Qualitative and quantitative assessment of the post project impact scenario around the existing sections of the HBJ pipeline provides a reasonable basis for predicting both primary and secondary impacts of pipeline up gradation project on structure, composition and health of the forest ecosystem.

4.4.1 Primary Impacts

1. Removal on vegetation from a 30 meter wide strip along the entire length of pipeline is a direct loss of forest cover (Plate 4.3).

2. The clear felled area along the pipeline are generally encroached by the local people for cultivation. This arrests the process of regeneration of even the grassland habitat which would be useful for the terrestrial wildlife. Where areas are not cultivated, heavy livestock grazing would lead to prolific growth of weeds, again undermining the habitat quality.

3. Since the HBJ pipeline system has been provided with an effective microwave based telecommunication and SCADA system for effective and safe operation and maintenance it will remain free from human disturbance. If succession is allowed to take its natural course on these stretches (with underground pipeline system) then these area eventually develop in to open areas adjoining the forests and would provide ecotonal habitat for woodland species.

4.This however, may not be possible in reality as such area are likely to attract the local people who would utilize these areas for cultivation and grazing.