ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) - Ministry of ...

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) REPORT OF

ACCESS ROAD OF UPPER ARUN HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT

Submitted to:

Ministry of Forests and Environment

through

Department of Electricity Development

and

Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

Prepared by:

Environment and Social Studies Department

Nepal Electricity Authority Lazimpat, Kathmandu

Email: [email protected]

Submitted by:

Upper Arun Hydroelectric Limited Durbar Marg, Kathmandu

Phone No. 01-4117154

June, 2021

mailto:[email protected]

Access Road of UAHEP Executive Summary

EIA Report i NEA-ESSD

Executive Summary E.1 Project proponent and Organizations Responsible for EIA

Upper Arun Hydroelectric Limited is the proponent of the Upper Arun HEP. The Ministry of

Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) has granted a survey license on 2076/05/25

BS to UAHEP for feasibility which is valid up to 2078/05/24 BS. Environment and Social Studies

Department (ESSD) of NEA is responsible for conducting the EIA of this project.

E.2 Project Description

The UAHEP intends to construct access road to facilitate the access to the project component. In

order to implement the construction of the UAHEP, the prior construction of access road of about

21.19km is necessary. Similarly, UAHEP is developing Ikhwa Khola Hydroelectric Project

(IKHEP) simultaneously in order to provide share to local people. In order to facilitate that,

UAHEP is planning to construct about 2.00 km access road from Koshi Highway to Arun River.

This is the initial stage of development of UAHEP and its implementation will certainly help in

improvisation of the energy situation in present scenario of Nepal. Thus, this project aims to help

in prior development of UAHEP.

The proposed access roads are located in Bhotkhola and Makalu RMs of Sankhuwashaba District

of Province No. 1 of Nepal at eastern part of country. The proposed access road consists two

sections i) UAHEP Access road, and ii) IKHEP Access road. Section one of the proposed project

starts from the base of Syaksila Village, Bhotkhola RM near right bank of Arun River from Koshi

Highway and ends at left bank about 100m upstream of the confluence of Arun River and Chepuwa

Khola at Rukuma Village, Bhotkhola RM. Similarly, section two starts from upper part of

Sammatar Village, Makalu RM from Koshi Highway and ends at Arun River with proposed Bridge

near Sammatar Village, Makalu RM. The access road for UAHEP lies in ward no. 2 and 4 of

Bhotkhola RM. The initial section of the road from Koshi Highway up to Arun River, about

60.00m lies in buffer zone of Makalu Barun National Park (MBNP). Total length of this road

section is about 21.19km including 2.03km tunnel length. The proposed road passes through

different settlement namely Limbutar, Sibrun, Hema, Namase and Rukma.

E.3 Study Methodology

The EIA process follows the Environment Protection Act - 2076, Environment Protection Rules-

2077 and National EIA Guidelines-2050. Th

is EIA is prepared in accordance with the legal requirements of GoN, based on field studies and

consultation with local people and officials. For the physical environment, data on climate,

geology and land were taken. Likewise, in biological environment, data on vegetation/forest, fauna

were taken and in socio-economic and cultural environment, data on population, ethnicity, religion

and religious sites, infrastructure, etc. are used for the study. As well household survey of project

affected families, ward level checklists, Key Informant Interview (KII) and informal meeting were

held at the project site.

E.4 Review of Policies and Legal Provision

The proponent will be responsible for fulfilling the provisions of all relevant acts, rules/ regulations

policies, guidelines and conventions while implementing the project. All the project relevant legal

documents were thoroughly reviewed while preparing the report.

E. 5. Existing Environmental Condition

E.5.1 Physical Environment


EIA Report ii NEA-ESSD

The proposed 23.19km alignment lies in middle mountain region of Nepal. The topography of

road alignment is gentle to steep slope. The alignment traverse through mostly mountainous and

steep terrain. The existing ground elevation of the UAHEP access road varies between

1094.13masl to 2052.658masl. Similarly, the existing ground elevation of the IKHEP access road

varies between 1045.47masl to 905.14masl.

A total of 102.448ha land is estimated for the construction of access road and ancillary facilities.

The main land use pattern of the project area is cultivated, forest and barren (kharbari). For the

construction of access road, tunnel, and bridges, the project required about 13.77% forest land,

59.81% cultivation land, 19.29% barren (kharbari) land and 7.13% others (waterbodies and foot

track).

E.5.2 Biological Environment

In the PAA, there are 19 registered community forests in Makalu RM and nine registered

community forest in Bhotkhola RM. In addition to this, Makalu Barun National Park (MBNP) and

its buffer zone also lies in the PAA. The proposed access road passes through two community

forests namely, Paripakha community forest and Makpalung community forest. In addition, some

section of the access road UAHEP and whole section of access road IKHEP lies in the buffer zone

of the MBNP. The field observation along the Access Road alignment revealed that Sub tropical

and lower temperate forest found along the proposed access road alignment.

E.5.3 Socio–economic and Cultural Environment

Household survey of 190HHs was conducted to collect socio-economic status of the project

affected families (PAFs) that are directly affected by the project. The total population of surveyed

HHs is 1027 including 494 males and 533 females. The sex ratio and average HH’s size is 0.93

and 4.5 respectively. In the same way, of the surveyed HHS, 98.42% HHs are from the Janajati

caste ethnic groups (Bhote, Gurung, Newar, Rai, Sherepa and Tamang); followed Dalit (1.58%)

About 56.16% of the surveyed population are literate (population of 5 years and above) with male

(60.09%) and female (52.47%) literacy rate respectively.

The HHs’ survey indicates that majority of the surveyed HHs have food deficiency. Only about

3.68% of the surveyed HHs have a year-round food sufficient. The remaining 96.32% HHs have

food deficiency. Only 95.79% HHs knew about the proposed project whereas remaining HHs did

not know about the project. The main sources of knowledge about the project are project officials,

neighbours and relatives. Among surveyed HHs, 64.74% have positive attitude, whereas only

18.42% are negative, 8.95% are neutral and 7.89% HHs have not detail information about the

project. Similarly, about 53.68% of the surveyed HHs expect good compensation for the loss of

land and properties. Similarly, 33.68% of the HHs expressed their desire for employment

opportunity, 8.95% show their opinion towards the local development and 3.68% HHs wants

electricity facility the project area,

E.6 Alternative Analysis

As per EPA 2076, the EIA study considered different alternatives for the project. The final route

selection was done on the basis of its minimal impact. Attempts were made to select the shortest

route, which was economically and environmentally suitable. Different alternatives were

considered to minimize the overall impact due to implementation of project. Possible alternatives

include i) Alignment alternative, ii) Tunnel alternative, iii). Alternative alignment at Sibrun

village.

E.7 Environmental Impact


EIA Report iii NEA-ESSD


The project shall require 102.448ha of land (61.145ha permanent and 41.303 temporary) for its

implementation. Out of this total land, 61.271ha cultivated land, 14.104ha forest land, 19.763

barren land, 7.309ha other land will be required.

During construction period, use of heavy equipment, crushing machines, hot mix plant, diesel

generator, vibrating machine etc. for excavation of earth and construction of structure generate

significant amount of dust into atmosphere and produce noise. The movement of vehicles to

transport construction materials from quarry site to construction site, transport muck to safe

disposal area, transport external material to construction site, etc. will also generate dust and noise

affecting air and noise quality. Construction activities of project such as cutting and filling,

disposal of construction waste and spoil, quarrying and borrowing, etc. cause increase in

turbidity/silt content of the nearby steam and river. Cutting of the steep slope thus increase the risk

of slope instability and potential of small to large scale mass wasting. During construction of

tunnel, the land stability will be very critical if there is instabilities along the tunnel line. Use of

blasting technique may induce surface instabilities due to vibration effects particularly in areas

where ground surfaces are much closed to tunnel line. During construction of foundation of the

bridges, soil erosion can take place on hillside.


Impact on community forests and national forest and the flora and fauna is the main impact by the

project. As far as standing trees are concerned, a total of 4530 tree including poles of 25 different

species from 9.426 ha of forest land was estimated to be cleared from two community forests

along the proposed road alignment. It is estimated that a gross volume of 22885.59 cubic feet of

biomass will be lost from the community forest. It will generate 17606.12 cubic feet of firewood.

Similarly, A total of 114 standing trees/poles of 14 species will be felled from 4.678 ha of National

Forest. It was estimated that a gross volume of 1587.57 cubic feet of biomass will be removed

from the forest and will generate 1.68 chatta firewood.

The project will impact 6.807 ha of buffer zone of the Makalu Barun National Park. The impacted

area of buffer zone by the project is cultivated land which are under the private ownership. It is

estimated that 88 trees/poles of 21 different species will be felled from the private land within the

buffer zone. Similarly, the possible adverse impacts on wildlife and avifauna population during

the project construction phase are possibility of hunting and poaching by labor force and

disturbance in movement of mammals and birds.

E.7.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

The implementation of the proposed project will affect 220HHs. The project will require and

utilize 80.937ha of private land. Out of total, 49.741ha is permanent land acquired and 31.196ha

is land required temporarily. Out of total project affected HHs, 10HH will lose their structures

which will need to be relocated due to implementation of the project. Of the 10 affected HH, six

HH will lose houses which is categorized as to relocate their place of residency. Similarly, one

structure (compound wall) belonging to Shree Barun Basic School, one resting place and two

cultural structures (mane) will be affected which need to be relocated due to the implementation

of the project. Structures of cultural place are typically traditional. Total annual crop loss of

directly project affected families due to the project implementation is estimated to be 22.65MT

(67.95MT for three years). About 1043 number of trees comprising of 34 different species are

expected to be clear felled from the private land during the project construction period. Similarly,


EIA Report iv NEA-ESSD

due to the implementation of the project, agricultural land will be fragmented and the fertility of

the land will be reduced. Which may affect the livelihood of the affected family.

E.8 Mitigation and Enhancement


The impact on excavated land acquired for construction of road cannot be avoided. However, there

are opportunities in restoring the existing land for better quality. The area used by the project like

labor camp, spoil and muck disposal area, quarry sites etc. will be temporarily acquired and will

be rehabilitated to natural condition with proper landscaping before return to the land owner. All

cut and fill area shall be rehabilitated progressively using suitable bioengineering measures. The

quarry operation shall not be carried below the flowing water level of the river.

There will be provision of a good sanitary facilities with adequate toilet, washing tap, drinking

water facilities, and sanitation facilities in the construction camp. Establishment of separate area

for the collection and storage of hazard and toxic material waste including batteries, oil filters,

mobil, burnt oil, bitumen drum will be carried out. Similarly, there will be establishment of

separate storage area for the wastes of packing materials such as plastic bag, jute bags, cardboard,

paper etc. for later reuse or sale.


The project will permanently acquire 14.104 ha of forest land (CF and GMF). So, the project shall

purchase/compensate same area of land in another place. For compensating of 14.104 ha of land,

NRs 20,370,055 (Rs 1,444,275 per ha) is estimated. The land will be purchased in coordination

with DFO and forest users groups. Before handing over, the afforestation will be done in such land

(at the standard ratio of 1600 seedlings per ha). In replaced forest land, 22,566 seedlings (1600

seedlings per ha) will be planted. In total 69,886 number of seedlings will be planted as

compensatory plantation.

The project proponent will provide kerosene to the project workers to avoid the use of firewood

and minimize the loss of forest. The project workers will strictly be prohibited from hunting and

poaching and any other kind of illegal activities related to hunting and poaching. Informative and

warning sign will be placed at relevant construction sites. The project proponent will implement

awareness program to aware local people and member of forest users group of the project area

about the importance of forest conservation and wildlife and economic importance of forest and

its role in rural society. The total biological mitigation (including land cost) and enhancement cost

is estimated to be NRs 50,484,975.

E.8.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

Compensation for Land

The total compensation for the land to be acquired and used by the project is estimated to be NRs.

703,846,976 (NRs 682,446,520 for land acquisition and NRs. 21,400,456 for leased land). The

required land will be acquired according to the Land Acquisition Act, 2034 B.S.

Compensation for Structures

Compensation for the private residential structures and public structures has been estimated to be

NRs. 6,500,000 based on the lumpsum construction cost of the structures. However, compensation

will be provided as the rate determined by the compensation determination committee.

Compensation of Production

The total compensation for the loss of crops is estimated to be NRs. 59,456,250 only.

Rent for Land Lease


EIA Report v NEA-ESSD

Rent for the leased land is estimated to be NRs 21,400,456.

Health, Sanitation and Safety Program

An awareness program will be conducted in the project area to alert local people to the potential

dangers related to health, sanitation and safety. This program will be targeted to the people residing

in and around the vicinity.

Agriculture Intensification Program and Skill Development Program

The project affected people will be benefited from agriculture intensification programs (black

cardamom farming training), micro enterprise creation training and skill development programs

(light vehicle driving and mason trainings) in their own localities.

Community Support Program

Project also aims to support to people/stakeholders/local community organization of each project

affected wards. NRs. 20,000,000 will be allocated for the school support programs, infrastructure

and service facility, renovation of cultural and religious sites as the CSP.

E.9 Environmental Monitoring

Environmental monitoring programs associated with the implementation of the EMP for UAHEP.

It also assists to ensure compliance with environmental laws and in ameliorating or eliminating

adverse impacts.

E.10 Environmental Audit

The Environmental Audit (EA) will be carried out to assess environmental impacts, accuracy of

predictions, the effectiveness of mitigation measures and the monitoring plan. It is intended that

EA should relate actual impacts with predicted impacts which help in evaluating the accuracy and

adequacy of EIA predictions.

E.11 Conclusion

The total land requirement for the implementation of the proposed project will be 102.448ha. There

will be loss of 4732 trees for the RoW clearance and other. A total of 220 HHs will be affected, of

which 10 HHs will be lost their structures. Various mitigation and enhancement measures have

been proposed during the construction and operation phase of the project. The total environmental

cost (mitigation, enhancement, CSR, and monitoring costs) of the proposed project is estimated to

be NRs. 850,352,601/- which is 7.4% of the total project cost (NRs. 1148.8 million).

The EIA concludes that construction of the propose project is environmentally and socially feasible

if the proposed mitigation measures and monitoring plans are properly implemented.


EIA Report vi NEA-ESSD

कार्यकारी सारंश १. आर्ोजनाको प्रस्तावक तथा वातावरणीर् प्रभाव मलुर्ाकंलनको क्रममा संलग्न संस्था प्रस्ताववत अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि पहुुँच मािय आर्ोजनाको प्रस्तावक अपर अरुण हाइड्रो इलेक्ट्रिक गलगमटेड हो । उजाय, जलस्रोत तथा गसंचाई मन्त्रालर्बाट र्स आर्ोजनाको वातावरणीर् प्रभाव मूलर्ाकंन प्रगतवेदन तर्ार िने सवेक्षण अनमुगतपर वव.सं.२०७६÷०५÷२५ प्राप्त भएको हो जसको अवगि वव.स. २०७८÷०५÷२४ सम्म रहेको छ । र्स संस्था अन्त्तियतको वातावरण तथा सामाक्ट्जक अध्र्र्न ववभािले प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच मािय आर्ोजनाको वातावरणीर् प्रभाव मूलर्ाङ्कन (EIA) प्रगतवेदन तर्ार िरेको हो ।

२.० आर्ोजना सम्वन्त्िी वववरण

प्रस्ताववत अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाले स्थानीर् ब्र्गतm तथा सवयसािारणलाई सेर्र प्रदान िनय र्ो आर्ोजनासुँिै ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजना पगन एकसाथ गनमायण िने प्रस्ताव िरेको छ । अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको कार्ायन्त्वर्न िनयका लागि कररव २१.१९ वक.मी. र ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि कररव २ वक.मी. लम्बाईको पहुुँच मािय जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाहरुको गनमायण कार्य शरुु िनुय पूवय नै बनाउन आवश्र्क हनु्त्छ । र्सैले, प्रस्ताववत जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाहरुका अवर्वहरुसम्म सहज पहुुँचको लागि प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको प्रस्ताव िररएको छ । र्सको कार्ायन्त्वर्नले पकै्क पगन नपेालको वतयमान पररदृश्र्मा उजायको क्ट्स्थती सिुार िनय महत्वपूणय भगूमका गनवायह िरी राष्ट्रको सवायङ्गीण ववकासमा सहर्ोि परु्ायउने छ ।

प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच मािय पूवी नेपालको प्रदेश एक अन्त्तरित संखवुासभा क्ट्जललाको भोटखोला िाउुँपागलका र मकाल ुिाउुँपागलकामा अवक्ट्स्थत छ । र्स पहुुँच मािय आर्ोजनाका दईु वटा खण्डहरु रहेका छन ्। पवहलो खण्ड अन्त्तियत अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजना (१०६१ मे.वा.)को लागि भोटखोला िा.पा. मा र दोस्रो खण्ड अन्त्तियत ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि मकाल ुिा.पा. मा प्रस्ताव िररएको पहचुमािय रहेको छ । प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको पवहलो खण्ड (अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि) भोटखोला िा.पा. वडा नं. २ र ४ मा प्रस्ताव िररएको छ । र्ो खण्ड स्र्ाकगसला िाउुँ (झोलङु्गे पलु नक्ट्जक) बाट शरुु भएर भोटखोला िा.पा. कै रुरमा िाउुँ (चेपवुा र अरुण नदीको दोभान) मा पिुी टुवङ्गनेछ भने दोस्रो खण्ड (ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि) मकाल ुिा.पा. वडा नं. ३ मा प्रस्ताव िररएको छ । र्ो खण्ड समाटार िाउुँ (मागथललो भाि) बाट शरुु भई सोवह िा.पा.को समाटार मै पिुी टुवङ्गने छ । प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको कुल लम्बाई २३.१९ वक.गम. (अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि २.०३ वक.गम. सरुुङ्ग मािय र दईु वटा पलु सवहत २१.१९ वक.गम. र ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि एक पलु सवहत २ वक.गम.) रहेको छ । प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच मािय आर्ोजनाको अगिकार क्षेर केन्त्रीर् रेखाबाट दाुँर्ा÷बाुँर्ा १५÷१५ गमटर हनुेछ । पवहलो खण्डको कररव ६० गमटर मकाल ुबरुण संरक्ट्क्षत क्षेरको मध्र्वती क्षेर हदैु गनमायण िने प्रस्ताव िररएको छ


EIA Report vii NEA-ESSD

भने दोस्रो खण्डको सम्पूणय भाि मकाल ुबरुण रावष्ट्रर् गनकुञ्जको मध्र्वती क्षेर गभर रहेको छ । प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच मािय गलम्बूटार, गसबुर्ङ्ग, हेमा, नामसे तथा रुकुमा बस्तीहरु हदैु गनमायण हनुेछ ।

३.० अध्र्र्न ववगि

वातावरण संरक्षण ऐन २०७६, वातावरण संरक्षण गनर्मावली, २०७७ र रावष्ट्रर् वातावरणीर् प्रभाव मंूलर्ाङ्कन गनदेक्ट्शका २०५० को अगिनमा रही र्स आर्ोजनाको वातावरणीर् प्रभाव मलुर्ांकन प्रगतवेदन तर्ार िररएको छ । नेपाल सरकारले ववगभन्न समर्मा गलएको कानूनी प्रकृर्ा, स्थलित अध्र्र्न,

स्थागनर् जनतासंिको अन्त्तरवक्रर्ा आदद र्स प्रगतवेदन तर्ारको सन्र्दभमा गलइएका सामग्रीहरु हनु ्।

अध्र्र्नको क्रममा भौगतक वातावरण अध्र्र्न अन्त्तियत हावापानी, भौिोगलक अवस्था, भ–ूउपर्ोि सम्वन्त्िी तथ्र्ाङ्कहरुको प्रर्ोि िररएकोछ जसमा हावापानी सम्बक्ट्न्त्ि तथ्र्ाङ्कहरु वितीर् श्रोत (जल तथा मौसम ववज्ञान ववभाि) बाट संकलन िररएको छ । र्सैिरी भौिोगलक तथ्र्ाङ्कहरु जस्तै भ–ूबनोट, ढुङ्गा–माटोको प्रकार, जगमनको क्ट्स्थरता तथा अवक्ट्स्थती सम्वक्ट्न्त्ि तथ्र्ाङ्कहरु क्षेगरर् भौिोगलक नरशा तथा नेपालको अन्त्र् भौिोगलक प्रगतवेदनहरुबाट संकलन िररएको छ भने प्रभाववत जग्िाको प्रकार, क्षेरफल आदद स्थलित नरशा, सवेक्षण प्रगतवेदन तथा स्थलित अध्र्र्न आददबाट संकलन िररेएको छ ।

४.० वातावरण सम्वन्त्िी ऐन, गनर्म, गनदेक्ट्शका, काननुी प्राविानहरु र अन्त्तरावष्ट्रर् संझौता÷सहमगत

आर्ोजना कार्ायन्त्वर्न िदाय प्रस्तावकले वातावरण संरक्षणसंि सम्वक्ट्न्त्ित ववद्यमान नीगत, गनर्म, ऐन,

काननु तथा गनदेक्ट्शकाहरुमा तोवकएका मापदण्डहरुलाई ववशेष रुपमा ध्र्ान ददनेछ । आर्ोजना कार्ायन्त्वर्न िदाय र्स संि सम्वक्ट्न्त्ित सम्पणु काननुी दस्तावेजहरुको र्स प्रगतवेदन तर्ारीको क्रममा बाहेक पनुरावलोकन िररएको छ ।

५.० आर्ोजना क्षरेको ववद्यमान वातावरणीर् अवस्था ५.१ भौगतक वातावरण

प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाको २३.१९ वक.मी. पहुुँच मािय भौिोगलक रुपमा नेपालको मध्र् पहाडी क्षेरमा अवक्ट्स्थत छ । र्ो आर्ोजना माियमा ववगभन्न वकगसमका भ–ूबनोट रहेका छन,् केही गभरालोपन सवहतका ठाडो गभरालो जगमन, खेती िररएका जगमन र खोलानाला आदी । प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच मािय रहने जगमनको सतहको उचाईित गभन्नता अपर अरुण जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको १०९४.१३ गम. देक्ट्ख २०५२.६५८ गम. र ईखवुाखोला जलववद्यतु आर्ोजनाको लागि प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको ९०५.१४ गम. देक्ट्ख १०४५.४७ गम. सम्म रहेको छ ।

प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाको पहुुँच माियले कुल १०२.४४८ हे. क्षेरफल जगमनमा प्रभाव पने देक्ट्खन्त्छ । पहुुँच मािय क्षेरगभर पने जगमनका प्रकारहरुमा खेतीर्ोग्र् जगमन, वनक्षेर र बाुँझो जगमन (खरबारी) आदद पदयछन ्। र्स पहुुँच माियमा गनमायणको लागि सडक, सरुुङ्ग तथा पलुको लागि ५९.८१ प्रगतशत


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खेतीर्ोग्र् जगमन, १९.२९ प्रगतशत बाुँझो जगमन (खरबारी), १३.७७ प्रगतशत जंिल र ७.१३ प्रगतशत नदद÷खोलसी र िोरेटो बाटो वकगसमका जगमन प्रभाववत हनुे छन ्।

५.२ जैववक वातावरण र्सैिरी आर्ोजना प्रभाववत िाउुँपागलकामा कुल २८ वटा (भोटखोला िा.पा. मा १९ वटा र मकाल ुिा.पा. मा ९ वटा) सामदुावर्क वन रहेका छन ्र्सको अगतररक्त, मकाल ुबरुण रावष्ट्रर् गनकुञ्ज र र्सको मध्र्वती क्षेर रहेका छन ्। प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियले दईु वटा सामदुावर्क वनहरु पारीपाखा सामदुावर्क वन र मारपालङु्ग सामदुावर्क वनलाई प्रभाव पानेछ । र्सको अगतररक्त, प्रस्ताववत पहुुँच माियको केही खण्ड मकाल ुबरुण रावष्ट्रर् गनकुञ्जको मध्र्वती क्षेरमा समेत रहेको छ । वनक्षेरको वनहरुले उपोष्ण देक्ट्ख तललो समगसतो देक्ट्ख प्रकारको वनस्पगतलाई समेट्छ ।

५.३. सामाक्ट्जक, आगथयक तथा सास्कृगतक वातावरण

प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाबाट प्रभाववत पररवारहरु मध्रे् १९० पररवारहरुको घरिरुी सवेक्षण िररएको गथर्ो । सवेक्षणबाट प्राप्त तथ्र्ाङ्क अनसुार प्रभाववत पररवारहरुको कूल जनसंख्र्ा १,०२७ रहेको छ । जसमध्रे् मवहला ५३३ (५१.९० प्रगतशत) र परुुष संख्र्ा ४५४ (४८.१० प्रगतशत) छन ्। औसत पररवार संख्र्ा ५.४ र लैवङ्गक अनपुात ०.९३ रहेको छ । कूल प्रभाववत पररवारहरुमा अगिकांस (९८.१५ प्रगतशत) जनजाती समहुहरु (भोटे, िरुुङ्ग, नेवार, राई, शेपाय, तामाङ) रहेका छन ्भने केवह दगलत–कामी (१.५८ प्रगतशत) पगन रहेका छन ्। र्हाुँको बोलीचालीको भाषा आफ्नै जाती ववशेषको रहेको छ भने आफ्नो जातीीर् समहु बाहेक गभन्न समहुसुँि बोलने भाषाको माध्र्म नेपाली रहेको छ । सवेक्षण िररएका पाुँच वषय वा सो भन्त्दा मागथका उमेर समहुको औषत साक्षरता ५६.१६ प्रगतशत रहेका छ जसमा पूरुषको साक्षरता दर ६०.०९ प्रगतशत रहेको छ भने मवहलाको साक्षरता दर ५२.४७ प्रगतशत रहेको छ ।

र्हाुँका जनसंख्र्ाको मखु्र् पेशा कृवष तथा पशपुालन भएपगन घरिरुी सवेक्षण अनसुार र्हाुँ िेरै जसो (९६.३२ प्रगतशत) पररवारहरुमा खाद्यान्नको अभाव रहेको देक्ट्खन्त्छ । सवेक्षण िररएका ३.६८ प्रगतशत पररवारलाई मार वषयभरी खाना पगु्ने खाद्यान्न रहेको पाइर्ो । र्िवप, र्हाुँका मागनसहरु अलैची खेती प्रगत आकय वषत भई मनग्रे् रुपमा आम्दानी िरी जीवन गनवायह िरेको पाइर्ो ।

सवेक्षण िररएका ९५.७९ प्रगतशत पररवारलाई आर्ोजना सम्बन्त्िी जानकारी रहेको पाइर्ो । ६४.७४ प्रगतशत पररवार आर्ोजना प्रगत सकरात्मक रहेको पाइर्ो भने १८.४२ प्रगतशत, ८.९५ प्रगतशत र ७.८९ प्रगतशत क्रमशः नकरात्मक, तठस्थ र आर्ोजना सम्बन्त्िी ववस्ततृ जानकारी नभएको पाइर्ो । र्सैिरी, सवेक्षण िररएको पररवार मध्रे् ५३.६८ प्रगतशतले आर्ोजनाबाट उक्ट्चत मआुब्जाको अपेक्षा राखेको पाइर्ो भने रोजिार, ववद्यतु सवुविा तथा स्थानीर् ववकासको अपेक्षा राख्न े पररवार क्रमशः ३३.६८ प्रगतशत, ८.९५ प्रगतशत तथा ३.६८ प्रगतशत रहेको पाइर्ो ।


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६.० वैकक्ट्लपक ववश्लषेण

वातावरण संरक्षण ऐन, २०७६ बमोक्ट्जम र्स प्रगतवेदनमा आर्ोजनाको सम्भाव्र्ता तथा वातावरणीर् अध्र्र्नको बैकक्ट्लपक ववश्लषेण तलुनात्मक रुपमा िररएको छ । वैकक्ट्लपक ववश्लषेण िदाय उपर्कु्त प्रववगि, गडजाइन, आर्ोजना क्षेरको भौिोगलक अवस्था, सामाक्ट्जक आगथयक पक्ष तथा अन्त्र् व्र्वहाररक पक्षहरु लिार्त वातावरणीर् दृविकोणले उपर्कु्त ववकलप समेतका ववषर्हरुलाई ध्र्ान ददईएको छ । साथै आर्ोजना बनाउुँदा टनेल सवहत र टनेल ववनाको ववकलपहरु पगन अध्र्र्न प्रगतवेदनमा समावेस िररएको छ ।

७.० वातावणीर् प्रभाव ७.१ भौगतक वातावरण

आर्ोजना गनमायणको चरणमा स्थार्ी र अस्थार्ी रुपमा गलइने जग्िा नै प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाको भौगतक वातावरणमा पने प्रमखु प्रभावको रुपमा गलइएको छ । आर्ोजनालाई कूल १०२.४४८ हे. (स्थार्ी प्रर्ोजनको लागि ६१.१४५ हे. र अस्थार्ी प्रर्ोजनको लागि ४१.३०३ हे.) । कुल प्रभाववत जग्िा मध्रे् कररव ६१.२७२ हे. कृवषर्ोग्र् जगमन, १४.१०४ हे. वन जंिल (सरकारी वन र सामदुावर्क वन सवहत), १९.७६३ हे. बाुँझो जगमन र ७.३०९ हे. अन्त्र् जगमन पहुुँचमािय गनमायणको लािी आवश्र्क पनेछ ।

आर्ोजना गनमायणको समर्मा गनमायण क्षेर नक्ट्जक रहेका वस्तीहरुमा वार् ुर ध्वनी प्रदूषण बढ्न सरनेछ । गनमायण कार्य, गनमायण सामािी्रको ढुवानी, उत्खनन,् गड्रगलङ, ब्लाक्ट्स्टङ, भारी उपकरणहरुको संचालन,

क्रसर सञ्चालन, आदद कार्यले वातावरणमा िुुँवा, िलुो, ध्वगन, आदद उत्सजयन िरी वातावरणलाई प्रदवुषत बनाउन सरनेछ । गनमायणजन्त्र् तथा रर्ाम्पको घरेल ुफोहरमैला र ढलको कारण जल र जगमन प्रदषुण हनुे सम्भावना रहन्त्छ । आर्ोजनाका ववगभन्न अवर्वहरुको गनमायण क्रममा नक्ट्जकै रहेका खोला÷नदीको पानीको िणुस्तरमा नकरात्मक प्रभाव पानय सरनेछ । र्सैिरी सरुुङ्ग मािय तथा पलुको गनमायण चरणमा नक्ट्जकका खोलाहरुमा अगतररक्त पानी जम्मा हनु िई खोलाहरु दवुषत बनाउने सम्भावना हनु्त्छ । पहचु मािय गनमायणको क्रममा जगमनको गभरालोपनले िदाय माटो काट्ने तथा गमलाउने िनुय पदाय त्र्हा भकु्षर् हनुे प्रवल सम्भावना रहन्त्छ ।

७.२ जैववक वातावरण जैववक वातावरण अन्त्तियत पने मखु्र् प्रभाव क्षेरमा प्रभाववत सामदुावर्क वन तथा सरकारी वनहरुमा पाइने वनस्पगत तथा वन्त्र्जन्त्तहुरुमा पने प्रभाव हो । प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाबाट २ वटा सामदुावर्क वनको तथा सरकारी वनको क्षेर प्रभाववत हनुेछ । आर्ोजना गनमायण िदाय २ वटा सामदुावर्क वन क्षेरबाट ववगभन्न २५ प्रजातीका कुल ४५३० वटा रुखहरु काट्न ुपने देक्ट्खन्त्छ जनु २२८८५.५९ रर्वुवक घन वफट बार्ोमास र १७६०६.१२ रर्वुवक वफट दाउरा बराबर हनु आउुँछ । र्सैिरी, रावष्ट्रर् वनक्षेरबाट ववगभन्न १४ प्रजागतका कुल ११४ वटा रुखहरु काट्न ु पने देक्ट्खन्त्छ जनु १५८७.५७ रर्वुवक वफट वार्ोमास र १.६८ छट्टा दाउरा बरावर हनु्त्छ ।


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आर्ोजनाको गनमायणबाट मकाल ुबरुण रावष्ट्रर् गनकुञ्जको मध्र्वती क्षेरको (गनजी स्वागमत्वमा रहेको खेतीर्ोग्र् जगमन) कररव ६.८०७ हेरटर जगमन प्रत्र्क्ष रुपमा प्रभाववत हनुे देक्ट्खन्त्छ भने उक्त जगमनमा रहेको ववगभन्न २१ प्रजागतका कररव ८८ रुखहरु कटान िनुयपने देक्ट्खन्त्छ । जङ्गल गभर गनमायण कार्य तथा रुखहरुको कटानले जीवजन्त्तकुो वहड्डलु तथा वासस्थानमा असर पनय सरने देक्ट्खन्त्छ । र्सका अगतररक्त वनजङ्गलबाट उपलब्ि हनुे वन पैदावार तथा सेवाको पगन क्षर् हनु्त्छ । त्र्सैिरी, आर्ोजनाका कामदार र िैरकामदारले िनय सरने काठदाउराको प्रर्ोि, िैर काष्ठ वन पैदावारको प्रर्ोि, जंिली जीवजन्त्तकुो चोरी–गसकारीले वनलाई प्रत्र्क्ष प्रभाव पाने सम्भावना रहन्त्छ । र्सले िदाय स्थानीर् जैववक वववविता र गतनको वासस्थानमा नकारात्मक प्रभाव पनय सरनेछ ।

७.३ सामाक्ट्जक, आगथयक तथा सासं्कृगतक वातावरण

आर्ोजनाको कार्ायन्त्वर्नबाट २२० पररवार प्रभाववत हनुेछन।् आर्ोजनाको लागि अगिग्रहण िररने कुल जगमन मध्रे्, ८०.९३७ हेरटर गनजी जगमन रहेको छ । जस मध्रे् ४९.७४१ हेरटर स्थार्ी रुपमा तथा ३१.१९६ हेरटर अस्थार्ी रुपमा उपर्ोि िररनेछ । आर्ोजना क्षेरमा िररएको स्थलित गनररक्षण तथा प्रत्र्क्ष नापजाुँचबाट पहुुँच माियमा कुल १० वटा व्र्क्ट्क्तित संरचनाहरु (आवासीर् संरचना), श्री बरुण आिारभतू ववद्यालर्को कम्पाउण्ड वाल, एक फलैचा (आराम िने स्थल), तथा दईु वटा साुँस्कृगतक संरचना (माने) जस्ता सावयजगनक संरचनाहरु प्रत्र्क्ष रुपमा प्रभाववत हनुेछन ्जसलाई आर्ोजना गनमायणको क्रममा हटाउन ु पनेछ । कृवषर्ोग्र् जगमनमा संरचना बनाउदा त्र्समा हनुे उत्पादन घट्नेछ । आर्ोजनाको कार्ायन्त्वर्नले िदाय वावषयक कररव २२.६५ मे.ट. अलैची (६७.९५ मे.ट. तीन वषयको लागि) स्थार्ी रुपमा क्षगत हनुे अनमुान िररएको छ भने गनजी जगमनमा भएका ववगभन्न ३४ प्रजागतका कुल १,४६३ रुख ववरुवाहरु कटान िनुयपने देक्ट्खन्त्छ । र्सैिरी, आर्ोजना कार्ायन्त्वर्नको कारण कृवष जगमन खक्ट्ण्डकरण हनुकुा साथै सो जगमनको उभयरापनमा हस आउने छ । जसको कारण प्रभाववत पररवारको जीवन गनवायहमा प्रभाव पनय सरनेछ ।

८.० प्रभाव न्त्रू्नीकरणका उपार्हरु

८.१ भौगतक वातावरण

पहुुँच मािय गनमायणको लागि खगनएको जगमनमा पने असरलाई रोरन सवकदैन । तर, हाल सवक्रर् रहेका पवहरोहरुलाई पवहचान िरी रोकथाम िररनेछ । वार्ो–इक्ट्न्त्जगनर्ररङ प्रववगिको प्रर्ोिले जगमनको क्ट्स्थरता िराइनेछ । सतहको माटोलाई सकंलन िरी गनमायण कार्य समागप्त पश्चात पनुः प्रर्ोि िररनेछ । गनमायण क्षेरमा प्रर्ाप्त शौचालर्, नहुाउने िारा, खानेपानी सवुविा र सरसफाई सवुविा सवहत राम्रो सरसफाईको व्र्वस्था हनुेछ । गनमायण सामाग्री भण्डारणको लागि बाुँझो वा रुख गबरुवा नभएको स्थानलाई छनोट िररनेछ । कामदारहरुलाई ववगभन्न सरुक्षा सामाग्रीहरु जस्तै इर्र िाडय, हेलमेट, पन्त्जा, बूट, आदद उपलब्ि िराईनेछ । फोहोरको उक्ट्चत ब्र्वस्थापन िररनेछ । रर्ाम्पमा चपी र सेक्ट्टटक ट्याकं बनाइनेछ । सामाग्री भण्डारण िररएको स्थानलाई राम्रोसंि तारबार िररनेछ । आर्ोजनामा प्रर्ोि हनुे सवारी सािनको गनर्गमत ममयत सम्भार िररनेछ । प्रसेर हनय गनषेि िररनेछ । आर्ोजनाले भौगतक वातावरणमा


EIA Report xi NEA-ESSD

पनय सरने प्रभावहरुलाई गडजाइनको समर् देक्ट्खनै ख्र्ाल िररनेछ र कगतपर् उपार्हरुलाई आर्ोजना गनमायण लाितमा नै समावेश िररनेछ ।

८.२ जैववक वातावरण

प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजनाले स्थार्ी रुपमा वनक्षेरको १४.१०४ हे. (सामदुावर्क वन र सरकारी वन) जगमन अगिग्रहण िनेछ । सो बापतको जग्िा आर्ोजनाले अन्त्र् ठाउुँमा खररद िरेर ददन वा सो जग्िाको मजुाब्जा प्रदान िने छ । र्सको लागि रु २०,३७०,०५५ (प्रगत हेरटर १,४४४,२७५ को दरमा) खचय हनुे अनमुान िररएको छ । खररद िररने जगमन सम्बक्ट्न्त्ित गडगभजन वन कार्ायलर् र वन उपभोक्ता समहुहरुको सहकार्यमा िररने छ । प्रगतस्थावपत वनक्षेरमा प्रगत हेरटर १६०० ववरुवाको दरले २२,५६६ वटा ववरुवा सवहत कुल ६९, ८८६ वटा ववरुवा वकृ्षारोपण िररने छ ।

रुख ववरुवाको िैरकाननुी कटान र वन क्षेरको अगतक्रमण जस्ता कार्यहरु पूणय रुपमा गनषेि िररनेछ। आर्ोजनाको कामदारहरुको लागि खाना पकाउन एल.वप. ग्र्ाुँसको प्रर्ोिलाई अगनवार्य िररनेछ । र्स्तो व्र्वस्था खासिरी आर्ोजनामा कार्यरत कामदारहरुको लागि तर्ार िररएको आवास क्षेर र गनमायण क्षेरमा िररनेछ । वन्त्र्जन्त्त ुसंरक्षण सम्बक्ट्न्त्ि जनचेतनामलुक कार्यक्रम र तागलम सम्बक्ट्न्त्ित गडगभजन वन कार्ायलर् र सामदुावर्क वन उपभोक्ता समहुसंि समन्त्वर् र सम्पकय िरी त्र्स्ता संस्थाहरु र स्थानीर् समदुार्लाई संरक्षण कार्यमा प्रत्र्क्ष रुपमा सररक िराइने छ । आर्ोजनाले स्थानीर् प्रशासन, राजनैगतक नेततृ्व तथा गडगभजन वन कार्ायलर्संि समन्त्वर् िरी अवैि रुपमा रुख कटानलाई गनरुत्सावहत िने उिेश्र्ले सचेतनामूलक कार्यक्रम संचालन िनेछ । आर्ोजनाका कामदारहरुलाई रुख कटान िनय पूणय प्रगतबन्त्ि लिाइने छ । जैववक वातावरण अन्त्तियतको प्रभाव न्त्रू्नीकरण तथा क्षमता अगभबदृिको लागि जम्मा रु. ५०,४८४,९७५।– (वनक्षेरको जग्िाको लाित सवहत) लाग्न ेअनमुान िररएको छ ।

८.३ सामाक्ट्जक, आगथयक तथा सासं्कृगतक वातावरण

जग्िाको मआुब्जा स्थार्ी रुपमा अगिग्रहण िररने कररव ६९.६४५ हे. जग्िाको क्षगतपूगतय स्वरुप रु ९५५,५२९,४००।–

रकम आवश्र्क हनु े अनमुान िररएको छ । जग्िा प्रागप्त ऐन, २०३४ अनसुार आवश्र्क जग्िा अगिग्रहण िररनेछ । मआुब्जा गनिायरण सगमतीले प्रभाववत जगमनको मआुब्जा गनिायरण िनेछ । संरचना क्षगतपूगतय संरचनाको (गनजी र सावयजगनक संरचना सवहत) क्षगतपूगतय स्वरुप रु ६,५००,०००।– खचय हनुे अनमुान िररएको छ। प्रभाववत संरचनाको क्षगतपूगतय क्षगतपूगतय गनिायरण सगमतीले गनिायरण िरे बमोक्ट्जम हनुेछ । उत्पादन क्षगतपूगतय अलैची वालीको क्षगतपूगतयको लागि जम्मा रु ५९,४५६,२५०।– खचय हनुे अनमुान िररएको छ ।

गलजका गलइने जगमनको लागि भाडा आर्ोजनाको लागि गलजमा गलइन ेजगमनको लागि रु१८,४६५,०६२।– खचय हनुे अनमुान िररएको छ।


EIA Report xii NEA-ESSD

स्वास्थ्र्, सरसफाई तथा सरुक्षा स्थागनर्हरुलाई स्वास्थ्र्, सरुक्षा र सरसफाई सम्बन्त्िी सम्भाववत खतराहरूबाट जोगिन आर्ोजना क्षेरमा सचेतना कार्यक्रम सञ्चालन िनेछ । र्स कार्यक्रममा ववषेशिरी आर्ोजना प्रभाववत मागनसहरू प्रगत लक्ट्क्षत हनुेछ । कृवष क्षमता बवृि तथा दक्षता अगभववृि कार्यक्रम

