EIA on 2-laning to 4-laning of NH-22 from Solan to Shimla

Abstract

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic investigation of both positive and negative impacts on the physical, biological socioeconomic environment, which would be caused or induced due to a proposed developmental project. EIA helps to develop environmental friendly projects and seeks to reduce environmental degradation caused by developmental activities. It also provides a plan to reduce the negative environmental effects of proposed development project through alternative approaches, design modifications and remedial measures .Highway construction is a major activity of economic development especially in developing countries. Road development is major source of damage to the environment, including ecological destabilization, habitat disturbance and damage to flora and fauna. The present report analyses the environmental impacts likely to occur due to the proposed upgradation of a 50 km stretch of NH-22 from Solan to Shimla. The study concentrates on the environment impact assessment of the project in the light of the existing situation at the site. The parameters covered in study are Socio-Economic, Biological, Air (Dust), Water, Noise, Ecological & Soil. Samples of air, water & soil were taken to analyze their present conditions. Data was also collected from various Government offices like the forest department and National Highway Authority of India.Highway capacity was analyzed and it was observed that the present two lane highway is insufficient to handle the current traffic volume so the section requires four laning immediately to accommodate more traffic. After analyzing different parameters and discussing the probable impacts suggestions are made regarding the mitigation measures that can be taken at different stages in order to reduce the environmental impacts.