l. The noticeable effects are alteration of community
resulting in the reduction of species.

e) Inter tidal fauna: The intertidal fauna are resistant to environmental changes to
limited extends, but large variations will affect their metabolism. They are
sensitive to chlorine levels > 0.1 mg/l.

f) Fishes and shellfishes: Besides the effects of salinity changes, the temperature
and dissolved oxygen content also effect the fish and shellfish lives. Most fish
including shellfish can tolerate salinities outside their normal range for a period of
minutes to hours, however, more extended periods may be fatal. Many shellfish
(Clams, Oyster etc) are unable to move freely, but they can take protective action
by temporarily closing their shells when exposed to abnormal salinities. Several
instances of major losses of bivalves have been reported as a result of salinity
variations of higher ranges.

9.3. Impact assessment

The baseline data collected from the project region and the review of the available
information indicate that the water quality parameters are within the acceptable
limits for the coastal waters. The coastal waters are well mixed, remain clean and
free from any pollution.

The installation of submarine pipelines, intake head, and outfall diffuser in the
coastal region will result in marginal impacts on marine community viz., coastal
fisheries, and aquaculture. But such impact is confined to a limited time span
during the period of construction, which in this case will be less than 30 days. The
amount of quantity of sea water to be drawn, the quantity planned for discharge,
the sizes of intake head and outfall diffuser and the diameter of pipelines indicate
that it is a relatively small project, and the impact due to such minor activity will
be restricted to a smaller area within 500 m radius.

Despite various initial impact on the environment, the benefits due to this project
outweigh such initial adverse impacts since the project would prove extremely
beneficial for the Chennai Metropolitan city and the people living in the city.

10. MITIGATION

Though the proposed project of laying of pipelines, installation of intake head and
installation of outfall diffuser lead to certain adverse impacts initially on marine
environment, there is sufficient scope for mitigations measures.

Seawater intake

The intake head has to be designed in order to avoid vortex formation. The intake
head can be deigned in cylindrical form to avoid interference with currents. The
intake head can be kept well below the sea surface so that it will not cause
obstruction to the movements of boat. The intake screen can be designed with
small openings with velocity cap and trash bars to minimize the entry of small
marine organisms, fish larvae and fishes. The free available chlorine at any point of
time should be kept within 0.5 mg/l. Residual chlorine present in the brine reject
can have synergistic effects on the flora and fauna of the receiving water.
Therefore, the standards stipulated by the Pollution Control Boards should strictly
be adhered to in discharging the residual chlorine in the return water. A marker
buoy placed close to intake can help boats to avoid while enroute.
Return water outfall

The outfall can be designed with proper member and size of ports, which can
enhance the jet mixing of the brine discharge. The waste water discharged will
reach the ambient quality within a shorter distance and time. Like intake head, the
outfall diffuser can also be deigned in cylindrical form to avoid interference with
currents. The outfall diffuser may be placed well below the sea surface not to cause
obstruction to the movements of boats and crafts. A marker buoy placed close to
intake can help boats to avoid while enroute.

Submarine pipeline

The Intake pipeline may be buried or allowed for natural burial in the sea floor, so
that it will not cause any hindrance to fishing and navigation. The pipeline should
be buried in the beach so that the movement of men and machinery will not be
affected.

Coastal installation

All installations along the coast in connection with the pipeline, pump house, water
sump etc. may be developed as per CRZ regulations. Separate report on CRZ
demarcation ‘Delineation of HTL, LTL and CRZ boundaries for desalination plant
at Kattupalli village, Minjur for Chennai Metropolitan water supply and sewerage
board, Govt. of Tamilnadu prepared by NIO is submitted.

11. MARINE ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

The Environment Management plan has to be designed to cover the following
aspects.

(i) Environment Management

environment administration

environment education

economic instruments of environmental management

natural parks and natural reserves management

general waste management programme

water management programme

noise prevention

planning for seasonal changes

environmental monitoring and research

(ii) Spatial planning

development of the settlement system

land use

(iii) Recommendations for immediate action

priorities for implementation

institutional implications

The major management plan is required for

a) proper locations

b) appropriate design, control and flow of intake and outfall

c) regulation of boats movement

d) preservation of nearshore ecology

e) preservation of social life.

The management scheme may be well organized on the following lines (Plate 5).

The baseline data collected during the present study and the information available
form the literature indicate that the water quality and the ecological status of the
environment is good in the project area. The project activities are likely to interact
with the coastal waters leading to short term changes in the environment. These
changes can be minimized by evolving proper management plan, so that the
development may prove beneficial.

It should be ensured that marine water quality criteria evolved is met at all times by
appropriate monitoring program. The data on marine environment management
plan could periodically be evaluated and appropriate remedial measures are
undertaken if there is any deterioration in the water quality in the region. Such
action has to be adhered to in view of the sensitive nature of the environment.

12. POST PROJECT MONITORING

Monitoring programme has to be continued during the construction and operational
phases of the project. It should be repeated at periodic intervals after the
commencement of the project, when the project is fully operational.

1st monitoring - Prior to operation

2nd monitoring - 1 month after operation

3rd monitoring - 6 months after operation

4th monitoring - 12 months after operation

Periodic monitoring - once an year

Region to be monitored

The region of about 5 km radius around the intake and outfall points in the sea has
to be monitored.

Parameters to be monitored

i) Dispersion of brine reject: The brine reject to be sampled at the discharge site at
definite distances to understand the mixing and dilution of the effluent.

ii) Sea floor changes and underwater ecology: Once in a year the sea floor changes
if any along the pipeline corridor and also to access the health of the bottom fauna
by engaging divers.
iii) Water quality: Sampling can be carried out at 3 depths if the depth is exceeding
10 m. The parameters which are to be analyzed are: salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen,
BOD, nutrients like ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and inorganic phosphate.

iv) Biological parameters: Phytoplankton population, zooplankton population,

benthic fauna, seaweeds, and the nature of fisheries in the area.