आर्ोजना कार्ायन्त्वर्नको कारण प्रभाववत पररवारको लागि आर्ोजना गनमायण चरणमा रोजिारमा प्राथगमकता ददइने छ । र्सका साथै, िक्ट्म्भर रुपमा प्रभाववत पररवारलाई लक्ट्क्षत िरी आर्ोजनाले कृवष तथा क्षमता ववकास सम्बन्त्िी सीपमूलक तागलमहरु सञ्लालन िनेछ । सामाक्ट्जक उत्तरदावर्त्व (सहर्ोि) कार्यक्रम

आर्ोजना प्रभाववत वडामा ववद्यालर् सहर्ोि कार्यक्रम, पूवायिार सेवा सवुविा जस्ता कार्यहरु लिार्त प्रभाववत क्षेर नक्ट्जकै रहेका सांस्कृगतक तथा िागमयक स्थलहरुको संरक्षण, सिुार र स्तरोन्नगत िनय ववक्ट्त्तर् सहर्ोि प्रदान िररनेछ । र्सको लागि रु २०,०००,००० रकम छुट्याइने छ ।

९.० वातावरणीर् अनिुमन

आर्ोजनाको अनिुमन अपर अरुण आर्ोजनाको पहचु माियको वातावरणीर् व्र्ावस्थापन र्ोजनाको प्रभावकारी कार्ायन्त्वर्न सुँि सम्वक्ट्न्त्ित छ । र्सले वातावरणीर् काननुहरुको पूणय पालना िराउनकुा साथै नकारात्मक प्रभावहरुको न्त्रू्नीकरणमा सहर्ोि िदयछ ।

१०.० वातावरणीर् परीक्षण

आर्ोजनाको वातावरणीर् प्रभावहरु, आुँकलन िरीएका प्रभावहरुको पररक्षण तथा प्रभाव न्त्रू्नीकरणका उपार्हरुको प्रभावकाररता पररक्षणका लािी वातावरणीर् पररक्षण िररन्त्छ । र्सले वातावरणीर् अध्र्र्नको प्रभाव आुँकलन िने क्षमता र त्र्सको प्रभावकारीताको पररक्षण िदयछ । ११.० गनश्कषय प्रस्ताववत आर्ोजना कार्ायन्त्वर्नको लागि कुल १०२.४४८ हे. जगमनको आवश्र्कता पनेछ । आर्ोजना गनमायणको क्रममा जम्मा ४७३२ वटा रुखहरु कटान िनुय पनेछ । कुल २२० घरिरुीहरु प्रत्र्क्ष रुपमा प्रभाववत हनुेछन ्जसमध्रे् १० पररवारको संरचना प्रभाववत हनुेछ । र्स प्रगतवेदनमा आर्ोजना प्रभाववतहरुको लागि ववगभन्न क्षगतपूगतय तथा क्षमता अगभबवृिका कार्यक्रमहरु प्रस्ताव िररएको छ । कुल वातावरणीर् व्र्वस्थापन लाित रु. ८50,352,60१÷– -कुल आर्ोजना लाित रकम रु.११४८.८ गमगलर्न÷– को ७.४) लाग्ने अनमुान िररएको छ । जनु लाितमा न्त्रू्गनकरणका कार्यक्रमहरुको साथसाथै अनिुमन कार्य पगन समावेश िरीएको छ ।

प्रस्ततु आर्ोजनाको कार्ायन्त्वर्न िदाय मागथ प्रस्ततु िररएको न्त्रू्गनकरणका उपार्हरु र अनिुमन र्ोजना अनसुार िररएको खण्डमा र्ो आर्ोजना सामाक्ट्जक र वातावरणीर् दृविकोणले उपर्कु्त देक्ट्खन्त्छ ।

Access Road of UAHEP Acronyms and Abbreviations

EIA Report xi NEA-ESSD

Acronyms and Abbreviations

BOD : Biological Oxygen Demand

CBS : Central Bureau of Statistics

CDC : Compensation Determination Committee

CDR : Crude Death Rate

CFUG : Community Forest Users' Group

CITES : Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora

and Fauna

CSP : Community Support Program

DBH : Diameter at Breast Height

DCC : District Coordination Committee

DFO : Division Forest Office

DHM : Department of Hydrology and Meteorology

DIA : Direct Impact Area

DMG : Department of Mines and Geology

DNPWC : Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

DO : Dissolved Oxygen

DoI : Department of Irrigation

EIA : Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP : Environment Management Plan

EPR : Environment Protection Rules

ERT : Electrical Resistivity Tomography

ESSD : Environment and Social Studies Department

FGD : Focus Group Discussion

GIS : Geographical Information System

GoN : Government of Nepal

GPS : Global Positioning System

GRU : Grievance Redress Unit

HEP : Hydroelectric Project

HHs : Households

IIA : Indirect Impact Area

IKHEP : Ikhuwa Khola Hydroelectric Project

ILO : International Labour Organization

IMR : Infant Mortality Rate

INGO : International Non-governmental Organization

INPS : Integrated Nepal Power System

IUCN : International Union for Conservation of Nature

KII : Key Informant Interview

LARU : Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Unit

LCF : Local Consultative Forum

LPG : Liquefied Petroleum Gas

MBNP : Makalu Barun National Park

MBT : Main Boundary Thrust


EIA Report xii NEA-ESSD

MCT : Main Central Thrust

MoEn : Ministry of Energy (the then)

MoEWRI : Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

MoFE : Ministry of Forests and Environment

MoFSC : Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation (the then)

MS : Microsoft

NAAQS : National Ambient Air Quality Standards

NEA : Nepal Electricity Authority

NGO : Non-governmental Organization

NNQS : National Noise Quality Standards

NTFPs : Non-Timber Forest Products

ODF : Open Defecation Free

PAA : Project Affected Area

PAD : Project Affected District

PAFs : Project Affected Families

PIA : Project Influence Area

PMO : Project Manager Office

PoE : Panel of Experts

PPE : Personal Protective Equipment

RCC : Reinforced Concrete Cement

RM : Rural Municipality

RoW : Right-of-Way

SD : Scoping Document

SPAFs : Seriously Project Affected Families

ToR : Terms of Reference

TSS : Total Suspended Solids

TSPM : Total Suspended Particulate Matter

UAHEP : Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project

VDC : Village Development Committee

WHO : World Health Organization

Units

°C : Degree Centigrade

BS : Bikram Sambat

GWh : Giga Watt Hour

ha : Hectare

km : Kilometer

kw : Kilo watt

kwh : Kilo watt hour

masl : Meter Above Sea Level

m3/s : Cubic Meter per Second

km2 : Square kilometer

MCM : Million Cubic Meters

MT : Metric Ton

MW : Megawatt

USD : United States Dollar

Access Road of UAHEP List of Tables

EIA Report xvii NEA-ESSD

Table of Contents Executive Summary ___________________________________________________________ i

Acronyms and Abbreviations __________________________________________________ xi

Table of Contents __________________________________________________________ xvii

1 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA _______________________________ 1-1

1.1 Project Proponent ___________________________________________________ 1-1

1.2 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA ___________________________ 1-1

1.3 Rationality for Conducting EIA _______________________________________ 1-1

1.4 Objectives of the EIA ________________________________________________ 1-2

1.5 Scope of the EIA ____________________________________________________ 1-2

2 Introduction ____________________________________________________________ 2-1

2.1 Background ________________________________________________________ 2-1

2.2 Project Description __________________________________________________ 2-1

2.2.1 Project Components ________________________________________________ 2-1

2.2.2 Project Ancillary Facilities ___________________________________________ 2-5

2.2.3 Requirement of the Project ___________________________________________ 2-6

2.3 Salient Features of the Project _________________________________________ 2-7

2.4 Objectives of the Project _____________________________________________ 2-7

3 Study Methodology ______________________________________________________ 3-1

3.1 Literature Review ___________________________________________________ 3-1

3.1.1 Physical Environment _______________________________________________ 3-1

3.1.2 Biological Environment _____________________________________________ 3-1

3.1.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ______________________________ 3-1

3.2 Delineation of Project Impact Area_____________________________________ 3-1

3.2.1 Project Affected District _____________________________________________ 3-2

3.2.2 Project Affected Municipality/RM _____________________________________ 3-2

3.3 Data Collection _____________________________________________________ 3-2




3.4 Data Analysis _______________________________________________________ 3-4




3.5 Public Involvement __________________________________________________ 3-5

3.5.1 Public Notice and Recommendation Letters______________________________ 3-5

3.5.2 Consultation during EIA _____________________________________________ 3-6

3.5.3 Public Hearing ____________________________________________________ 3-6

4 Review of Project Related Policies and Legal Provisions _______________________ 4-1

5 Existing Environmental Condition _________________________________________ 5-1

5.1 Physical Environment ________________________________________________ 5-1

5.1.1 Topography _______________________________________________________ 5-1

5.1.2 Land Use _________________________________________________________ 5-1

5.1.3 Climate __________________________________________________________ 5-2

5.1.4 Geology and Geomorphology _________________________________________ 5-2


EIA Report xviii NEA-ESSD

5.1.5 Seismology _______________________________________________________ 5-4

5.1.6 Air and Noise Quality _______________________________________________ 5-5

5.1.7 Surface and Ground Water ___________________________________________ 5-5

5.1.8 Hydrology and Drainage Patterns ______________________________________ 5-5

5.1.9 Soil Erosion and Land Stability _______________________________________ 5-6

5.2 Biological Environment ______________________________________________ 5-8

5.2.1 Vegetation and Forest Resources ______________________________________ 5-8

5.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment _____________________________ 5-13

5.3.1 Project Affected District (PAD) ______________________________________ 5-13

5.3.2 Project Affected Area (PAA) ________________________________________ 5-13

5.3.3 Project Affected Wards _____________________________________________ 5-13

5.3.4 Project Affected Families (PAFs) _____________________________________ 5-14

6 Alternative Analysis _____________________________________________________ 6-1

6.1 Introduction ________________________________________________________ 6-1

6.2 Alignment alternative ________________________________________________ 6-1

6.3 Alternative Study with Tunnel ________________________________________ 6-4

6.4 Alternative Alignment at Sibrun Village ________________________________ 6-6

7 Environmental Impacts of the Project ______________________________________ 7-1


7.1.1 Construction Phase _________________________________________________ 7-1

7.1.2 Operation Phase ___________________________________________________ 7-4



7.2.2 Operation Phase __________________________________________________ 7-10

7.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment _____________________________ 7-12

7.3.1 Acquisition of land and Structure _____________________________________ 7-12

7.3.2 Loss of Crops ____________________________________________________ 7-14

7.3.3 Loss of Trees from Private Land _____________________________________ 7-14

7.3.4 Fragmentation and Degradation of Agricultural Land _____________________ 7-14

7.3.5 Decrease in Agriculture Production and Impact on Livelihood ______________ 7-15

7.3.6 Health, Water Supply and Sanitation __________________________________ 7-15

7.3.7 Occupational Hazards and Safety _____________________________________ 7-16

7.3.8 Road Accidents and Safety __________________________________________ 7-16

7.3.9 Gender and Vulnerable group ________________________________________ 7-16

7.3.10 Economic Activities _____________________________________________ 7-17

7.3.11 Religious, Historical and Archeological Site __________________________ 7-17

7.3.12 Infrastructure and Service Facility __________________________________ 7-18

7.3.13 Local Tradition and Culture _______________________________________ 7-18

7.3.14 Law and Order _________________________________________________ 7-18

7.3.15 Impacts on Landscape and Aesthetics Beauty _________________________ 7-18

8 Beneficial Impacts Enhancement and Adverse Impacts Mitigation Measures ______ 8-1



8.1.2 Operation Phase ___________________________________________________ 8-4



EIA Report xix NEA-ESSD

8.2.1 Minimizing the Forest Clearance ______________________________________ 8-5

8.2.2 Compensatory Plantation and Forest Land Replacement ____________________ 8-5

8.2.3 Harvesting Cost ____________________________________________________ 8-6

8.2.4 Compensation to Private Tree loss _____________________________________ 8-6

8.2.5 Supply of Fuel to Workers ___________________________________________ 8-6

8.2.6 Controlling Encroachment of nearby Forest ______________________________ 8-6

8.2.7 Controlling NTFPs Collection ________________________________________ 8-6

8.2.8 Habitat Loss and fragmentation _______________________________________ 8-7

8.2.9 Restriction on Hunting and Poaching ___________________________________ 8-7

8.2.10 Minimizing impacts of Construction Disturbances ______________________ 8-7

8.2.11 Impacts on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna _______________________ 8-7

8.2.12 Fire hazards _____________________________________________________ 8-7

8.2.13 Enhancement Measures ___________________________________________ 8-8

8.2.14 Awareness on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation _____________ 8-8

8.2.15 Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) Training _________________________ 8-8

8.2.16 Habitat Conservation Program ______________________________________ 8-8

8.2.17 Biological Mitigation and Enhancement Cost __________________________ 8-8

8.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ______________________________ 8-9

8.3.1 Mitigation Measures ________________________________________________ 8-9

8.3.2 Enhancement Measures ____________________________________________ 8-14

8.3.3 Summary of Socio-economic Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost ________ 8-17

9 Environmental Monitoring _______________________________________________ 9-1

9.1 Environmental Monitoring ___________________________________________ 9-1

9.2 Objectives of Monitoring _____________________________________________ 9-1

9.2.1 Environmental Monitoring Plans ______________________________________ 9-1

9.2.2 Monitoring Location and Agencies Responsible for Monitoring ______________ 9-2

9.2.3 Monitoring Cost ___________________________________________________ 9-2

10 Environmental Audit ___________________________________________________ 10-1

10.1 Environmental Audit in Nepal ________________________________________ 10-1

10.2 Types of Auditing __________________________________________________ 10-1

10.3 Agencies Responsible for Auditing ____________________________________ 10-1

10.4 Elements to Environmental Examination/Audit report ___________________ 10-1

10.5 Environmental Auditing Schedule and Cost ____________________________ 10-3

11 Conclusion and Commitment ____________________________________________ 11-1

11.1 Conclusion ________________________________________________________ 11-1

11.2 Commitment ______________________________________________________ 11-1

12 References ____________________________________________________________ 12-1

13 Appendix _____________________________________________________________ 13-1

14 Environmental Management Plan_________________________________________ 14-2

14.1 Introduction _______________________________________________________ 14-2

14.2 Objectives of EMP _________________________________________________ 14-2

14.3 Environment Legislation ____________________________________________ 14-2

14.4 Environmental Management Plan_____________________________________ 14-2

14.4.1 Environmental Management Activities ______________________________ 14-2

14.4.2 Permits and Approval Plan ________________________________________ 14-3


EIA Report xx NEA-ESSD

14.4.3 Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan ___________________________ 14-4

14.4.4 Muck /Soil Disposal Site Management Plan __________________________ 14-4

14.4.5 Road side and down slope protection plan ____________________________ 14-5

14.4.6 Pollution Abatement Plan _________________________________________ 14-7

14.4.7 Sanitation and waste disposal management plan _______________________ 14-8

14.4.8 Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Management Plan _____________________ 14-8

14.4.9 Public Health and Occupational Safety Management Plan _______________ 14-8

14.4.10 Grievance Redress Management Plan _______________________________ 14-9

14.5 Environment Management Approach _________________________________ 14-9

14.5.1 Pre-construction Phase ___________________________________________ 14-9

14.5.2 Construction Phase ______________________________________________ 14-9

14.5.3 Operation Phase ________________________________________________ 14-9

14.6 Implementation Approach and Mechanism ____________________________ 14-10

14.6.1 Project Stakeholders for Environmental Management __________________ 14-10

14.6.2 Institutional Arrangement and Responsibility ________________________ 14-10

14.6.3 Reporting Requirements _________________________________________ 14-14

List of Appendices Appendix A: Concerned Letters

Appendix A-I: Consent letter from MoFE

Appendix B: Documents related to Physical Environment

Appendix B-I- Related to Chapter 2 - Introduction

1.1 Construction Planning

1.2 Project Construction Schedule

1.2.1 Crossing over Arun River at Gola

1.2.2 Chepuwa Khola Crossing

Appendix B-2: Related to Chapter 3 - Methodology

1.1 Landslide Susceptibility/Hazard mapping

Appendix B-3: Related to Chapter-3, Existing Environment

Appendix C: Document related to Biological Environment

Appendix C-1: Related to Chapter 3-Methodology

Appendix C-2: Related to Chapter 5-Introduction

Appendix D: Documents related to Socio-economic Environment

Appendix D-1: Related to Chapter-5 (Existing Environmental Condition)

Appendix D-2: Related to Chapter 7-Environmental Impact

Appendix D-3: Related to Chapter 8 (Mitigation Measures)

Appendix E: List of Participants during Consultation Meeting

Appendix F: Public Notice

Appendix G: Recommendation Letters and Public Deeds

Appendix H: Public Consultation and Public Hearing

Appendix I: Monitoring Cost

Appendix J: Review of Policies and Legal Provision

Appendix K: World Bank Funding Letter

Appendix L: Declaration

Appendix M: Approved ToR


EIA Report xxi NEA-ESSD

List of Tables

Table 2-1. Design Parameters of Access Road ............................................................................ 2-2

Table 2-2: Adopted Gradients ...................................................................................................... 2-2

Table 2-3: Road embankment Side Slope .................................................................................... 2-3

Table 2-4: Pavement Thickness ................................................................................................... 2-3

Table 2-5: Salient Features of Road Tunnel ................................................................................ 2-4

Table 2-6: Estimated Quantity of Construction Material ............................................................ 2-6

Table 2-7:: Land Use of Project Component ............................................................................... 2-8

Table 3-1: Detail of Topographic Maps of Project Area ............................................................. 3-1

Table 3-2: Detail of Sample Plot Design ..................................................................................... 3-3

Table 5-1: Landuse of Access Road ............................................................................................ 5-2

Table 5-2: Rainfall Stations near Project area ........................................................................... 5-2

Table 5-3: Water Quality of Arun River ...................................................................................... 5-5

Table 5-4: Hydrological Characteristic of Bridge Site ................................................................ 5-5

Table 5-5: Crossing of River and Natural Drainage at Different Chainage ................................ 5-6

Table 5-6 Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along Road Alignment in all options

...................................................................................................................................................... 5-7

Table 5-7: Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along IKHEP Road Alignment .... 5-7

Table 5-8: Vegetation Cover in PAD........................................................................................... 5-9

Table 5-9: Forest Management categories in the PAD .............................................................. 5-10

Table 5-10: Forest Area in PAA (Sq. km.) ................................................................................ 5-10

Table 5-11: Detail of Project impacted Community Forests ..................................................... 5-10

Table 5-12: Conservation Status of Wildlife Found in the Project Area ................................... 5-12

Table 5-13: Conservation Status of Birds Found in the Project Area....................................... 5-13

Table 5-14: Demographic Features of PAFs ............................................................................. 5-14

Table 5-15: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups .................................................. 5-14

Table 5-16: Families Structure of the Surveyed HHs ................................................................ 5-14

Table 5-17: Distribution of Surveyed Population by Marital Status ......................................... 5-15

Table 5-18: Literary Status (Population of 5 years and above) of Surveyed Population .......... 5-15

Table 5-19: Educational Attainment along the Literate Surveyed Population .......................... 5-15

Table 5-20: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years) .................... 5-16

Table 5-21: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production ................................................. 5-16

Table 5-22: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production .................................................. 5-16

Table 5-23: Source of Energy for the HHs for Lighting Purpose .............................................. 5-17

Table 5-24: Source of Energy for the HHs for Cooking Purpose .............................................. 5-18

Table 5-25: Attitude Regarding the Project by Type ................................................................. 5-18

Table 5-26: Expectation from the Project .................................................................................. 5-18

Table 6-1: Comparison of two different alignment alternatives .................................................. 6-1

Table 6-2: Alternative Alignment with and without Tunnel Comparison Chart ......................... 6-4

Table 6-3: Alternative Alignment Comparison at Sibrun Village ............................................... 6-6

Table 7-1: Physical Environment Impact Assessment Matrix ..................................................... 7-5

Table 7-2: Forest Loss in Different Project Components ............................................................ 7-7


EIA Report xxii NEA-ESSD

Table 7-3: Impact Assessment Matrix for Biological Environment .......................................... 7-11

Table 7-4: Project Affected HHs by Caste/Ethnicity ................................................................. 7-12

Table 7-5: Distribution of Land Parcels by Caste/Ethnic Groups ............................................. 7-12

Table 7-6: Private land use by Project Components .................................................................. 7-13

Table 7-7: List of Project Affected Houses by Type of Structures ............................................ 7-13

Table 7-8: List of Project Affected Houses by Type of Structures ............................................ 7-14

Table 7-9: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HH ....................................... 7-14

Table 7-10: Impact Assessment Matrix for Socioeconomic and Cultural Environment ........... 7-19

Table 8-1: Cost for Awareness on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation ................... 8-8

Table 8-2: Estimated Cost for NTFPs Training ........................................................................... 8-8

Table 8-3: Mitigation and Enhancement Cost ............................................................................. 8-9

Table 8-4: Estimated Cost for Land Acquisition ......................................................................... 8-9

Table 8-5: Estimated Cost for Structure Loss ............................................................................ 8-10

Table 8-6: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production Due to Land Acquisition.......................... 8-10

Table 8-7: Mitigation and Rehabilitation Cost (NRs)................................................................ 8-14

Table 8-8: Cost of Black Cardamom Farming Training ............................................................ 8-15

Table 8-9: Cost of Micro Enterprise Training ........................................................................... 8-16

Table 8-10: Proposed Skill Development Training ................................................................... 8-16

Table 8-11: Cost Estimate for Social Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost ........................ 8-17

Table 9-1: Monitoring Plan and Schedule ................................................................................... 9-3

Table 10-1: Methods of Environmental Audit ........................................................................... 10-2

Table 10-2: Environmental Auditing Cost ................................................................................. 10-3

Table 14-1: Permits and Approval Plan ..................................................................................... 14-3

Table 14-2: Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan ........................................................... 14-4

Table 14-3: Public Health and Occupation Safety Management Plan ....................................... 14-8

Table 14-4: Grievances Redress Management Plan .................................................................. 14-9

Table 14-5: Environmental Management Framework ............................................................. 14-15

Access Road of UAHEP Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA

EIA Report 1-1 NEA-ESSD

1 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA

1.1 Project Proponent Upper Arun Hydroelectric Limited is the proponent of the Upper Arun HEP. The Ministry of

Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) has granted a survey license on 2076/05/25BS

to NEA for feasibility and environmental study. Its license number is Be.Be.Be. 076/77 Be.Ue.Sa.

1107, which was valid up to 2078/05/24 BS. The survey license is attached in Appendix-A

Address of the Project Proponent:

Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project

Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal

Phone No.: 01-4117154; Fax No. : 01-4153040

1.2 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA

Environment and Social Studies Department (ESSD) of NEA is responsible for the preparation of

the EIA of the proposed project.

Contact Address:

Environment and Social Studies Department

Engineering Service Directorate

Nepal Electricity Authority

Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal

Phone No.01-4435800

Email : [email protected]

1.3 Rationality for Conducting EIA

The main propose of access road is to provide access to dam site of Upper Arun Hydroelectric

Project (UAHEP). It also connects three adits of hydropower and permanent camp of Hydropower

at Limbutar. The road passes through Sibrung, Hema, Namase and Rukma villages providing

accessibility to local people.

Environmental Protection Rules (EPR) 2054 was effective during the SD and TOR phase of the

EIA study. So, this EIA study was initiated as per the provisions of the EPR – 2054. Detailed study

of the EIA was done as per the EPR 2054. Later on, EPR-2077 was effective and the report was

prepared as per the provision of new EPR-2077. In addition, the EIA study of the access road of

Upper Arun was financed by World Bank (Appendix K). So, the EIA study report is prepared in

English language.

As per the Environment Protection Rules (EPR)-2077 Rule-3, Schedule 3 Clause-“ka”, Sub-Clause

9; EIA is mandatory for any project requiring more than 5 ha of forest land. The tentative forest

area (vegetation cover only) require by this access road project is about 14.104ha (Table 2-15).

Therefore, EIA is mandatory for the project. The consent letter obtained from MoFE for EIA of

access road is attached in Appendix A. A separate consent letter is obtained for EIA of Upper Arun

HEP. As the access road is key to the timely start of the construction of the hydropower project,

the process of environmental assessment (EIA) started separately.

mailto:[email protected]

Access Road of UAHEP Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA


1.4 Objectives of the EIA The main purpose of the EIA is to examine the most suitable and cost-effective configuration of

the project that would be sensitive to the region's environment and recommend further

investigations that might be needed to minimize the negative impacts, thereby enhancing the socio-

economic and environmental benefits.

The main objectives of the EIA are to:

• Document baseline condition of the existing physical, biological and socio-economic and

cultural environment.

• Identify physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural impacts in terms of the

magnitude, extent and duration that may be expected to occur during construction.

• Identify the beneficial and adverse impacts of the project from the environmental aspect,

as well as the economic and environmental acceptability to the community.

• Identify the critical environmental issues requiring further studies and/or monitoring.

• Examine and select the optimal alternative from the various relevant options available.

• Incorporate into the development action appropriate mitigation measures for negative

impacts and propose the enhancement measures for beneficial impacts.

• To familiarize various stakeholders with the EIA outcomes through public consultation and

participation programs and to incorporate their relevant concerns and issues in

environmental mitigation plan;

• Prepare the Environmental Management Plan.

• Involve the public in the decision-making process related to the environment.

1.5 Scope of the EIA The scope of EIA in terms of project components includes access road (two sections), a road tunnel

and three bridges; project facilities (camps and storage yards), construction power arrangement,

crusher plant installation, quarry activity, etc. The scope of EIA includes the elements of the

environment (physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural).

The scope of EIA in terms of geographical area of this Access Road covers the administrative and

geographical boundaries project affected district (PAD) in general. In specific terms, the study

covers the administrative limits or boundary of the project affected area (PAA). The PAA includes

those Rural Municipalities (RMs) where the project is proposed. The PAA is further divided into

direct impact area (DIA) - the areas to be occupied by the footprints of project structures and

indirect impact area (IIA) referring to the area outside the DIA up to the administrative boundary

of RM/Municipality.

1.6 Relevancy of the Project This access road is proposed so as to provide access to dam site of Upper Arun Hydroelectric



accessibility to local people. Without access roads, construction of hydropower projects is not

feasible.

Access Road of UAHEP Project Description


2 Introduction 2.1 Background Upper Arun Hydroelectric Limited has taken license from Department of Electricity Development,

Government of Nepal (GoN) and some governmental projects. The Access Road of Upper Arun

Hydroelectric Project (UAHEP) under government project has been recognized to be prioritized

one in order to implement the timely commission and finishing of project. The Access Road, a

starting step, is felt very urgent in order to construct the major part of HEPs components in near

future.

The main proposed of access road is to provide access to dam site of Upper Arun Hydroelectric



accessibility to local people. UAHEP access road starts from Koshi Highway near Gola. The length

of this road section is about 21.19km including 2.03km road tunnel and road is located in steep

terrain.

To meet the increasing power demand, NEA is prioritizing the development of a suite of proposed

hydropower projects, among which the 1061MW Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project (UAHEP) is

a high priority due to its expected low generation cost and high availability of firm power. The

ultimate purpose of power generation is to increase domestic energy supply through the national

grid; in the future, surplus energy may be exported. The World Bank has financed on the feasibility

study of Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project (UAHEP) and Ikhuwa Khola Hydropower Project

(IKHPP) and its components (Appendix K). The UAHEP is a proposed 1061MW hydroelectric

facility to be located on the Arun River in Sankhuwasabha District of Province No. 1; about 15km

south of the international border with Tibet and 220km east of Kathmandu. The proposed dam site

is located in the Chepuwa Village, in a narrow gorge about 350m upstream of the Arun River’s

confluence with the Chepuwa River. The proposed power plant site is located 16km downstream

of the dam site, near the Arun River’s confluence with the Leksuwa River. The right bank of the

Arun River at the proposed UAHEP site falls within the Buffer Zone of Makalu Barun National

Park. UAHEP is Peaking Run-of-the-River (PRoR) type of hydroelectric project. Its total installed

capacity is 1061MW. It is located in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality (RM) and Makalu RM of

Shankhuwashabha District.

The IKHPP lies in ward no. 3 of Makalu RM. This access road starts from Koshi Highway near

Samatar village up to the right bank of Arun River.

2.2 Project Description

2.2.1 Project Components

The components under the access road project consist the construction of i) Access road, ii)

Bridges, and iii) Tunnel. These components are discussed in following sub-headings.

2.2.1.1 Access Road

Access road project comprises two sections. Section 1 is access road for Upper Arun Hydroelectric

Project (UAHEP) and section 2 is access road for Ikhuwa Khola Hydropower Project (IKHEP).

The length of section-1 access road is 21.19 km and start from base of Syaksila Village at right

bank of Arun River, crosses the river and ascends in North direction to reach Rukma village. The

length of section 2 access road is about 2.00km and start from Koshi Highway near Sammatar

Village to the right bank of Arun River. The technical details and design adopted for access road

are as follows.



a) Design Standard of Access Road

The adapted geometric design criteria for single lane standard in cut and fill condition is presented

below in Table 2-2. Similarly, typical cross sections of road is also shown in Figure 2-5 Table 2-1. Design Parameters of Access Road

S. N. Description Design Parameter

1 Terrain Steep Terrain

2 Road Class Class IV

3 Design Speed, km/h 20

4 No. of Lanes 1

5 Carriageway width, m/lane 4.5

6 Shoulder width (minimum), m 0.75 x 2

7 Total formation width 6

8 Right of way, m (total) 30 (15m on each side from centre line)

9 Stopping Sight Distance, m 30

10 Minimum Radius of Horizontal Curves, m 15

11 Hair Pin Bends Design Parameters

12

Minimum Design Speed (Km/h) 20

Minimum Radius of Curvature, m 15

Maximum longitudinal gradient % 4

13 Extra widening, m 2

14 Vertical Alignment

15 Maximum Gradients % 10

Passing Zone (2.5m x 30 m) 2 No. per km

Note: The road carriageway width in settlement area in proposed 7.0m

Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019

b) Drainage System

i) Cross Drainage Structure: The cross-drainages are constructed in the form of culverts and

causeways. Culverts are proposed at the place of existing natural gullies and where the road

has valley curve along its alignment. Similarly, causeways are provided for the seasonal

waterways carrying flood during monsoon season.

ii) Side Drainage Structure: Roadside drains are proposed alongside the road to intercept surface

water. These are proposed in one side of the road in the hill areas and on both sides at the

places where the road passes through the gullies. Side drains are designed based on the intensity

of the rain during the storm and resulting floods. Trapezoidal section and tip shape section side

drain are proposed along the road alignment.

c) Adopted Cross – Section

Adopted cross-section of road along the access road of UAHEP is shown in Appendix B-Figure

A. Cross section features adopted for design are summarized under.

Formation Width : 6.0m

Carriage Way Width : 4.50m

Shoulders : Paved 0.75m wide shoulder on both side

Pavement Camber : 2.5 % on either sides from center

d) Gradient

The adopted gradients (as per NRS 2070) for road in mountain/steep terrain for 20 Km/hr design

speed are listed below in Table 2-2 (source: Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019)

Table 2-2: Adopted Gradients S.N. Design Standard Value

1 Maximum gradient 10%

2 Minimum longitudinal gradients for longitudinal drainage purpose 0.5%

4 Maximum Critical Length of gradient 150m for 10%

5 Rise of elevation over 2km distance 100m for Mountainous and

120m steep terrain (IRC 73)



e) Earthwork Design

Earthwork design is based on slope stability analysis and soil slope consideration. Considering

road soil type (rock/gravel mix soil) along the alignment cut slop of 1.5V:1H is proposed. A side

slope of embankment as recommended by Nepal Road Standard (NRS) 2070 is adopted.

Considering aesthetic and traffic safety of road, wherever possible flatter slopes are considered. Table 2-3: Road embankment Side Slope

SN Height, m Side Slope (vertical : horizontal)

1 <1.5 1:4

2 1.5 – 3.0 1:3

3 3.0 – 4.5 1:2.5

4 4.5 – 12.0 1:2

5 >12.0 Design Specially


f) Passing Places

Passing Places required in hill roads to facilitate the crossing vehicles approaching from opposite

direction. Passing places are provided at 2 to 3 location per kilometer considering availability of

extra land and visibility.

g) Bioengineering Works

With the view of improving native environment and protection of hill road slopes, bioengineering

technique is considered throughout the road of this project. Based on the slope assessment, the

design of appropriate bioengineering technique to enhance stability is considered. Bioengineering

techniques used for soil slope stabilization are brush layering, hedge layering, palisades, fascines

and live check dams

h) Road Safety Considerations

Following safety measures have been considered in the design of project roads.

• Covered side drain proposed in settlement areas

• The pipe culvert and slab culverts are proposed for full width of road

• RCC delineator posts is used for delineation measures and road marking on edge of road

• Provision of warning signs and informatory signs is provided as per Traffic Sign Manuals

• Metal Beams Crash Barrier and Gabion Crash Barrier are proposed

• Wearing course is proposed in full width (6.00m) of road

i) Pavement Design

Pavement thickness were calculated depending upon the design parameters such as site condition,

sub grade, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Equivalent Standard Axial Load (ESAL) value.

The design thickness of pavement layers including sub-base, base are presented in Table 2-4. Table 2-4: Pavement Thickness

Road section Adopted design

CBR ESAL

Design thickness (mm)

Sub base Base Surface

UAHEP

0+000-14+000 8 0.76 150 200 DBST

16+000-21+190 22 0.76 100 175 DBST

IKHEP

0+000 - 2+000 11 0.08 150 125 DBST


2.2.1.2 Bridge

Three bridges will be constructed under the project. Two steel arch bridges over Arun River in

each section and one RCC bridges over Chepuwa Khola are proposed. Location and accessibility

of Bridges site is as follows:



• Bridge 1 for access road to IKHEP to be built over Arun River, at present, there is no road

connectivity to the bridge site. The existing road, which is earthen road is about 2.00km from

the proposed bridge site.

• Bridge 2 for access road to UAHEP to be built over Arun River, at present, there is connectivity

of Koshi Highway to the Bridge site. The existing road, which is earthen road, is about 60m

from the proposed bridge site.

• Bridge 3 for Access Road for UAHEP to be built over Chepuwa Khola along the proposed

access road. At present, there is no road connectivity to transport construction material except

foot trail on the upper terrain.

Details related to bridges is present below in Appendix-B, Table 2.

2.2.1.3 Road Tunnel

The proposed access road of UAHEP includes road tunnel starting from South portal at Namase

to North portal at Rukma. The total length of road tunnel is 2.03km and is in D-shape. Salient

features of road tunnel is presented below in Table 2-5. Table 2-5: Salient Features of Road Tunnel

SN Description Road tunnel Remarks

1 Location Starting Point of Tunnel Ch. 13 + 724 Bhotkhola RM, 4

End Point of Tunnel Ch. 15 + 754 Bhotkhola RM, 2

2 Length 2030m

3 Vertical alignment Straight line (R=0)

4 Vertical slope -1.0% ~ +1.0%

5 Super elevation -3.0% ~ +3.0%

6 No. of lane Single lane width of 4.0m

7 Ventilation method Mechanical ventilation Length of over 1000m


2.2.1.4 Tunnel Cross Section

A reasonable cross-section is determined considering the stability, construction and driving

characteristics, and necessary facilities. A single lane road tunnel with 4.0m carriageway width

and 1.0m shoulder on either side is proposed. For vehicle interchanging, wide cross section of

tunnel with 8.3m bottom width is proposed at 6 places in 2030.00m long tunnel. The cross section

and layout plan of road tunnel is shown below in Figure 4 of Appendix B respectively.

2.2.1.5 Tunnel Portal

Considering ground condition, natural geology, and adjustment environment, arch wall type of

portal is proposed in both inlet and outlet of tunnel. The front and plane view of tunnel portal is

shown below in Figure 6 of Appendix B.

2.2.1.6 Tunnel Additional Structure and Facilities

a. Tunnel Support Structure: Steel fiber reinforced shotcrete and concrete lining are proposed as

tunnel supporting structure. Head rock bolting type of rock bolt is also design whenever rock

bolting is required.

b. Tunnel Ventilation: Mechanical ventilation with Jet Fan is proposed inside road tunnel. Five

number of Jet fan are proposed for ventilation and fire prevention provision.

c. Waterproofing and drainage: Partial waterproof (Wet System)-drain type of waterproofing

system is design in this road tunnel. Waterproofing layer (thin plastic sheet or synthetic rubber)

is installed in between the shotcrete of tunnel and concrete lining and then leads to convey the

water to the drainpipe. Perforated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is design as

drainpipe.



d. Electricity/Power facilities during construction: During construction, power will be supplied

through the two number of Generator with capacity of 555 kVA.

e. Lighting facilities during operation: In order to provide secured and reliable power, the

electricity room at the both ends of tunnel will be installed and will receive power by 1 circuit

(including the standby circuit) and composed the system that the power is received in the UPS

during the failure of power system. The tunnel lighting facility will be provided using Highly

efficient LED lamp of 50W.

f. Firefighting Facilities: Provision of fire extinguisher is made inside the tunnel for fire safety.

The layout plan of firefighting facilities is shown below in Figure 7 of Appendix B.

g. Service lane: There will be the provision of the service lane in the tunnel. The detail of the

tunnel section is given in Figure 4 of Appendix B.

2.2.2 Project Ancillary Facilities

2.2.2.1 Camp site, Mechanical and equipment Yard

The contractor will establish main camp with all necessary facilities at starting point of access road

near the Koshi Highway. Other two camps will be established at tunnel portal site to facilitate the

construction of tunnel works. All camps will be demolished after construction work finished. The

detail of camp sites, Mechanical and equipment Yards is present in table 3 of Appendix B and

shown in Figure 20 of Appendix B.

2.2.2.2 Helipad

The contractor is supposed to construct immediately three helipads (i.e. Gola, near southern portal

and near northern portal) to airlift the tunnel construction and road construction equipment. About

50m x 50m private land is required for the helipad construction. The contractor will negotiate with

land owner for the use of land for two years.

2.2.2.3 Crusher and Batching Plant

The contractor will establish crusher and batching plants at both portal sites of tunnel to prepare

construction material such as aggregate, base course material, etc. if the quantity of muck is

acceptable. As per preliminary estimation, two crusher and batching plant are sufficient for the

proposed 21.19 km road section The location of crushing and batching plant is shown in Figure 20

of Appendix B.

2.2.2.4 Quarry Sites

Altogether six quarry are identified for evaluation of construction materials for hard rock.

Construction material will be excavated using excavator. Location of quarry sites and estimated

reserve of quarry material are presented in the following table 4 of Appendix B.

2.2.2.5 Boulder Sites for Construction Materials

Numerous colluvial boulders are scattered at uphill of both sides of the proposed access road,

which can be used as boulders and construction material for embankment. The main rock types of

colluvial boulders are quartzite and gneiss, which are fresh, durable, and strong. The boulder

deposits are shown in Table 5 of Appendix B.

2.2.2.6 Quantity Estimation

Estimation of quantities of civil works, earth works and retaining structures have been estimated

from the design drawing. Some of the excavated earthwork and tunnel muck can be used as gabion

stone, base course material, and DBST chips for road and backfill material Table 6, Appendix B.



2.2.2.7 Spoil Disposal Area

The soil and rocks may derive from the road cut during the road construction period. Some of the

cut materials along the road can be used as the construction materials. The spoil materials coming

out of the road can be disposed on the flat land of the valley of the Arun River. For the access to

the spoil area-2 and spoil area-3 about 950.00m road is to be constructed. The width of this

temporary road will be 6.0m. The disposal areas are listed below in the Table 7 of Appendix B

and shown in Figure 20 of Appendix B.

2.2.3 Requirement of the Project

2.2.3.1 Workforce

During the stages of the construction period of the project, the unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled

human resources will be required. The total number of these presonnel are estimated to be 600

(skilled-150, semi-skilled-50, unskilled-400). Most of the unskilled manpower will be hired locally

as per available.

2.2.3.2 Material

The key materials required for civil construction works related to the road, bridge and tunnel are

cement, aggregate, steel reinforcement and steel plate. All major construction materials are

available in the major markets of Nepal. The contractor has to transport above mentioned materials

from the southern part of Nepal to project site. These markets/towns are more than 205 km from

the project site. But if contractor wants to import from other countries they can import major

construction materials as required. For the construction of road, tunnel and bridges estimated

quantity of materials are presented in the following Table 2-6.

Table 2-6: Estimated Quantity of Construction Material

S.N. Items Units Total Required Quantity

1. Pavement

Sub base course material m3 46,068.44

Base course material m3 25,037.99

Chipping Aggregate m3 5,802.78

Bitumen Lts. 460,511.31

2. Aggregate Coarse Aggregate m3 21,800.57

Fine Aggregate (sand) m3 23,063.83

3 Cement tonne 541.4

4 Reinforcement bar tonne 280

5 Structural Steel for Bridges tonne 525

6 Diesel KL 350


Amont the construction materials, explosives, fuse wire and detonators will be sourced from Nepal

Army. Approximately 105MT of Dynamite is estimated for tunnel excavation. Storage and

handling of explosive is extremely risky and needs high level of attention and support of the armed

securities.

The volume of coarse aggregate is available sufficiently around the project area for implementation

of the project. Sand is will be collected from Barun Dobhan Namase, Hema and Sibrung. Some

small pocket sand deposits are available near to a suspension bridge over Arun River at Rukuma

and quantity seems to be insufficient. A huge quantity of hard rock material can be mined from

the boulder deposits in addition to the quarry. Similarly source/location of construction material is

shown tabla 4 of Appendix B. The deficit quantity of base course and chips can be prepared using

tunnel muck. Tunnel muck can also be used as construction material for road pavement, stone for

retaining structure and concrete works if usable meets standard.



2.2.3.3 Investment

The project proponent and the project contractors’ office will be established in rental buildings at

appropriate locations of Sankhuwasabha District. Site office will be established as required. The

project contractor will also establish its office at the suitable places for its staff and camps for its

workers. Due to the linear nature of the construction works, smaller warehouse and construction

yard facilities will be built at given locations along the alignment. The location of such facilities

is proposed at chainage 1+500, 5+300, 9+300 within ROW of road, hence extra land is not

required. The estimated total cost for the project is NRs. 1148.8 Million.

2.2.3.4 Land

The project will acquire approximately 102.448ha of land for construction of both access roads

(UAHEP access road and IKHEP access road) and ancillary facilities. The project will

permanently acquire land lies within the right of way of road and corridor of impact. Similarly, the

project will acquire temporarily land for ancillary facilities during construction period. The

permanently required land is about 61.145 ha and temporarily required land is about 41.303ha.

Components wise land requirement for the project is given in table 2-6.

2.2.3.5 Construction Planning and Construction Schedule

The estimated construction period of the project is about 24 months. The details of the Construction

Planning and Construction schedule is given in section 1.1 of Appendix B.

2.3 Salient Features of the Project The proposed two access roads project consist total length of 23.19km road including 2.03km road

tunnel and three bridges. The project description and components presented in Table 8 of Appendix

B, confirms with the design and technical reports.

2.4 Objectives of the Project The UAHEP intends to construct access road to facilitate the access to the project component. In

order to implement the construction of the UAHEP, the prior construction of access road of about

21.19km is necessary. Similarly, UAHEP is developing Ikhwa Khola Hydroelectric Project

(IKHEP) simultaneously in order to provide share to local people. In order to facilitate that,

UAHEP is planning to construct about 2.00 km access road from Koshi Highway to Arun River.

This is the initial stage of development of UAHEP and its implementation will certainly help in

improvisation of the energy situation in present scenario of Nepal. Thus, this project aims to help

in prior development of UAHEP.



Table 2-7: Land Use of Project Component

S.

N. Project Component

Land Types (ha) Total Land

Required (ha)

Total

(ha)

Forest Cultivation Barren

Foot

track

Water

bodies

(River

and

Kholsi)

Tempo

rary

Perma

nent Govt. CF

MBNP

Buffer

Zone

(Pvt.)

Pvt. Govt.

MBNP

Buffer

Zone

(Pvt.)

Govt. Pvt.

1

Upper Arun HEP Access

Road 1.619 7.714 0.079 40.465 0.098 0.135 0.000 3.223 0.155 1.032 0.000 54.520 54.520

2

Ikhuwa Khola HEP Access

Road 0.000 0.000 1.878 0.000 0.000 3.461 0.000 0.000 0.286 0.000 0.000 5.625 5.625

3 Tunnel Portal 0.000 0.500 0.000 0.500 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 1.000

4

Camp site and Machine and

equipment Yard for Upper

Arun HEP Access Road 0.000 0.162 3.350 1.261 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.558 0.000 0.000 5.331 0.000 5.331

5

Camp site and equipment

yard for Ikhuwa Khola HEP

Access Road 0.000 0.000 1.500 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.500 0.000 1.500

6

Spoil and Muck Disposal

Area 3.059 0.7 0.000 9.641 0.000 0.000 0.000 10.263 0.000 0.000 23.663 0.000 23.663

7 Bunker 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.500 0.000 1.500

8 Quarry Site 0.000 0.350 0.000 1.000 0.000 0.160 0.000 1.250 0.000 5.836 8.596 0.000 8.596

9

Access road for Muck

Disposal Area 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.713 0.000 0.000 0.713 0.000 0.713

Sub- Total 4.678 9.426 6.807 54.367 0.098 3.756 0.000 16.007 0.441 6.868 41.303 61.145

Total 14.104 61.272 19.763 0.441 6.868 41.303 61.145 102.448

Percentage 34.15 59.81 19.29 0.43 6.70 40.32 59.68

Note:

Govt. cultivation land: (under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation)

Govt. Barren Land: (under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation)

Foot Track: (under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation)

Water bodies (River and Kholsi): (under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation)

Access Road of UAHEP Study Methodology


3 Study Methodology For the preparation of EIA report, different methods and methodologies were adopted. The

methodology was mainly guided by the EPR, 2077 and National EIA Guidelines, 2050. Terms and

conditions received from the then MoFSC were followed during EIA. Literature review, Public

consultation and meetings, Walkthrough survey, Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis

were some important tools used for data collection. The different methodologies adopted for

carrying out EIA are discussed in the following sub-sections.

3.1 Literature Review Information from different sources was collected and reviewed to understand the nature of the

project and to identify the significant issues. Literatures collected and reviewed during the EIA are

as listed in bibliography of the report. Mainly the detail design report of access road of UAHEP

was reviewed before site mobilization.

3.1.1 Physical Environment

The topographic maps published by Department of Survey/GoN were reviewed before site

mobilization (Table 3-1). The project layout was drawn in the map and carried/referred during the

whole site study. These maps were used to figure out road alignment, HHs/lands/settlement

simultaneously using Hand GPS Receivers. Topographical and land use maps of the area including

the Google Earth image were studied for verification.

Data on temperature and precipitation are taken from Department of Hydrology and Meteorology

(DHM). Information on geology was derived from the geological investigation report of access

road. Review of topographical map and land use map was done to identify the land use patterns of

the area. The details of different topographical maps used during the study period are given in

following table.

Table 3-1: Detail of Topographic Maps of Project Area S.N. Name of Topographic Sheet Sheet No. Scale Year of Publication

1 Hatiya 2787 06 1:50,000 1996

2 Kimathanka 2787 02 1:50,000 1997

3.1.2 Biological Environment

Publications of Division Forest Office (DFO) of Sankhuwasabha districts and Makalu Barun

National Park (MBNP) were reviewed to collect general information on forest area, types and

management. Information on biodiversity of project impact area was collected from the field visit

and FGD. Different literature on birds and mammals, as listed in Bibliography, were reviewed.

3.1.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

The major reports and publications consulted include District profiles of Sankhuwasabha

published by the District Development Committees; National Population and Housing Census

(2011) published by Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Socio-economic and cultural data, such

as population of project affected districts (PADs) and Municipality and RMs, households’ size,

male-female ratio, infrastructures, ethnicity, religion, etc. were derived from CBS publications.

3.2 Delineation of Project Impact Area Rule 4 of EPR, 2054 apparently defines project impact area as administrative geographical

boundaries such as district and Village Development Committee (VDC), currently

RM/Municipality, where the project is proposed for development. A district is a larger

administrative unit comprising of a number of local administrative units called RMs and

Municipalities. Based on the magnitude of the predicted impacts, the project impact area is divided

into following two categories.



3.2.1 Project Affected District

The district where the project is being implemented or which is directly affected by the project

construction activities is termed as PAD. As per the definition, Sankhuwasabha is the PAD for the

proposed access road of UAHEP.

3.2.2 Project Affected Municipality/RM

Project Affected Municipality/RM is the Municipality/RM, where the project is going to be

developed. For the proposed of access road of UAHEP and IKHEP, Bhotkhola RM and Makalu

RM are the project affected RMs. In general, these administrative units are referred as the PAA in

the report. The PAA is further divided into following two types;

3.2.2.1 Direct Impact Area (DIA)

The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 defines the direct impact as a direct alteration in the exiting

environmental conditions as a consequences of project activity. So, the DIA includes all the

components of the project which mainly consists of RoW comprising 30m width and stabilization

of slope. In addition, the DIA also includes the area of muck disposal area. Thus, the settlement

area, forests or other vegetation and places having built-up infrastructures or facilities that fall

within the project components constitute the DIA of the project. On the basis of spatial coverage,

this area is also termed as High Impact Area. The supplementary features such as camp area, quarry

site, muck disposal site, bunker area, are also affect the occupied land. The area occupied by it is

considered as DIA.

3.2.2.2 Indirect Impact Area (IIA)

This consists of the surrounding area which may be affected due to project implementation. Any

built-up community infrastructures and facilities, forests, surrounding the DIA shall be studied in

this impact area. The area outside DIA extending up to rural municipality boundary is considered

as IIA. This area is also termed as Moderate Impact Area. The term “project” indicates the access

road and “Area” refers to the DIA and IIA. The term “project area” is also referred to as the study

area for the EIA.

3.3 Data Collection The EIA study team visited the project area for field study during BS 2076/10/17 to 2076/11/ 02

to collect the baseline information of the project area on physical, biological, and socio-economic

and cultural domains. The study team identified the potential environmental impact areas and the

pertinent issues. The team visited the project area starting from Gola to Rukma along alignment

of road. The team made observation on all relevant environmental components required for EIA.

Baseline information on the socio-economic and cultural environment of the project area was also

collected through public consultation and meetings. Similarly, photographs of the project areas

were taken. The study team also visited government line agencies of the project affected districts

to interact with concerned officials. From them, the team collected necessary information and their

concerns. The letters of such involvement are attached in Appendix A.


Different methods and tools were used during the field study for collection of data on the physical

environment. Table 10 of Appendix B summarizes the different methods to be used to collect the

baseline information on the physical environment.


The methodology incorporated under this heading include measurement of vegetation/forest

resource and identification of fauna in the project area of UAHEP.



Vegetation/ Forest Resources

For accessing the vegetation different methods were used which are described below;

a. Total Enumeration and Quadrat Sampling

Total enumeration survey was planned for the vegetation analysis of the project impacted forest.

Vegetation of Paripakha Community Forest and National Forest near at Limbutar was surveyed

with total enumeration. Due to steep slope and inaccessibility of the Makpalung community forest,

total enumeration survey couldn’t be done. So, Quadrant sampling was done for all the project

components located in Makpalung Community Forest, Rukma. The detail of the Total

Enumeration and Quadrant Sampling survey is given in Appendix C.

Altogether, 10 sample plots (of size 500m2 each for tree) were surveyed as shown in figure 3-2.

This represents 6.2 % of total forest area (0.5ha out of 8.076ha) impacted by the project. The

ground vegetation and any new species of tree sighted outside the sample plot were also noted.

Based on this information, loss of regeneration (saplings and seedlings), loss of vegetation (pole

and tree class), species wise standing wood volume and biomass is calculated.

Table 3-2: Detail of Sample Plot Design

S.N. Type Plot Radius (m) Area (m2) DBH limit (cm) 1 Seedling 1.78 10 <4 2 Sapling 2.82 25 4-10 3 Pole 5.64 100 10-30 4 Tree 12.61 500 >30

Source: Forest Rules, 1995

For private trees (including fruit, fodder and other trees), Total enumeration was carried out. The

following table summarizes different methods used to collect baseline information on the

biological environment.

b) Key Informant Interview (KII)

For this EIA, altogether three KIIs were carried out in order to obtain the relevant data on the

biological environment. The officers of the MBNP buffer zone, Field staff of DFO, and local

people of Sibrung were interviewed to collect information on forest and wildlife as well as local

use of the forest resources.

c) Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

Altogether four Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were carried out with the project affected

community forest users’ groups (CFUGs) and local people. During the meetings, participants were

introduced about the project features, potential impact on the environment, various mitigation and

enhancement measures likely to be adopted during construction and operation phase of the project.

A checklist was developed and introduced in the field to collect the primary information about the

dependency of local people on community forest and non-timber forest product. FGDs were held

to collect information on the availability of flora and fauna, dependency of local people on forest

resources, availability of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), etc. The attendance of participants

of the FGD is given in Appendix C.

d) Wildlife

Data on wildlife was collected by direct observation at different project sites and adjacent areas

with various land use types (e.g., forest areas, agriculture land, etc.). The indirect evidences such

as scats/droppings, calls and cliffs were also used for identification of mammals and birds in the

area. Records of MBNP and DFO were also used as a background information. The detail of data

collection related to biological environment is given in Table 13 of Appendix C.




a) Households’ Survey

The land owners of the Access Road and the land owners/structure owners of the high impact zone

have been identified. HH survey was conducted only for PAFs belonging to APs and structures

falling in RoW. Project will affect 220HHs, a census of 190 HHs was carried out, and remaining

HHs were missing during the time of HHs survey. The land owners affected by the Access Road

were identified through walkover survey and cadastral map and hence socio-economic status of

them has been studied using questionnaires. The detail of the methodologies for collecting

socioeconomic and cultural survey is given in Appendix D.

b) Market Survey

Market survey was conducted in the PAA to get the prevailing price of agricultural commodity,

major construction materials, and wage rate. The market survey was conducted with the help of a

checklist. Finding of market survey has been attached in Appendix D.

c) Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)

PRA is an intensive systematic and semi-structured learning experience carried out in the project

area by a multidisciplinary team which includes community members. Altogether, 20 PRAs were

conducted in the RM/Municipality affected by the project to collect socio-economic information,

views, concerns and expectations of local people from the project. Similarly, the participants were

also informed regarding the project and its activities during PRA. The detail of PRA is given in

Appendix D. The key issues raised during PRA are presented in Table 49 with its mitigation

measures.

d) Key Informant Interview (KII)

KII was employed with elderly people, FUG members, social workers, businessmen and teachers,

representatives of political parties and intellectuals of the project area. The main objective of KIIs

was to assess their views, concerns and expectation from the project and collect relevant

information of the project area. Altogether 10 KIIs were conducted in the PAA. The respondents

of the KIIs were purposively selected.

e) Meeting/ Consultation

Informal meetings/consultations were conducted with relevant district level government officials

at districts headquarters, and at local levels with key stakeholders. The purpose of the

meeting/consultation was to inform them about the project, collect their concerns/ expectations

regarding the project such as project purpose, project type, impact area, likely impacts and

potential opportunities due to project implementation and required information for the EIA.

3.4 Data Analysis


The type of land use and area calculation has been prepared with reference to the topographical

maps, cadastral map, survey report, digital maps provided by the Department of Survey with field

verifications. Similarly, the numbers of structures along the road alignment were determined with

the help of the plan and profile of the Detail Engineering Report with verifications at site.

The collected data from the field visit was analyzed using different software like ArcGIS 10.2.1,

AutoCAD, Google Earth, MS Office by the study team in coordination with the project engineers

and experts. Necessary maps and information thus generated were presented in the report. The

beneficial and adverse impacts have been predicted and appropriate mitigation measures are

proposed to reduce the adverse impacts.




The data from forest sampling were quantitatively analyzed for density and wood volume. These

parameters were calculated using the following formulae:

No. of individuals of a species

Density (D)/hectare = ----------------------------------------------------- 10,000

Size of the plot Total no. of plots sampled

Basal Area is the trunk cross-sectional area. For estimating the basal area, wood volume and

biomass of the pole size and timber size trees to be felled for the project, the trees were individually

enumerated and identified with their local names and botanical nomenclatures. Then their diameter

at the breast height was taken in each sampling sites. Similarly, the "Volume of forest trees of

Nepal" was referred to estimate the volume up to 10 cm top diameter with bark. The basal area of

each of trees was calculated on the basis of diameter at breast height.

Basal Area (BA) = (dbh/2)2

Importance Value Index (IVI) = RD + RF + RDom

Wood volume of standing tree = 1/2 BA Height

Likewise, data from forest census survey was quantitatively analyzed for each individual tree/ pole

for its biomass. The average density of the basal area per hectare was calculated as total basal area

(m2) divided by total area of land (ha). For determining the wood volume, basal area x height

formula was used. Moreover, loss of forest land, loss of forest species, its type, volume and number

of trees to be cut etc. were identified and calculated.


The collected information and data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to establish

baseline information on physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural environments. For

this purpose, all checklists, questionnaires and field notes were thoroughly reviewed, cleaned,

edited and coded. Then this data/information from the questionnaires/checklists was entered on

processing data entry layout. Then using simple statistical tools quantitative data such as mean,

range, and percentage were computed. The descriptive method was used for the analysis of

qualitative data.

The MS Office (WORD and EXCEL) software program was used further analysis. The outputs of

such analysis were then analyzed and converted in the context of the study objectives. The

secondary and primary information and data collected were cross-checked and triangulated. Based

on the findings of the baseline information and data potential impacts on socioeconomic and

cultural environmental impacts were identified and assessed. On the basis of suggestions made by

the local people and stakeholders' enhancement measures for beneficial impacts and mitigation

measures for adverse impacts are proposed.

Review of concerned laws, rules and regulations and outcome of the public consultations, and

literature reviews are other important tools that were used to analyse the data. The analyzed data

were then interpreted and discussed in appropriate sections of the EIA report

3.5 Public Involvement

3.5.1 Public Notice and Recommendation Letters

A seven days’ public notice was published in Gorkhapatra National Daily on 2077/08/30 BS (15th

December, 2020) - Appendix F. The notice consisted of a statement regarding brief project

information and request to provide comments and suggestions within seven days to the project



office or ESSD. A team was mobilized in the field with copy of public notice along with cover

letters to the concerned RM, district level line agencies and other local stakeholders. Copy of the

notice was displayed in the project sites and proof of deed (Muchulkas) were collected (Appendix

G). Similarly, recommendation letters were collected from the affected RM (Appendix G).

3.5.2 Consultation during EIA

In March/April 2020, as part of the EIA fieldwork, extensive consultation was made with the

stakeholders by the study team. This included in-depth interviews with key stakeholders in the

project area, market surveys and informal meetings with local and district-level stakeholders

(FUGs, ACA, GoN line agencies, etc.). The main issues and concerns of the stakeholders have

been incorporated in the public involvement/consultation chapter (Chapter 10) of this report.

3.5.3 Public Hearing

During the EIA report preparation, Public Hearing in the project affected area is mandatory. For

this purpose, request letters were sent to the concerned government line agencies for their

participation in the program. The date, venue and the time of the program was also mentioned in

the letter. The notice regarding public hearing was also displayed/affixed at district level offices,

RM office/ward office and at public places of the major settlement of project affected RMs.

Further, for ensuring participation of more and more local people and stakeholders from the project

affected area, a notice regarding the program was also published in local weekly newspaper,

Sankhuwasabha Express (Appendix-H). Further, public notice was broadcasted for calling

participation in the public hearing program on local radio stations in Sankhuwasabha before

previous a couple of days of the program. Video record were made for the entire program and

written concerns of the participants were also collected. Details of the public hearing program is

given in appendix H.

Access Road of UAHEP Review of Project Related Policies and Legal Provisions


4 Review of Project Related Policies and Legal Provisions The prevailing Acts, Policies, Regulations and Guidelines, which are required for the construction

and operation of hydropower projects in Nepal, have been reviewed as per the following while

preparing the present EIA report. The proponent will abide by any other laws besides those already

mentioned in the documents that are attracted due to different activities that will be undertaken

during project implementation.

Project related Schedule/rule/and other

The Constitution of

Nepal

In the Article 30 of Part 3 of the Constitution of Nepal states about the Right to

Clean Environment: According to this article all citizens shall have the right to

live in clean environment, and in case if there is injury caused from

environmental pollution or degradation, the victim have the right to obtain

compensation. In the same way, Article 51(g) explains Policies relating to

Protection, Promotion and use of Natural resources

Policy

National Energy

Crisis Reduction and

Development

Decades, 2072

(2015) Concept

paper

The then MoEn has issued a Concept Paper on Elimination of Energy Emergency

and Electricity Development Decade, 2015 (2072) “Concept Paper” on February

18, 2016, with the objective to substantially end the power outage within the next

one year, completely end power outage (even in the dry season) within the next

two years, and to ensure energy security within the next decade. The concept

paper also contains the provision that hydropower projects with a capacity of

more than 10MW should be awarded only through competitive bidding. The

proposed law is expected to facilitate the implementation of the 10-year National

Energy Emergency Decade.

Nepal

Environmental

Policy and Action

Plan, 2050 and 2055

Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP) were endorsed to further

institutionalize environment protection in the development processes. It

emphasizes the need for mitigating adverse environmental impacts to address

urban and industrial development, air and water pollution and infrastructure

development.

Fifteenth Periodic

Plan (2076/77-80/81)

It recommends mandatory requirement of EIA and EMP for all infrastructure

projects.

National Biodiversity

Strategy and Action

Plan, 2071 (2014-20)

It has been prepared to meet the national needs for managing biodiversity on a

sustainable basis for the benefit of present and future generations, and also to

fulfill the country’s international obligations. It has a long-term (i.e. 35 years)

vision, and includes specific short-term (up to 2020) strategies and priorities for

action.

National Policy on

Land Acquisition,

Compensation and

Resettlement, 2071

The Policy has the following guiding principles:

• “Appropriate and adequate compensation for the loss of assets or income is

a fundamental right of all project affected persons. Physically displaced

people must be relocated with basic amenities such as school, health posts

and other facilities.

• All affected persons should be assisted to restore at least their pre-project

income and livelihood sources.

• The absence of legal title to land should not be a bar for compensation,

resettlement and rehabilitation assistance.

• Vulnerable groups such as Janajati/Adivasi, Dalits, landless, women,

especially women-headed households, differently-abled, poverty groups and

senior citizens are entitled to special benefit and assistance packages in

addition to compensation and resettlement.”

National Climate

Change Policy, 2076

The aim of this policy is to develop climate progressive society and national

socio-economic development.




National Forest

Policy, 2075

The policy aims to manage forest resources sustainably, manage biodiversity,

increase productivity of forest area/sector, and increase overall production from

forests.

National

Environment Policy,

2076

Main objective ares pollution control, solid waste management and greenery

enhancement in order to secure the right to live in clean and healthy

environment.

National land

Policy, 2075

One of the objectives of the policy, aims to create favorable environment for land

acquisition for development projects and to ensure that land acquisition would

not increase cost of development project.

Acts

Land Acquisition

Act, 2034 (1977)

Article 3 of the Act empowers Government of Nepal (GoN) to acquire any land

at any place for any public purpose, subject to compensation under this Act. As

per Article 4, the GoN may also decide to acquire land for other institutions to

implement projects in the interest of general public. The institution requesting for

land acquisition is required to pay all costs associated with such acquisition.

Article 5 had made provision for appointing Officer for Preliminary Action.

Article 6 outlines procedures for preliminary action relating to acquisition of

land, and Article 7 has made provision for compensation of losses incurred during

preliminary action. Article 9 of the Act relates to notification of land acquisition.

Article 13 makes a provision for compensation rate. The compensation would be

paid in cash as per this Act; there is no provision for land-for-land compensation.

Article 18 of this Act requires Chief District Officer (CDO) to prepare a list of

persons to compensation and issue a notice accordingly for the information of the

concerned persons. This Article has also made provision for lodging complaints

by unsatisfied persons and grievance redress mechanism. As per Article 27 of the

Act, land could also be acquired through negotiation.

Public Road Act,

2031

As per Article 3A of the Act, construction of permanent structures (building) is

prohibited within the right of way of road. If it is required to acquire any land for

the development, expansion or improvement of public road, the project can

acquire the land in accordance with the law relation to the acquisition of land

adopting compensatory measures (Article 14 and 15). Article 16 has the

provision to maintain greenery along the road side. Article 16 has the provision

for the extraction of construction material required for development of road with

adoption of compensation measure.

Soil and Watershed

Conservation Act,

2039

Under Section 10 of SWCA, power is extended to the Watershed Conservation

Officer to grant permission to construct dams, drainage ditches and canals, cut

privately owned trees, excavate sand, boulders and soil, discharge solid waste

and establish industry or residential areas within any protected watersheds.

Forest Act, 2076

Article 42 of the Act empowers the government to permit the use of any part of

the national forest for national pride projects, the implementation of a plan or

project of national priority, and projects approved by the Investment Board

Nepal, if there is no other alternative to forest land and if the environmental

assessment conducted as per prevailing Act shows that the use of such forest

would not lead to significant adverse impact on the environment. As per Article

42(2), the project needs to make available the equivalent amount of land to the

government for forest development. Such lands should be in similar ecological

and geographical areas and near the impacted national forest as far as possible. If

the project is not able to buy lands, it could deposit the money needed to buy such

land in the Forest Development Fund established as per Article 45 of the Act.

Article 42 (5) requires the project developers to pay the expenses needed to

reforest and maintain reforested area for five years.




Local Government

Operation Act, 2074

The act has stipulated several arrangements related to authorities, duties and

responsibilities of local government.

Labour Act, 2074 The Act clearly mentions that the appointment letter should be issued for all the

employees which include their working hours, working time, wages and other

benefits.

Section 4 prohibited to engage Non-Nepalese citizen at work in any of the posts.

Section 6 prohibits for discrimination on the ground of religion, colour, sex,

caste, tribe, origin, language, ideological conviction or any other similar ground.

Section 74 of the Act has the provision to constitute a Safety and Health

Committee of employee if there are 20 or more.

Environment

Protection Act, 2076

Section 3 of the Act requires proponent to conduct Environmental Study:

Comprehensive Environmental Study, Initial Environmental Examination or

Environmental Impact Assessment. Section 4 highlights the detailed need of

alternative analysis. Section 5 and 6 relates to scoping and TOR as well as its

quality. Section 8 and 9 highlights the provision related to approval of

environmental study reports and prohibition of implementation of the project

without approval of the reports. Strategic environmental assessment,

Environmental Management Plan and Supplementary Environmental Impact

assessment are focused in section 9-11. In terms of pollution control, section 15-

20 highlights the provisions related to pollution control, import and management

of hazardous chemicals, establishment of laboratory, sample collection, pollution

control certification.

Child Labor

(Prohibition and

Regulation) Act,

2056

Article 3 bans employing a child below the age of 14 to work as a laborer

Solid Waste

Management Act,

2068

Article 4 rests the responsibility of the solid waste management under the

prescribed standards with the persons or institution that has generated the waste

whereas Article 5 mandates reduction of the waste at source. Article 9 make the

institution responsible to transport the solid waste to the waste disposal facility.

The local body is made responsible for the monitoring of solid waste

management by Article 21. Article 38 stipulates discharge of solid waste without

the consent of the local body as an offence and Article 39 provisions for the

punishment /penalty in case of offense.

An Act to Regulate

and Control of

International Trade of

Endangered Wild

Fauna and Flora,

2073

The Act has strictly prohibited the trade, use, farming, breeding or transport

(export or import) of endangered species of fauna or flora or their samples.

National Parks and

Wildlife

Conservation Act,

2029

Article 4 of the act restrict the entry into the National Park. Article 5 listed the

prohibited acts within National Park and Reserve. Schedule 1 related to Article

10 of the act listed the protected species of fauna.

Explosive Act, 2018 Article 4 of the Act emphasizes the need of permission for the use, sell,

transportation and import of explosive item. The act made provision of penalty

up to NRs. 20,000 if transporting or using the explosive items without proper

permission. The act authorized chief District Officer to grant such permission.

According to Article 8 of the act any accident caused by the use of explosives

shall be informed to nearest Police Station to the earliest possible.




Aquatic Animals

Protection Act, 2017

Article 4 empowers the government to prohibit catching, killing and harming of

aquatic animals through notification in the Nepal Gazette

Land Use Act, 2076

Article 4 of the act classify land into nine categories. Article 8 restrict to changes

land uses. Article 10 of the act restrict the land plotting and promote land

unification.

Contribution Based

Social Security Act,

2074

The Social Security Act provides that the government publishes the notice in

Nepal gazette prescribing the sector, industries, business, service or employer

undertaking certain transaction to whom the Social Security Act applies. The

Social Security Act specifies the Scheme that shall operate. The Scheme Include

(a) Medical and Health Protection Scheme, (b) Maternity Protection Scheme, (c)

Accidental Protection Scheme, (d) Old-age Protection Scheme, (e) Dependent

Family Protection Scheme, (f) Unemployment Protection Scheme. The Fund has

also authority to introduce other Schemes.

Muluki Dewani

Samhita 2074

Article 18 of the act prohibits the discrimination to any people by any means.

As per Article 25, no any private property to be acquired by the government

except in case of public will.

Rules/Regulations

Forest Rules, 2051 Rule 65 of the Forest Rules stipulated that in case the execution of any project

having national priority in any forest area causes any loss or harm to any local

individuals or community the proponent of the project itself will bear the amount

of compensation to be paid. Similarly, the entire expenses required for the cutting

and transporting the forest products in a forest area should be borne by the

proponent of the project.

Environmental

Protection Rules,

2077

Section 2, Rule 3 to Rule 13 of the EPR related with the provisions of

Environmental studies of any developmental project as per the project listed in

schedule 1, 2 and 3of the same.

Section 3 related with the pollution control provision.

Schedule 4 and 5 has the public notice format and reporting format for the

Scoping document.

Schedule 6, 7 and 8 related with the Terms of Reference report format of

Environmental Studies.

Schedule 9 gives the public notice format for the environmental studies.

Schedule 10, 11 and 12 gives the Environmental studies report format.

Environmental

Protection Rules,

2054

The EPR establishes the administrative framework for assessment, exhibition and

determination of the EIA/IEE, in terms of issues needed to be addressed and the

format/layout of the EIA/IEE document. Under this Rules, the EIA of the

proposed project has to be carried out by the proponent and should get approval

from the MoFE prior to the project implementation.

National Parks and

Wildlife

Conservation Rules,

2030

Chapter 2, Section 3 of this Rule focused on publishing a notice at least 35 days

of time period to submit the shield tender in the major newspapers for operating

any services from any bodies of the Government of Nepal inside national parks

and reserves. To operate any services or facilities related to construction work

within the national park or reserve, the person shall take the approval of the

Government of Nepal. Except the Government employees deputed for the duty,

other person shall not be allowed to enter into the preserved national reserve

without receiving the written permission from the chief.

Labor Rules, 2075 Rule 3 of the Labor Rules has set out the criteria for determining if any dispute

arises on whether or not an employment is regular employment. It has also

specified the additional matters to be covered under the employment contract.

Rule 4 of the Labor Rules requires the employment contract to cover (a) nature

of employment, (b) primary work of the employee and his/her position, (c)

statement that the employees' service rule will be integral part, (d) date, time,




place of contract and its effective date, (e) Other important terms and conditions

related to the work or service of the employee.

Solid Waste

Management Rules,

2070

• The Local Body shall, while fixing segregation at least of organic and non-

organic solid waste at its source under Section 6, have to make management

and segregation of harmful or chemical waste separately. If it is prescribed

as above, the individual, organization or agency generating such solid waste,

shall have to make segregation as prescribed.

• The Local Body shall conduct programs for increasing people's awareness in

relation to applying appropriate technology for making segregation through

reduction of generation of solid waste at its source and management under

Sub-Rule (1).

• No one shall discharge solid waste by mixing harmful, chemical, organic or

inorganic waste with other waste. The arrangement for final discharge should

only be made after processing of harmful, chemical, organic or inorganic

waste into a general waste.

Contribution Based

Social Security

Regulation, 2075

The Regulations has made arrangements for providing social security to the

contributors. As per law, both employers and employees must mandatorily

deposit their instalment for the scheme and it is applicable for all types of

workers. The Regulations has provisions for enlisting in the Social Security

Fund, the individuals drawing salary from the government fund, the labourers in

the informal sector and self-employed individuals.

Directives

Forest Products,

Collection, Sale and

Distribution

Directives, 2073

The directives have specified various procedures and formats for getting approval

for vegetation clearance, delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation

of wood volume, etc. and government offices and officials responsible for the

approval, delineation and evaluation. These provisions have a direct relevance to

the development of the project and need compliance to these provisions

Working Procedure

Working Policy for

Physical and

Infrastructure

Construction and

Operation within

Protected Area, 2065

This policy states that no land will be made available for construction of any

development work except of national priority within the protected area.

Compensatory plantation to be done at the ration of 1:25.

Working Procedure

and Standards for

the Use of National

Forest Land for

National Priority

Project, 2076

Projects requiring the forest land area have to make alternative studies to

minimize the forest land use areas. The proponent of the National Priority

Project, National Pride Project, Priority Transmission Line Project and

Investment Allocated Project from Investment Board has to get the approval from

the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

The proponent of the project has to provide the land equal to the forest land

permanently occupied by the project to the ministry of forest and environment.

The government project has to make the provision of such land cost at its cost-

estimate. Otherwise, Ministry of finance has to provide such cost.

The proponent has to afforest the area equal to the forest area lost at minimum or

the proponent could deposit the required amount as per forest norm to the division

forest office. The proponent should plant 10 trees for every loss of tree and pole

and look after the plantation for 5 years to ensure their protection and growth of

every planted tree. Or the proponent deposit the required amount for plantation

and protection for five years to the DFO.

Guidelines




EIA Guidelines for

Forestry Sector,

1995

The guideline emphasized the need of carrying out an EIA/IEE of development

projects and programs proposed for implementation in forest areas.

Forest Production,

Collection and Sales

Distribution

Guidelines

The Clauses 3 to 10 of the Guidelines have specified various procedure and

formats for getting approval for vegetation clearance, delineation of lands for

vegetation clearance, evaluation of wood volume etc. and government offices and

officials responsible for the approval, delineation and evaluation.

Community Forest

Guidelines, 2058

Through this guidelines, persons involved in the development and management

of community forest like facilitators, user groups, forester and managers etc. will

get help to understand about the process and stages of development of community

forest. Forest Users Group, forest officials, NGOs and INGOs are getting benefit

by this guideline.

Community Forest

Resource Inventory

Guidelines, 2061

With the aim to assist Community Forest Users Group for sustainable forest

management, community forest resource inventory guideline bwas prepared.

The inventory guideline has six chapters. Second chapter of the guideline

include forest resource inventory methodologies, tools, sample size and

intensity, resource requirement etc. Chapter three contains data collection

methodologies, sample design techniques and forest stock estimation

techniques including forest diversity. There is data analysis techniques and

utilization of information obtained from data analysis in chapter four and five.

National EIA

Guidelines, 2050

It is mandatory to follow the National EIA Guidelines, 2050 (1993) during the

EIA. Following the guidelines, the environmental impact prediction and

evaluation of the proposed project has been done on physical, biological and

socio-economic and cultural environment of the project area. The guideline is

used for analysis of significant issues.

The schedules attached to the Guidelines include:

Schedule 1 : Projects requiring IEE Report

Schedule 2 : Projects requiring EIA

Schedule 3 : EIA based on project sites

Schedule 4 : Format for Terms of Reference

Schedule 5 : EIA Report Format

Schedule 6 : Format of EIA Report Annexes

International Treaty and Conventions

Convention on

Biological Diversity,

1992

The convention contains a series of far reaching obligations related to the

conservation of biological diversity and sustainable uses of its components. One

of these obligations is the requirement for environmental study.

Convention on

International Trade

in Endangered

Species of Wild

Fauna and Flora

(CITES), 1973

Aims to control the trade of certain wildlife species to prevent further endangered

species of their survival. CITES classified species according to the following

criteria:

• Species threatened with extinction,

• Species which could become endangered,

• Species that are protected.

As Nepal is party to the convention related to species conservation, attention

should be given to evaluate the impacts of the project activities on meeting their

obligation. It is relevant to EIA that species protection list could also be used to

evaluate the significance of the identified and predicted impacts. Plant and wild

animal species under legal protection provides a basis to purpose EMPs for their

conservation and for least damaging them during project implementation.

ILO Convention of

Indigenous and

Article-1 of the convention provides definition of the tribal indigenous people.

Article-6 deals the consultation of the people concerned through appropriate

procedure in particular through their representative institutions.




Tribal Peoples

(No.169)

In Article 15, the rights of the people concerned to the natural resources

pertaining to their lands shall cover the total environments of the areas which the

people concerned occupy or use. Article 16 (2) clearly mention that where the

relocation of these peoples is considered necessary as an exceptional measures

such as relocation shall take place only with their free and inform consent.

Article 16 (3) mention that whenever possible these peoples shall have the right

to return their traditional land as soon as the grounds for relocation cease to exist.

Article 16 (5) elaborated the persons thus relocated shall be fully compensated

for any resulting loss or injury. The ILO Convention on Indigenous and Tribal

Peoples, 1989 (No.169) is relevant for the proposed project as there are

indigenous and tribal families in the project affected area.

Article-15 states that the rights of the people concerned to the natural resources

pertaining to their lands shall be specifically safeguarded. Provision includes the

people to participate in the use, management and conservation of these resources.

Project share distribution and employment priority to these people will somehow

reduce the possible conflict. The provision made in the ILO Convention on

Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, 1989 (No.169) is not line fully with the prevailing

acts and rules regarding environmental study of the proposed project.

Access Road of UAHEP Existing Environmental Condition


5 Existing Environmental Condition This chapter provides information on the physical, biological, and socioeconomic environment.

The area considered for assessment of baseline conditions span the whole Project Affected District

(PAD) of Sankhuwasabha that will be large enough in extent to include all potential impacts from

the proposed project. Data were obtained as a result of literature and field surveys.

5.1 Physical Environment The proposed alignment passes through different terrain affecting variety of land use pattern. The

topography, land use, climatic condition, geomorphology and geology, seismology, air, water and

noise condition, watershed and drainage pattern that shall be influenced due to the construction of

this project has been discussed in each topic ahead.

5.1.1 Topography

The proposed 23.19km (UAHEP access road - 21.19km and IKHEP access road - 2.00km)

alignment lies in middle mountain region of Nepal. The topography of road alignment is gentle to

steep slope. The alignment traverse through mostly mountainous and steep terrain. The existing

ground elevation of the UAHEP access road varies between 1094.13masl at chainage 0+060 to

2052.658masl at chainage 15+760. Similarly, the existing ground elevation of the IKHEP access

road varies between 1045.47 masl at chainage 0+180 to 905.14 at chainage 1+860 masl. Figure 2-

5 shows the alignment of access roads. The elevation profile along the UAHEP access road is

given in Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1: Elevation Profile of Section 1

Source: Google Earth

5.1.2 Land Use

A total of 102.448ha land is estimated for the construction of access road and ancillary facilities.

The main land use pattern of the project area is cultivated, forest and barren (kharbari). For the

construction of access road, tunnel, and bridges, the project required about 13.77% forest land,

59.81% cultivation land, 19.29% barren (kharbari) land and 7.13% others (waterbodies and foot

track). The Table 5-1 shows the land type requirement for different project components

differentiating in temporary and permanent land. The component wise land requirement is given

in table 1 of Appendix B. The land use in project affected area is given figure 10 of Appendix B.



Table 5-1: Landuse of Access Road

S.N. Land Type Land Requirement (ha) Percent

age (%) Temporary Permanent Total

1 Forest 4.271 9.833 14.104 13.77

2 Cultivation 18.252 43.02 61.272 59.81

3 Barren (Kharbari) 12.944 6.819 19.763 19.29

4 Others (Water bodies and foot track) 5.836 1.473 7.309 7.13

Total 41.303 61.145 102.448 100.00

Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019 and Field Study

5.1.3 Climate

The climate of project area varies according to variation of elevation. Sub-tropical and Temperate

climate prevail in the project area. The maximum and minimum temperature range of Khadbari,

during period of 2009 to 2018 is 28.8°C to 30.7°C and 7.6°C to 10.2°C respectively. The minimum

and maximum temperature and mean monthly temperature variation of Khadbari recorded during

period of 2009 to 2018 is given in figure 11 and 12 of Appendix B-3.

Two rain-gauging stations namely Chepuwa station (1317) and Num Station (1301) of

Sankhuwasabha District are available near project area. The rainfall data were obtained from

Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM). Using rainfall data from 2010 to 2018 mean

monthly rainfall of two stations were calculated and shown in figure 5-2 and figure5-3. The

recorded maximum annual precipitation from 2010 to 2018 is 2972.9 at Chepuwa station in 2016

and 4662.1mm at Num Station in 2018. The analysis shows that maximum rainfall occurs from

June to September and about 70% of total annual rainfall occurs within this period. Table 5-2: Rainfall Stations near Project area

Station Name Index

No

Lat.

(deg.min)

Long.

(deg.min)

Elevation

Chepuwa

station

1317 2746 8725 2590

Num Station 1301 2733 8717 1497

Source: DHM Data

Figure 5-2: Mean Monthly Precipitation at Chepuwa

Source: DHM data

Figure 5-3: Mean Monthly Precipitation at Num

Source: DHM data

5.1.4 Geology and Geomorphology

Regional Geology

The area of Upper Arun HEP access road alignment mostly passes through the rocks of the Lesser

Himalayan Zone. The rocks of this zone are non-fossiliferous metamorphic rock. The alignment

of proposed UAHEP access road passes on the rocks of gneiss, schist and quartzite of the Lesser

Himalayan zone (figure 17 of Appendix B). Similarly, the alignment of IKHEP access road

075

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follows the rocks of high-grade metamorphic of the Lesser Himalaya, covered by high-grade

metamorphic rocks of augen gneiss and schist. This road alignment passes south of the Main

Central Thrust (MCT), which separates rocks of the Higher Himalaya.

Engineering Geology

The road alignment passes through the high-grade metamorphic rocks of the Lesser Himalaya as

well as loose sediments of the alluvial and colluvial deposits. Thre rocks, along the alignment,

consist of weathered augen gneiss, schist, and quartzite. Thickness of the soil deposits range from

5m to more than 7m. Geological condition of road alignment is describe as follows.

UAHEP Access Road

a) Chainage 0+000 to 2+000

A bridge over the Arun River is proposed between the chainage 0+000 to 0+120m that consist of

alluvial terrace deposit of height between 3-5m. The alluvial deposit is not well consolidated at

the toe section. The deposit consist of approximately 60 percent fine to coarse, hard,sub-rounded

to sub-angular gravel; approximately 20 percent fine, hard, sub-rounded to sub-angular sand;

approximately 10 percent silty non-plastic fines. Rock is exposed at the left bank of the river

upstream of the proposed bridge site. The hill slope is moderate to steep with the angle between

30°- 60°. There is a minor slide at around the chainage 0+700m which is triggered by the rainfall.

Bedrock is exposed at around chainage 1+700m and 2+000m.

b) Chainage 2+000 to 4+000

This section ot the alignment entirely passes through the colluvial deposit. This deposit has been

extensively reworked by cultivation. There are not any visible slope instabilities issues at this

section. The slope is moderate with angle around 20 °- 40°. The bedrock is exposed at around

chainage 3+650m.

c) Chainage 4+000 to 6+000

This section of road entirely passes through the colluvial deposit and bedrock is exposed at around

the chainage 5+000 to 5+200m. The colluvial deposit at this section of slope consists of

approximately 40 percent fine to medium brownish to grey sand; approximately 30 percent hard

angular to sub-angular pebbles, cobbles and boulder; approximately 30 percent silty fines with

low plasticity. The deposit has been extensively reworked by cultivation. The hill slope is gentle

to moderately steep with angle that ranges from 10-60°. There are not any visible signs of slope

instabilities.

d) Chainage 6+000 to 8+000

This section of the road alignment entirely runs through the colluvial deposit with no bedrock

exposures at any place. The section passes through agricultural lands. The hill slope is gentle to

moderate with angle that ranges from 10-40. There are not any visible signs of slope instabilities

along the road alignment.

e) Chainage 8+000 to10+000

This section of the road alignment passes through bedrock as well as colluvial deposit. The

colluvial deposit at this section of slope consist of approximately 40 percent fine to medium

brownish to grey sand; approximately 40 percent hard angular to sub-angular cobbles and

boulders; approximately 20 percent silty fines with low plasticity. The slope is moderate to steep

which is entirely reworked by agriculture activities. Multiple seasonal streams and surface seepage

intersect the alignment. There are not any visible signs of slope instabilities along the road

alignment.

f) Chainage 10+000 to 12+000

This section of road alignment passed mostly through the colluvilal deposit with bed rock exposed

in multiple locations. Colluvial deposit consists of approximately 40 percent fine to medium

brownish to grey sand; approximately 40 percent hard angular to sub-angular bouders; and

approximately 20 percent silty fines. Multiple seasonal and perennial stream intersects the

alignment. The slope is moderate to steep with angle that ranges from 20-40°. The section of road

mainly consist private barren and agriculture land.



g) Chainage 12+000 to 13+720

The section of hill slope is entirely covered by colluvial deposit that consist of approximately 40

percent fine to medium brownish to grey sand; approximately 40 percent hard angular to sub-

angular bouders; approximately 20 percent silty fines. No bedrock exposures are available at this

section of alignment except at chainage 13+720m which is the proposed inlet portal of the road

tunnel. There is landslide at chainage 13+100m that can undermine the stability of road.

h) Chainage 15+770 to 18+000

This section of the road the road alignment will pass through mostly the bedrock exposure.

Bedrock in the available exposure is light grey, medium to coarse-grained, strong slightly to

moderately weathered. The slope is mostly barren with very area reworked by cultivation. The

slope is gentle to moderate with angle 10-40°. The slope is mostly dry at surface with no any

visible sign of instabilities.

i) Chainage 18+000 to 20+000

This section of hill slope is entirely covered by colluvilal deposit that consist of approximately 40

percent fine to medium brownish to gery sand; approximately 40 percent hard angular to sub-

angular boulders; approximately 20 percent silty fines. No bedrock exposures are available at this

section of alignment. The hill slope is moderate with some seasonal streams intersecting. There is

landslide on the vally side of road alignment at chainage 19+950m that can undermine the stability

of road

j) Chainage 20+000 to 21+1900

This section of the hill slope is also entirely covered by colluvilal with occasional exposure of

bedrock. The deposit consists of approximately 50 percent fine to medium brownidh grey sand;

approximately 30 percent hard angular to sub-angular boulders; approximately 20 percent silty

fines. Bedrock in the available exposure is light grey, medium to coarse-grained, strong, and

slightly to moderately weathered. Within this section alignment crossed the Chepuwa Khola.

There is alluvial deposit at the terminal part of this alignment. The alluvial deposit mostly

composed of sandy graves.

IKHEP Access Road

a) Chainage 0+000 to 2+000

The section from 0+000m to 1+600m lies in hill slope entirely covered by colluvila deposit. The

deposit consists of approximately 50 percent fine to medium brownish grey sand; approximately

30 percent hard angular to sub-angular boulder; approximately 20 percent silty fines. The section

form 1+600m to 2+000m lies on the right bank alluvial deposit of Arun River. The height of the

terrace is about 5.0m from the riverbed. The deposit consist of approximately 70 percent fine to

coarse, hard, sub-rounded to sub-angular gravel; approximately 20 percent fine hard sub-rounded

to sub-rounded angular sand; approximately 5 percent silty non-plastic fine; approximately 5

percent rounded cobbles and boulders. The deposit has been extensively used for cultivation.

Geomorphology

The landform of the project area is controlled by mainly mass wasting processes. The project area

lies in moderate to steep topography. The area is characterized by rugged hills, numerous gullies

and few old landslides. Many seasonal steams interest with the alignment throughout its length.

The hill slope is sparsely exposed as the most of the hill slope is covered by thin colluvial deposit.

Most hillslope profile consist of three slope units- an upper convex unit where gradient increase

with length, a straight middle unit of constant gradient and a concave lower unit where gradient

decrease with length.

5.1.5 Seismology

Nepal is located along the active Main Himalayan Thrust arc, where the sub-ducting Indian plate

and the overriding Eurasian plate interact. The presence of three main fault line with in country:

the main central trust (MCT), the main boundary fault (MBF) and the Himalaya frontal fault (HFF)

are main causes of earthquake in Nepal. Map developed by National Seismological Center (NSC)

(figure 18 of Appendix B) which shows peak ground acceleration contours in bedrock for 500



year return period, which approximately corresponds to 10 percent chance of exceedance in 50

years. From the figure, the project area lies within the contours of 300-350 gals which corresponds

to 0.3 -0.36g.

The ground motions parameters are typically established at ground surface. Tunnels, however, are

constructed at some depth below the ground surface. For seismic evaluation of the tunnel structure,

the ground motion parameter are derived at the elevation of the tunnel. Ground motion generally

decrease with depth below the ground surface. For this region, these parameters generally have

lower values than estimated for ground surface motion. The proposed tunnel in the project has

ground cover well above 30 m. Hence, the PGA for tunnel construction in the project area is

estimated as 0.16g. For PGA equal to or less than 0.2g ground shaking caused essentially no

damage in tunnels ( Source: UAHEP, 2019).

5.1.6 Air and Noise Quality

As there are no major industries and traffics movement in the project area of UAHEP access road,

the ambient air and noise quality is expected to be within permissible limits. The major settlements

near the UAHEP access road alignments are Sibrung, Hem, Namashe, and Rukuma. The land use

is dominantly agricultural and associate residual area. Hence, air quality is expected to be within

National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of Nepal. PM10, PM2.5 and Noise

measurement value at the Gola Bazzar was 72.95 PPM, 26.99 PPM and 58 DBA respectively in

the month of Asoj, 2076. Near proposed access road of IKHEP, due to the rehabilitation of Koshi

highway and vehicular movement on the highway, interference on the natural air and noise quality

is expected. As vehicular movement is very low and construction activity is confined within

limited area, ambient air and noise quality at this site is expected to be within permissible limits.

5.1.7 Surface and Ground Water

The project area falls within the watershed of the Arun River. A number of springs, rivulets or

kholsi flow within the project area and finally drain into the Arun River. Local people have utilized

these water sources for drinking and other household propose. Water quality along the stretch was

good enough from the eyesight point of view as it was clean and clear throughout the sections.

Although secondary information on water quality of these springs, rivulets, and river is not

available, it is assumed that it is up to the prescribed standard as there are no sources of pollution

along the watercourse. The reported water quality of Arun River during dry season by is as

follows. Table 5-3: Water Quality of Arun River

Location/ River Name pH TDS (mg/l) DO (mg/l) BOD (mg/l)

Arun River 6.2 200 9.1 2.1

Nepal Water Quality for Aquaculture 6.5-9.0 <2000 6-9 (for cold water species) <15

Source: Environment Statistics of Nepal, 2019

5.1.8 Hydrology and Drainage Patterns

a) Hydrology

The hydrological study was carried out to determine the design food discharge for bridges and for

cross and side drainage. The flood discharge of Arun River at bridge site has been determine from

flood frequency of annual instantaneous flood at Uwa Village for 100 years return period. The

table 5-4 summarizes the hydrological characteristic of Arun River and Chepuwa Khola for design

of bridges. Table 5-4: Hydrological Characteristic of Bridge Site

S.N. Characteristics Arun River Chepuwa Khola

Bridge 1 Bridge 2 Bridge 3

1 Catchment Area 26550.0km2 26350.0km2 18.612km2

2 Design Discharge (Q100) 3750.0m3/s 3750.0m3/s 80m3/s

3 Bridge Length 80.0m 70.2m 15.0m

4 Bed level of river 891.98m 1078.33m 1734.458m

5 High Flood Level 901.16m 1091.00m 1376.10m

6 Main channel velocity 6.9m/s 6.42m/s 4.6m/s




For the design of roadside drain, the discharge for trapezoidal and right triangle section of side

drain is calculated for different slope ranging from 1% to 11% depending upon road gradient.

Trapezoidal and right triangle side drain is design for maximum capacity of 1.597m3/s and 0.65

m3/s respectively.

b) Drainage Pattern

Drainage systems are the patterns formed by the streams, rivers, and lakes in a particular drainage

basin. They are governed by the topography, types of rock and soil cover, gradient of land and

vegetation cover. As per configuration of the channels, drainage system found in this area is

accordant drainage pattern. In accordant drainage pattern, dendritic drainage pattern (pertaining

to a tree) is the most common form of drainage system in the project area. There are many

contributing streams which are then joined together into the tributaries of the main river. They

develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain. Dendritic systems form in V-

shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types are impervious and non-porous. The alignment traverse

through middle mountain region of Nepal. The watershed of proposed alignment is observed to

be fairly intact and stable. Slope of these catchments are in steep terrain, most of the catchments

are well vegetated and forested. It seems that more than 50% of rainfall will be retained by

catchments due to dense vegetation and forests as well as by infiltration. As per the Detail Design

Report, there are 57 numbers of cross drains along the proposed road alignment. In addition to the

natural gullies, cross drains are provided at the places where the road has valley curve. Drainage

pattern of project area is given in figure 19 of Appendix B. Similarly, table given below shows

the crossing of river and kholsi along the alignment of access road of UAHEP.

Table 5-5: Crossing of River and Natural Drainage at Different Chainage

S.N. Chainage River/Kholsi 1 0+070 Arun River 2 4+750 Kholsi 3 5+375 Kholsi 4 6+030 Kholsi 5 8+540 Kholsi 6 8+650 Kholsi 7 8+875 Kholsi 8 9+520 Kholsi 9 10+190 Kholsi

10 10+350 Kholsi 11 10+475 Kholsi 12 10+510 Kholsi 13 10+950 Kholsi 14 11+485 Kholsi 15 17+210 Kholsi 16 17+580 Kholsi 17 18+750 Kholsi 18 18+820 Kholsi 19 20+350 Chepuwa Khola

Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Report, 2019 and field verification

5.1.9 Soil Erosion and Land Stability

Landslides

The road alignment traverses through mostly the steep terrain and undulated topography. Most

part of the alignment passes on colluvial and alluvial deposits and about 20% in the rocks. The

hydrological condition of the road alignment is wet. The road alignment crosses the natural

drainage channel at various section. In these circumstances, there is high possibility of soil erosion

during construction period. At present, two landslides were observed along the alignment of

UAHEP access road. One landslide was observed on hillside slope of Namase village and another

was near Chepuwa Khola at valley side of road alignment. Similarly, recently occurred two

landslides were also observed along the access road to muck disposal area. Besides these

landslides, remarkable instabilities were not found within right of way of road. Landslide

susceptibility map of the project area is given in figure 9 of Appendix B.



Slope Stability

The slope stability in the rock is analyzed by plotting stereographic projection. Between chainage

0+000 to 13+720 at some places there is possibilities of plane failure along the joint as well as

wedge failure along the joint plane. Most of place in the rocky area has good slope stability

(Source: UAHEP, 2019). In the rock, the stereograph shows relation between natural hill slope

and foliation plane is oblique hence there is less possibility of failure.

(b) Between chainage 0+000 to 3+000 (c) Between chainage 3+000 to 5+000

Figure 5-4: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment in southern face of the road Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Report, 2019

(a) Between chainage 15+900 to 18+500 (b) Between chainage 18+500 to 20+650

Figure 5-5: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment in Northern face of the road Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Report, 2019

Table 5-6 Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along Road Alignment in all options

Location Chainage HS

and F

F and J1 F and J2 J1 and J2 Remarks Between Gola and Namase 1 0+000-3+000 Stable Less stable Stable Less stable PL along J1 2 3+000-5+000 Stable Less stable Stable Stable PL along J2 3 5+000-8+000 Stable Stable Stable Stable TP along J1 and J2 4 8+000-11+000 Stable Less stable Stable Stable TP along J1 5 11+000-13+720 Stable Stable Stable Unstable ---------------- Between Namase and Rukuma 6 15+900-18+500 Stable Stable Unstable Stable ---------------- 7 18+500-20+650 Stable Less stable Stable Stable PL along J2 8 20+650-21+190 Stable Stable Stable Stable ----------------

Note: TP-Toppling Failure; PL-Plane Failure; F-Foliation; J-Joint Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Report, 2019

Along access road of IKHEP, the stereograph shows relation between natural hill slope and

foliation plane is oblique so there is less possibility of failure. However, there is possibility of plan

failure as well as wedge failures along the joint plane in the rock (Figure 5-6 and Table 5-7).

Table 5-7: Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along IKHEP Road Alignment

Location Chainage HS and F F and J1 F and J2 J1 and J2 Remarks

1 0+000-0+530 Stable Less stable Stable Less stable PL along J1

2 0+530-2+000 Stable Less stable Stable Stable -----------------

Note: TP-Toppling Failure; PL-Plane Failure; F-Foliation; J-Joint

Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Report, 2019



Figure 5-6: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment of IKHEP


(a) (b)

Picture 4-3: Landslides near (a) Namase and (b) Chepuwa Khola

5.2 Biological Environment The proposed project lies in Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. The forests of these mountains are

subtropical broadleaf forest to alpine. The abrupt rise of the Himalayan mountains from less than

500m to more than 8,000m results in a diversity of ecosystems that range from alluvial grasslands

and subtropical broad leaf forests along the foothills to temperate broad leaf forests in the mid

hills, mixed conifer and conifer forests in the higher hills, and alpine meadows above the tree line.

The mountain range of this hotspot covers about 750,000km2 and is divided into two major

regions, i.e., the Eastern Himalaya (Nepal, Bhutan, the northeast Indian states of West Bengal,

Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, southeast Tibet, and northern Myanmar) and the Western

Himalaya (Kumaon-Garhwal, northwest Kashmir, and northern Pakistan). The Himalayan hotspot

has nearly 163 globally threatened species (both flora and fauna). The hotspot has an estimated

10,000 species of plants, 300 species of mammals and 977 species of birds (Venkatraman and

Sivaperuman, 2018). The Access Road of UAHEP is proposed through forests and cultivated land.

The project area consists of forests area and agricultural lands with scarce vegetation (private

trees). However, the section 2 of access road and the bridge over Arun Rover of section 1 lies in

the buffer zone of Makalu Barun National Park (MBNP). The following sections describes the

baseline of biological environment of the PAD and project area.

5.2.1 Vegetation and Forest Resources

Based on the climatic condition, the PAD has six types of forest: Tropical Forest (below 1000m

elevation), Subtropical Forest (1000m to 1800m), Lower Temperate Forest (1800m to 2400m),

and Upper Temperate Forest (2400m to 3000m), Sub- Alpine Forest (3000m to 3800m) and

Alpine Forest in the region with elevation above 3800m. (DFO, Sankhuwasabha, 2075/076).

DFRS (2015) data shows that, 44.90% of the total area of PAD is covered by forest (Table 5-8).



Table 5-8: Vegetation Cover in PAD

Region Vegetation Cover Area (ha) Total vegetation

Cover (1) ha

Other land

(2) ha

Total area of

PAD (1+2) ha Forest Shrub OWL

High Himalaya 12,540 - 14,710 27,250 86,437 113,687

High Mountain 100,374 3,664 17,429 121,467 32,434 153,901

Middle Mountain 43,188 53 69 43,310 36,784 80,094

Total 156,102 3,717 32,208 192,027 155,655 347,682

Percentage (%) 44.90 1.07 9.26 55.23 44.77 100

Source: DFRS, 2015

Note: OWL: Other wooded land (canopy cover of trees 5-10% with trees more than 5m high in-situ/ or canopy

cover of trees less than 5% but combined cover of shrub/bush/trees over 10%; includes areas of shrubs and bushes

where no trees are present)

5.2.1.1 Makalu Barun National Park and Buffer Zone

Makalu Barun National Park is recognized for its tremendous biodiversity. The Park harbors 25

species of rhododendron, 47 species of orchids, 56 rare plants and 27 types of forest (DNPWC

website). There are 88 recorded mammal species of which, Snow leopard (Panthera uncia),

Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus), Red panda (Ailurus fulgens), Musk deer (Moschus

chrysogaster), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), Himalayan thar (Hemitragus jemlahicus), and common

leopard (Panthera pardus) are major species. The Park is one of the Important Bird Areas (IBAs)

of Nepal. There are 433 recorded bird species in the park (DNPWC brochure). Two sections of

proposed road alignment lie in the buffer zone of the park.

Figure 5-7: Makalu Barun National Park and Buffer Zone Zone

Source: DNPWC website

5.2.1.2 Forest management regime in the PAD

According to the DFO of Sankhuwasabha, by the end of FY 2075/76, a total of 289 Community

Forest User Groups (CFUGs) have been registered. These CFUGs are responsible for managing a



total of 31933.52 ha of forest land as CFs, from which 29164 households are directly benefited.

There are 12 private forest, 10 leasehold forest and two religious forest registered in the district. Table 5-9: Forest Management categories in the PAD

S.N Forest Management Categories Number Area (ha)

1 Community forest 289 31933.53

2 Leasehold forest 10 124.971

3 Conservation area/Buffer zone 233000

4 Government managed forest 45381.61

5 Private forest 12 19.832

6 Religious forest 2 11.301

Source: DFO: 2076/077

5.2.1.3 Forest in PAA

In the PAA, there are 19 registered community forests in Makalu RM and nine registered

community forest in Bhotkhola RM. In addition to this, Makalu Barun National Park (MBNP) and

its buffer zone also lies in the PAA. The forest area of PPAs is given in table 5-10 below.

Table 5-10: Forest Area in PAA (Sq. km.)

Local Level DoF

Forest

DoF Non-

Forest

DoF

Total

DNPWC

Forest

DNPWC

Non-Forest

DNPWC

Total

Bhotkhola RM 201.2 258.8 460.0 187.8 83.2 271

Makalu RM 234.5 110.6 345.1 331.5 514.2 846

Source: DFO-Sankhusabha, 2076

The proposed access road passes through two community forests namely, Paripakha community

forest (chainage 4+050 to 4+250) and Makpalung community forest (chainage 19+200 onward).

In addition, chainage 0+000 to 0+100 of the access road UAHEP and whole section of access road

IKHEP lies in the buffer zone of the MBNP.

Table 5-11: Detail of Project impacted Community Forests

Name of CF Address Sub-Division Area Affected area Dependent HHs

Paripakha Bhotkhola -4, Sibrung Arun 3.86 ha 0.5 ha 54

Makpalung Bhotkhola -2, Rukma Arun 731.12 8.926 ha 89

Buffer zone of MBNP

Total 9.426 ha Source: DFO-Sankhusabha, 2076

5.2.1.4 Vegetation along the road alignment

The field observation along the Access Road alignment revealed that Sub tropical and lower

temperate forest found along the proposed access road alignment. In the Gola and Sibrung region

along the Arun River valley, subtropical vegetation observed. Major vegetation observed in the

region were Siris (Albizia Julibrissiun), Bans (Dendrocalamus sp.), Uttis (Alnus nepalensis),

Chaap (Michelia champaca), Faledo (Erythrina variegata), Maleto (Macaranga pustulata),

Bhalayo (Semecarpus anacardium), Musure Katus (Castanopsis tribuloids), Mauwa (Madhuka

indica), Ras, Simal (Bombax ceiba), lapsi (Chorespondius axilaris) and other. In the Namase and

Rukma section of the alignment lower temperate type of vegetation observed. Major vegetation

of the region was Champ (Michelia champaca), Kaulo (Persea odoratissima), Gurans

(Rhododendron sp.), Phalant (Quercus glauca), Bajrant (Quercus sp), and other. Slash and Burn

practice were observed in the upper part of the Rukma region.

a) Paripakha Community Forest

Access road of UAHEP passes through the Paripakha community forest from chainage 4+050 to

4+250. This section of forest is adjacent to the Black-cadamam farm. Major tree species found in

the section were musure katus (Castanopsis tribuloids), siris (Albizia Julibrissiun), mauwa

(Madhuka Indica), faledo (Erythrina variegate), bhalayo (Semecarpus anacardium) and chuletro

(Brassiopsis hainla). In addition, sapling of gogan (Saurauia nepaulensis), gayo (Bridelia retusa),

khanyeu (Ficus semicordata) and paiyeu (Prunus cerasoids) were also found. The ground

vegetation in the forest were ningalo, kamle, kalo banmara, sisnu, fern, black cardamom and

charchare lahara. Status of forest along the proposed road alignment is given I Appendix C-3.



b) Makpalung Community Forest

Access road of UAHEP passes through the Makpalung community forest from chainage 19+200

onward. The section of the forest is north facing so remains moist most of the time. There are two

streams (at chainage 19+200 and 20+800) flowing in that section of the forest. The forest section

characterizes by steep slope down to the Arun River, taal tree and dense understory bushes. The

major trees species were utis (Alnus nepalensis), champ (Michelia champaca), kaulo (Persea

odoratissima), gurans (Rhododendron sp.), phalant (Quercus glauca) and bajrant (Quercus sp,).

The understory vegetation in the forest were titepati, bilaune, aasare, chiraito, fern, thotne,

pahiroful and nigalo.

Private trees have also been grown by the local people to meet their need of fodder, fire-wood,

and timber. Major trees found in the private land along the road alignments were utis (Alnus

nepalensis), siris (Albizia Julibrissiun), mauwa (Madhuka Indica), faledo (Erythrina variegate),

bhalayo (Semecarpus anacardium), Ghoge chanp (Magnolia campbellii), Rani chanp (Magnolia

doltsopa) and other. Similarly, common fruits plants found in the project area is Lapsi

(Chorespondius axilaris). Likewise, Paniamala (Nephrolepsis cordifolia), Titepati (Artemisia

vulgaris), Chutro (Berberis aristata) and Ainselu (Rubus ellipticus) are also observed in the

project area. Status of forest along the proposed road alignment is given in Table 17 to Table 21

of Appendix C.

5.2.1.5 Protected species of flora

In the project impacted area of Makpalung Community Forest, lichens are recorded during the

field visit. Local people in the region are collecting lichens as a food ingrediants. Government of

Nepal has banned it to export outside the country. Some of the CITES listed species are also

recorded during the field visit. Hadchur (Vanda cristata), an epiphytic herb on large tree trunk

and branches were observed in the forest of Makpalung Community Forest. Local people use its

root and leaf paste to treat dislocate bones and wounds. The species is listed in CITES appendix

II. Similarly, as per local people Ban lasun (Allium walichii) also found in the project impact area.

Which is also listed in CITES Appendix II.

Bhote Lahara (Gnetum montanum) is reported from the project area mainly along the bank of

Arun River in Makalu RM and Num area (Luitel and Pathak, 2015). Availability of the species

was highlighted during the TOR presentation meeting in the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

However, this species was not recorded during the field study period in the project impact area.

5.2.1.6 Terrestrial Fauna

The Project district is characterized by a diverse vegetation and climate ranging from alpine to

tropical vegetation. This diversity provides suitable habitat for a large number of wild mammals

and birds. Some of the major wildlife reported from the project area are categorized as follows.

a) Mammals

The project impact area can be categorized in to two distinct sections from the perspectives of

wildlife. The first section from Gola to Namase and second section from Namase to the dam site

of the UAHEP. In the first section, which passes through mostly cardamom farm and settlement,

there is no such important wildlife habitat area. So, availability of the wildlife in the first section

of the road is rare.

The second section (Namase to Rukma) of the road is important from the prespective of wildlife.

This section passes through dense Makpalung community forest in Rukma. Himsikhar community

forest (not directly impacted by road) of Namase also very close to the alignment in Namase.

These two community forests connect low land forest ecosystem to high altitude rangeland

ecosystem. Both the forests are isolated from the settlement. According to local people, many wild

animals are found in these two forests.

Based on public consultation and field observation, some of the wildlife reported from the project

area are Thar (Hemitragus jemlahicus), Ghoral (Naemorhedus goral), Barking Deer (Muntiacus



vaginalis), Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), Bear (Ursus thibetanus), Wild Cat (Felis chaus), Red Panda

(Ailurus fulgens), Ningale Bagh (Neofelis nebulosa), Kasturi (Moschus chrysogaster), Jackal

(Canis aureus), Malsapro (Martes flavigula), Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia), Pani oat (Lutra

lutra), wolf (Canis lupus) and other. Interaction with local people in the vicinity of the forest

revealed that the frequency of encounter with the wild mammals is very low.

Table 5-12: Conservation Status of Wildlife Found in the Project Area

S.N. Local/Common Name Scientific Name

Conservation Status

GoN CITES Appendix IUCN

Mammals

1. Thar Hemitragus jemlahicus I NT

2. Ghoral Naemorhedus goral I NT

3. Barking Deer Muntiacus vaginalis LC

4. Wild Boar Sus scrofa LC

5. Bear Ursus thibetanus I VU

6. Wild Cat Felis chaus II LC

7. Red panda Ailurus fulgens P I EN

8. Ningale Bagh Neofelis nebulosa P I VU

9. Malsapro Martes flavigula LC

10. Kasturi Moschus chrysogaster P I EN

11. Jackal Canis aureus LC

12. Mongoose Herpestes sp. LC

13. Snow leopard Panthera uncia P I EN

14. Chari Bagh Prionailurus bengalensis LC

15. Pani Oat Lutra lutra I NT

16. Wolf Canis lupus P I LC

b) Protected Species of Fauna

As per the literature, six species of mammal and two species of birds found in the park is protected

under the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act (DNPWC, 2075). Out of those species,

five species of mammals and two species of birds are found in the PAA. In the upper part of

Namase and Rukma region, there is large temperate forest with bamboo understory where local

people have reported Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens). In addition to that, Lophophorus impejanus

and Tragopan satyra, and other protected species Moschus chrysogaster, Panthera uncia and

Canis lupus is found in the upper part of the RM.

c) Birds

As per the database of Bird Life International (BLI) (2021), 27 Important Bird and Biodiversity

Areas (IBAs) has been identified and being monitored in Nepal. According to this, Makalu Barun

National Park is one of the IBAs identified and monitored in Nepal. The Park is especially

important for the globally threatened Wood Snipe (Gallinago nemoricola) which breeds, and the

near-threatened Satyr Tragopan and Yellow-rumped Honeyguide (Indicator xanthonotus) which

are resident and probably breed. This site is also of special importance for the high number of

seven restricted-range species from the Central and Eastern Himalayas EBAs that are probably

resident: Yellow-vented Warbler (Phylloscopus cantator), Broad-billed Warbler (Tickellia

hodgsoni), Nepal Wren Babbler (Pnoepyga immaculata), Rufous-throated Wren Babbler - (Spelaeornis caudatus), Spiny Babbler-(Turdoides nipalensis), Hoary-throated Barwing

(Actinodura nipalensis), White-naped Yuhina (Yuhina bakeri) (BLI, 2021).

According to the local, Danfe (Lophophorus impejanus), Munal (Satyra tragopan), Piyoura,

Bhakura, Kalchauda (Myophonus caeruleus), Eagle (Milvus migrans), Basare, Lahache, Owl

(Strix aluco), Huchil, Crow (Corvus splendes), Bhagera, Gidda (Gyps sp.), Parrot, Kalij (Lophura

leucomelanos), Cuckoo (Surniculus sp), Nauli, Dove (Streptopelia sp) and other.



Table 5-13: Conservation Status of Birds Found in the Project Area

S.N. Local/Common Name Scientific Name

Conservation Status

GoN CITES Appendix IUCN

Birds

1 Danphe Lophophorus impejanus P I NT

2 Munal atyra tragopan P I NT

d) Herpeto-fauna

The commonly reported herpeto-fauna of the project area include Sikta sarpa, Chunlungma Sarpa,

Frog (Rana tigrina), Paha (Black, Green, Red), Chheparo (Pogona vitticeps), Malsapro (Martes

flavigula), Bhuroma, Patle sarpa, Kalo sarpa, seto sarpa, Gurbe sarpa, Chahari sarpa, Dhurpe

sarpa, Nari sarpa and other

Common Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor), Common Rock Lizard (Agma tuberculata), Asian

Bullfrog (Rana tigrina) and Asian Toad (Bufo melanosticus).

5.2.1.7 NTFPs

Almost all species are used as firewood depending upon the availability, including the fodder

trees. High value NTFPs like Rudraksha trees (Elaeocarpus sphaericus), alaichi-black cardamom

(Amomum subulatum) is being commercially cultivated by local. They use Ningalo

(Himalayacalamus sp), Malungo (Yushania maling) and bans for making various traditional

utensils. They make bowl from Lath salla (Taxus baccata), Theki and Dudari from siris (Albizia

chinensis), gogan (Saurauia nepalensis), daar, kaulo (Persea odoratissima) and saur (Betula

alnoides), Tumba vessel from saur (Betula alnoides). Collection of lokta and allo is also recorded

from the area. They also said that bark of sikre and argeli is being used for making paper.

Local people in the project area uses various plants/herbs as medicine. They use Satuwa (Paris

polyphylla), Silajit, Thulo okhati (Astilbe rivularis), pakhanbed (Bergenia ciliate), chiraito

(Swertia chirayita), bikhma (Aconitum heterophyllum), timur (Xanthoxylum armatum) and others

(Appendix B-3). Some species like Chiraito (Swertia chirayita), Panchaamle (Dactylorhiza

hatagirea), Jatamasi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Nirmasi (Delphinium denudatum), banmara

(Eupatorium sp.), timur (Xanthoxylum armatum), sisnu (Urtica dioica), titepati (Artemisia sp.),

kurilo (Asparagus sp.) are especially used for medicinal purposes such as common cold and fever,

control bleeding healing broken bone of animals, enrich calcium, etc. The detail of the

ethnobotany of the local people is given in Table 15 of Appendix C.

5.3 Socio-Economic and Cultural Environment 5.3.1 Project Affected District (PAD)

Proposed Access Road of UAHEP passes through the area of Sankhuwasabha District of Province

no.1 of federal democratic republic of Nepal. There are five municipalities and five RMs in the

district. The PAD covers an area of 3468.17sq.km. The detail of the socioeconomic condition of

PAD is given in Section 1.1.1 of Appendix D.

5.3.2 Project Affected Area (PAA)

The proposed Access Road passes through two RMs i.e. Bhotkhola and Makalu RM of

Sankhuwasabha District. The administrative boundary of Bhotkhola RM is made up merging the

previous VDCs i.e. Kimathanka, Chepuwa, Hatiya and ward n. 1-3 of Pawakhola. Similarly,

Makalu RM is made up merging the previous VDCs i.e. Makalu, Pathibhara, Num, ward n. 4-9

of Pawakhola and ward n. 5-8 of Yaaphu. The total area of the PAA is 1158.46 sq.km

(639,01sq.km of Bhotkhola RM and 519.45 sq.km of Makalu RM). The detail of the

socioeconomic condition of PAA is given in Section 1.1.2 of Appendix D.

5.3.3 Project Affected Wards

The proposed Access Road locates in ward no. 2 and 4 of Bhotkhola RM and ward no. 3 of Makalu

RM. The administrative boundary of ward no. 2 and 4 of Bhotkhola RM is made up adjusting

the previous Chepuwa VDC (ward 1 to 9) and ward no. 5 to 9 of Hatiya VDC respectively.



Similarly, the administrative boundary of ward no. 3 of Makalu RM is made up integrating the

previous Pathivara VDC (ward no. 1 to 9). All together, the proposed project affects three wards

of two RMs. The detail of the socioeconomic condition of Wards is given in Section 1.1.3 of

Appendix D.

5.3.4 Project Affected Families (PAFs)

Demographic Composition

Household survey of 190HHs was conducted to collect socio-economic status of the project

affected families (PAFs) that are directly affected by the project. The total population of surveyed

HHs is 1027 including 494 males and 533 females. The sex ratio and average HH’s size is 0.93

and 5.4 respectively. According to the broad age group classification, 63.10 % of the population

in the project area is categorized as economically active population. Similarly, the dependent

population (including population below age group 0-14 years and senior citizen 60 years and

above) is 36.90%. Tables below show the demographic features of the PAFs.

Table 5-14: Demographic Features of PAFs

S.N. Caste Population Households

Male Female Total Sex Ratio Total Average HH Size 1 Bhote 358 384 742 0.93 138 5.4 2 Gurung 23 19 42 1.21 8 5.3 3 Kami 8 11 19 0.73 3 6.3 4 Newar 7 5 12 1.40 2 6.0 5 Rai 21 23 44 0.91 8 5.5 6 Sherpa 5 6 11 0.83 2 5.5 7 Tamang 72 85 157 0.85 29 5.4

Total/Ave. 494 533 1027 0.93 190 5.4 Source: HH Survey, 2020

Table 5-15: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups

1 Caste Broad Age Group

Population 0-14 years 15-59 years 60 and above

2 Bhote 184 480 78 742 3 Gurung 15 21 6 42 4 Kami 6 11 2 19 5 Newar 5 6 1 12 6 Rai 13 24 7 44 7 Sherpa 4 5 2 11 8 Tamang 39 101 17 157

Total/Ave. 266 648 113 1027 Percentage 25.90 63.10 11.00 100.00

Source: HH Survey, 2020 Type of Family

Nuclear type of family is dominant in the project affected HHs. Of the total 190HHs, 110HHs

(57.89%) are categorized as nuclear type and rest 80 (42.11%) are joint type as shown in table

below. Table 5-16: Families Structure of the Surveyed HHs

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Family Type

Total HHs Nuclear Family Joint Family

1 Bhote 81 57 138 2 Gurung 5 3 8 3 Kami 2 1 3 4 Newar 1 1 2 5 Rai 3 5 8 6 Sherpa 2 0 2 7 Tamang 16 13 29 8 Total 110 80 190

Percentage 57.89 42.11 100.00 Source: HH Survey, 2020

Marital Status

Of the total 1027 population, 648 (63.10%) are married and 266 (25.90%) are unmarried.

Similarly, the population of widow/widower is 113 (11.0%).



Table 5-17: Distribution of Surveyed Population by Marital Status

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Marital Status

Population Unmarried Married Widow/Widower

1 Bhote 184 480 78 742 2 Gurung 15 21 6 42 3 Kami 6 11 2 19 4 Newar 5 6 1 12 5 Rai 13 24 7 44 6 Sherpa 4 5 2 11 7 Tamang 39 101 17 157

Total 266 648 113 1027 Percentage (%) 25.90 63.10 11.00 100.00

Source: HH Survey, 2020

Caste/ Ethnic Composition

Indigenous group dominant inhabitant in the

PAA. Of the surveyed HHS, 98.15% HHs are from the indigenous group (Bhote-72.25%,

Tamang-15.29%, Rai-4.28%, Gurung-4.09%, Newar– 1.17% and Sherpa -1.07%). This is

followed by Dalit (Kami -1.85%). The HHs with percentage composition by caste/ethnic

composition is shown in figure below.

Figure 5-8: Caste/Ethnicity of the Surveyed HHs Source: HH Survey, 2020

Literacy Status

About 56.16% of the surveyed population are literate (population of 5 years and above) with male

and female literacy rate are 60.09% and 52.47% respectively. Similarly, the population having

education attainment up to literate only, basic level, secondary level and bachelor and above

degree are 18.53%, 78.26%, 4.73% and 2.08% respectively. The following tables depict the

literacy status and their education attainment of the surveyed population. Table 5-18: Literary Status (Population of 5 years and above) of Surveyed Population

S.N. Literacy Status Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. % 1 Illiterate 182 39.91 231 47.53 413 43.84 2 Literate 274 60.09 255 52.47 529 56.16

Total 456 100.00 486 100.00 942 100.00 Source: HH Survey, 2020

Table 5-19: Educational Attainment along the Literate Surveyed Population

S.N. Educational Attainment Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. % 1 Literate only 46 16.79 52 20.39 98 18.53 2 Basic level education 219 79.93 195 76.47 414 78.26 3 Secondary level 19 6.93 6 2.35 25 4.73 4 Bachelor and above 9 3.28 2 0.78 11 2.08

Total (Literate) 274 100.00 255 100.00 529 100.00 Source: HH Survey, 2020

Occupation

Agriculture (69.47%) is the main occupation of the surveyed HH. Beside agriculture, service

inside the country (2.14%) is other major occupation of the PAFs; followed by labour wage in

country (1.37%), labour wage outside country (1.07%), business and small industry (0.92%).

Bhote 72.25

Tamang 15.29

Rai 4.28

Gurung 4.09

Kami 1.85

Newar 1.17Sherpa 1.07

Other 4.09



Similarly, about 19.39% and 5.65% population belong to student and household category. The

detail of Occupational composition of surveyed HH’s of the project area is given in table below.

Table 5-20: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years)

S.N. Major Occupations Gender

Male Female Total No. % No. % No. %

1 Agriculture 216 68.35 239 70.50 455 69.47 2 Business and Small Industry 5 1.58 1 0.29 6 0.92 3 Labor wage (In country) 7 2.22 2 0.59 9 1.37 4 Labor wage (Outside country) 6 1.90 1 0.29 7 1.07 5 Service (Inside country) 12 3.80 2 0.59 14 2.14 6 Student 66 20.89 61 17.99 127 19.39 7 Household Work 4 1.27 33 9.73 37 5.65


Food Sufficiency and Deficiency

The HHs’ survey indicates that majority of the surveyed HHs have food deficiency. Since the

project area is less fertile land with lack of irrigation facility, the productivity is also less. Only

about 3.68% of the surveyed HHs have a year-round food sufficient. The remaining 96.32% HHs

have food deficiency. HHs, who have the food deficiency, generally do the supporting works like

service, labor wage, small business and some members of the HHs go to the abroad to earn. The

following tables show the detail of the sufficiency and deficiency of food of the PAFs.

Table 5-21: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Food Sufficiency Food Deficiency HHs 1 Bhote 2 136 138 2 Gurung - 8 8 3 Kami - 3 3 4 Newar - 2 2 5 Rai 2 6 8 6 Sherpa - 2 2 7 Tamang 3 26 29

Total 7 183 190 Percentage 3.68 96.32 100.00


Table 5-22: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Food Deficit Month

Total No. of HHs < 3 3-5 6-9 >9

1 Bhote 16 23 42 55 136 2 Gurung 1 2 2 3 8 3 Kami 0 2 1 3 4 Newar 0 1 1 3 5 Rai 1 2 2 1 6 6 Sherpa 0 2 2 7 Tamang 3 6 9 8 26 Total 21 34 59 69 183 Percentage 11.48 18.58 32.24 37.70 100.00


Income and Expenditure Pattern

The average annual income of the surveyed 190HHs is calculated to be NRs. 429,898; where the

source of income of the surveyed HH is agriculture as well as non-agriculture. Non-agriculture

sector consists service, business, daily wages/porter, pension/Briddha Bhatta and Remittance.

Among the different sources of income agriculture contributes about 69.49%, more than two third

portion. Income from non-agriculture contribute only 30.51%. The average annual income from

different sources is given in the figure 5-9.



Figure 5-9: Income Sources of the Surveyed HH

Similarly, the average annual expenditure of surveyed 190HHs is calculated to be NRs. 323,763.

Food items, festivals, clothing, education, medicine, transportation, fuel and communication/

electricity are the main expenditure items of the HHs. The proportion of expenditure on food items

is higher (53.15%) followed by festivals (13.35%), clothing (11.04), education (9.30%), medicine

(4.09%), transportation (3.72%), fuel (3.57%) and communication/ electricity (1.78%). The

figures of expenditure pattern indicate that there is annual saving of NRs.106,135 by the HHs.

Figure 5-10: Area of Expenditure of the Surveyed HHs


Source Energy

(a) Lighting

Since the project area is connected with micro-hydropower, only 79.31%HHs use electricity as

the source of lighting energy; followed by solar (13.79%). Still 4.21%HHs depends on kerosene

lamp as the source lighting energy.

Table 5-23: Source of Energy for the HHs for Lighting Purpose

S.

N.

Caste/

Ethnicity

Source Electricity (Micro hydro) Solar Kerosene Lamp

HHs % HHs % HHs % 1 Bhote 98 71.01 34 24.64 6 4.35 2 Gurung 6 75.00 2 25.00 - - 3 Kami 3 100.00 - 0.00 - - 4 Newar 2 100.00 - 0.00 - - 5 Rai 7 87.50 1 12.50 - - 6 Sherpa 1 50.00 1 50.00 - - 7 Tamang 23 79.31 4 13.79 2 6.90


(b) Cooking

Fuel wood and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) are the main sources of energy for cooking food

in the surveyed HHs. Fuel wood (95.26%) is the main source of cooking food for the HHs.

Similarly, LP gas contribute 4.74%. The source of energy and assemble sources adopted by the

surveyed HHs is shown in the following tables.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

Agriculture andLivestock

Service Remittance Business DailyWages/Porter

Pension/BriddhaBhatta

0102030405060



Table 5-24: Source of Energy for the HHs for Cooking Purpose

S.

N.

Caste/

Ethnicity

Source Total

Fuelwood LPG No. % No. % HHs %

1 Bhote 133 96.38 5 3.62 138 100.00 2 Gurung 7 3.87 1 12.50 8 100.00 3 Kami 3 100.00 0.00 3 100.00 4 Newar 2 100.00 0 0.00 2 100.00 5 Rai 7 87.50 1 12.50 8 100.00 6 Sherpa 2 100.00 0 0.00 2 100.00 7 Tamang 27 93.10 2 6.90 29 100.00


Attitude toward the Project

About 95.79% HHs knew about the proposed project. The main sources of knowledge about the

project are project officials, neighbours and relatives. Among surveyed HHs, 64.74% have

positive attitude, whereas 18.42% are negative, 8.95% are neutral and 7.89% HH have not detail

information about project. About 18.42 HHs who expressed their negative attitude because of the

compensation of land and fear of degrading the agricultural land especially the impact on black

cardamom farming land. Table below shows the attitude towards the project.

Table 5-25: Attitude Regarding the Project by Type

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Type

Positive Negative Neutral No detail Information 1 Bhote 96 21 9 12 2 Gurung 4 2 2 - 3 Kami 2 1 - 4 Newar 2 - - - 5 Rai 5 2 1 - 6 Sherpa 1 1 - 7 Tamang 15 7 4 3

Total 123 35 17 15 Percentage 64.74 18.42 8.95 7.89

Source: HH Survey, 2020 Expectation from the Project

About 53.68% of the surveyed HHs expect good compensation for the loss of land and properties.

Similarly, 33.68% of the HHs expressed their desire for employment opportunity, 8.95% show

their opinion towards the local development and 3.68% HHs wants electricity facility the project

area, as shown in the following table.

Table 5-26: Expectation from the Project

S.

N. Caste

Expectation Good

Compensation

Employment Electricity

Facility

Local

Development 1 Bhote 72 48 6 12 2 Gurung 5 2 0 1 3 Kami 2 1 0 0 4 Newar 2 0 0 0 5 Rai 4 3 0 1 6 Sherpa 2 0 7 Tamang 15 10 1 3 Total 102 64 7 17 Percentage 53.68 33.68 3.68 8.95


Access Road of UAHEP Alternative Analysis


6 Alternative Analysis

6.1 Introduction This section summarizes the alternative assessment undertaken by project during feasibility stage.

Different alternatives were considered to minimize the overall impact due to implementation of

project. Possible alternatives include i) Alignment alternative, ii) Tunnel alternative, iii).

Alternative alignment at Sibrun village.

6.2 Alignment alternative Two possible alignment alternatives were studied during feasibility study of project as shown in

figure 6.1. Two possible alternatives are:

1. Alternative 1- Access road along the left bank of Arun river and

2. Alternative 2- Access road along the right bank of Arun river (Koshi Highway Route)

Alternative-1: This road starts from Koshi Highway at base of Syaksila village along right bank

of Arun River. At chainage 0+060m, the road crosses the Arun River where 70.2 m long bridge is

proposed. Then, the alignment ascends, with some hairpin bends, toward north direction at the

dam site of UAHEP. This road consists road tunnel of about 2.03km and passes through six

villages.

Alternative-2: Koshi Highway route starts at Gola (0+000). From Gola, the alignment follows

Arun River up to Barun River where one bridge over Barun River is required. From Barun River,

the alignment ascends towards Chepuwa through Hatiya. Total length from Gola to Chepuwa

village is about 60 km and to reach the dam site of UAHEP another 15 km road need to be

constructed. Moreover, additional 5 km road and a bridge over Arun River needed to be

constructed to reach adit point near Chepuwa Khola.

Table 6-1: Comparison of Two Different Alignment Alternatives

S.

N. Description

Alternative 1 (Left

Bank Alternate with

Tunnel)

Alternative 2 (Koshi Highway) Remarks

1 Road

Geometry

New road with road

formation width 6 m.

Under construction road with

formation width of 6/7 m

2 Bridge number

One bridge on Arun

River (L=70.2m) and

small bridge at

Chepuwa (L= 15m)

One bridge on Barun River (L=70 m)

and one bridge on Arun River at

Chepuwa (L=70) Bridge on Sirsin

Khola, Tejo Khola (L= 25), Handak

Khola (L=25) and Haudi Khola (L

=25).

3 Tunnel One tunnel

(L=2.03km) needed No tunnel needed

4 Total Road

Length 21.19km 75km

5 Existing Road

condition No existing road

Road track under construction up to

Chepuwa village by DoR. Motorable

track only up to Barun (about 10km)

river.

6 Road pass

through village

It passes through six

villages It passes through nine villages

7 Land

acquisition

Land and house

should be acquired by

NEA.

Land and house should be acquired by

NEA for new road of 30km.

Access Road of UAHEP Alternative Analysis


S.

N. Description

Alternative 1 (Left

Bank Alternate with

Tunnel)

Alternative 2 (Koshi Highway) Remarks

8 Environmental

Aspect

Passes through outside

of Makalu Barun

National Park.

Passes through Makalu Barun National

Park

9 Terrain Very steep Very steep

10 Highest

Elevation 2050m at Namase

2600m at Gimbar, which is snow

covered during winter

11 Road

alignment

Smoother grade (max

10%) and

comfortable, less

hairpin bend.

Difficult road geometry having too

many hairpin bends, steeper grade (max

12%), passes through high altitude

(snow fall area)

12

Completion

time of the

road

The construction of

the road will be

completed in three

years

Track opening work ongoing. It might

take about 7 years to complete. Num-

Gola section also under construction.

13

Connection to

obligatory

points.

It connects all three

adit points of

hydropower tunnel

and clients main camp

at Limbutar.

It does not connect adit points and

client’s main camp at Limbutar. If this

alternate is considered about 15 m road

has to be constructed along left bank

including bridge at Gola and Chepuwa

on Arun River to reach the surge tank

and adit area

14

Total

construction

cost

US$ 44.26 million

(without contingency

and VAT)

US$ 55.1 million (without

contingency and VAT)

Vehicle

operational

cost for right

bank would

be much

higher Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019

Conclusion

Alternative 1

• It passes along left bank of Arun River to connect the 5 obligatory points (client’s main

camp at Limbutar, 3 adit tunnels and dam site) of hydropower.

• It has to be constructed total 21.65km road including 2.03km tunnel.

• Construction period is estimated to be 3 years.

Alternative 2

• It has to be connected 5 obligatory points (client’s main camp at Limbutar, 3 adit tunnels

and dam site) of hydropower. So, another 15 km road in left bank and 15 km road in

right bank along with two bridges on Arun River (one at Gola and another at Dam site)

has to be constructed beside 60 km Koshi Highway (under construction by DOR).

• It will take longer time and is more difficult than alternative 1 to transport hydropower

equipment for construction of dam because it has longer travel distance and there are

lots of hair pin bends, steeper grades and it passes through high altitude(snow fall areas)

• Construction of Gola and Chepuwa section may be will take about 7 years to complete.

Hence, considering above aspects, alternative 1, which connects five obligatory points and

facilitates the construction of hydropower easily was selected.

UAHEP Access Road Alternative Analysis


Figure 6-1: Alternative alignment along right bank and left bank of Arun River




6.3 Alternative Study with Tunnel

Access road with tunnel and without tunnel was studied and comparative chart of two option is

present in following Table 6-2.

Table 6-2: Alternative Alignment with and without Tunnel Comparison Chart

S.N. Description With Tunnel Without Tunnel Remarks

1. Road Length 2.03km 8.6km

2. Land Slide No Problem

Big landslide of height of about 500m and

width 100m. This slide was active during

feasibility study (1991) and still active

(2018)

Not

possible

to control

the slide.

3. Terrain No Problem

Alignment passes through big landslide,

steep terrain with rock cliff for about

2.0km. Due to steep terrain, cliff and

landslide extra safety measures including

field Tunnel at cliff area required.

4. Environment Friendly Disturbs natural landscape.

5. Maintenance No Problem Problematic landslide area in Takchaang

Village.

6. Travel Time About 7 minutes About 30 minutes

7. Construction

Cost (US$) 16 Million 13.9 Million

8. Maintenance

Cost for 20

Years (US$)

1.0 Million 1.72 Million

9. Total Cost

US$ 17 Million 15.62 Million

10. Transport Cost Less Much more

11. Conclusion

Thought the cost

of the alternate is

slight high there

will be no problem

during operation.

Big and active landslide (high hazard area)

will create lot of problem during operation

of road with time to time blocked in

monsoon season. It will hamper/delay

construction of hydropower construction.

Hence, considering above aspect, access road with Tunnel was selected Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019



Figure 6-2: Alternative alignment of Access Road with and without TunnelSource: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design, 2019



6.4 Alternative Alignment at Sibrun Village

At Sibrun village, three alternatives alignment option were studied in order to adopt most viable

alternative. Three alternative are 1. Above the Sibrun village, 2. From middle of the Sibrun village

and 3. Below Sibrun village, as shown in Figure 6-3. Detail comparison considering technical,

geological/geo-technical, social and environmental, and cost aspects is presented in Table 6-3.

Table 6-3: Alternative Alignment Comparison at Sibrun Village

S.N. Items Alternative-1 Alternative-1A Alternative-1B Remarks

1. Length 2.8km 2.9km 3.5km

2. Number of hairpin 3 4 8

3. Max. Grade 10% 12% 11%

4. Max. grade in

hairpin 4% 4.5% 4%

5. Mini. Radius of

horizontal curve 15 m 15 m 15 m

7. Terrain 24˚ 34˚ 44˚

8. Cross Drainage 11 Nos.

Proposed PC

11 Nos.

Proposed PC

16 Nos.

Proposed PC

9. Geology Colluvium and rock 600m in rocky

area

1000m in rocky

area

10. Accessibility to

local residents

Accessible to local

resident

Limited

accessibility

No accessibility to

village

11. Location of route

from village

Middle of the

village Above Sibrun

Below from

Sibrun village

12. Number of Houses

within RoW 6 Houses

3 House and 1

shed -

13. Cost NRs.

270,520,675.00

NRs.

280,182,127.7

NRs.

338,150,843.7


Conclusion:

• Alternative-1A and alternative-1B traverses along very steep terrain with heavy cutting

compare to alternative-1.

• Alternative-1B traverses through steep area with high cut length and more costly so this

alternative is not considered

• Better road geometry of alternative-1 than alternative-1A and alternative-1B.

• Though six house and two shed within ROW along alternative-1, it provides better access

to Sibrun village as a whole.

• Considering road geometry and accessibility to local resident’s alternative-1 is adopted.

UAHE Access Road Alternative Analysis


Figure 6-3: Alternative Alignment Study at Sibrun Village


Access Road of UAHEP Environmental Impacts

EIA Report ` 7-1 NEA-ESSD

7 Environmental Impacts of the Project

7.1 Physical Environment The main physical impacts on the environment, those associated with land stability, landuse, air

noise and water quality and other issues, which were identified during the scoping phase, are found

to the important issues in the EIA. The major impacts anticipated during the construction and

operation phase are discussed in the sections below.

7.1.1 Construction Phase

7.1.1.1 Topography

Project components include the construction of access road, tunnel, and bridges. The construction

of these components will certainly change landscape as activities consist of clearing vegetation,

excavation and other earthwork. The construction of other project components like labor camp

and other project facilities will change in landscape. In addition to these, the sites that are proposed

for soil spoil area, muck disposal area, and quarry make changes in landscape of local area. The

visualized impact on topographic changes is considered direct in nature, moderate in magnitude,

site specific and for long term.

7.1.1.2 Land Use and Land Taken

The project requires land for the construction of physical infrastructure. Hence, project will be

acquired land permanently for permanent structures. The permanent land acquisition will be about

61.145ha. The permanent land acquisition will be significant because land taken is irreversible

and for the entire project life. In addition to this, project will be required land for labor camps,

quarry sites, spoil and muck disposal area and other purposes which will be acquired temporarily

on lease and return to owner after completion of works. The temporarily land acquisition will be

about 41.303ha.

Approximately, in total 102.448ha of land use will be permanently and temporary changes during

the construction and operation period of project. A land use change will occur in approximately

61.271ha agriculture and 14.104ha of forest and 19.763ha barren land. Nearly 7.309ha of other

land will be impacted which mainly include riverine flood plain. The impact on land use during

construction period will be direct, high in magnitude, long term in nature and site specific.

7.1.1.3 Air and Noise Quality

During construction period, use of heavy equipment, crushing machines, hotmix plant, diesel

generator, vibrating machine etc. for excavation of earth and construction of structure generate

significant amount of dust into atmosphere and produce noise. The movement of vehicles to

transport construction materials from quarry site to construction site, transport muck to safe

disposal area, transport external material to construction site, etc. will also generate dust and noise

affecting air and noise quality. The tunneling works such as drilling, blasting will also generate

high amount of dust.

As the construction work will be carried out during dry season, emission of dust is expected to be

high at the construction sites. Construction activities will also generate noise and vibration at the

project site. The main activities that will generate noise and vibration are blasting, use of batching

plants, movement of heavy equipment, use of drilling, generators, pumps.

Construction of project is likely to influence the existing condition of air and noise level and

affecting human, wildlife and livestock of the project area. Direct effect of dust could be health

hazard to road workers, residents adjacent of road and interference on plant/ crop growth in the

vicinity. Thus, the nature of impact will be direct, medium magnitude, site specific, and short

term.



7.1.1.4 Water Quality

Construction activities of project such as cutting and filling, disposal of construction waste and

spoil, quarrying and borrowing, etc. cause increase in turbidity/silt content of the nearby steam

and river. Improper sanitation of workers or local people may also pollute water, particularly

drinking water source. Surface water may be polluted by road run-off containing oil, grease

lubricants, bitumen and other chemical spills.

The UAHEP access road and IKHEP access road are proposed at hillside of Arun River. The road

alignment also crosses the active natural drainage at different location. The sand borrowing area

and soil disposal area are also proposed along the bank of Arun River. Thus, natural drainage and

the Arun River will bear the impact of all construction activities. In addition to these factors,

improper management of waste, both solid and liquid, generated by workforce directly or

indirectly involved in the project will result in increased Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).

Project construction activities are likely to increase the turbidity, suspended solids, dissolved

solids and BOD of both rivers and nearby springs. This might have an adverse impact on the

aquatic life of the river and the public health of the local people of downstream. However, the

impact on public health will not be served, as people in the area do not use river water for drinking

purpose. Thus, the impact on water quality will be direct, moderate in magnitude, medium term

and local in extent.

7.1.1.5 Soil Erosion and Land Stability

a) Access Road construction

The access road passes through the steep terrain with fairly stable geology and land form. Road

construction in these relatively steep areas means mostly cutting of the slope material to excavate

the road’s formation width. Cutting of the steep slope thus increase the risk of slope instability

and potential of small to large scale mass wasting. Disposal of excess excavation spoils

immediately below the cut slopes is expected to cause extensive degradation of the standing down

slope vegetation making the slope suitable for erosion. Agricultural areas down slope the road are

potential for sedimentation and siltation and may convert in barren area unsuited for agriculture.

The some section of proposed road alignment passes through settlement area. In rainy season,

disposal material may be transported by water to the down valley settlement area, cultivation land

and nearby water bodies, which may create problem in the habitation of local people, gross

agricultural productivity, and streams. Thus, the impact is expected to be high.

b) Construction of Tunnel

During construction of tunnel, the land stability will be very critical if there is instabilities along

the tunnel line. Use of blasting technique may induce surface instabilities due to vibration effects

particularly in areas where ground surfaces are much closed to tunnel line.

c) Construction of Bridges

During construction of foundation of the bridges, soil erosion can take place on hillside. Since,

both bank of Chepuwa khola and left bank of Arun River is steep, landslide and soil erosion is

expected during construction of foundation.

d) Quarry and Barrow Pit

As quarry sites and borrow pit areas are purely excavation works it may has a high potentials of

erosion in the excavation sites and sedimentation in the nearby drainage channels and agricultural

fields. Erosion and sedimentation is expected during rainy season and degradation of the down

valley land. In case of UAHEP access road, bed material of Arun River is proposed for quarry site

of sand. Since considerable volume of material is available in floor of river, adverse impact is not

expected.



Thus, considering overall aspect the impact on soil erosion and land stability is expected to be

direct, high in magnitude, medium term and site specific during construction phase.

7.1.1.6 Spoil and Muck Generation

Spoil and muck Generation

Project will generate spoil, and muck through different kind of activities. Some amount of which

will be used as backfilling and excess material is planned to manage in different sites. The disposal

sites, as far as possible are proposed in such location that it will not create any adverse effect and

these are safe from landslides, erosion and other instabilities.

Detail of propose soil and muck spoil area is presented in Table 2-11 and shown in Figure 2-13.

There are eight disposal area are proposed in different location to manage the exceed material

generated from tunnel and road. Out of eight sites, one of the area is selected in forest land and

others are selected in private barren and cultivation land. Proposed agricultural areas are expected

to convert in barren area unsuited for agriculture resulting loss in agriculture productivity.

Similarly, muck disposal area near to the river bank which can degrade the water quality. Thus,

the impact due to waste, spoil and muck is expected to be direct, medium in magnitude, medium

term and site specific during construction phase.

7.1.1.7 Labour camp operation

Waste generated from labour camp can pollute the nearby water bodies and agriculture land.

Similarly, unsanitary waste disposal practices can create unhygienic environment around the

camp. All the labour camps are proposed on cultivation land hence it degrades quality the

agriculture land. External labour camp also create short-term noise pollution.

Thus, the impact due to labour camp operation is expected to be direct, medium in magnitude,

short term, and site specific during construction phase.

7.1.1.8 Impact on Natural Drainage, Spring and Other Water Resources

Construction of road modifies the surface flow pattern causing no or reduced flow in some natural

channel and high/concentrated flow in the others. Road cut surface may disrupt sub-surface flows.

This may results in modification or diversion of natural drainage system. Likewise, tunnel

alignment, if passes through existing spring or other water resources, would cause the leakage of

water through the tunnel, modify or divert sub-surface flow and reduced spring water. The

alignment of UAHEP access road crosses some natural drainage and stream as listed in table 4-4.

Since, source of springs are located uphill side of road alignment, no effect on source is expected

from construction of road. However, the disturbance in natural drainage is expected during the

construction of road. Similarly, an influence on the groundwater is also expected from

construction of tunnel, as some sources of spring are available at uphill side of tunnel alignment.

The natural drainage are broken and diverted during construction of road. The natural flow of

water, which is blocked and diverted on either side, may create soil erosion, and land instability.

However, this impact will remain within excavated width of road; the flow of water can be well

managed during construction. Thus, the impact is direct in nature, medium in magnitude, site

specific and medium term during construction phase.

7.1.1.9 Change in River morphology

Bed material of Arun River is proposed for quarry site of sand. Uncontrolled excavation of

material from riverbed and riverbank may have adverse impact on river morphology. During

construction of foundation of bridges, diversion of river is required which may also change in

river morphology within vicinity of construction work. Since, considerable volume of material is

available in floor of river, adverse impact is not expected. Short-term diversion of river is required



for construction of foundation of bridges. Thus, the impact is direct in nature, low in magnitude,

site specific and short term during construction phase.

7.1.1.10 Explosive, Blasting and Bunker operation

Storage and handling of explosive is risky and needs high level attention and help of securities. A

separate structure is proposed at construction site for the safe storage of explosive and detonators

needed for the project. For such operation an army camp with bunker is proposed at uphill side of

Namase. The handling, storage and operation of bunker house, explosive and detonator will be

done as per GoN rules under direct supervision of Nepal Army.

Blasting during excavation works may affect in the stability of the surrounding area and nearby

air and noise condition due to which local people and wild life may be affected. Because of

blasting action, the impact is expected to be direct, moderate in magnitude, site specific and short-

term in nature

7.1.2 Operation Phase

7.1.2.1 Topography

Construction of road will bring changes in existing landscape of site. Scratch appearance of

hillside and addition of new structures in the form of retaining wall, drainage structure and road

surface will bring changes in present appearance of hill. However, this scenario will exist only in

corridor of road alignment. Every possible attempts will be carried by project to preserved natural

beauty. Thus, project impacts on topography during operation phase is expected to be direct in

nature, high in magnitude, site specific and for long term.

7.1.2.2 Landuse and Land Take

The permanent land acquisition for the project is estimated to be about 61.145ha. Land acquired

for temporary purpose will be reclaimed and handover to respective owner after completion of

project. Considering the overall observations in land use, the impact on land use will be direct,

high in magnitude, long term in nature and site specific.

7.1.2.3 Air and Noise Quality

During operation phase, there will be better available of transportation and opportunities. With

the increase in opportunity, movement of vehicle and traffic density is expected to increase. As a

result, air pollutants and noise emission from vehicles movement and human activities is increase.

The nature of the impact is expected to be direct, low in magnitude, long term, and site specific.

7.1.2.4 Water Quality

Improvement in facilities than present condition will result in movement of people and increase

in population. Improper disposal of waste generated by people, directly or indirectly will degrade

the quality of water. Thus, the impact on water quality will be direct, low in magnitude, long term,

and site specific.

7.1.2.5 Soil Erosion and Land Stability

Excavated road surface requires times to stabilize. For initial few years, landslides and erosion

along the road corridor are expected. After the cut surface is stabilize, minor landslides and erosion

can take place. Thus, the impact on soil erosion and land stability will be direct, medium in

magnitude, long term, and site specific during operation phase.

7.1.2.6 Natural Drainage and spring

The broken natural drainage along the road alignment during construction period will be

rehabilitated after completion of work. A well-designed and regular maintained road drainage

system will improve surrounding environment. Thus, the impact on natural drainage and spring

will be direct, low in magnitude, medium term, and site specific during operation phase.



Table 7-1: Physical Environment Impact Assessment Matrix

S.

N.

Issues Impacts Magnitude Extent Duration Sum of

Impact Value

Significance

of Impact

i. Construction phase

1 Topography The landscape will be change along access road. M (20) SS (10) LT (20) 50 Significant

2 Land use change In total the proposed access road of UAHEP and IKPPP will

acquire 102.448ha. The permanent land acquisition will be about

61.145ha and temporarily land acquisition will be about 41.303ha.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

3 Air and Noise

Quality

Construction of project is likely to influence the existing

condition of air and noise level and affecting human, wildlife and

livestock of the project area.

M (20) SS (10) ST (5) 35 Low

Significant

4 Water Quality Project construction activities are likely to increase the turbidity,

suspended solids, dissolved solids and BOD of rivers and nearby

watercourse

M (20) L (20) MT (10) 50 Significant

5 Soil Erosion and

Land Stability

During construction of access road, disruption on natural

drainage pattern will cause scouring, erosion and landslides. The

slope cutting works related to different construction works can

also trigger landslides. The impacts may be serious during rainy

or monsoon seasons

H (60) SS (10) MT (10) 80 Highly

Significant

6 Spoil and Muck

disposal

Muck disposal area are proposed in different location to manage

the exceed material generated from tunnel. The value of land may

be degrade due to disposal of waste, spoil and muck.

M (20) SS (10) LT (20) 50 Significant

7 Labour Camp

operation

Activities labour likely to impact on nearby water bodies and

agriculture land. M(20) SS(10) ST(5) 35

Less

Significant

8 Natural drainage,

spring and other

water resources

During tunneling and road construction, the existing spring and

other water sources along the alignment could be diverted or

degrade or reduce the natural flow.

M (20) SS (10) MT (10) 40 Less

Significant

9 Change in River

Morphology

Excavation of river bed material and diversion of river can have

on river morphology L(l0) SS(10) ST(5) 25

Less

Significant

10 Explosive and

Blasting operation

Blasting during excavation works may affect in the stability of

the surrounding and also in air and noise condition of local area. M (20) SS (10) ST (5) 35 Less

significant

ii. Operation phase

1 Topography Landscape change along the access road H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90

Highly

Significant



S.

N.

Issues Impacts Magnitude Extent Duration Sum of

Impact Value

Significance

of Impact

2 Land use change Existing agriculture land will be converted into uncultivable land

impounded by water. Hence loss in agriculture productivity is

expected to be high. Similarly clearing trees of forest will also

bring change in land use type.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

3 Air and Noise

Quality

With the increase in opportunity and population, movement of

vehicle and traffic density is expected to increase. As a result, air

pollutants and noise emission from vehicles movement and

human activities is increase.

L (10) SS (10) LT (20) 40 Low

Significant

4 Water Quality With the increase in opportunity and population, movement of

vehicle and traffic density, there exist increasing the turbidity,

suspended solids to nearby water bodies.

L (10) SS (10) LT (20) 40 Low

Significant

5 Soil erosion and

Land Stability

Minor landslide and erosion is expected during operation period

of road M (20) SS (10) LT (20) 50 Significant

6 Natural Drainage

and Spring

A well-designed and regular maintained road drainage system

will improve surrounding environment L (10) SS (10) MT (10) 30 Low

Significant

Note: D: Direct, IND: Indirect

Extent (E) SS= Site Specific (10) L= Local (20) R= Regional (60)

Magnitude (M) L= Low (10) M= Medium (20) H= High (60)

Duration (Du) ST= Short Term (05) MT= Medium Term (10) LT= Long Term (20)

The number in the bracket refers to Impact value as per National EIA Guidelines, 1993. The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25.

Significance of impact: sum of impact values: more than 75 → Highly Significant, 50-75 → Significant and less than 50 → Less Significant.



7.2 Biological Environment The implementation of the project will affect the existing ecosystems in the project impact area

multi-dimensionally and the effects may be both adverse and positive. The major impacts on the

biological environment will include the loss of individual trees and loss of vegetation cover due

to site clearance; increased demand of fuel wood and timber; impact on NTFPs; habitat loss of

mammals, bird and reptiles because of change of vegetation cover and site disturbances.


7.2.1.1 Forest/ Vegetation Loss

a. Community Forest

As far as standing trees are concerned, a total of 4530 tree including poles of 25 different species

from 9.426 ha of forest land was estimated to be cleared from two community forests (Paripakha

CF and Makpalung CF) along the proposed road alignment. From Makpalung community forest

4458 trees/poles of 15 species are estimated to be felled (Appendix-C). In addition, 72 trees/pole

of 11 species will be felled from Paripakha community forest (Appendix-C). It is estimated that a

gross volume of 22885.59 cubic feet of biomass will be lost from the community forest. It will

generate 17606.12 cubic feet of firewood. Species-wise loss from community forest is given in

table below. In the Makpalung Community Forest, Titepati, Bilaune, aasare, chiraito, fern, thotne,

Pahiroful and Nigalo, are found as understory vegetation. Likewise, in the Paripakha Community

Forest, ground vegetation were Ningalo, Kamle, Kalo Banmara, Sisnoo, Fern, Alaichi, Charchare

lahara, Khanyeu, Gogane, Gayo, and Paiyeu.

b. National Forest

A total of 114 standing trees/poles of 14 species will be felled from 4.678 ha of National forest.

It was estimated that a gross volume of 1587.57 cubic feet of biomass will be removed from the

forest and will generate 1.68 chatta firewood as shown in Appendix-C.

Table 7-2: Forest Loss in Different Project Components

S. N. Project

Component

Type of Forest Forest

Area

(ha.)

Loss of

Vegetation (No of

trees>10 cm

DBH)

Crown

Cover (%)

Forest

Type

1

Muck

disposal

area

Govt. Managed 3.059 114 40-50 Mixed

forest Community 0.7 386 Temperate

forest Leasehold

Religious

Private

2 Road

Buffer zone area

of MBNP (private

cultivation)

- -

Govt. Managed 1.619 0

Community 7.714 4054 - Temperate

forest Leasehold - -

Religious - -

Private - -

3 Camp Area

Govt. Managed

Community 0.162 89

Leasehold

Religious

Private

4

Tunnel

portal and

quarry site

Community 0.85 0

Govt. Managed

Religious

Private

Total 14.104 4644 Source: Field Survey, 2019



c. Buffer Zone of MBNP

The project will impact 6.807 ha of buffer zone of the Makalu Barun National Park. The impacted

area of buffer zone by the project is cultivated land which are under the private ownership. It is

estimated that 88 trees/poles of 21 different species will be felled from the private land within the

buffer zone (Appenxix-C3).

Loss of Trees from Private Land

In addition to the loss of trees from the community and government forests, about 1551 trees/poles

of 34 different species are expected to be clearly felled from the private lands during the project

construction period. It will have site specific and short term impact.

7.2.1.2 Changes of Demand for Fuel Wood and Timber

The existing community forest and government managed forest of the PAA is found to be large

enough to support the demand of forest resources such as firewood and timber to the dependent

HHs. Therefore, even cutting down of 6195 (4644 from CF/GMF and 1551 private trees) number

of standing trees is of significance to the livelihood of local people, the economic impact will be

insignificant because timber and firewood obtained from the felled trees can be sold in local

markets within existing legal framework. It is assumed that most of the labor force will be from

local areas. There will be a few people from outside the project area for a short period of time.

Due to this, the increase in demand of fuel wood and timber during the construction period is

expected to be low. Similarly, the influx of construction workers can increase the possibility of

fire hazard to the local forest. This is more specific in those temporary labour camps which will

be, during the construction phase, located near the forest. The improper handling of firewood or

cooking fuel can induce such impact. So the impact will be low in magnitude, site specific and

short-termed.

7.2.1.3 Possible Encroachment Forest

The proposed project requires large area of land. Though, location of various project facilities,

material storage yard, camp site, etc. have already been proposed, there may be chances of

encroachment of forest area for the labour’s ease. Forest and nearby areas possibly be encroached

for small scale stone quarry, onsite material storage, short-term migratory labour camp, etc. People

who losses their land may also shift to the forest area in the fear of displacement. Impacts of the

project on the forest land will be of low magnitude, extent will be local and last for medium period

of time.

7.2.1.4 Exploitation of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)

During the construction phase, human resources associated directly or indirectly in the

construction of the project may be involved in the collection and selling of NTFPs like medicinal

plants. According to the locals, economically valued Yarsagumba (Cordyceps sinensis),

Setakchini, Tholookhati (Astilbe rivularis), Pashanbed (Bergenia ciliate), Hadchur (Viscum

album), Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum), Ban lasun (Allium walichii) and other are found in the

area. Local people have been collecting Setakchini, Ban lasun (Allium walichii) from the forest

for commercial purposes. So, there may be the involvement of work force on the collection on

NTFPs in the project area. Impact of the project on the NTFPs exploitation is expected to be of

moderate magnitude, extent will be local and last for medium period of time.

Regarding the forest products besides fire wood and timber, involvement of the workforce in

exploitation of NTFPs may be limited due to the presence of CFUGs and Buffer zone of MBNP.

The magnitude of impacts is considered to be medium; extent is site specific and duration is short-

term.



7.2.1.5 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

During the project construction period, forest within the formation width of the proposed road will

be completely lost. In addition to that, vegetation in the camp site, muck disposal site and quarry

site will be completely removed. Therefore, the proposed project will directly impact on 14.104ha

of forest land. All trees/vegetation within the 14.104ha of the land will be cleared before

construction. So, all habitat components of wild fauna including birds and insects will be lost from

that land. Wilderness of the area will be disturbed. However, the project will build tunnel from

Namase to Rukma. This will prevent the impact on high altitude forest of the region. High altitude

animals like Red panda, Snow leopard will be less impacted by the project. So, impacts of the

project on habitat loss and fragmentation is predicted to be of medium magnitude, extent will be

local and last for long period of time.

7.2.1.6 Possible Hunting and Poaching of Wildlife

In view of the availability of the wild fauna in the area, there is likely probability that illegal

hunting and poaching may occur in the area. Rukma community forest and upper part of the

Namase region are the possible area of wildlife poaching. Construction workforce and the

economic benefit seekers (local communities as well as the outsiders) may be involved in such

activities. So, its impact is expected to be of moderate magnitude, extent will be local and last for

medium period of time.

7.2.1.7 Impact due to Construction Disturbances

Construction disturbances resulting from blasting, drilling, vehicular movement and other

construction related activities would interrupt normal movement, feeding and other activities of

wild animals. Similarly, night blasting, electric lights in and around the construction sites and the

presence of large number of humans will also affect wild animals. The clearing, excavation,

grading and filling activities will affect less mobile, frequently smaller species of mammals and

other animals.

7.2.1.8 Impacts on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

Of the total reported species in the project area, five species of mammals: Ailurus fulgens, Canis

lupus, Neofelis nebulosa, Panthera uncia and Moschus chrysogaster; and two species of birds:

Lophophorus impejanus and Tragopan satyra are found protected under the National Park and

Wildlife Conservation Act-2029. To some extent, proposed project will impact on all those

species. More importantly, project activities will impact on wilderness of their habitat. Their

habitat and grazing ground will also be lost and fragmented and will be reduced. Easy human

access to the forest and vehicular disturbances will increases the possibility of their hunting and

poaching. Both construction workers and the economic-benefit-seekers (local communities as

well as the outsiders) may be involved in such activities. So, the impact of the project on the

protected fauna is envisaged to be moderate in magnitude, local in extent and medium term in

duration.

7.2.1.9 Fire hazards

Before the construction activities begin, all the vegetation within the impact area has to be clearly

felled and removed. If the dry biomass after felling cannot be managed properly, or biomass thus

removed from the forest cannot be managed properly, there may be the chances of setting fire.

In addition, burning of firewood or LP gas in the labour camp and other project facilities also

increase the risk of fire hazard. However, major part of the forest in the project impact area is

facing north which remains wet all the year. So there will be less chances of setting fire in the

forest under normal condition. Considering those facts, fire hazard by the project activities is

predicted to be of low magnitude, extent will be local and last for short period of time.




7.2.2.1 Changes of Demand for Fuel Wood and Timber

During the operation phase, site-specific and short-term effects such as increase in pressure

resources for firewood will settle down. Construction of road and good accessibility may introduce

LPG and other means of cooking in the area. However, demand of timber may increase with

progression of living standard of the people. Considering the number of consumers of the

community forests, this activity will not have a noticeable impact on forest and vegetation.

7.2.2.2 Possible Encroachment of nearby Forest

Due to the infrastructure development and improvement of different facilities, local people may

migrate from different parts to settle around the project area. In such scenario, encroachment of

forest area for the settlement purposes may increase. During the process, they may illegally cut

the trees resulting further degradation of forest area. The impact will be indirect in nature, low in

magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

7.2.2.3 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

During construction period, wildlife habitat will be lost and fragmented. In operation period

additional wildlife habitat will not be lost and fragmented however, habitat that lost and

fragmented during the construction period will not be restored. Daily vehicular movement in the

road will continue the separation of already fragmented habitat. Wilderness of the area will

continuously disturbed. So, Impacts of the project on habitat loss and fragmentation is predicted

to be of low magnitude, extent will be local and last for long period of time.

7.2.2.4 Hunting and Poaching of Wildlife

In view of the availability of the wild fauna in the area, there is likely probability that illegal

hunting and poaching may occur in the area. Rukma community forest and upper part of the

Namase region are the possible area of wildlife poaching. Easy accessibility to the forest and

transportation facility may increases the chances of wildlife hunting and poaching. So, its impact

is expected to be of moderate magnitude, extent will be local and last for short period of time.

7.2.2.5 Impact on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

Compare to construction period, impact of the project on the protected species will be less during

the operation period. All protected species would have moved away from the direct impact and

disturbed area of the project. There will be less chances of encountering those species in that area.

So, impact will be low in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

7.2.2.6 Exploitation of NTFP

During this period, accessibility of the area would have improved. Locals as well as outsiders

would have good access to the resources of the area. Which increases the possibility of collection

of commercially valued NTFPs. Legal as well as illegal collection of NTFPs will be increased. Its

impact is expected to be of moderate in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.



Table 7-3: Impact Assessment Matrix for Biological Environment

S.

N. Issues Impacts Identification and Evaluation of

Impact

Sum of

Impact

Values

Significance of

Impact D IND M E Du Construction Phase 1 Loss of Forest area 14.104 ha of forest area will be lost D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant 2. Loss of Tree Loss of 4644 tree and pole D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant 3 Loss of Trees from Private Land Loss of 1551 (1463+ 88) number of private

trees

D L SS ST 25 Less Significant 4 Demand for Fuel wood and

Timber

Increases demand of fuel wood and timber IND L L MT 40 Less Significant 5 Increased Access to Forest Encroachment of nearby forest IND L L MT 35 Less Significant 6 Exploitation to NTFPs Illegal collection of NTFPs IND M SS ST 35 Less Significant 7 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation Habitat loss and fragmentation D M L LT 60 Highly

Significant 8 Illegal Hunting & Poaching Hunting and poaching of wild fauna D M L MT 50 Significant 9 Impacts due to Construction

Disturbances

Disturbance to normal daily activities of

wildlife

D M L MT 50 Significant

10 Impact on Protected Species of

Flora and Fauna

Impact on protected species IND M L MT 50 Significant

11 Fire Hazard Possible fire on forest and labour camp IND L L ST 25 Less Significant Operation Phase 1. Demand for Fuel wood and

Timber

Increases demand of fuel wood and timber D L SS ST 25 Less Significant 2. Increased Access to Forest Encroachment of nearby forest D 3. Habitat Loss and Fragmentation Habitat loss and fragmentation IND M L ST 35 Less Significant 4. Illegal Hunting & Poaching Hunting and poaching of wild fauna D 5. Increased Access to Forest Encroachment of nearby forest D L L LT 40 Less Significant

6. Impact on Protected Species of

Flora and Fauna

Impact on protected species IND L L LT 40 Less Significant

7. Exploitation to NTFPs Illegal collection of NTFPs D M L LT 50 Significant Note: D: Direct, IND: Indirect



Duration (Du) ST= Long Term (05) MT= Medium Term (10) LT= Short Term (20)

The number in the bracket refers to Impact value as per National EIA Guidelines, 1993. The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25.

Significance of impact: sum of impact values: more than 75 → Highly Significant, 50-75 → Significant and less than 50 → Less Significant



7.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment The likely impacts due to project implementation are associated with land take, social and cultural

problems, health and sanitation etc. The anticipated impacts regarding the socio-economic and

cultural environment of the project area are discussed below:

7.3.1 Acquisition of land and Structure

7.3.1.1 Construction Phase

1. Households losing land and structure

The implementation of the proposed project will affect 220HHs (Appendix D-2). Structures of

10HHs will be affected due to the construction and operation of the Access Road. HHs survey of

190 families was carried out. Similarly, 243 land parcels of 220HHs will be affected by the project.

Bhote will lose 166 land parcels; followed by Tamang (44), Rai (14) Gurung (11), Kami (3),

Sherpa (3) and Newar (2). Details of the HHs survey and land parcel lose by the PAFs have been

presented in the below.

Table 7-4: Project Affected HHs by Caste/Ethnicity

S.N. Caste Caste Affected Surveyed

1 Bhote 151 138 2 Gurung 11 8 3 Kami 3 3 4 Newar 2 2 5 Rai 10 8 6 Sherpa 7 2 7 Tamang 36 29

Total/Ave. 220 190 Source: HH Survey 2020

Table 7-5: Distribution of Land Parcels by Caste/Ethnic Groups

S.N. Caste Affected HHs No. of Parcel 1 Bhote 151 174 2 Gurung 11 12 3 Kami 3 3 4 Newar 2 2 5 Rai 10 15 6 Sherpa 7 8 7 Tamang 36 49 Total/Ave. 204 263

Source: HH Survey 2020

i. Households Losing Land

Implementation of project will affect 220HH out of which 194HH will lose their land only and

10HH will lose their land and structure both. Out of the 220HH affected HHs, the survey of 190HH

has been conducted. They are likely to be affected due to the construction of access road.

ii. Land Requirement

The project will require and utilize 80.937ha of private land. Out of total, 49.741ha is permanent

land acquired and 31.196ha is land required temporarily. Thus, overall impact will be direct in

nature, magnitude of impact is high, extent is site specific and duration is long term. The details

of the private land loss are given in the following table,



Table 7-6: Private land use by Project Components

S.

N.

Project components

and facilities

Permanently Acquired

Private Land (ha)

Temporary

Land Utilization

Remarks Total Cultivated Barren Total Cultivated Barren

1 Access Road of

UAHEP 43.902 40.544 3.358 - - -

0.079ha permanently

acquired cultivated and

0.135ha barren land is in

MBNP buffer zone.

2 Access Road of

IKHEP 5.339 1.878 3.461 - - -

1.878ha cultivated and

3.461ha barren

permanently acquired

land is in MBNP buffer

zone.

3 Tunnel Portal 0.5 0.5 - - - -

4 Camp and other

facilities area for

Upper Arun HEP

Access Road

5.169 4.611 0.558 All the land is in MBNP

buffer zone.

5 Camp and other

facilities area for

Ikhuwa Khola HEP

Access Road

- 1.5 1.5 0 All land is in MBNP

Buffer zone

6 Spoil and Muck

Disposal Area 19.904 9.641 10.26

3

7 Bunker - 1.5 1.5 0 8 Quarry Site - 2.41 1 1.41

9 Access Road for Muck

disposal 0.713 0.713

Total land 49.741 42.922 6.819 31.196 18.965 12.231 Source: HH Survey 2020

iii. HHs Losing Structures

Out of total project affected HHs, 10HH will lose their structures which will need to be relocated

due to implementation of the project. HH survey of all 10HH has been carried out. Picture of the

structures likely affected by the project have been presented in the below. Of the 10 affected HHs

who lose their structures, six HH will lose houses with stone masonry with CGI Sheet and four

HH will lose houses are bamboo cottage house). These 10 HHs are categorized as to relocate their

place of residency since they will lose their place of residence. On the basis of structure type, five

structures are of kachchi type and five are of semi-pakki type. Thus, overall impact will be direct

in nature, magnitude of impact is high, extent is site specific and duration is long term.

Table 7-7: List of Project Affected Houses by Type of Structures

S.

N.

Location Types of Structures Houses

No. Dimension N0. of Story

1 Siprung Stone Masonry House with CGI Sheet 6 10.5m X 5.0m 2

2 Siprung Bamboo Cottage House 2 6.0m X 3.5m 1

3 Hema Bamboo Cottage House 2 6.0m x 3.5 1

Total 10 -

a.Operation Phase

Land acquisition will not be required during operation and no significant impacts are expected

during this phase. The land used for camp and other activities will be returned to the respective

land owners as in previous condition. Thus, overall impact will be direct in nature, magnitude of

impact is high, extent is site specific and duration is long term.

iv. Impact on Public Infrastructure

One structure (compound wall) belonging to Shree Barun Basic School, located in Sibrung,

Bhotkhola-4, and one resting place will be affected due to the implementation of the project.

Structures of cultural place are typically traditional. The overall magnitude of impact is high,

extent is site specific and duration is long term.



Table 7-8: List of Project Affected Houses by Type of Structures

S.

N.

Location Types of Public Structures Number

1 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung Compound Wall of Shree Barun Basic School 1

2 Bhotkhola-4, Hema Resting Place 1

3 Bhotkhola-4, Hema Cultural Sites (Maane) 2

Picture 7-1: Affected cultural sites (Maane)

7.3.2 Loss of Crops

a. Construction Phase

v. Permanent Loss of Crops

Total annual crop loss due to the implementation of the project from permanent acquisition of

land is estimated to be 65.95 metric tons (MT) black cardamom. The crop loss will be calculated

for three years’ production.

Table 7-9: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HH

S.N. Crop types Actual production

area loss (ha)

Production Loss

(MT)

Productivity

(MT/ha) 1 Black Cardamom 45.302 22.65 0.5

Total 22.65

Total (Three Years) 67.95

b. Operation Phase

The construction of Access Road in cultivated area, especially those construction in the middle of

land plots will pose hindrance while tilling agricultural field. The field may be cultivated by using

human labor that will increase the cost of agriculture production. The overall magnitude of impact

is considered to be low, extent is site specific and duration is long term for loss of crops in

permanent land. Whereas, there is no such impact on temporary land.

7.3.3 Loss of Trees from Private Land


In addition to the loss of trees from the CFs, Government managed forest and protected forest of

MBNP, about 1043 number of trees comprising of 34 different species are expected to be clear

felled from the private land during the project construction period.

b. Operation Phase: No impact is anticipated during this period.

7.3.4 Fragmentation and Degradation of Agricultural Land

Construction Phase

Agricultural land fragmentation will increase due to the construction work of the Access Road

which will likely cause degradation of cultivated land, reducing farming around the area and

decline of productivity. PAFs and Locals nearby the road alignment will have inaccessibility in

moving between their private lands situated alongside/under the Access Road during construction

activities going on. Project will prevent movement and accessibility into their lands due to various



activities during the construction period of the Access Road. This sort of difficult will be faced by

the locals inhabited at the entire length of the Access Road alignment. Similarly, during the

construction period people inhabited next to the Access Road alignment and nearby areas will

likely to be deprived from their existing agricultural practices, the main economic activities.

Further, activities of road cuts, fill or embankment can result landslide and soil erosion that likely

degrades the quality of fertile cultivated land and loss of standing crops below the Access Road.

Thus, this predicted impact will be indirect in nature, high in magnitude, site specific in extent

and short term in duration.

Operation Phase: No impact is anticipated during the operation phase.

7.3.5 Decrease in Agriculture Production and Impact on Livelihood


The proposed Access Road of UAHEP passes through the private land directly affects two wards

(ward no. 2 and 4) of Bhokhola RM and about 81.126ha (45.302ha permanently acquired land and

35.824ha temporarily utilization) of cultivated land will be acquired and utilized by the project

that will definitely cause fragmentation of cultivated land and declining the agricultural

production. Change of land use mainly on agricultural land have major impacts in reduction of

fertile and cultivated land leading to loss of productive area, loss of crops (especially black

cardamom, main agricultural production of livelihood of the PAFs), increase in food deficiency,

increase in malnutrition. Around 40.56MT (22.65MT permanently and 17.91MT temporarily) of

black cardamom will be lost every year. As a result, this will decline the economic earning and

status of marginal land holding PAFs. Those PAFs will be severely affected with the acquisition

of their agricultural land. The loss of agricultural land and production will be compensated;

however, overall predicted impact on livelihood will be direct in nature, high in magnitude, site

specific in extent and long term in duration.

b. Operation Phase

The implementation of Access Road of UAHEP alters the livelihood pattern of local people

changing their life style and cultural habits because more than two third (69.47%HHs) of the

affected HHs totally depends upon the agricultural production for their livelihood. The loss of

cultivated farm land and traditional existing practice of livelihood based upon agriculture of the

affected people will be affected directly. This sort of impact has been predicted for small

landholding PAFs who totally depend upon livelihood based on selling of their agricultural

production like black cardamom. Thus, this predicted impact will be direct in nature, medium in

magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

7.3.6 Health, Water Supply and Sanitation


Health and Sanitation

The local people may come regular undesirable contact with the outsiders so, the likely increase

of the outsiders’ influence during this phase may add further stress on the local health and

sanitation situation. There could lead the spread of other communicable diseases such as diarrhea,

worm, and respiratory diseases and so on too. However, the impact is considered to be low, site

specific and for short term considering the small number of manpower and their short-term

mobility at one site.

Besides, the increase in the noise level due to vehicular movement in the project area is likely to

influence health of the local community. Discharge of wastes of various types including metals,

paper, kitchen wastes etc. is potential to degrade the sanitary hygienic conditions particularly

around the construction sites and camp sites. The lack of proper sanitary measures and increase



wastes and water pollution may lead to the outbreak of epidemic diseases. However, the impact is

considered to be low, site specific and for short term considering the small number of manpower

and their short-term mobility at one site.

Drinking Water

With the increase in population along with the construction activities of access road, a potential

decline of the access to the drinking water and existing sanitation condition will occur in the

project area. The overall impact on water supply and sanitary situation will be: shortage of

drinking water, increase pressure on the existing water supply system, increase distance to the safe

drinking water, increase in disease vectors, and reduced water quality due to increased sanitation

problems etc. However, the impact on water supply and sanitation shall be low, short term and

site specific

b. Operation Phase: No impact is anticipated during the operation phase.

7.3.7 Occupational Hazards and Safety


Occupational Health and Safety of labors during construction of the proposed road alignment will

be significant issue. Work related injuries and vehicle accidents are likely impacts expected during

the construction. As labor forces requires to undertake works especially in rock cutting, hazardous

materials handling, heavy equipment operations, tree felling, transporting and translocation of

heavy construction materials etc. they are prone to various risks and health hazards in absence of

works undertaken without adequate safety measures. Further, other potential impacts to health are

respiratory, eye disease due to exposure to dust, gas emissions during pavement works especially

in bitumen works. Similarly, health and safety of the local people will be another significant issue

during construction phase of the project. Thus, this predicted impact will be direct in nature, high

in magnitude, site specific in extent and short term in duration.

b. Operation Phase: No impact is anticipated during this phase

7.3.8 Road Accidents and Safety


Excavation of road having rocky portions required substantial amount of heavy equipment.

Accidental explosive hazards are likely during transportation, storing and its use during the time

of construction phase. Mismanagement of equipment will likely to claim human life and property

accidentally. Thus, this predicted impact will be direct in nature, low in magnitude, site specific

in extent and short term in duration.

b. Operation Phase

Road safety and safe driving could be one of the major issues for the workers and passenger

vehicles (if any). It is anticipated that the road traffic accidents are likely due to the high-speed

vehicles, irregular road surface and inadequate traffic signs etc. Thus, this predicted impact will

be direct in nature, medium in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

7.3.9 Gender and Vulnerable group


Household survey of the PAF reveals that the indigenous and Dalit population dominates the area.

The literacy rate in the project affected vicinity is lower as compared to the national average, the

higher percentage of female members are illiterate compared to the male. Therefore, the

permanent and temporary land acquired by Access Road of UAHEP, and the direct and indirect

action of the project is thus going to impact the large numbers of indigenous and vulnerable people



than the other groups. There is potential of the exploitation of the female members by the

construction workforce, mostly the outside workforce.

During the project construction, people will be employed on daily wages for alignment clearance,

excavation, transportation of construction materials, embankment filling and other construction

related works. The contractor, especially the sub-contractors, may discriminate the women and

vulnerable group while hiring the worker in equal value of work. Despite the ban on child labor

by GoN, it remains a potential temptation in an economically poor region such as the proposed

project area for children to be exploited to pursue mental jobs. It is assumed that most of the labor

force required for the construction of the Access Road will be farmers and vulnerable people from

the vicinity of the actual work place. Considering the nature of construction work and manpower

employed, the impact will be direct in nature, low in magnitude, local in extent and short term in

duration.

b. Operation Phase

After the completion of the project, most of the people including women and vulnerable groups

directly or indirectly involved in the project will be deprived from the job which will compel the

female and indigenous population to look for alternative source of income. This may add extra

burden to their normal daily activities. This predicted impact will be direct in nature, medium in

magnitude, local in extent and medium term in duration.

7.3.10 Economic Activities


Economic activities in local market centres are high in comparison to other section of project area.

The interaction among different people/stakeholders and ethnic group may attract rural people

towards more advance society. The experience with other project has revealed that sudden cash

flow may cause unproductive spending earned by the workers. The availability of cash may divert

some workers towards gambling and other awful habits like alcohol consumption. Thus, the

predicted impact will be direct in nature, low in magnitude, local in extent and short term in

duration.

b. Operation Phase

Local people will benefit from the project induced economic opportunities. After the project

completion, these opportunities will be closed and the workers will lose their job. Demand for

local agricultural production and local commodity transactions will be reduced. The withdrawal

or decrease in economic activity during operation phase may affect the life of the local people

after the habitual of spending more during construction phase. They will face difficulty in

managing the lifestyle once the economic activities will be reduced and earning will drastically

decline. Thus, this predicted impact will be direct in nature, low in magnitude, local in extent and

medium term in duration.

7.3.11 Religious, Historical and Archeological Site


There are number of shrines, temples, religious and cultural sites in the project area. One

cremation site of Bhote Community in Namase, Bhotkhola-4, and two cultural places (maanes) of

locals will be affected due to the construction of the project. The predicted impact on cultural

places will be direct in nature, high in magnitude (low for cremation site), site specific in extent

and long term in duration.

b. Operation Phase

No impact is expected during the operation phase.



7.3.12 Infrastructure and Service Facility


vi. Infrastructure

Gola Bazaar is the nearest markets/trade centers of the project area. The average distance of

market centers from the proposed Access Road of UAHEP is ranged from about 1km to 14km.

The implementation of project will likely to affect the market center. The predicted impact will

be indirect in nature, medium in magnitude, local in extent, and short term in duration.

vii. Service Facility

The construction work and related influx of population in the project area will make the existing

institutions regarding health, water supply, electricity, etc. unable to deliver the required service.

Besides, existing markets and hotels will come under pressure. However, privately operated

service is expected to cope up with this situation considering the nature of job and limited workers

staying with their families in the project area. The predicted impact will be indirect in nature, low

in magnitude, local in extent and short term in duration.

b. Operation Phase: No impact is anticipated during the operation phase.

7.3.13 Local Tradition and Culture


The issue of local culture and tradition is related to the activities of the outside workforce in the

local area. The outside construction workforce coming from different parts, cultural and traditional

values is envisaged to influence the local cultural and traditional values. The extent of such

influence is difficult to predict. Project area is a co-existing ground of different indigenous people

and dalits with diverse sets of traditional and values since ages. It is envisaged that the outside

workforce and the local community will come together without any cultural and traditional

conflicts. However, the social and cultural life style of the local people will hardly be affected by

the influx of workers due to nature of project. Thus, the overall predicted impact on local tradition

and culture will be indirect in nature, low in magnitude, local in extent and short term in duration.

b. Operation Phase

After completion of the construction work, the impact on culture by the construction work force

will subside and will slowly return to its normal social condition.

7.3.14 Law and Order


During the construction of the Access Road of UAHEP, the contractor will employ labor from

different places with different religion and faiths and there will be possibilities of conflict of

interest thus affecting the law and order situation. The past experience reveals that local people

have misunderstanding with the employers and contractor’s staff. Since the project is of linear

type and the number of local labors for construction activities will be less. Thus, the likely impact

on law and order situation due to project will be indirect in nature, low in magnitude, local in

extent and short term in duration.

b. Operation Phase

No impact is anticipated during operation phase.

7.3.15 Impacts on Landscape and Aesthetics Beauty


Due to construction activities of access road, landscape of the area will be changed and aesthetic

beauty of the area might be reduced. Thus, this predicted impact is direct in nature, medium in

magnitude, site specific in extent and short term in duration.

Access Road of UAHEP Existing Environment Condition


Table 7-10: Impact Assessment Matrix for Socioeconomic and Cultural Environment

S.

N. Issues Impacts

Identification and

Evaluation of Impacts

Sum of

Impact

Values

Significance of

Impact Construction Phase D IND M E Du

1. Acquisition of Land and

Structure

49.741ha land will be acquired permanently.

Total 10 structures (10 houses) will be

affected.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

2. Loss of Crops

Loss of 65.95MT (calculated three years’

production) food crops from permanent land

acquisition.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

3. Loss of Trees from Private Land Loss of 1551 Private Trees D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

4. Fragmentation and Degradation

of Agricultural land

Likely cause agricultural land fragmentation

and degradation. IND H SS ST 75

Highly

significant

5.

Decrease in Agricultural

Production and Impact on

Livelihood

Decrease in agricultural production and

likely impact on livelihood to the PAFs. D H L LT 100

Highly

Significant

6. Health, Water Supply and

sanitation

Likely impact on physical and mental health

of local community D L SS ST 25 Less Significant

9. Occupational Hazards and safety Likely increase in construction related

accidents. D H SS ST 85

Highly

Significant

10. Road Accidents and Safety D L SS ST 25 Less Significant

11. Gender and Vulnerable group

Likely discrimination while hiring workers,

compensation or other project related

benefits.

D L L ST 35 Less Significant

12. Economic Activities Likely increase in economic activities as well

as unproductive spending. D L L ST 35 Less Significant

13. Religious, Historical and

Archeological Site

Likely impact on cultural sites (manne) lie

along the road, and cremation site of Bhote

community.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

14. Infrastructure and Service

Facility

Likely impact on infrastructures and service

facilities. IND M L ST 45 Less Significant

15. Local tradition and culture Likely impact on social and cultural practices IND L L ST 35 Less Significant

16. Law and Order

Likely increase in pressure to maintain the

law and order IND L L ST 35 Less Significant

Access Road of UAHEP Enhancement and Mitigation Measures


S.

N. Issues Impacts

Identification and

Evaluation of Impacts

Sum of

Impact

Values

Significance of

Impact Construction Phase D IND M E Du

17. Impacts on Landscape and

Aesthetics Beauty

Likely impact on landscape and aesthetics

beauty D M SS ST 35 Less Significant

Operation Phase

1. Acquisition of Land and

Structures

No significant impacts are expected on Land

acquisition. Houses and other structures are

not allowed to be constructed within RoW.

D M SS LT 50 Significant

1. Loss of Crops

Placement of tower at center of field pose

difficulty for the cultivation which further

increase production cost

D L SS LT 40 Less Significant

2.

Decrease in Agriculture

Production and Impact on

Livelihood

Decrease in agriculture production and

Likely impact on livelihood to the PAFs. D H L LT 100

Highly

Significant

3. Road Accidents and Safety Road safety and safe driving could be one of

the major issues. D M L LT 60 Significant

4. Economic Activities Withdrawal or decrease in economic activity

may affect the habitual of lifestyle. D L L MT 40 Less Significant

4. Gender and Vulnerable group

Most people including women and vulnerable

groups become jobless; this will compel extra

burden to female population.

D M L MT 50 Significant

5. Economic Activities Withdrawal of economic activities. Negative

impacts on locals. D L L MT 50 Significant

Note: D: Direct, IND: Indirect



Duration (Du) ST= Long Term (05) MT= Medium Term (10) LT= Short Term (20)

The number in the bracket refers to Impact value as per National EIA Guidelines, 1993. The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and

minimum of 25.

Significance of impact: sum of impact values: more than 75 → Highly Significant, 50-75 → Significant and less than 50 → Less Significant



8 Beneficial Impacts Enhancement and Adverse Impacts Mitigation

Measures The mitigation and enhancement measures outlined in this chapter have been proposed to

ameliorate potential adverse impacts and enhance the beneficial impacts identified during the

study. Adverse and beneficial impacts those that are not identified or predetermined during the

study if later discovered during the construction phases will be explicitly mitigated or enhanced

by the project.

The general discussion is organized into three categories of physical, biological, and socio-

economic and cultural aspects, and has been split into construction and operation phases. The

mitigation measures to be carried out have been listed below. The project proponent will

implement all the proposed mitigation measures and enhancement measures, monitoring plans

described in the respective chapters as his prime responsibility. In addition, the project will take

responsibility of compensating as per the prevailing law for any losses or damage caused to

livelihoods and property during construction and operation phases.

8.1 Physical Environment To minimize the adverse impacts and maximize the environmental benefit on the physical

environment aspect of the UAHEP following mitigation measure have been proposed.


8.1.1.1 Topography, Land Use and Land Take

The project will acquire approximately 61.145ha permanently and 41.303ha temporarily. The

impact on excavated land acquired for construction of road cannot be avoided. However, there are

opportunities in restoring the existing land for better quality. The area used by the project like labor

camp, spoil and muck disposal area, quarry sites etc. will be temporarily acquired and will be

rehabilitated to natural condition with proper landscaping before return to the land owner.

Wherever possible, the project will utilize lower value production land for project facilities in

preference to higher value land. The permanently acquired land will be compensated as per

government rules.

8.1.1.2 Soil Erosion and Land Instability

Soil erosion, and land instabilities is mainly due to construction of the access roads, quarry site

and barrow pits. To minimize the probable adverse impacts following mitigation prescription have

been proposed:

Access road

• Balancing of cut and fills in the road construction alignments – cut sites and filling sites shall

be delineated prior to excavation.

• Construction of retaining walls and gabions to protect soil mass

• A drainage plan for the access roads shall be developed to minimize the effect of drainage

disruption and associated erosion and sedimentation.

• Minimization of clearing and ground disturbance

• Topsoil saving- fertile topsoil will be removed and stockpiled at identified suitable site for

reuse and rehabilitation.

• All cut and fill area shall be rehabilitated progressively using suitable bioengineering

measures.



Quarry and Barrow pit

To minimized soil erosion and sedimentation during excavation works following prescription are

recommended;

• Avoid the big and deep borrow pit at one location.

• The quarry operation shall not be carried below the flowing water level of the river

• Surface strip mining will be enforced for the extraction of aggregate

Tunneling Work

• Controlled use of explosive to limit the disturbance to ground condition and minimize the

noise and vibration effect.

Bridge foundation

• Controlled excavation to limit the disturbance of slope and ground condition.

Spoil Disposal Site

• Discourage the deposition of spoil across the drainage line.

• Toe protection wall for all spoil disposal site.

• Benched outward slopes on the spoil deposits to avoid slope failure

• Spoil disposal area will be located above the high flood level

8.1.1.3 Changes in Air Quality

To minimize the impacts on local air quality during construction of project components following

measures are recommended:

• Regular sprinkling of water in the earthen/gravel of road corridor at least three times in a day

in dry season;

• Compact and water sprinkling regularly in the spoil disposal site

• Speed limits for the vehicles plying in the dusty construction roads

• Use of firewood for heating bitumen and incineration of waste will be discourage

• Use of construction vehicles/equipment/compressors/diesel generating sets comply with

government mass emissions standard

• The project will discourage the use biomass as fuel within the camps for heating and cooking

purpose. The project will ensure that an alternate commercial fuel for the heating and cooking

within the project camps.

• Stabilization and covering of the loose stockpiles by using appropriate measures.

8.1.1.4 Noise and Vibrations

Following measures are taken into consideration for the control of noise and vibration during

implementation.

• Speed restriction to the construction vehicles in areas close to the settlement and structures.

• Restriction on unnecessary use of horns.

• Regular maintenance of all the equipment as per manufactures specification to reduce the

engine noises

• Blasting and the operation of heavy equipment shall be conducted only in day time

• Strict to control blasting limited to extent that is required at its minimum level to minimize

noise levels and vibrations.

• Notification to the communities prior to blasting

• Compensation to the damage of structure, if found related to the vibration and overpressure.



8.1.1.5 Changes in Water Quality

To minimize the impacts on the water quality of the nearby water-bodies and other surface and

sub-surface receiving water bodies following mitigation measures are recommended.

• Provision of a good sanitary facilities with adequate toilet, washing tap, drinking water

facilities, and sanitation facilities in the construction camp.

• Prohibition of the discharge of the sanitary liquids and toxic liquids such as spent oils, burnt

mobile, grease, lubricants, grouting chemicals, bitumen etc. in land and water bodies from

the construction sites.

• Prohibition on application of bitumen during strong wind and rainy periods.

• Establishment of separate area for the collection and storage of hazard and toxic material

waste including batteries, oil filters, mobil, burnt oil, bitumen drum.

• Provision of solid waste management system at camps. Establishment of separate storage

area for the wastes of packing materials such as plastic bag, jute bags, cardboard, paper etc.

for later reuse or sale.

• Prohibition on open urination and defecation in waterways, around camps and construction

sites.

• Provision of training to the labor force in using storage areas with regard to safe handling to

toxic and non-toxic water material.

8.1.1.6 Changes in Soil Quality

Various construction activities generate different types of wastes that have to be disposed on land.

This will have direct impact on soil quality in the construction period. The mitigation measures

prescribe for water quality are adequate for avoidance and minimization of land pollution.

8.1.1.7 Spoil and Construction Waste Management

The first priority will be to reuse excess material in construction work. All other excess material

will be disposed off in location or landfills that will not promote instability and result in destruction

of property, agriculture land, vegetation, and natural drainage system. Extreme care will be taken

to avoid disposal area that will be inconvenience to local resident. Exposed area will be planted

with suitable vegetation at the earliest opportunities.

8.1.1.8 Stockpiling of Construction Materials

The mitigation measures that will be followed for the impacts associated with stockpiling of

construction materials are as below;

• Stockpiling sites will be properly fenced. Side drain will be constructed mixing of chemicals

and explosive to the water bodies and soil will be prohibited.

• Leased land used for stockpiling will be reclaim before handover to owner.

• The project will make necessary arrangement for the proper storage and handling of

construction material to avoid environmental nuisance.

• As far as possible the stockpiling of construction material will be carried out in treeless are or

barren land

• The cost required for the mitigation of impact generated from construction activities has been

incorporated in the civil cost of the project

8.1.1.9 Changes in River Morphology due to Quarry sites

All the activities within the riverbed will be planned properly during the construction stage. After

quarrying of construction materials, land will be rehabilitate to the natural condition.



• Quarrying operation in the flood plain will be stripping operation rather than forming a big

borrow pit at one location

• The quarry operation will not be carried below the flowing water level of river

• Excavation of aggregate from the river wet channel will be prohibited.

• Maximum digging of quarry sites will be maintained up to 3m considering vulnerability of

site.

8.1.1.10 Drainage and Water Management

The mitigation measures that will be followed for the impact associate with water from road

drainage system are as follows:

• Hydraulic energy of drainage will dissipated before discharging to natural watercourse with

the construction of cascades, steps, and check dams.

• Check-dams will be constructed as far down the gullies as necessary to avoid depth and side

erosion

• Valleyside resident will be consulted regarding drainage outlets.

8.1.1.11 Explosive, Combustible and Toxic Material Management

To minimize the impacts associate with explosive and toxic material following mitigation

measures will be considered.

• Separate structure will be constructed to store the explosive

• Explosive will be used as per the prevailing regulation of government

• Hazardous material will not be stored near surface water.

• All used lubricants and oils will be collected and recycles or disposed off site.

• Contaminated or worn plastic sheeting will be packed into drums and disposed off site.

8.1.1.12 Labour Camp Management

External labour force can introduce social conflict, deforestation, pollution of surface and ground

waters from unsanitary waste disposal practices. The following mitigation measures will be taken

during construction period of project.

• Camp will not be located near settlements

• Camp will be operate within a self-sufficient infrastructure.

• Workers will be prohibited from poaching wildlife and cutting tree

• Cooking fuel, Water and sanitation facilities will be provided within the camp

• Solid waste will be managed according to the following preference hierarchy: reduce, and

reuse,

• After completion of work, the site will be rehabilitated to improved condition

8.1.1.13 Impact related to Other Utilities

With the development of project, infrastructure like trail road, electric pole, drinking water supply

pipe will be affected with in project area. Project proponent will be responsible for compensation

and construction of these structures.


8.1.2.1 Soil Erosion and Landslide

• Construction or rehabilitation of retaining wall and maintenance of roadside structure as per

required.

• Regular and routine maintenance of slope protection works.



• Maintenance of river training work for protection of road and bridge.

8.1.2.2 Water management

• Construction or maintenance hydraulic energy dissipating structure like check dam as per

required

• Regular maintenance of road side drain and cross drainage structure

8.2 Biological Environment Mitigation Measures

The mitigation measures that will be adopted for the impact on biological environment including

floral and faunal resources during the project construction and operation phases are as follows:

Construction Phase

8.2.1 Minimizing the Forest Clearance

Loss of forest for the proposed project is unavoidable. However, forest clearance will be limited

only to the formation width (Carriage way, shoulder and drain) of the road as far as possible. Forest

clearance beyond the formation width of the road will be avoided to the extent possible. Trees that

are likely to be removed will be counted, marked and harvested with the proper forest techniques

by involving technical staffs from the DFO and National park office. The project will adopt

methodology to minimize loss of saplings during construction to the extent possible. Wood and

other forest products extracted as part of the site clearance from the forest will be utilized as per

the Forest Regulations, 2051 (1995). The project proponent will prohibit construction workers to

enter into the forest land and collect NTFPs. Informative and warning sign at each construction

sites located in and around the forest area will also be placed.

8.2.2 Compensatory Plantation and Forest Land Replacement

Loss of forest is unavoidable in this project with project development options. Two mitigation

options could be envisaged to mitigate the impacts in the forest: Compensatory measure and Offset

measure. To mitigate potential impacts in terms of biodiversity, forest land and habitat,

implementation of offset measures will be the first option in addition to the implementation of

forest biodiversity management plan in the remaining forest of the project area. In line with the

“Working Procedure and Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for National Priority

Project, 2076”, compensatory plantation and forest land replacement will be done. Compensatory

plantation will be done for 4644 trees/poles. So, 46,440 seedlings will be planted as compensatory

plantation.

The project will permanently acquire 14.104 ha of forest land (CF and GMF). So, the project shall

purchase/compensate same area of land in another place. For compensating of 14.104 ha of land,

NRs 20,370,055 (Rs 1,444,275 per ha) is estimated as per the Appendix I of the same working

procedure. The land will be purchased in coordination with DFO and forest users groups. Before

handing over, the afforestation will be done in such land (at the standard ratio of 1600 seedlings

per ha). In replaced forest land, 22,566 seedlings (1600 seedlings per ha) will be planted. In total

69,006 number of seedlings will be planted as compensatory plantation.

In case, if there are difficulties in land replacement, the project will compensate such losses in cash

as per the provision made in the “Working Procedure and Standards for the Use of National Forest

Land for National Priority Project, 2076”.



For compensatory plantation, due attention will be given to local species suitable to the area,

species cut down by the project as far as possible, species preferred by the local communities and

species which contribute to the improvement of habitats for available birds and mammals. The

plantation sites will be finalized after discussion with the members of FUGs and officials of DFO.

Plantation designs for each specific sites identified will be developed after consultation and

interaction with the concerned stakeholders. There shall also be the provision of replacement

plantation after one year of tree plantation based on the mortality rate of seedlings. The project

proponent will take care of planted site for the period of 5 years and handover to the concerned

FUGs and DFO. Alternatively, the plantation area can be managed by the local community with

support from the project for five years.

8.2.3 Harvesting Cost

The cost of harvesting, logging and transporting of the trees and other forest products in Forest

will be provided as per the district norms to the concerned agency following the provision in Forest

Regulations, 2051 (1995). The harvesting cost for the CF/GMF will be provided by the project

proponent. The compensation cost for the harvesting, logging and transportation of forest is part

of project construction work and will be included in construction cost hence it is not estimated

separately in this Report. Replacement plantation shall be carried out to compensate the loss of

trees in the project affected forest.

8.2.4 Compensation to Private Tree loss

As far as possible the project will minimize the tree loss from the private land. In case of road

construction and camp area, tree loss in unavoidable. Detail inventory of private trees (fruit, fodder

and timber) to be felled will be prepared with the help of DFO, District Agriculture office. The

project will pay the compensation to all private tree loss.

8.2.5 Supply of Fuel to Workers

If practically feasible, construction workers will be prevented from the use of fuel wood for

cooking their food items. The project proponent will provide either kerosene/LPG or any

alternative fuel to the extent possible to project workers staying at temporary/permanent labor

camps to minimize forest loss in order to meet their fuel wood demand. Similarly, provision of

fire-fighting equipment at vulnerable areas and training of workers in the use of this equipment

will be carried out.

8.2.6 Controlling Encroachment of nearby Forest

The contractor and the proponent will make sure that there will not be any encroachment in the

forest/public/private land for the project facilities. The contractor will strictly prohibit their labour

force for any type of encroachment of forest/public/private land. The proponent will timely address

the issues of displaced people and make sure that they are resettled as per the resettlement plan.

The proponent in coordination with DFO office and CFUGs follow or cause to strictly follow all

the legal provision.

8.2.7 Controlling NTFPs Collection

Construction labour will be strictly prohibited to enter into the forest for the collection and type of

the NTFPs. Project and proponent in coordination with the respective CFUGs and DFO office will

control the NTFPs collection by labour. Similarly, the project in coordination with the DFO and



CFUGs office will implement the comprehensive plan on NTFPs collection and the management.

Awareness raising program to the local people will also be conducted

8.2.8 Habitat Loss and fragmentation

The impact of forest clearance on habitat loss/change is a permanent phenomenon. However,

compensatory plantation of trees and awareness for forest management and wildlife conservation

is considered to help for minimizing the impact to some extent. Selection of the tree species for

the compensatory plantation will be done so as to develop a healthy forest ecosystem comparable

to lost one. The clearing of trees will be done manually causing less impact on adjoining

vegetation.

Underpass and Overpass

Construction of tunnel passing through Namase to Rukma will be one of the key measures to avoid

habitat loss and fragmentation of wildlife. This tunnel will prevent the direct impact of the project

implementation on the red panda and other high altitude animals. This tunnel will keep the

wilderness of the upper region of Namase and Rukma intact for a long run. Many habitat patches

of wild animals including Red panda will be preserved and undisturbed.

Along Rukma to Dam site of the alignment, the terrain is steep and there is Arun River in the

valley side. Flow and the gradient of the Arun River has already disconnected the wildlife habitat

patches in that region. Moreover, the forest fragmented by the access road on the valley side will

be very small. In this scenarios, impact of the forest fragmentation on wildlife will be small. So,

overpass and underpass for this fragmented patch will not be constructed.

8.2.9 Restriction on Hunting and Poaching

The project workers will strictly be prevented from hunting and poaching and any other kind of

illegal activities related to hunting and poaching. The construction work within community forest

area will be coordinated through DFO and CFUGs. Informative and warning sign will be placed

at relevant construction sites. The contractor who is liable to control his labor in this regard will

be instructed strictly for application of specification regarding hunting and poaching control.

8.2.10 Minimizing impacts of Construction Disturbances

Construction disturbances of the project will be minimized by the following ways;

a) Re-route of material delivering vehicles away from the settlement and forest if possible.

b) Place noisy site equipment away from forest/settlement area.

c) Combine noisy operation to occur in the same time period; the total noise level produces

will not significantly greater than the level produced if they are operated separately.

d) Do not work in night time.

8.2.11 Impacts on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

The proponent and contractor will strictly control their labour force to enter and collect the tree

products from the hunting reserve forest and nearby forest. The project in coordination with DFO

and CFUGs will conduct awareness campaign to the construction workers and local people.

8.2.12 Fire hazards

Dry biomass from the forest area after the forest clearance will be properly managed. The

contractor shall aware the labour force on potential sources of fire hazard and will train on use of

fire-fighting. Contractor will manage fire fighters to every labour camp.



8.2.13 Enhancement Measures

Enhanced measures proposed in this section aims to enhance the beneficial impacts of the project

and either prevent or minimize the negative impacts of the project. As an enhancement measure,

wildlife habitat conservation program, NTFPs related training, awareness raising and forest

management training will be conducted. NRs 6,420,000/- is allocated for the enhancement measure

for the following program.

Operation Phase

No any mitigation measure is proposed during this period.

8.2.14 Awareness on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation

Awareness program on forest management and wildlife conservation will be carried out at two

different places. The following table shows the estimated cost for carrying out such awareness

programs. Table 8-1: Cost for Awareness on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation

S. N. Description Unit Day Quantity Rate (NRs) Total Amount (NRs) 1 Program coordinator No. 5 1 5,000 25,000 2 Participants No. 5 10 1,500 75,000 3 Training expert No. 5 2 5,000 50,000 4 Training material and logistic LS 200,000 5 Assistance LS 10,000

Total Cost for conducting one program 360,000 Grand Total for conducting 2 programs 720,000

8.2.15 Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) Training

In order to improve the livelihood of the local people, NTFP training is proposed to be carried out

at 2 different places during project construction phase. Table 8-2: Estimated Cost for NTFPs Training

S.N. Description Unit Day Quantity Rate (NRs) Total Amount (NRs) 1 Program Coordinator No. 5 1 5,000 25,000 1 Participants (including lunch) Day 5 10 1,500 75,000 2 Training Expert Class 5 2 5,000 50,000 3 Training material and logistics LS 200,000 5 Assistance LS 10,000

Total Cost for conducting one program 360,000 Grand Total for conducting 2 training programs 720,000

8.2.16 Habitat Conservation Program

During operation phase, habitat conservation program will be conducted in coordination with

DFOs and CFUGs. This program will incorporates water resource conservation and making water

ponds in the wild, grazing ground development with fodder plantation and other. The detail of

particulars of the program will be prepared and finalize in coordination with DFOs and CFUGs.

This will also help for the conservation of the protected species in the area. A lump sum of NRs

5,000,000/- is allocated for the program.

8.2.17 Biological Mitigation and Enhancement Cost

The total biological mitigation (including land cost) and enhancement cost is estimated to be NRs

50,291,375.



Table 8-3: Mitigation and Enhancement Cost

S.N. Mitigation Program Unit/ Rate Total Amount (NRs)

1

Compensatory plantation of 69,006 seedlings (including

seedling purchase, site preparation, pitting, transplanting,

composting, mulching and replacement plantation based on

mortality of seedlings)

NRs 200 13,801,200

2 Management/ take care of planted site for 5 years 2 men/month 2,400,000

3 Support for fencing at specific planted sites LS 5,400,000

4 Placement of informative and warning signs for forest

management and wildlife conservation LS 500,000

5 Replacement plantation LS 1,380,120

6 Cost of buying land in replacement of permanently acquired

area in reservoir and access road in forest area (14.104ha) LS 20,370,055

7 Training on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation LS 720,000

8 Training on Non-Timber Forest Product 720,000

9 Wildlife Habitat Conservation Program 5,000,000

Sub Total-1 (including Land Cost) 50,291,375

Sub Total-1 (excluding Land Cost 29,921,320

8.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment Mitigation as well as enhancement measures for all identified significant impacts on socio-

economic and cultural environment have been considered in this section of EIA report. In the same

way, corporate responsibility of the project for different social sector has been identified and

discussed briefly here.

8.3.1 Mitigation Measures

Each of the identified impacts during construction as well as operation phase has been evaluated

in detail and cost-effective mitigation measures are suggested to minimize impacts. The cost of

mitigation measures in different titles is calculated and mentioned in report.

8.3.1.1 Acquisition of Land and Structure


i. Compensation for Permanently Acquired Land

Project will provide appropriate compensation to all of the PAFs as the rate determined by

Compensation Fixation Committee (CFC). The project will permanently acquire 49.741ha private

land. Mitigation cost for the permanently acquired land is estimated to be NRs. 682,446,520.

The land price varies from place to place, parcel to parcel and according to proximity of road and

market centers. The average land price in the area is considered for the estimate of compensation.

Landless (tenants), Guthi holders etc. affected by the project will also be compensated as per the

recommendation of the CDC.

Table 8-4: Estimated Cost for Land Acquisition

S.N. Project Components Total Cultivated Amount (NRs) 1 Access Road of UAHEP 43.902 NRs

13720000/ha

602335440 2 Access Road of IKHEP 5.339 73251080 3 Tunnel Portal 0.5 6860000

Total land 49.741 682,446,520

ii. Rent for Land Utilization of Leased Land



Project will utilize 31.196ha for camp, spoil and muck disposal, bunker and quarry site. Total

amount for this provision is NRs 21,400,456.

iii. Compensation for Loss of Residential Structures

Compensation will be provided for the ten residential structures. Compensation cost for residential

structure has been calculated based on the lumpsum construction cost of the structure. Total

compensation cost for structures is calculated to be NRs. 5,000,000. Table 8-5: Estimated Cost for Structure Loss

S.N. Structures No. Dimension No. Of

Story

Construction

Cost of

Structures

(LS NRs. / House)

Total (NRs.) 1 Stone Masonry House

with CGI Sheet

6 10.5m X 5.0m 2 700,000 4,200,000 2 Bamboo Cottage

House

4 6.0m X 3.5m 1 200,000 80,0000 Total 10 - - - 5,000,000

iv. Compensation for Public/Social Infrastructure

Compensation will be provided for one public structures (compound wall of Barun Basic School).

Compensation cost for public infrastructure has been calculated based on the construction cost of

the structure. Total compensation cost for structures is calculated to be NRs. 1,000,000. Similarly,

compensation cost for the relocation of one resting place is calculated to be NRs. 500,000

respectively. Altogether, NRs. 1,500,000 has been calculated for the compensation of public

infrastructures.

8.3.1.2 Compensation for Permanent Loss of Standing Crops


i. Production Loss in Permanent Land

Though the private land to be acquired by the project is 45.019ha and production loss is calculated

for 45.302ha cultivated land. The total compensation of 67.95MT permanently loss of crops is

estimated to be NRs. 59,456,250 (for three years crop loss). The value of total loss of crops is

estimated based on their yield, production, and local market rate. The crop wise value with area is

shown in the table given below. Table 8-6: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production Due to Land Acquisition

S.

N. Crop types

Actual production

area loss (ha)

Production

Loss (MT)

Productivity

(MT/ha)

Rate/ha

(NRs.)

Amount

(NRs.)

1 Black Cardamom 45.302 22.65 0.5 875,000 19,818,750

Total 22.65 19,818,750

Total of Three Years 67.95 59,456,250

Source: Field and Market Survey, 2020

b. Operation Phase

No mitigation is required during operation phase.

8.3.1.3 Compensation of Private Trees


The trees removed from the private land (1551 trees) will be compensated as per prevailing rates.

Due consultation will be made with concerned DFO and stakeholders while determining the rate.

b. Operation Phase

During the operation phase, this issue will no longer exist. Hence no mitigation measure will be

adopted.



8.3.1.4 Minimizing Land Fragmentation and Degradation


Land fragmentation will be minimized as far as applicable. The final alignment will be drawn in-

between the two different types of land use pattern to avoid fragmentation as far as possible.

Remaining portion of cultivated land that will not significant for agriculture purpose will be

acquired. Rent of temporarily used land will be provided with crop loss compensation. The

temporarily used land will be returned to respective landowner as in the previous condition.

Bioengineering technology will be used to control the soil erosion and landslide. Slope cutting will

be minimized as far as practicable.

8.3.1.5 Livelihood Restoration for SPAF


The project will attempt to generate employment opportunity in the project during construction

phase. As many of the affected people especially PAFs will have opportunities in the project

construction in appropriate designations as far as practicable. Moreover, assuming the restoration

of livelihood of affected people, the project will implement agricultural enhancement programs

targeting for those PAFs who will lose less than 25% agriculture land to enhance and promote

local agricultural products. The project will also motivate local farmers in promoting the

production and collection of herbs and high value agro products. At the meantime, project will

also provide skill development training assuming the restoration of livelihood of SPAFs (PAFs

who lose their more than 25% of agriculture land and residential structure), that can change the

livelihood condition of them from agriculture to service oriented. Further, the compensated people

may also expect to manage the losses properties by utilizing the received compensated money.

b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measures will be adopted.

8.3.1.6 Health, Water and Sanitation


Health and Sanitation

The project proponent will keep the project area clean and hygienic to ensure the project activities

will not cause the spread of communicable diseases. The labor camp will be provided with simple

dry pit toilet constructed on hard ground and far from water sources. Toilets will be made in

temporary camps as per requirement. First aid kits will be maintained for preliminary treatment in

emergencies. The domestic solid waste generated in the project area will be either buried in

designed landfill areas or converted in to compost.

A joint awareness program on health and sanitation will be launched in association with the

existing NGOs and other local communities during the construction phase. Health check-up of

workers and documentation of health status will be made periodically. Priority will be given to the

local people in project works to minimize the impacts on health and sanitation. The project must

ensure adequate safety gears for workers (Personal Protective Equipment, accommodation, First

Aid box, etc.). It must arrange the training for contractors and workers. It should provide temporary

security fencing surrounding the construction site and safety signboard at all sites in Nepali

languages will be placed.

Drinking Water



To minimize the impact on water supply at least one drinking water supply system will be installed

at each camp site to cope the demand of the drinking water supply for the labors and technicians.

The water supply of the project area will be strengthened by installation of new pipe lines, keeping

taps at a regular interval, and by improving storage of water at the source.

b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measures are required during this phase.

8.3.1.7 Occupational Hazards and Safety


The construction area will be cleared up and all necessary precaution and warning signs will be

placed at construction site. This area will be restricted for the entry of unauthorized people. The

project proponent will provide safety helmet, eye glass, safety boot, safety belt, fire-fighting

accessories, caution signals and other safety equipment as required at particular site/work area.

Life of worker will be ensured by maintaining Life Insurance of each worker of the project.

Safety training will be implemented and any loss of life or injury will also be compensated as per

prevailing rules. The safety training for the project workers will be conducted prior to the

construction work. Community safety awareness program will also be implemented. The project

workers involved in construction work will also be trained for health and occupational measures.

Total cost for awareness program and hoarding is proposed NRs. 1,000,000.

8.3.1.8 Road Accidents and Safety


Road safety issues during construction works will be significant to construction workers. Safe

handling of construction vehicles and equipment will be applied during construction phase.

Collection and transportation of construction materials, disposal of spoil from excavation will be

executed smoothly during construction.

b. Operation Phase

Road safety measures will not be compromised during the operation of the Access Road. To avoid

the accident on the road, traffic signals, road marking, regular road surface maintaining, controlled

speed of vehicles and other safety measures will be applied to reduce driving risks. In order to

avoid the possibility of driving risks of sudden fall from the road; barbed fencing will be carried

out in such area of the Access Road. Provision of speed limit and speed breaker along settlements

will be conducted and constructed. Awareness campaigns at the local level will be conducted to

avoid likely accident.

8.3.1.9 Gender and Vulnerable Group


The direct and indirect impacts on gender, indigenous and vulnerable people will be minimized

by the following measures:

• Gender discrimination in the job opportunities will be prohibited.

• All the construction workforce will be instructed to give respect the female members of the

society.

• Child labor will be prohibited in the construction work. Further, contractor will follow the

Labor Act, 2074 which enacted in favor of the welfare of the Children's right.



• The female members, members of indigenous and vulnerable groups among the directly

impacted HHs will be given priority in the skill training, other enhancement programs and the

project related job opportunities during construction and operation phase.

• For Gender Sensitive Grievance Redress mechanism, at least one professional, female

confidant will be made available by the project, for women to go to in case of (sexual)

harassment.

b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measures required during operation phase.

8.3.1.10 Religious, historical and Archeological Sites


Two directly affected cultural sites (Mannes) will be relocated. Total mitigation cost for the

relocation of these two cultural sites have been calculated to be NRs. 300,000. No mitigation

measure is required for the cremation sites. However, unanticipated adverse impact due to Project

intervention or associated activities will be assessed. It will ensure adequate fund to meet the need

of such unexpected costs and the project implementation authorities will deal with any

unanticipated consequence of the Project during and after the implementation- will be documented

and mitigated.

b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measures are required.

8.3.1.11 Infrastructure and Service Facility


To minimize the impacts on the existing institutions and service facilities following measures

will be implemented:

• Separate communication facilities other than the existing facilities through extension

• Provision of health and support program;

• Provision of additional support police force (if required) through coordination with the

District Administration Office and District Police Office, etc.

8.3.1.12 Local Tradition and Culture


The impacts on local tradition and culture in the project area are related mostly with the influx of

construction workforce and their number. Besides, to minimize the impacts on local

communities, following code of conduct will be enforced to the outside construction workers:

• The labor force will be instructed about the code of conduct and manners to be maintained

during and after working hours. No discrimination in terms of salary or nature of job among

local and migrant workers will be maintained;

• Local people will be hired for the construction and maintenance works as far as possible;

• Contractors and outside workforce will be instructed to honor local culture and tradition and

behave decently with local people;

• Prohibiting all the outside labors to live outside construction camps.

• Prohibiting the use of alcohol in the project site, camp and nearby villages.

• The project proponent will demonstrate its concerns about health and safety of the workers as

well as the community through awareness programmes and grievance redressed.

• The workers will be briefed about the health risk of communicable diseases due to unhygienic

environment as well as sexually transmitted diseases.



b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measure is required during this period.

8.3.1.13 Law and Order


During the construction of the Access Road, labors from different places with different religions

and faiths with their own norms and values will be employed by the project contractor and there

may conflict of interest between locals and the outsiders affecting law and order situation in the

project area. Local employment, wage/ labor rate, working hours, use of local resources by the

project workers, etc. are the major factors that may create conflict in the project area which may

pose threat to law and order situation. The proponent will implement a strict code of conduct for

the workforces. In case any worker is found as a drunkard or soliciting prostitution and gambling

etc. will be penalized and terminated too. The existing facilities of GoN from Sankhuwasabha

District will be used to maintain the law and order situation as when required basis. The proposed

awareness program will also minimize this impact to some extent.

b. Operation Phase: No mitigation measures are required.

8.3.1.14 Landslide and Aesthetic Value


As far as practicable, landscape will be maintained along the road alignment and haphazard

disposal of wastes will be controlled to manage the landslide and keep aesthetic value as it is.

b. Construction Phase: No mitigation measure is required during this period.

8.3.1.15 Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan (RRP)

HHs whose house needs to be relocated will receive a housing rehabilitation allowance. From the

field observation, it was observed that the SPAFs don’t want to resettle voluntarily. The reasons

behind unwillingness for resettlement are adaptation problem in new society and good

neighborhood in current place, possible loss of business and service.

8.3.1.16 Mitigation and Rehabilitation Cost

The total socio-economic mitigation and rehabilitation cost is calculated to be NRs. 772,811,226.

The detailed cost analysis is shown in the table given below. Table 8-7: Mitigation and Rehabilitation Cost (NRs)

S.N. Mitigation Measures Unit Quantity Amount Remarks 1. Compensation for Land a. Land Acquisition Ha 49.741 682,446,520.00 b. Rented Land Ha 31.196 21,400,456.00

2 Compensation for structures a. Residential structures No. 10 5,000,000.00 b. Public/social infrastructures No. 4 1,500,000.00

3 Compensation for Permanent loss of crops MT 22.65 59,456,250.00 65.95MT for

3 years’ loss.

4 Relocation of cultural sites (Maanes) No. 2 300,000.00 5 Occupational hazard/ hoarding board LS 1,000,000.00

6 Relocation of structures (Displacement &

Transportation Cost) No. 10 1,708,000.00

Total 772,811,226.00

8.3.2 Enhancement Measures

Enhancement measures proposed in this section aims to enhance the beneficial impacts of the

project and either prevent or minimize the negative impacts of the project. As an enhancement



measure, training on Black Cardamom Farming, Micro Enterprise Creation, Skill Development

(Light Vehicle Driving and Mason training) will be conducted.

The proposed enhancement measures programs are expected to be an alternative source of income

for the livelihood to the most of the food deficiency families due to the land acquisition by the

project. For this NRs 7,250,000 has been allocated for following program.

8.3.2.1 Black Cardamom Farming Training

To increase the black cardamom production of the PAFs, improved techniques and methods need

to be introduced. Training program on improved farming will be conducted for the affected

farmers, which will provide opportunities for increasing black cardamom production in their

farmlands. This program is especially focused for those households who lose their land more than

10% in the assumption that they can improve production and productivity by applying new

methods and techniques. Four programs (each program covering 20 participants and 7 days

duration) on the following topics will be provided to the local people of the project impact area.

• Choice of better seedlings.

• Use of organic fertilizer.

• Integrated pest management

• Use of fertilizers.

• Irrigation techniques.

• Method of harvesting, processing and storage.

• Other related techniques;

The total cost allocated for training programs in one place regarding black cardamom is NRs

2,650,000 (including cost for trainee’s allowance, expert hiring, training materials and logistics. Table 8-8: Cost of Black Cardamom Farming Training

S.N. Particular No. of

person

No. of

days

Unit cost (daily

allowance)

Total Cost

(NRs) 1. Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000 2. Local Farmers /participants 20 7 1000 140,000 3. Training Experts 5 7 2500 87,500 4. Distribution of seed/improved materials LS 300,000 5. Training Materials and Logistics LS 1,00,000

Total Training Cost for One Time 662,500 Total Training Cost for Four Times 2,650,000

8.3.2.2 Micro Enterprise Creation Training

Micro Enterprise Creation Training program regarding indigenous herbs farming will be provided

to the especially to SPAFs-woman and vulnerable people of PAFs. Two programs (each program

covering 15 participants and 5 days duration) will be conducted at two different places. The total

cost allocated for training program regarding micro enterprise creation training is NRs 1,100,000

(including cost for trainee’s allowance, expert hiring, training materials, logistic support, etc.). The

main objectives of training are:

• To motivate the SPAFs/Vulnerable group of PAF start their own business

• To develop entrepreneurship competency

• To identify and select viable business of their own

• To help for preparation of their own business plan



Table 8-9: Cost of Micro Enterprise Training

S.

N. Particular No. of person

No. of

days

Unit cost (daily

allowance)

Total Cost

(NRs)

Indigenous Herbs Processing

1 Program Coordinator 1 5 5000 25,000

2 Allowance including Lunch 15 5 1000 75,000

3 Training Expert 4 classes per day (per

class=2500) 5 2500 50,000

4 Training Materials and Logistics LS 400,000

Training one time 550,000

Training two times 1,100,000

8.3.2.3 Skill Development Training

Skill development related training programs such as driving and automobile (special focus for

those households who lose land more than 50% and HHs who lose their residential structure) and

masonry will be conducted to tackle the adverse impact of the project. Duration of training will be

390 hours as per the CTEVT standard. Total cost for driving training is estimated NRs. 2,500,000.

Table 8-10: Proposed Skill Development Training

S.

N

.

Name of

Trainin

g

Basic Contents

Duration Cost for 1

Person (LS)

No. of

Trainee

Total

Cost

(NRs) Hour Month

1

Light

Vehicle

Driving

Understanding the vehicle, function

of parts and its controls, Basic driving

skills: road signs, signal lights, and

road markings, Rules of the road:

speed limits, and laws on texting and

cell phone use. Sharing the road with

pedestrians, bicyclists, commercial

vehicles, motorcyclists, and wildlife

390 3 100000 15 1,500,000

2. Mason

Health and safety measures, Basic

knowledge of masonry, knowledge

of cement and plaster, Stone

Masonry, foundation, Bamboo&

Wooden Plank,

390 3 50000 20 1,000,000

Total 2,500,000 * Note: Training cost will include participant's allowance for accommodation, food and others. The topics of skill

training and number of participants may change than specified above depending upon demands from PAFs.

8.3.2.4 Social Awareness (Health, Sanitation and Safety) Program

An awareness program will be conducted in PAA to alert local people to the potential dangers

related to health, sanitation and safety as well as road accident and safety. This program will be

targeted to the people residing in and around the vicinity of the road. Awareness program on

construction related safety issues will also be given to the local residents. Community safety

awareness program about the safety will be implemented. Hoarding board will be placed in the

sensitive area. The cost for social awareness program including hoarding board is NRs. 1,000,000.

8.3.2.5 Community Support Program (CSP)

The project has suggested the following sectors for the optimum utilization of Community Support

Program cost for overall community development of the project area. For it, NRs. 20,000,000 has

been allocated for the CSP.



a. Education Support Program

The project will play a positive role for establishing betterment of education in the area of nearby

settlement through which the alignment of the Access Road passes through. Support shall be

provided to those schools which are located near to the project construction sites. Support shall be

provided for the establishment of library, widening of playground, educational materials including

sports, and other physical facilities (separate toilet establishment for boys and girls, drinking water

facility). The project will coordinate with related line agencies for their support. For this NRs.

10,000,000 has been proposed.

b. Infrastructure and Service Facility

Project also aims to support to people/stakeholders/local community organization of each project

affected wards in the infrastructures and service facility sector. Support will be provided for

furniture purchasing for community forest office/different community level group buildings,

construction of public meeting place. Support will be provided to local community-based

organizations. Similarly, the project suggests to support in the preservation, improvement and

renovation of the cultural and religious sites lying nearby the project affected area. For this NRs.

10,000,000 has been proposed.

8.3.3 Summary of Socio-economic Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost

The socio-economic mitigation and enhancement cost including CSP cost for implementing

various mitigation and enhancement measures mentioned above is estimated to be NRs

800,061,226. The cost breakdown is given below in the following table.

Table 8-11: Cost Estimate for Social Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost

S.N. Description Amount (NRs)

1 Mitigation Measures 772,811,226

2 Enhancement Measures 7,250,000

3 Corporate Social Program (CSP) Cost 20,000,000

Total 800,061,226

Access Road of UAHEP Environmental Monitoring


9 Environmental Monitoring

9.1 Environmental Monitoring This section discusses the environmental monitoring programs likely to be associated with the

implementation of the EMP for UAHEP. It also assists to ensure compliance with environmental

laws and in ameliorating or eliminating adverse impacts.

As per the provision made in Rule 45 (1 and 2) of EPR 2077, the UAHEP is responsible for the

monitoring of the environmental impacts of the project implementation every six months and

submit the monitoring report to the concerned agencies. In addition to that, as per the provision

made in Article 39(1) of EPR -2077, Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE), and

Department of Environment also monitor the implementation of EIA report made under the act.

9.2 Objectives of Monitoring

Environmental monitoring is carried out with the following objectives;

• to ensure compliance of mitigation and enhancement program, tender clauses related to

environment and social issues,

• to assess the actual impacts of these measures as well as the emerging impacts during

different phases of the project,

• to comprehend environmental condition in project area prior to implementation of project;

• to ensure compliance status of implementation of mitigation measures and regulatory

standards;

• to ensure the effective compliance of tender clauses as per contract document;

• to check the effectiveness of mitigation and enhancement measures implemented by

different project parties; and

• to verify the accuracy of EIA predictions and assess the emerging and cumulative

environmental problems.

9.2.1 Environmental Monitoring Plans

Environmental monitoring is required to ensure compliance of the mitigation and enhancement

program, tender clauses related to environment and social issues and to assess the actual impacts

of these measures as well as the emerging impacts during different phases of the project a

monitoring program, required for the project to evaluate the application and effectiveness of

mitigation measures, is formulated in three phases.

9.2.1.1 Baseline Monitoring

The primary concern during this phase will be to implement field data collection programs needed

to enhance the knowledge of baseline conditions. Focus will be on the gathering of scientific and

sociological information needed to verify and update the data provided by this EIA process. The

land acquisition, compensation, rehabilitation measures will be disclosed to people and common

consensus will be made. It will be ensured that mitigation and monitoring requirements associated

with contractor are dually incorporated in tender document and contract agreement.

9.2.1.2 Compliance Monitoring

The compliance monitoring will be conducted to monitor compliance of the proposed mitigation

measures and monitoring activities. The compliance monitoring will mainly focus on;

• compliance of the tender clause;

• compliance of the mitigation measures;

• timely and adequately implementation of Environmental Management Plan and

• overall environmental and social performance of the project.

Access Road of UAHEP Environmental Monitoring


In this monitoring, the GoN licensing entity (MoEWRI/DoED) oversees and ensures the

implementation of the required mitigation measures according to GoN guidelines and approved

mitigation plan. The UA-ESMU will be delegated the day-to day responsibilities in this respect.

This monitoring will be conducted during project construction as well as operation phase.

9.2.1.3 Impact Monitoring

Impact monitoring will be carried out to assess actual level of impact due to project

construction. The impact monitoring includes:

• monitoring of the impacts of the project on physico-chemical, biological and

socioeconomic and cultural environment of the area;

• monitoring of the accuracy of the predicted impacts;

• identify the emerging impacts due to project activities or natural process and develop

remedial action; and

• monitoring of the effectiveness of mitigation measures

This monitoring will be conducted during project construction as well as operation phase. The

monitoring of the UAHEP will include:

Physical Environment

• Watershed monitoring /Land use

• Stability of the area around road

Biological Environment

• Forest Clearing

• Re-vegetation and slope stabilization

• Wildlife

Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

• Employment monitoring

• The economic status of the affected people and relocated people

• Adaptation of resettled households to their new homes and communities

• Public safety and security monitoring

• Health and sanitation monitoring

• Compensation

The full Environmental Management Program will be elaborated during the construction phase of

the project, reflecting the final design and alignment considerations made by the project and

approved by the Project. The following table summarizes the monitoring plan and schedule for

all three types of monitoring: baseline, compliance and impact.

9.2.2 Monitoring Location and Agencies Responsible for Monitoring

Environmental monitoring will be carried out at all the project impact areas in a regular or

intermittent schedule. The schedule of monitoring will be daily, quarterly, half yearly and yearly

depending on the parameters and type of monitoring. The detail of monitoring parameters,

schedule, method and location for physical, biological and socioeconomic and cultural

environment during construction and operation phases are presented in the monitoring plan and

schedule. In general, observation, inspection, review of official records, interview, counting

and/or measurements will be used for monitoring. Furthermore, scientific methods will be used

for the monitoring requirements, where and whenever necessary. Project will have the prime

responsibility for implementation of monitoring program. MoFE, MoEWRI, DoED, NGOs, CBOs

and local bodies will also be involved during the monitoring.

9.2.3 Monitoring Cost

The total cost for the monitoring activities has been estimated as NRs. 17,771,970/–. The

breakdown of the monitoring cost is given in Appendix I.

Access Road of UAHEP Environment Management Plan


Table 9-1: Monitoring Plan and Schedule

Types Parameters Indicators Method Schedule Monitoring Agency Location

A. Baseline Monitoring

Physical

Environment

Landslides and

erosion

Number of landslides/debris flows/

gully formation sites marked and

indicated in suitable maps

Direct observation Before

Construction

Project/Local level/

MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Throughout the road

alignment

Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, Lead,SO2,NOx

Benzene, Ozone, CO%

As per NAAQS,

Nepal

Before

Construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Near settlement (Sibrun,

Namase, Hema and Rumka)

Noise Level Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS

standards

Before

Construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI


Namase, Hema and Rumka

Water Quality

BOD, Turbidity, E-Coli, TSS, Oil and

Grease and as per NDWQS

parameters

As per NDWQS

standards

Before

Construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI At water source area

Biological

Environment

Forest status in

terms of coverage

and species

present

Tree species present, overall forest

density, tree/pole density of each

species, etc.

Quadrate

sampling/total

enumeration

Before

construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Wildlife and

Wildlife species

Wildlife in terms of species

present/reported, Protected species,

Crop raiding species

FGD, consultation

with local, MBNP

office and CFUGs,

Before

construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Aquatic fauna Presence of fish species and aquatic

life Cast net sampling,

Before

construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Settlement/

infrastructure

Increase in settlements, infrastructure,

migration

Discussion with local

people, observation

Project/ MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Socio-economic/

cultural baseline

Update socio-economic/ cultural

baseline

Discussion with local

people, observation,

review


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

B. Impact Monitoring

B.1 Construction Phase

Physical

Environment

Landslide and

erosion

Number of landslides/debris

flows/gully formation sites marked

and indicated in suitable maps

Direct Observation Regular



alignment

Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, Lead, SO2, NOx

Benzene, Ozone, CO%

As per National

Ambient Air Quality

Standards, Nepal

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI



and at Camp Area




Noise Quality Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS

standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI



and at camp Area

Water Quality



parameters

As per NDWQS

standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

At water source site and

upstream and downstream

of construction site

Borrow Areas and

Quarry Sites Location, erosion, drainage condition

Site Observation,

discussion with

workers and local

people

Weekly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Borrow areas, quarry sites

location

Spoil and

Construction

Waste

Management

Location, drainage condition,

siltation, erosion, spoil management,

and proper reclamation of disposal

site

Site Observation,

discussion with

workers and local

people

Weekly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Muck and Spoil Disposal

Area

Labour Camp

Management

Proper arrangement of food stalls,

camp sanitation and water supply

facilities, solid waste management

Site Observation,

discussion with

workers

Monthly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Labour Camp area

Siltation by rivers

and drainage

blocking

• Siltation and presence of construction

spoils and wastes

Blockage of waterways - extent and

secondary impacts

Direct Observation Regularly



alignment

Timely

construction of

slope protection

measures

Retaining structure, Slope protection

work, Bio-engineering work

Site Observation,

discussion with local

people

Weekly



alignment

Biological

Environment

Forest and

vegetation loss

Number of tree species cleared and

loss of forest area and NTFPs

Observation and

record inspection Daily


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Impacted CFs and MBNP

Hunting and

poaching of

wildlife and fish

catch in Arun river

Record of animal hunting FGD Monthly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Public Health

Types of disease and incidence of

disease in the project workers and

local community

Meeting and


health posts and

district hospitals

Quarterly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Project affected

RMs/Municipality, Labour

Camp

Land Acquisition Acquisition of land, lease of land and

temporary disturbances in land

Cross checking the

list of compensation Quarterly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Area of project components

and leased area




House Acquisition Relocation of house, compensation,

use of construction material etc.

Observation of new

construction area,

cross checking the

list of compensation

etc.

Quarterly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Affected area and

relocation sites

Crop

Actual damage to standing crop or

loss of cropping season for particular

area

Observation and

discussion Weekly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Area of project components

and leased area

Social and

Cultural Practices

Likely disturbance in traditional

cultural ways

Observation and

discussion Quarterly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Project affected

RMs/Municipality

Economy Local employment, rental, sell of

consumable goods

Meeting and


communities

Quarterly


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Project affected area

B.2 Operation Phase

Physical

Environment

Landslide and

erosion




Direct Observation Regular



alignment

Surface flow

interruption

Cross drainage and side drain

capacity

Field visit, discussion

with local people Once a year


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Throughout the road

alignment

Maintenance of

road and road

structure

Destruction and failure of road

pavement structure, crack on retaining

structure

Inspection of road

and check

maintenance record

Once a year



alignment

Biological

Environment

Hunting and

poaching of

wildlife and fish

catch in Arun river

Record of animal hunting FGD Once a six

month


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Disturbances to

aquatic fauna

Number of fish catch, fish type

available FGD

Once a six

month


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Local employment Priority for the local employment Cross checking the

list of employment Annual


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Project site

Economic status

Changes in economic condition of

local people due to withdrawal of

economic opportunity

Interview and

discussion Annual


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI PAFs

C. Compliance Monitoring

C.1 Construction Phase




Physical

Environment

Landslide and

erosion




Direct Observation Regularly



alignment

Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, Lead,SO2,NOx

Benzene, Ozone, CO%

As per National

Ambient Air Quality

Standards, Nepal

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Near settlement (Sibrun,


Water Quality



parameters

As per NDWQS

standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI At water source site

Noise Quality Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS

standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Near settlement (Sibrun,


Biological

Environment

Approval of forest

clearance Cabinet decision Record inspection

At the

beginning of

construction

MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

-

Tree and

vegetation felling Forest area cleared Visual inspection

During

construction


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Increase demand

of fuel Fuel used by labor

Visual inspection and

enquiry to labor

Once a

month


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Project labor camp

Hunting, poaching

and fishing Involvement of labor force Meeting and interaction Once a month


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Project impact area

Compensatory

plantation

Species, number and area of

plantation

Record and site

inspection Once a year


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Plantation site

Habitat loss and

degradation

a) Implementation of forest and

biodiversity management plan

b) Awareness campaign

Visual inspection,

record inspection and

community meeting

Once a

month



NTFPs

exploitation

a) NTFPs collection status and type

of involvement

b) NTFPs collection and

management plan

Community meeting

and visual inspection

Once a

month



Fire Hazard

a) Forest fire incidences

b) Fire on labor camp and other

project facilities

c) Awareness and training to

workforce

d) Provision of fire fighting

Community meeting

and record inspection

Once a

month


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI

Project impact area




Socio-

economic and

Cultural

Environment

First Aid Availability of first Aid Observation and

record review

Periodic as per

construction

schedule



Losing of life and

disability

Compensation to losing of life and

disability Interview/observation Periodic



Occupational

safety

Adequacy of occupational safety

measures (helmets, boots, warning

signs etc.)

Interview/observation

Periodic as per

construction

schedule



Implementation of

compensatory

plantation

Plantation work as per the plan Observation Periodic


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI Plantation sites

Implementation of

Resettlement and

Rehabilitation

Assistance

Resettlement and rehabilitation works Observation and

discussion Periodic


MoFE/DoED/ MoEWRI PAFs and vulnerable HHs

Access Road of UAHEP Environmental Audit


10 Environmental Audit The Environmental Audit (EA) will be carried out to assess environmental impacts, accuracy of

predictions, the effectiveness of mitigation measures and the monitoring plan. It is intended that

EA should relate actual impacts with predicted impacts which help in evaluating the accuracy and

adequacy of EIA predictions.

10.1 Environmental Audit in Nepal

Environment Protection Act, 2076, Article 12 (1) specifies that an EA is required within six months

after two years of project operation. Auditing refers to a general class of environmental

investigations that are used to verify past and current environmental performance. In the context

of the environmental management of a project in Nepal, environment impact auditing assesses the

actual environmental impacts, accuracy of predictions, effectiveness of environmental impact

mitigation and enhancement measures, and functioning of pre-construction, construction and

operation phase monitoring mechanisms.

10.2 Types of Auditing The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 has stated the following types of audit that may be carried out

for large scale development project.

a) Decision Point Auditing: Examines the effectiveness of environmental impact assessment as a

decision-making tool.

b) Implementation Auditing: Ensures that the condition of contract has been fulfilled.

c) Performance Auditing: Studies the work of agencies associated with project management.

d) Participatory Auditing: Ensure that stakeholder participation and expectation has been met.

e) Predictive Technique Auditing: Examines environmental changes arising from project

implementation.

f) EIA Procedure Auditing: Examines critically the methods and approaches of the auditing

assessment procedure adopted during the EIA.

10.3 Agencies Responsible for Auditing The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 specify that EA must be carried out by the government

agencies approving the project with the assistance of relevant government agencies and NGOs as

necessary. The guideline also stated that result obtained from the EA should be made available to

the project proponent and concerned agencies. The MoFE will carry out environmental impact

audit of the project. However, agencies like MoEWRI, MoFE and other relevant organizations

will be consulted during the auditing. Local NGOs may also be entrusted to carry out the task, if

they are engaged to do so by the government. The auditing will focus on impacts of forest

clearance, compensatory plantation, geological condition, status of affected people, land-use

pattern, infrastructure development, etc.

10.4 Elements to Environmental Examination/Audit report Main elements in the audit report include:

• Predicted impacts in EIA report for defined activities in the project development

• Mitigation measures in EIA report to minimize impacts of the defined activities in the project

cycle



• Implementation status of the mitigation measures in the project as per EMP

• Effectiveness of the employed mitigation measures to minimize the impact of the defined

activities

• Any corrective actions suggested or undertaken to mitigate the impacts of the defined activities

• Compliance or non-compliance with EMP

• Compliance of EMP with the national environmental standards

• Experience gained to strengthen impact prediction in future project for the defined activities

Environmental Impact Audit is performed after two years following its operation and its

facilities to assess the actual environmental and health impacts, the accuracy of predictions, and

the effectiveness of mitigation measures and the functioning of monitoring mechanisms. A

checklist of Environmental auditing is presented in the table below.

Table 10-1: Methods of Environmental Audit

S.N. Parameters Indicators Location Method

A. Physical Environment

1 Air Quality TSPM, PM10, SO2, NOx,,

CO, CO2

Project

components As per NAAQS, Nepal

2 Noise Quality Lmax, Lmin, Leq, L5, L10 Project

components

Measurement of noise

using sound level

meter/ National

Ambient Sound Quality

Standard 2069

3 Erosion and

Slope Stability

Eroded and unstable areas

on natural slopes,

collected data

Project

components

Observation,

measurement

B. Biological Environment

1 Loss of Timber

Number of new houses in

the project area,

Number of tea stalls and

restaurant established

during construction

Project site Counting,

observation, record

2

Harvesting and

trade of medical

plants

Sales of medical herbs

increased

Project site

and the market

Information from the

local people and market

3

Physical

condition of the

forest

General physical

condition of forest

nearby

Forest near

project site Observation

4 Wildlife Wildlife hunting, trapping

and poaching by workforce

Forest area

near the

project site

Interview with local

people and photographs

C. Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

1

Alternative

energy for

cooking for

labour force

Volume and type of fuel

used in the project area Project sites

Record from the

contractors

2 Employment

Opportunity

Number of local laborers

employed in the Project

Construction

Project site Analysis of records,

interview



S.N. Parameters Indicators Location Method

3 Compensation Use of compensation

Received

Project area and

surrounding Survey and interview

4

Occupational

and safety

hazards

Type and number of

accidents occurred during

construction

Project sites Records, interview

Facility of first aid

emergency services provided Project sites Records, interview

Compensation to the loss of

life or disability Project sites Records, interview

5 Public Health

Cases of communicable

diseases as compared to the

number and types of disease,

which existed before the

project.

Project site,

health posts

and hospitals

Records, interview

6 Law and Order Level of disputes and crimes Project site Survey, interview

7 Child labor Number of child labor

(employed/used) Project site Survey, interview

8 Socio-economic

Changes Change in land use patterns

Project area/

RM/Wards

Interview, survey,

observation

9 Price Rise

Rise in the price in

essential commodities as

compared to the price of

these goods before

construction and adjusted

for inflation

Local Market Market survey

10.5 Environmental Auditing Schedule and Cost

Environmental Audit will be carried out after two years of project completion. The total cost for

environmental auditing is estimated to be NRs. 555,060. The breakdown of the total cost is given

in the table below with manpower requirements.

Table 10-2: Environmental Auditing Cost

S.N. Manpower Requirement Man months Rate (NRs) Amount (NRs)

1 Team Leader 2 43,890 68,440

2 Environmentalist 2 40380 68,440

3 Civil Engineer 2 40380 68,440

4 Socio-economist 2 40,380 68,440

5 Transportation Cost LS 100,000

6 Data Analysis LS 50,000

7 Report Preparation LS 75,000

Total 555,060

Access Road of UAHEP Conclusion and Commitment


11 Conclusion and Commitment

11.1 Conclusion

The environmental issues/impacts identified during the EIA can be mitigated and are manageable.

The finding of EIA shows that the adverse impacts on physical, biological, socio economic and

cultural environment due to the implementation of the proposed project is low/medium/high, local

and short term.

The total land requirement will be 102.448ha for road right of way, camp area, quarry site and

muck disposal area. Out of that, the project requires 14.104ha of forest land, 61.272ha of

agriculture land, 19.763ha of barren land, 6.868ha of water bodies and remaining 0.441ha of foot

trail. There will be loss of 4732 trees for the RoW clearance and other. Due to land acquisition, a

total of 220 HHs will be affected of which, 10 HHs will lose their structures.

The total environmental cost excluding land cost (mitigation including land cost, enhancement,

CSR, and monitoring costs) of the proposed project is estimated to be NRs 850,352,601/- which

is 7.40% of the project cost. Based on experience of similar kind of other project and prevailing

market rates, the cost has been estimated and supposed to be sufficient.

With proper implementation of proposed mitigation and enhancement measures, this EIA

concludes that the UAHEP access road will not have significant impacts on physical, biological

and socioeconomic and cultural environment of the project area; hence the proposed project is

environmentally and socially feasible.

11.2 Commitment

All the measures proposed in this report will be fully implemented during the project construction

and operation period. Wherever possible, efforts will be made to limit adverse impacts on the

environment. Those impacts/issues not predicted/ documented in this EIA report but might appear

later; will be also undertaken during the construction phase. The proponent will have obligation to

carry out the mitigation, enhancement and monitoring activities of the project. The environmental

impact mitigation measures will be incorporated in detail design of the road and so on, contract

documents.

Access Road of UAHEP References


12 References • Ahmad, A., Mirza, S.N., and Nizami, S.M. (2014): Assessment of Biomass and Carbon Stocks in

Coniferous Forest Of Dir Kohistan, Kpk, Pak. J. Agri. Sci., Vol. 51(2), 345-350; 2014

• BCN and DNPWC, 2016. Birds of Nepal- An Official Checklist. Bird Conservation Nepal and

Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu.

• CBS, 2011. Population Monograph of Nepal. Central Bureau of Statistics, Kathmandu.

• DoED, 2001. Manual for Preparing Scoping Document for Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA) of Hydropower Projects. Department of Electricity Development, Kathmandu.

• DoED, 2001. Manual for Preparing Terms of Reference (ToR) for Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) of Hydropower Projects, with Notes on EIA Report Preparation. Department of

Electricity Development, Kathmandu.

• DoED, 2002. Manual Developing and Reviewing Water Quality Monitoring Plans and Results for

Hydropower Projects. Department of Electricity Development, Kathmandu

• Ghimire, P., Kafle, G., and Bhatta, B. (2018): Carbon stocks in Shorea robusta and Pinus

roxburghii forests in Makawanpur district of Nepal, Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

University, Vol. 2: 241-248; 2018

• GoN, 1997, Environment Management Guidelines, Ministry of Work and Transportation, DoR,

Geo-Environmental Unit.

• Grimmett, R.; Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. 2015. Birds of Nepal. Bloomsbury Publishing, New

Delhi.

• Hönigová, I. et al. (2012); Survey on grassland ecosystem services. Report to the EEA – European

Topic Centre on Biological Diversity. Prague: Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic,

2012. pp 78.

• Inskipp C., Baral H. S., Phuyal S., Bhatt T. R., Khatiwada M., Inskipp, T, Khatiwada A., Gurung

S., Singh P. B., Murray L., Poudyal L. and Amin R. 2016. The status of Nepal's Birds: The

National Red List Series. Zoological Society of London, UK.

• Jnawali, S.R., Baral, H.S., Lee, S., Acharya, K.P., Upadhyay, G.P., Pandey, M., Shrestha, R.,

Joshi, D., Laminchhane, B.R., Griffiths, J., Khatiwada, A. P., Subedi, N., and Amin, R. (compilers)

2011. The Status of Nepal Mammals: The National Red List Series, Department of National Parks

and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu, Nepal.

• KC, B., Kandel, P.N. and Adhikari, S.: Economic valuation of ecosystem services in protected

areas: A case study from Nepal, Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1; 42-50

• Koirala, P., Thakuri, S., Subesh, J., and Chauhan, R., (2019): Estimation of Soil Erosion in Nepal

Using a RUSLE Modeling and Geospatial Tool, Geosciences 9, 147; 2019

• Majupuria, T.C. and Majupuria, R.K. 2006. Wildlife and Protected Areas of Nepal- Resources and

Management. S. Devi, Saharanpur, India.

• MoEST, 2006. A Handbook on Licensing and Environment Assessment Processes for Hydropower

Development in Nepal. Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Kathmandu

• S. Wu, Y. Hou and G. Yung (2010); Valuation of forest ecosystem goods and services of forest

natural capital of the Beijing municipality, China, Unassyla, Vol. 61, 234-235, 2010

• Shrestha, M.B., and Khadka, U.R., (2014): The Water Footprint of Kathmandu Metropolitan City,

J. Nat. Hist. Mus. Vol. 28, 73-80; 2014



• UNDP, 2009. ISDR Global Assessment Report on Poverty and Disaster Risk, Nepal Country

Report.

• Upereti, B.N. and Dhital, M.R. 1996. Landslide Studies and Management in Nepal, ICIMOD,

Kathmandu.

Access Road of UAHEP


13 Appendix

Separate appendix file for this report is prepared and attached herewith.



14 Environmental Management Plan

14.1 Introduction This chapter on environmental management, monitoring and audit is formulated in accordance

with Nepalese EIA requirements. The plan specifies the environmental responsibilities of all

parties involved in the project and detail the environmental management requirements of the

project during the pre-construction, construction and operation phases. The project proponent will

be responsible for the implementation of the EMP. The plan will apply adaptive management to

accommodate changes in project design during the time. As there is uncertainty in predicting

impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures, the EMP is proposed as a plan that will be

revised periodically during pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance phases.

14.2 Objectives of EMP The principal objective of the EMP for UAHEP is to formulate a framework for ensuring that all

mitigation measures identified in Chapter 7 are implemented and to provide a basis for examining

whether the mitigation measures are effective after implementation. In this context the EMP refers

to the project management, monitoring and auditing actions required to ensure compliance with

environmental laws and to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts and enhance environmental

opportunities.

The EMP is an environmental operation manual for use by management and staff employed on

the project, and will serve as an advisory document to regulatory authorities such as MoEWRI

and MoFE. The plan specifies the agency responsible for mitigation and how it will co-ordinate

with various line agencies. The EMP has the following objectives:

• define environmental management principles and guidelines for design, construction and

operation of the project;

• establish the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in project environmental

management;

• describe mitigation measures that will be implemented to avoid or mitigate adverse

environmental impacts;

• formulate environment management framework to ensure the implementation of mitigation

measures and monitoring programs; and

• establish a supervision, monitoring, auditing and reporting framework.

14.3 Environment Legislation The EPA, 2076 and EPR, 2077 are the main umbrella legislations for environment conservation

in Nepal. The MoFE is the lead agency, which administers the environmental matters emphasizing

on environmental conservation and management through internalizing environmental assessment,

pollution control and prevention, conservation of natural heritage sites, compensation for

environmental damages, etc. However, there are several other policies, guidelines, acts and rules

which relate to construction and operation of UAHEP and will comply with the provisions by the

involved parties during the period.

14.4 Environmental Management Plan This EMP has two components; the environmental management activities and the activities

implementing organ. The EMP matrix is given in Table 9-6 below.

14.4.1 Environmental Management Activities

The environmental management activity is a synthesized plan incorporating the elements of

environmental mitigation and enhancement measures. The environmental mitigation and



enhancement measures are bundled in a series of activities in the project life cycle. The

environmental management actions for the project is broadly described in the following headings;

Permits and Approval Plan, Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan; Grievances Redress

Management Plan, and Pollution Abatement Plan. The elements stipulated in above plans go hand

in hand throughout the project life cycle.

14.4.2 Permits and Approval Plan

The objective of permits and approvals is to comply with the government legislative mechanism

and to keep cordial relationships with the project stakeholders. There are a number of legislative

provisions which require prior permits and approvals from the concerned government agencies to

commence the work. As per EPR, 2077 the project proponent will have prime responsibility for

the implementation of EMP. The EPA and EPR made provisions for the compliance of EIA report.

The implementation of EMP will be guided by GoN policies and legal framework. Land

Acquisition Act, 2034 (1977) regulates the land acquisition and compensation determination

process. Similarly, Forest Act, 2076 regulates forest clearance required for the project. There are

other Acts, Rules and Policies which directly or indirectly regulate the environmental activities of

the project.

Besides, some activities would require general consensus of the project area communities or

individuals for smooth operation of certain activities of construction and operation without

hindrance. In these cases, project management should take prior permits and approvals or

consensus of the people or individuals before the start of the activities. The project should ensure

that all the permits and approval or consensus of the general public is taken before the start of the

activities. Permits and approval required for the project are presented in the table given below.

Table 14-1: Permits and Approval Plan

S.

N. Issues Authority Required Documents Responsibility

1 EIA Report MoFE, GoN EIA report as per Schedule 12 of

EPR Project

2 Tree clearing from

community forests,

protected area and

government forest

Cabinet

through

DNPWC and

MoFE

Approved EIA report

Detail information on forest

management by type, forest area

requirement, species wise tree loss

and rational of forest area clearance

Project

3

Involuntary structures

and land acquisition

District

administration

office and Land

owners

Approved resettlement action plan

report, detail of cadastral map with

affected parcels and households,

Decision of Compensation fixation

committee and entitlement matrix

Project

4

Relocation of cultural

and religious site

Concerned

municipality

and RMs and

local

committee

Approved design documents Project

5 Land lease agreement

for temporary facilities Land owners Agreement letter with land holders

Project/

Contractor/

LARU

6 Relocation and

rehabilitation of displaced

infrastructure

Local User

Committee/

Ward Office

Agreement to the concerned

committee and ward office Project



S.

N. Issues Authority Required Documents Responsibility

7 Permit to extract

material

District

Coordination

Committee

Approved IEE or EIA report of the

quarry site including quarry site

management plan report

Contractor

8 Entry to private land and

property, if required

Land owners Consent of land owners Contractor

LARU: Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Unit

14.4.3 Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan

There will be the huge volume of earth mass generate mainly from the road and tunnel

construction. It is estimated that, a volume of earth mass to be safely managed. Therefore, the

contractor will safely manage the extra cut volume of earth on designated tipping site. Before the

construction work begin, contractor will submit tipping site management plan to the proponent.

After getting approval, contractor will manage the tipping material there. Proponent will made

provision for the cost of transportation of excess earth mass to the designated tipping sites.

Following the recent policies of the government of Nepal, contractor will collect quarry material

from the approved sites only. Before the quarry operation to begin, contractor will submit and get

approval of the quarry site operation and management plan.

Monitoring: The proponent will monitor the disposal of daily excess earth mass of the project.

Table 14-2: Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan

S.

N. Activities Timing of Action Location Responsibility

1 Prepare, approve and implement the

tipping site management plan Before construction Contractor

2 Prepare, approve and implement the

quarry site management plan Before construction Contractor

Monitoring

4 Location of disposal of excess earth During construction Construction

sites Contractor

5 Location of collection of quarry

material During construction Construction

sites Contractor

14.4.4 Muck /Soil Disposal Site Management Plan

The total quantity of soil/muck expected to be generated has been estimated to be about 1.11

million cubic meters (MCM). The soil/muck will be disposed in different disposal site outline in

table 2.9. The management plan of soil/muck dumping site includes engineering and biological

measures. The project would ensure that the dumping yard will be develop with the natural

landscape and greenery in and around it. The following measures have been proposed for the

development of muck disposal areas.

Measures to be adopted before mucking:

The top soil, wherever available in the soil disposal area will be removed before starting the

mucking or dumping activity or any other surface disturbance. This top soil will be kept separate

and stock piled so that it can be reused after dumping of soil is over.

Engineering Measures: The construction of stone masonry retaining wall or gabion wall is

proposed before dumping of any kind of material on the site. The leveling, sloping of dumping

material and improving the drainage of the disposal site would be done after every cycle of



dumping. The breast wall or gabion walls will be constructed in natural slope to retain filled

material, particularly where there is problem of retaining the slope. Top surface would be levelled

and graded to make the alternative use.

Laying of the top soil

On a top, a layer of soil will be spread to make the land suitable for plantation. Fungal spores

naturally present in top soil will aid plant growth and natural plant succession

Biological Measures: The dump area will be treated for the purpose of plantation. Vegetation

cover controls the hydrological and mechanical effect on soils and slopes. Therefore, biological

measures to stabilize the loose slope are essential. The area will be restore through plantation of

local species.

Figure 14-1: Typical Layout of Soil/Muck Management

The cost of engineering and biological measures for restoration of muck/soil disposal area will

be workout in civil work of the project.

14.4.5 Road side and down slope protection plan

Construction of new road in steep slope increases the risk of slope instability, landslide, and soil

erosion. Similarly, disposal of excess excavation spoils immediately below the cut slopes cause

extensive degradation of the standing down slope vegetation making the slope suitable for erosion.

Agricultural areas down slope the road are potential for sedimentation and siltation and may

convert in barren area unsuited for agriculture. All cut and fill area need to be rehabilitated

progressively using suitable measures. Hence, the following measures will be adopted for the

slope protection and stabilization of road construction.

Design:

• As far as possible, balanced cut and filled method of design will be considered in the road

construction alignments.

• Area of clearing has been kept minimized considering technical requirement of road.



• A road side drainage has been design considering natural drainage system to minimize the

effect of drainage disruption and associated erosion and sedimentation

Construction:

• The method of balanced cut and fill formation will be adopted to avoid large difference in

cut and fill quantities.

• The cut slopes will be protected with suitable measures like breast walls, provision of flat

stable slopes, construction of catch drain, treatment of slopes and unstable areas.

• The construction of Toe wall, stone masonry wall or gabion wall will be constructed before

dumping of any kind of material on the site.

• The area of clearing will be properly demarcated to save plants and trees

Drainage:

• All artificial drain will be linked with the existing natural drainage system.

• The surface drains will have gentle slopes. To control soil erosion, check dams will be

constructed at different location of drainage.

• Location and alignment of culvert will be chosen in such a way that it will have minimum

erosion and siltation effect.

Plantation:

• Depending on the availability of land and site condition, roadside disturbed land will

planted with local species.

• Depending upon the site condition, different techniques like grass seeding, shrub and tree

planting, brush layering, palisades etc. will be adopted as bioengineering techniques for

stabilizing slope and controlling erosion.

Control of landslide along the road:

Landslides are likely to occur in steep slope area. Landslides can be stabilized by several methods

like engineering or bioengineering or a combination of these. Engineering measures such as

surface drainage, sub-drainage, toe wall, prop wall, retaining wall will be used. Similarly, grass

seeding, shrub and tree planting, brush layering, palisades etc. will be done as bioengineering

techniques for stabilizing slope and controlling soil erosion.

The cost of slope protection will be incorporated in civil work of the project.

Figure 14-2: Slope protection and bioengineering works along the roadside



Figure 14-3: Check Dam on natural drainage

Figure 14-4: Landslide Stabilization

14.4.6 Pollution Abatement Plan

The objective of the pollution abatement plan is to avoid or minimize the pollution streams

(gaseous, liquid, solid and acoustic) from the project activities during pre-construction,

construction and operation periods of the project. Both avoidance and mitigation measures will be

implemented by the project as mentioned in Chapter-7 for air, water, and solid waste pollution.

The following table highlights the key features of the pollution abatement plan and physical

environment management plan.



14.4.7 Sanitation and waste disposal management plan

During construction phase, labor camp will be established in the vicinity of construction sites. It

will be the contractor’s responsibility to ensure that all waste produce during construction of the

project are handle, store and disposal in safe way. Construction camps will be located a distance

away from water source so that waste generate from camp will not affect the water quality. Labor

camp will be provided with separate latrine. Segregation and storage of different types of waste

will be done in different collection pits to enhance reuse or recycling of material and their proper

disposal. Solid waste will be managed according to the hierarchy: recycling, burial or burning.

Regular spraying with pesticide will be done around the camp site.

After the completion of work, all rubbish or temporary works that are no longer required will be

removed. The site will be restored to near natural or stable condition. All dug pit will be fill-up

and exposed area will be planted with suitable vegetation. The cost for the implementation this

plan will be bear by contractor.

14.4.8 Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Management Plan

In order to mitigate the impacts of the propose project on the terrestrial and aquatic ecology

specific plan: forest and biodiversity management plan, wildlife conservation plan, NTFPs

collection and management plan will be prepared and implemented by the project. The project

will ensure that all the vegetation from the inundated area are removed prior to filling of reservoir

The project will also conduct an orientation campaign to raise awareness regarding the

conservation and management of aquatic and terrestrial ecology. Financial arrangement to

implement all these plans are kept in this report.

Monitoring: The proponent will monitor the occurrence of the wild flora and fauna listed in this

report during the after the project implementation.

14.4.9 Public Health and Occupational Safety Management Plan

The proposed construction activities need a great number of labor during construction period. The

OHS of labor at work site and labor camp are the main issues during the project construction

period. To maintain sanitation and hygiene of labor, safe drinking water and sanitation facilities

including toilet will be constructed at labor camp site. Contractor will prepare, approve and

implement the labor camp management plan. Contractor will provide personal protective gears

like: Gloves, helmet, boot, masks, etc. as per the OSH Guidelines to labor. For Personal Protective

Equipment (PPE) the proponent will made provision in detail DPR.

Table 14-3: Public Health and Occupation Safety Management Plan

S.N. Activities Timing of Actions Location Responsibility

1 Prepare and approve the labor

camp management plan Before construction Contractor

2 OSH and PPE for labor During construction Construction site Contractor

3

Prepare and approve the multi-

hazard management (Landslide,

fire, earthquake, etc.) plan

including emergency action plan,

evacuation and rescue

During construction Construction site Contractor

Monitoring

4 Implement the labor camp

management plan During construction Construction site

Contractor/

Proponent

5 PPE use by labor During construction Construction site Contractor/

Proponent



S.N. Activities Timing of Actions Location Responsibility

6

Multi-hazard management

(Landslide, fire, earthquake, etc.)

plan including emergency action

plan, evacuation and rescue

During construction Construction site Contractor/

Proponent

14.4.10Grievance Redress Management Plan

The project will develop the necessary mechanism to address the grievances of the people. The

project will establish a grievances redress cell at the site office. Officer level employed of the

project will be designated as focal person of the cell. All the grievances will be recorded and

address according to the prevailing laws of GoN.

Table 14-4: Grievances Redress Management Plan

S. N. Actions Timing of action Responsibility

1 Provision of grievances redress cell at site

office Before construction Proponent

2 Provision of grievances redressing officer Before construction Proponent

3 Record keeping of the grievances Before construction Proponent

14.5 Environment Management Approach During the planning and pre-construction phase, the prime responsibility for the environment

management is with NEA as the proponent of the Project. NEA has however, delegated the

authority to ESSD in following up the national approval process of the EIA process. This

department will be responsible for the overall control of social management program of the

project. This department will also be responsible for the coordination of work of the project at

central level management of NEA and central line agencies. It is proposed that ESSD will

implement monitoring program and some of the social mitigation. The mitigation and social

support program will be implemented by mobilizing local NGOs, Consulting firm Contractor and

line agencies.

14.5.1 Pre-construction Phase

The EMP for preconstruction phase will include land acquisition and compensation, public

concern issues, Stakeholder Engagement Plan and Indigenous Peoples Development Plan, co-

ordination with line agencies and local NGOs and INGOs. The allocation of adequate budget for

the implementation of preconstruction measures, follow up for contract clauses that needs to be

incorporated in tender documents are the other activities to be managed or conducted during the

pre-construction phase. ESSD of NEA will have the prime responsibility for dealing with pre-

construction issues. During this phase a CDC will be formed to deal with all compensation matters.


This phase is the most critical as it requires expertise and resources to manage the construction

phase impacts. It includes implementation of the suggested mitigation measures outlined in

Chapter VII with the EMP as a vital tool and is dependent on liaison with local line agencies, NEA

central office and other line agencies. The project proponent will be responsible for carrying out

the requirements for mitigation, implementing and monitoring the EMP, Stakeholder Engagement

Plan and Indigenous Peoples Development Plan through an approach to be formulated by them.


An environment unit will be formed, for the first two years of operation, under the Plant Manager

for the monitoring during the operation phase which will also be responsible for implementing the

environmental mitigation measures of the UAHEP. This unit will have representatives from ESSD



of NEA. The cost required for the implementation of the operation phase environmental

management program will be provided by the proponent.

14.6 Implementation Approach and Mechanism

14.6.1 Project Stakeholders for Environmental Management

Key stakeholders including UAHEP, to be involved for project environmental management are:

• Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE)

• Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI)

• Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)

• Department of Forests and Soil Conservation (DoFSC)

• Makalu Barun National Park

• Department of Electricity Development (DoED)

• Project proponent/Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)

• Construction Management/Supervision Consultant

• Environment and Social Management Unit (ESMU)

• Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

• Local Consultative Forum

• Contractor

• Local level Government and non-government organizations.

14.6.2 Institutional Arrangement and Responsibility

The institutional arrangement and responsibility have been divided into central level and project

level arrangements as follows;

14.6.2.1 Central Level Arrangement

I) Environment and Social Studies Department

ESSD will be responsible for the overall control of environmental and social management

program of the project. This department will be coordinating the work of the project at central

level management of NEA and central line agencies. ESSD will be implementing monitoring

program and some of the social mitigation work in coordination with concerned line agencies and

local NGOs. The mitigation and social support program will be implemented by mobilizing local

NGOs, consulting firm, contractor and line agencies. The program coordinator will be responsible

for overall coordination and implementation of the environmental and social mitigation programs.

Program coordinator will be assisted by environmental and social expert at central and local level.

II) Central Level Line Agencies

The central level line agencies such as MoEWRI, DoED have responsibility for the monitoring of

project activities with regards to Environmental and Social Management, Mitigation and

Monitoring Plan. ESSD will coordinate with central level line agencies regarding the monitoring

work.

As the concerned line agency, Department of Forests and Soil Conservation and DNPWC is

responsible for the implementation of afforestation program as per the existing guidelines.

Discussion is ongoing between the Project/NEA and Department of Forest regarding the

implementation of the compensatory forestation program. NEA can pay the required cost for

plantation and five years management to the Forest Department which will implement the work

through their district level forest offices. ESSD may also implement the afforestation program if

requested by the project.



III) Joint Monitoring Committee

To ensure the proper implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring work a joint

monitoring team will be formed which will monitor the activities of the Upper Arun

Hydroelectric Project -Environment and Social Management Unit (UA-ESMU), EM, GRU and

Contractor on periodic basis. This monitoring team will be coordinated by the UAHEP and NEA-

ESSD. Due coordination with line ministries (MoFE and MoEWRI) will be made during such

monitoring work. The committee will include the representative of district level line agencies

(DCC, DFO, Agriculture Development Office, District Administration Office, Education and

Health Office), representative of CBOs.

IV) Panel of Expert

The project proponent will hire independent Panel of Expert (PoE) to make sure the mitigation

and monitoring works are implemented according to plan. The PoE will include environmental

and social expert with relevant experience in environment management of the storage project. The

experts will review the work conducted by UA-EMU, EM and GRU, Local Consultative Forum

(LCF) and Joint Monitoring team and provide their suggestions to Project Manager Office (PMO)

for improvement if required based on the ground condition.

14.6.2.2 Project Level Arrangement

I) Project Manager Office

Upper Arun Project Manager Office (PMO) will be established under the organizational setup of

NEA. The Project Manager will have overall responsibility regarding the implementation of EMP

including others. S/he will be also responsible for acquiring necessary permits for forest clearance

from MoFE, land acquisition and compensation and others. The Project Manager will be

responsible to ensure the incorporation of EIA recommendations in tender document and contract

agreement and allocation of necessary budget for the implementation of EMP. S/he will be

responsible for establishment of CDC, LCF and EM and GRU. The Project Manager will be

responsible to ensure the allocation of necessary budget for the implementation of the program.

S/he will be responsible for the overall coordination of the work and make final decision on

environmental, social and public concern issues. Under the PMO, a Land Acquisition and

Rehabilitation Section (LARS) will be established. The in-charge of unit will be responsible for

the acquisition of land and house, asset valuation and verification, implementation of

compensation and rehabilitation grant (house rent, transportation and dislocation allowances) and

coordination of the work with District and central level agencies with regard to acquisition of

private property. The officer in-charge of the unit will also work as member of secretary of the

CDC and member of LCF.

II) Project

The Project will take over all rights and responsibilities associated with the implementation of

EMP.

III) UAHEP Environment and Social Management Unit (UA-ESMU)

A site based UA-EMU will be formed at the project site for day to day environmental monitoring

of the project, implementation of monitoring plan and coordination of work with concerned

stakeholders. The unit will function under the direct supervision of the Project Manager. The

following manpower will be deployed in UA-ESMU.

• Environmental/Social Expert (Unit Chief)

• Environmentalist

• Socio-economist

• Civil Engineer



• Forestry/Wildlife Expert

• Field Supervisors

• Office Support staff

14.6.2.3 Local Level Arrangement

The overall activity of the project and the implementation of the environmental mitigation

measures will also be monitored in coordination with the local stakeholders including local bodies.

The Bhotkhola and Makalu Rural Municipality are the local level responsible for project

monitoring.

Figure 14-5: Organizational setup for Environmental Management and Monitoring

where,

ESSD : Environment and Social Studies Department

EM and GRU : Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

LARS : Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Section

MIS : Mitigation Implementation Section

MoEWRI : Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

MoFE : Ministry of Forests and Environment

NEA : Nepal Electricity Authority

UA-ESMU : Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project-Environment and Social Management

Unit

PAF : Project Affected Family

PoE : Panel of Expert

PIC : Project Information Center

IV) Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

Environment Management (EM) and Grievances Redress Unit (GRU) will be established under

the Project Organizational setup. This office will be under direct supervision of PMO. This Unit

will have three sections namely Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Section (LARS), Project

Information Center (PIC) and Mitigation Implementation Section (MIS). All three sections have

unique responsibility regarding the implementation of different action. LARS will be responsible

NEA MD

Local body, Local people, PAF and

District level agencies UA-ESMU

Contractor

Consultant

Project Manager Local consultative forum

PoE Joint monitoring

Committee

EM and GRU

LARS PIC MIS

ESSD

MoFE,

MoEWRI,& other

line agencies



for the implementation of land acquisition and rehabilitation program whereas public disclosure

work will be conducted through PIC. The MIS will implement mitigation measures proposed in

Chapter-7 especially the program proposed in biological and socio-economic environment. The

MIS will coordinate the work district level line agencies such as DFO, DDC and District Land

Revenue etc. The following manpower will be deployed in EM and GRU.

• Environmental/Social Expert (Unit Chief)

• Community Liaison Officer

• Land Acquisition and Resettlement officer

• Office Assistant

• Supervisor

• Support Staff

V) Construction Contractor

The construction contractor will be responsible for the implementation of mitigation measures

specified as part of the contractors’ responsibility and compliance with the tender clauses. The

contractor will be responsible for the implementation of spoil disposal, waste management,

occupational safety, recruitment of local labour, health and sanitation measures, air, noise and

water quality protection measures, and others.

The contractor will also be responsible for developing Environmental Protection Plan (EPP) that

outlines its commitment in physical, biological and social environment in conjunction with the

EIA and tender documents. The plan will be approved by the Project Manager prior to its

implementation. In addition, the contractor will prepare contractors’ quarterly environmental

reports and submit them to the UA-ESMU. The UA-ESMU will be responsible for monitoring the

day to day environmental activities of the contractor.

VI) Construction Management/Supervision Consultant

The coordination of the compliance monitoring and mitigation program allocated under the

contractor will be the responsibility of Consultant. UA-ESMU will work for the monitoring of

compliance issues and report to the Project Manager. The project manager delivers the written

message to the consultant for prompt action. He will have authority to stop work fully or partially;

delay in payment or otherwise penalize contractors for of non-performance of environmental

tender clauses. The consultant will also have responsibility for the approval of EPP and Solid

Waste Management Plan prepared by Contractor on recommendation of UA-ESMU.

VII) Local Consultative Forum

A Local Consultative Forum (LCF) will be established to address the grievances regarding

compensation and other social and environmental issues. This committee will work as an

independent body and will have separate office within the project area. The logistic support

required for the operation of this office will be provided by the Project Manager Office. The

committee will be headed by social worker respected in the community, chairman of project

affected RM/Municipality, representative of principle of local high school, NGOs, UA-ESMU,

EM and GRU and PAFs will be the member of committee. Committee will promptly act to resolve

the social and environmental issues related to project.

VIII) Compensation Determination Committee

A Compensation Determination Committee (CDC) will be formed to fix compensation for loss of

land and private property. The CDC will comprise of Chief District Officer (CDO), District Land

Revenue Officer, DCC representative, UAHEP representative and PAP/HH representative. The



main functions of the CDC will be confirmation of entitled process, assessment/Identification of

PAP/HHs, compensation determination for land and private property and grievance resolution.

14.6.3 Reporting Requirements

The UA-EMU will prepare and disseminate a monthly report containing information on the

implementation status of the environmental protection measures and monitoring results during the

construction period and quarterly, at least for the first two years, during the operation phase. The

unit will be responsible for sending the report to the Project Manager, NEA-ESSD. The PMO will

be responsible for the distribution of report to the concerned agencies. The UA-ESMU will prepare

the following reports.

14.6.3.1 Pre-construction Environmental Report

This report will be prepared prior to (just before) start of construction work. The report includes

the changes in baseline situation and site condition prior to start of actual construction work. The

EMP will be updated during this period as required.

14.6.3.2 Construction Phase Environmental Report

The construction phase environmental report will be prepared on quarterly basis and annual

environmental report will be prepared at the end of each calendar year. A final environmental

report will be prepared after the completion of the construction work. UA-ESMU will be

responsible for the preparation of report. The report will be distributed to MoFE, MoEWRI, DoED

and district level line agencies.

14.6.3.3 Operation and Maintenance Phase Environmental Report

Operation and maintenance phase environmental report will be prepared for the two years

following the construction. UA-ESMU will prepare this report for project. The report will describe

mitigation measures, problems and recommended solution. The report will clearly identify where

operational mitigation measures are not being met or where mitigation efforts are inadequate to

protect natural and socio-economic resources. Unanticipated deleterious impacts of the project

will be identified. Measures to solve problem will be proposed and be funded under the project

annual operating budget. Environmental audit report will be prepared by MoFE as per EPR, 2077.


Table 14-5: Environmental Management Framework

Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures

Activities Where How When Who

Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

Physi

cal

Slope

stabilization

measures

• Balance cutting and

filling provision in road

construction

• Use of bio-engineering

technique for land

stabilization

• Construction of retaining

wall to protect soil mass

• Development of

drainage facilities to

minimize the effect of

drainage disruption

Along the

alignment

• Cut only where

needed.

• Cut volume will be

used in filling as

much as possible.

• Growing grass or

any plants in the

exposed fill area

can prevent soil

erosion.

• Proper drainage

facility will prevent

mass wasting and

other structural

failure.

During

construction contractor

Cost will be

included in

DPR.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Avoid direct

impact on

health of

human,

wildlife and

aquatic life

• Provision of a good

sanitary facilities with

adequate toilet,

washing tap, drinking

water facilities and

sanitation facilities in

the construction camp

• Prohibition of the

discharge of the

sanitary liquids and

toxic liquids such as

spent oils, burnt

mobile, grease,

lubricants, grouting

chemicals etc. in land

Along the

alignment

• Construction of the

adequate sanitary

facilities in the

construction camp.

• Proper management

of any type of waste

generated in the

construction camp

(waste collection,

segregation,

handling, transfer

and disposal)

• Approved quarry

sites will be used,

and quarry will be

done following the

During


Will be the

responsibility

of contractor.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

and water bodies from

the construction sites.

• Establishment of

separate area for the

collection and storage

of hazard and toxic

material waste

including batteries, oil

filters, Mobil, burnt oil

etc.

• Provision of solid

waste management

system at Camps.

• Prohibition on open

urination and

defecation in

waterways, around

camps and

construction sites,

• Prohibition of

quarrying of

aggregates and sand

from the river’s wet

channel

• Provision of training to

the labor force in using

storage areas with

regard to safe handling

to toxic and non-toxic

water material.

provisions made in

approved quarry

report.

• Contractor will

instruct and train

their labour force

regarding the

handling of

construction

material.



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

Physi

cal

Managed

spoil disposal

area

• Selected spoil dumping

site should be used

• After disposal, area

should be leveled and

compacted

• Waste should be used

as leveling material

along the roadside

• Conserve the soil by

planting plants and

grass

Disposal

sites

• Disposal of waste

will be done only in

approved disposal

sites.

• Contractor will

prepare and

approve the spoil

disposal plan.

• Disposal area will be

managed as per the

spoil disposal area

management plan.

During


Included in

Contractor

cost.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Health and

Sanitation

facility

• Proper sanitation area

needs to be demarked

Check for hygiene of

workforce

Labor camp

• Construction of the

adequate sanitary

facilities in the

construction camp.

• Regular health

check of

construction

workers will be

done.

During


Will be the

responsibility

of contractor.

Project/Local

level/ MoFE/

DoED/

MoEWRI

• Avoid

excess

extraction of

local

resource

• Avoid

degradation

of forest,

erosion and

landslide

• Extract material only

on need basis

• Avoid sensitive areas

such as steep slope and

water ways

• Restriction of the

quarry operation below

the flowing water level

of river

Along the

alignment

• After any type of

resource

excavation, the area

will be properly

reclaimed.

• Quarry will only be

done in approved

sites following the

provisions made in

approved report.

During


No any

additional cost

and manpower

required.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

• Restriction of the

quarry operation in

Protected Area

Biological environment

Minimizing

the Forest

Clearance

• forest clearance will be

limited only to the

formation width

(Carriage way,

shoulder and drain) of

the road in the road

alignment.

RoW

Trees outside the

formation width of

the road will not be

cut down unless the

foundation of the

structure has to be

dug.

During

construction

Project

proponent

No additional

budget and

manpower

required

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Bio

logic

al

Compensatory

Plantation and

Forest Land

Replacement

• 46,440 seedlings will be

planted as compensatory

plantation.

• 14.104 ha of Forest land

replacement as per the

“Working Procedure

and Standards for the

Use of National Forest

Land for National

Priority Project, 2076

Impacted

forest

Compensatory

plantation will be

done for every tree

cut down at the ratio

1: 10.

Replaced forest land

will be handed after

plantation (@ 1600

sapling /ha)

During

construction

Project

proponent

Budget

included in

Table 8-3

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Controlling

encroachment

of nearby

Forest

• strictly prohibit labour

force for any type of

encroachment of

forest/public/private

land

Impacted

forest

No forest area other

than the approved

forest area will be

used for the project.

The project will alert

the contractor in this

regard.

During

construction

Project

proponent

No additional

cost/manpower

required

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Controlling

NTFPs

Collection by

• labour will be strictly

prohibited to enter into

the forest for the

Impacted

forest

The project and

contractor will

strictly alert the

During

construction

Project

proponent

No additional

cost/manpower

required

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

construction

worker

collection and type of

the NTFPs.

construction workers

in this regard.

Controlling

Habitat Loss

and

fragmentation

• compensatory

plantation of trees and

awareness

• Underpass

Impacted

forest

When trees grows in

the plantation area, it

will create a new

habitat space.

Proposed road tunnel

prevent wild habitat

from fragmentation

During

construction

Project

proponent

Budget in

Table 8-3 and

in Technical

DPR

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Controlling

Hunting and

Poaching

• project workers will

strictly be prevented

from hunting and

poaching and any other

kind of illegal activities

related to hunting and

poaching

Impacted

forest and

nearby

forest

The project and

contractor will

strictly alert the

construction workers

in this regard.

During

construction

and

operation

Project

proponent

No additional

cost/manpower

required

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Forest Fire

Management

• Dry biomass from the

forest area after the

forest clearance will be

properly managed.

Impacted

forest

Removal of the dry

biomass from the

forest area will

minimize the chances

of the forest fire in

the project area.

During

construction

Project

proponent

No additional

cost/manpower

required

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Awareness on

Forest

Management

and Wildlife

Conservation

• Two Awareness

program

Impacted

communities

It helps in

conservation by

informing the locals

about the importance

of wildlife and forests

and the need for its

conservation.

During

construction

Project

proponent NRs. 720,000

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Non-Timber

Forest

Products

• Two training Program Impacted

communities

Proper utilization of

NTFPs and their

economic benefits

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs. 720,000 Project/Local

level/



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

(NTFPs)

Training

can show the

importance of NTFPs

protection of the

locals. It also helps to

bust the local

economy.

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Habitat

Conservation

Program

• Wildlife habitat

conservation program

Impacted

communities

Conducting wildlife

conservation

programs will help

reduce the impact of

the project on wildlife

to some extent. It will

also protect the

wildlife diversity of

the region.

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs.

5,000,000

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

Soci

al C

ult

ura

l an

d E

nv

iron

men

t

Compensation

for

Permanently

Acquired

Land

• appropriate

compensation to all of

PAFs as the rate

determined by

Compensation

Determination

Committee (CDC)

PAFs

All the project

affected families who

losses land will be

compensated as per

the compensation

determined by CDC.

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs.

682,446,520

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Compensation

for Loss of

Residential

Structures

• Compensation will be

provided for the ten

residential structures

PAFs

All the project


losses structures will

be compensated as

per the compensation

determined by CDC.

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs.

5,000,000

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Production

Loss in • The total compensation

of 67.95MT PAFs

All the project


losses crops will be

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs.

59,456,250

Project/Local

level/



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

Permanent

Land

permanently loss of

crops

compensated as per

the compensation

determined by CDC.

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Health, Water

and Sanitation

• awareness program on

health and sanitation

• Health check-up of

workers and

documentation of

health status

• adequate safety gears

for workers

• Drinking water supply

at each camp site

Impacted

communities

• Awareness

program for the

project impacted

communities.

• Regular health

check-up for the

construction

workers will be

done.

• Drinking water

facilities at the

construction

camp will be

provided.

During

construction

Project

proponent

Included in

contractors

cost

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Occupational

Hazards and

Safety

• necessary precaution

and warning signs will

be placed

• restriction for the entry

of unauthorized people

• Safety training and

PPE

Impacted

communities

and

construction

labour

• PPE will be

provided to

construction

workers.

• Entry of

unauthorized

people will be

restricted in the

project area

During

construction

Project

proponent

NRs.

1,000,000

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

Gender and

Vulnerable

Group

development

plan

• Gender discrimination

in the job opportunities

will be prohibited

• The female members,

members of indigenous

and vulnerable groups

Impacted

communities

and

construction

labour

• Equal

opportunity will

be given to every

worker

irrespective of

gender.

During

construction

Project

proponent

Budget

included in

mitigation and

enhancement

measures.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI



Asp

ect Adverse

impact

mitigation

measures


Estimated

workforce,

Time & Budget

Monitoring

and

Evaluation

among the directly

impacted HHs will be

given priority in the

skill training, other

enhancement programs

and the project related

job opportunities

• Child labor will be

prohibited

• No any child will

be used as

construction

workers.

• Priority will be

given to PAFs,

women, and

vulnerable group

for the skills

training and other

programs.

Resettlement

and

Rehabilitation

Plan

• HHs whose house

needs to be relocated

will receive a housing

rehabilitation

allowance

PAFs

All the project


losses structures will

be compensated as

per the compensation

determined by CDC.

During

construction

Project

proponent

Budget

included in

mitigation

measures.

Project/Local

level/

MoFE/DoED/

MoEWRI

APPENDIX

Appendix A: Concerned Letters

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix A

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix A-I: Consent letter from MoFE

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix A

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix B: Documents related to Physical Environment

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix B

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix B-I- Related to Chapter 2 - Introduction

Table 1: Land Use of Project Component

S.

N. Project Component

Land Types (ha) Total Land

Required (ha)

Total

(ha) Remarks

Forest Cultivation Barren

Foot

track

Water

bodies

(River

and

Kholsi)

Tempo

rary

Perma

nent Govt. CF

MBNP

Buffer

Zone

(Pvt.)

Pvt. Govt.

MBNP

Buffer

Zone

(Pvt.)

Govt. Pvt.

1


Road 1.619 7.714 0.079 40.465 0.098 0.135 0.000 3.223 0.155 1.032 0.000 54.520 54.520

2

Ikhuwa Khola HEP

Access Road 0.000 0.000 1.878 0.000 0.000 3.461 0.000 0.000 0.286 0.000 0.000 5.625 5.625

3 Tunnel Portal 0.000 0.500 0.000 0.500 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 1.000

4

Camp site amd Machine

and equipment Yard for


Road 0.000 0.162 3.350 1.261 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.558 0.000 0.000 5.331 0.000 5.331

Detail in

Table 2-8

5

Camp site and equipment

yard for Ikhuwa Khola

HEP Access Road 0.000 0.000 1.500 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.500 0.000 1.500

6

Spoil and Muck

Disposal Area 3.059 0.7 0.000 9.641 0.000 0.000 0.000 10.263 0.000 0.000 23.663 0.000 23.663

Detail in

Table 2-11

7 Bunker 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.500 0.000 1.500

8 Quarry Site 0.000 0.350 0.000 1.000 0.000 0.160 0.000 1.250 0.000 5.836 8.596 0.000 8.596 Table 2-9

9

Access road for Muck

Disposal Area 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.713 0.000 0.000 0.713 0.000 0.713

Sub- Total 4.678 9.426 6.807 54.367 0.098 3.756 0.000 16.007 0.441 6.868 41.303 61.145

Total 14.104 61.272 19.763 0.441 6.868 41.303 61.145 102.448

Percentage 34.15 59.81 19.29 0.43 6.70 40.32 59.68


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 1: (a) and (b) Typical Sections of Access Road


Access road for UAHEP Access road for IKHEP

Ch. 0+000~13+700 15+800-21+190 Ch. 0+000~2+00

Figure 2: Pavement Thickness


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 2: Detail of Bridges

Description Bridge 1 Bridge 2 Bridge 3

Location

At Samatar,

Sankhuwasabha District

for Access Road for

IKHEP. Over Arun River

At Chongrang,


for Access Road for

UAHEP. Over Arun River

Over Chepuwa

Khola for

Access Road for

UAHEP

Geographical Location 87°21’23.67” E;

27°36’25.56” N

87°21’50.28” E;

27°40’30.28” N

87°24'42.26"E

27°44'21.51"N

Catchment Area at

proposed site 26550.00 km2 26350.00 km2 18.612 km2

Bed Level of river 891.98 masl 1078.33 masl 1734.45 masl

High Flood Level for 100-

year return periods 901.16 masl 1091.00 masl 1736.1 masl

Deck level of Bridge 904.16 masl 1095.00 masl 1740.00 masl

Total Length of Bridge 80.00 m 70.20 m 15 m

Span Arrangement 1 x 80.00m 1 x 70.20m 1 x 15m

Total Width of the Bridge 7.20m 7.20m 7.20 m

Width of Carriageway 6.00m 6.00m 6.00 m

Width of Footpath 0.50m 0.50m 0.50 m

Type of Structure Steel Arch bridge with RC

deck system

Steel Arch bridge with RC

deck system

RCC bridge

Type of Bearings Pot bearing Pot bearing Neoprene Pad

bearing Type of Abutments RCC RCC RCC

Design Discharge 3750.0 m³/s 3750.0m³/s 80.0 m³/s

Live Load IRC Class A; IRC Class

70R

IRC Class A; IRC Class

70R

IRC Class A;

IRC Class 70R



EIA Report NEA-ESSD

(a)

(b)

Figure 3: Typical Elevation and Plan of (a) RCC and (b) Arch Bridge


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(a) (b)

Figure 4: (a) Standard and (b) Widen Cross Section of Tunnel

Figure 5: Layout plan of Tunnel


Figure 6: Front and Plane view of Tunnel Portal



EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 7: Ventilation and Firefighting System Layout Plan


Table 3: Contractors Camp and Other facilities

S.N. Description Location Stability Village Area (m2) Remarks

A Camp #1 0+000 Stable Chhongrang,

Gola 33500.00

Camp Site/Helipad location/

mechanical and equipment yard

/parking

B Camp #2 12+000 Stable Namase 12,610.50

Camp Site/Helipad location/

mechanical and equipment yard/

parking

C Camp #3 17+000 Stable Rukuma 7200 Camp Site


Table 4: Summary of Quarry Site

S.

N.

Chain

age Quarry Name

Easting

(E)

Northing

(N) Lithology

Volume

(m3)

1 16+550 Rukuma

Quarry (RQ) 539405 3068301

Grey, medium- to coarse-grained, slightly

weathered to fresh, gneiss with some

quartzite bands.

175,000

2 13+650 Namase Quarry-

1 (NQ-1) 537272 3067373

Grey, medium to coarse grained, slightly

weathered to fresh, very strong gneiss. 100,000

3 12+800

Namaste

Quarry-2

(NQ-2)

537695 3066737

Greenish very strong, slightly weathered

to fresh Calc Amphibolite. It is boulder

sample from rock fall deposit.

200,000

4 14+000 Inlet Quarry

(IQ) 537836 3066913

Light grey, very strong, slightly weathered

to fresh, finely crystalline quartzite. 40,000

5 0+900 Leksuwa

Quarry (LQ) 536379 3061348

Grey, medium to coarse grained, slightly

weathered to fresh, very strong gneiss. 15,000

6 0+350 Samatar

Quarry (SQ) 535609 3054690

It is a talus deposit & the sample is

collected from rock fall talus deposit. The

main rock is fine to medium grained, thin

8,000


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

to medium foliated, slightly weathered to

fresh, medium strong, psammatic schist.

Total 538,000

Table 5: Summary of Bounders Deposit

S. N. Deposit Name Location Easting (E) Northing (N) Type of Material

1 Namase Boulder-1 Namase school 537868 3065951 Gneiss

2 Namase Boulder -2 Namase school 537868 3065952 Gneiss

3 Hema Boulder Hema Village 537179 3064109 Quartzite

4 Chhongrang Deposit Chhongrang 536091 3062054 Ulleri gneiss


Table 6: Summary of Quantity Estimation

S.N. Item Unit Quantity

1

Earthworks: Earthwork in excavation (Roadway and Foundation) for

Access Road for UAHEP

A) All types of Soil excluding Hard Rock m3 1,001,362.91

B) Hard Rock m3 95,787.73

Earthwork in Excavation (Roadway and Foundation) for Access Road

for IKHEP m3

A) All types of Soil excluding Hard Rock m3 83,991.12

B) Hard Rock m3 -

- Embankment Filling and Backfilling for Access Road for UAHEP m3 52,589.84

- Embankment Filling and Backfilling for Access Road for IKHEP m3 13,685.19

2 Structure

- Gabion Walls for Access Road for UAHEP m3 73,749.30

- Gabion Walls for Access Road for IKHEP m3 13,063.50

- Stone Masonry Wall for Access Road for UAHEP m3 8,773.74

- Stone Masonry Wall for Access Road for IKHEP m3 6,072.68

3 Base Course

UAHEP m3 23,234.37

IKHEP m3 1,803.62

4 Tunnel Muck m3 129,468.00

5 Disposal Soil m3 1,117,602.07


Table 7: Summary of Spoil Disposal Area

S.

N. Description Location

Stability

Condition

Tentative Disposal Remarks

Area(m2) Volume(m3)

1 Spoil Area

#1

0+000 -

1+500 Stable 30,592.6 183,555.8

Foot Hill of Side Slope/ River

Banks /Government forest

2 Spoil Area

#2

Right Bank

of Arun River Stable 45,000 270,000.0


Banks /Private Land

3 Spoil Area

#3

Right Bank

of Arun River Stable 23,000 92,000


Banks /Private Land

4 Spoil Area #4 11+500 Stable 19,313.3 77,253.3 Tunnel Muck/Batching Plant/

Crusher

5 Camp #2 12+000 Stable 12,610.5 75,663.0 Disposal to be done before

making camp site at Namase

6 Mechanical

Yard 18+500 Stable 35,900.0 35,900.0

Disposal to be done to make

platform for mechanical yard

7 Spoil Area #5 18+500 Stable 38,800.0 213,400.0 Side slope/Forest/Private land


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.

N. Description Location

Stability

Condition

Tentative Disposal Remarks

Area(m2) Volume(m3)

8

Batching

/crushing

plant Area

19+000 Stable 31,420.0 125,680.0 Terrace disposal at side slope


Table 8: Salient Features of the Project

Features Description

General

Project Access Road of UAHEP

Impact Area

Province No. District Rural Municipality (RM)

1 Sankhuwasabha

Bhotkhola (ef]6vf]nf), Ward No. 2 and

4

Makalu (dsfn'), Ward No.3

Starting Point

Section 1: Base of Syaksila Village, Bhotkhola RM ward no 4 near right bank

of Arun River from Koshi Highway and near existing suspension bridge

Section 2: Upper part of Sammatar Village, Makalu RM ward no 3 from

Koshi Highway

Terminal Point

Section 1: at left bank about 100m upstream of the confluence of Arun River

and Chepuwa Khola at Rukuma Village, Bhotkhola RM ward no 2

Section 2: at Arun River with proposed Bridge near Sammatar Village,

Makalu RM ward no 3

No. of major river crossing 2 times (once by both section) Arun River

Sensitive Area

Section 1 starting section up to Bridge over Arun River lie in buffer zone

Makalu Barun Conservation Area

Section 2 whole stretch lie within the buffer zone of Makalu Barun

Conservation Area

Component Section 1 is the component of Access road of UAHEP

Section 2 is the component of Access road of IKHEP

Design Features (Road)

Length Section 1: about 21.19 km including 2.03 km tunnel road and two bridges

Section 2: about 2.00km and one bridge

Formation Width 6m (4.5m carriageway and 0.75m shoulder each side)

Road Class Class IV

Road Type Blacktop Road

Vertical Gradient Maximum 10%

Longitudinal Gradient Maximum 4%

Extra Widening 2m

Right of Way 30m

Road Tunnel

Length 2.03km

Cross Section Modified horse shoe section

Carriageway Width 4m with 1.0m shoulder on either side (Standard)

Bridges

Total no of bridges 3

Bridge 1 Bridge 2 Bridge 3

Location At Samatar,


for Access Road for

IKHEP. Over Arun River

At Chongrang,


for Access Road for

UAHEP. Over Arun River

Over Chepuwa

Khola for

Access Road for

UAHEP

Geographical Location 87°21’23.67” E;

27°36’25.56” N

87°21’50.28” E;

27°40’30.28” N

87°24'42.26"E

27°44'21.51"N

Total Length 80.00m 70.20m 15m


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Span Arrangement 1 x 80.00m 1 x 70.20m 1 x 15m

Total Width of the Bridge 7.20m 7.20m 7.20 m

Width of Carriageway 6.00m 6.00m 6.00 m

Width of Footpath 0.50m 0.50m 0.50 m

Type of Structure Steel Arch bridge with RC

deck system

Steel Arch bridge with RC

deck system

RCC bridge

Type of Bearings Pot bearing Pot bearing

Neoprene Pad

bearing

Type of Abutments RCC RCC RCC

Design Discharge 3750.0 m³/s 3750.0 m³/s 80.0 m³/s

Live Load IRC Class A; IRC Class

70R

IRC Class A; IRC Class

70R

IRC Class A;

IRC Class 70R

Total Land

requirement 102.448ha (Permanent land= 61.145ha, Temporary= 41.303ha.)

Governement of Nepal (Forest - 4.678 ha., Cultivation Land - 0.098ha, foot

path – 0.442ha., River/Kholsi – 6.868ha)

Private (Cultivation Land – 61.174 ha., Barren land – 19.763ha)

Community Forest (9.426ha)

Construction Period 24 months

Total Project Cost NRs. 1148.8 Million

Construction Planning The proposed Access Road comprising of about 23.19km road, 2.03km tunnel and three bridges

is a vital component for the implementation of UAHEP and IKHEP. It included excavation along

the alignment, back filling and compaction, foundation and erection of bridge pier, drilling and

blasting for tunnel, hauling, and disposal of muck, lining of tunnel, retaining structure, and river

training works. Hence, in order to complete the access road on time, it is very important to start

construction of all components simultaneously. Hence, to complete the access road at the earliest

it is further divided into sub-components, which are as follows:

1. Access Road of 14km from Gola village to southern portal of tunnel near Namase village is

further divided into two equal parts i.e. 7km each to start construction from both end (one

from Gola and another from southern portal of tunnel).

2. Access Road from northern portal of Tunnel near Rukuma village to UAHEP Dam site of

8km length to start from northern portal of Road Tunnel.

3. Road Tunnel with southern portal near Namase village to northern portal near Rukuma village

of 2.03km length (start construction from both portal)

4. Access road for IKHEP starting from nearest point of Koshi Highway near Uwa Gaun to

Arun Khola near Samatar village of about 2.00km long to connect to IKHEP power house

site.

5. Bridge 1 of about 80m length over Arun River near Samatar.

6. Bridge 2 of about 70.2m length over Arun River near Gola village.

7. Bridge 3 of about 15.0m length over Chepuwa Khola.

So the construction will start at eight locations simultaneously to complete the construction works

within the allocated time period. The Koshi Highway starting from Khandbari, district headquarter

is under construction with the financial support of Government of Nepal. At present the highway

has been completed up to Num village and track has been opened from Num to Gola which is

accessible only during dry season. From Gola onward the track has been open up to Hatiya.

To start the construction of Tunnel from two points and access road from northern portal of Road

Tunnel to dam site and from southern portal of Tunnel all the construction equipment e.g.

Backhoe, Jumbo Drill, Loader, Dump Trucks, Air Compressor, Generator, etc. has to be


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

transported by Helicopter. Similarly, construction material like diesel, cement, sand etc. has to be

transported by mule/porter till the road track not opened for vehicle. The suitable sites for helipad,

construction materials store and construction camps are available near Namase village and

Rukuma village.

In order to start construction simultaneously at eight different sites, it is envisaged that necessary

preliminaries with regard to arrangement of helipad, warehousing and support requirements will

be assessed besides arrangement of coordination with related agencies right at the commencement

of the works. As the construction works simultaneously at eight different sites, it is envisaged that

the necessary sufficient number of machineries and equipment must be arranged right before the

commencement of the works.

Project Construction Schedule The estimated completion period of the project is 24 months. The construction work will be carried

out all round the year. Construction activities during rainy season (June–September) will be

restricted.

a) Crossing over Arun River at Gola At present, there is suspension bridge (Trail Bridge) over Arun River at 100m upstream of

proposed road alignment crossing. To transport the construction material and equipment to the

construction site, ferry construction over Arun River at Gola is proposed. The contractor will

construct, maintain and operate the ferry for next 2 years. It is felt that the ferry will not be

operational during monsoon period due to high current in Arun River. Further, the contractor will

not charge any fee/cost to local people or other ferry users during construction period of road and

bridge. After completion of construction the contractor will demolish the ferry.

b) Chepuwa Khola Crossing At Ch.20+815 (Chepuwa khola), 15m long bridge is proposed. Due to inaccessibility, it is very

difficult to construct the RCC bridge during first year of construction, so it is proposed to construct

temporary causeway to make track accessible for first 2 years. After one year bridge construction

will start and will be completed within another one year. Due to temporary cross drainage structure

traffic may be disrupted for few hours during monsoon period or (3/4 months) or heavy rains.

Table 9: Construction Schedule


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


Appendix B-2: Related to Chapter 3 - Methodology

Table 10: Method of Data Collection Related to Physical Environment

S.

N. Component Required Data

Methods for Data

Collection/Source Location

1. Air Quality • TSPM, PM10, PM2.5;

• Dust particles

• Sampling (high

volume Air sampler)

• Visual inspection

Along access road alignment,

bridge, tunnel site, Soil spoil,

and construction plant areas

3. Water Quality

• Turbidity,

Temperature, pH

• Heavy metals

• Total Suspended

Solids (TSS)/TDS

• DO, BOD, COD

• Total Coliform, E-coli.

• water sampling from

different sources and

lab analysis

Along access road alignment,

bridge, tunnel site, Soil spoil,

and construction plant areas

4. Landslides and

Slope stability

• Existing landslides

• Unstable areas

• visual inspection

• measurement

• photographs

• local information

Along access road

alignment, bridge, tunnel

site, Soil spoil, and

construction plant areas

5. Landuse • Type of land and

ownership

• Cadastral map

• Field survey

• Topographic map

• Local information

Along access road




6. Climate • Rainfall

• Temperature • Data from DHM • Project Area


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.

N. Component Required Data

Methods for Data

Collection/Source Location

7.

Geology and

Geo-

morphology • Type of rock and soil

• Geological

investigation report of

UGSHEP

• Map prepared by

Department of Mines

and Geology, Nepal

Along access road




8 Hydrology • Maximum Discharge

of river • Data from DHM At Bridge Site

Landslide Susceptibility/Hazard mapping

Using DEM as an input, information on surface topography of an area can be extracted. It is an

important factor that controls the flow sources, flow accumulation, and soil moisture

concentration, and thereby limits the density and spatial extent of landslide. Geomorphometric

factors: slope and aspect were the two important causative factors taken for this analysis.

Similarly, landuse and the drainage density were also included for this analysis. Arc map 10.2.2

was used as an analytical tool in this study. For every classes of a causative factors map, landslide

density was calculated. Final landslide susceptibility map was prepared using weightage overlay

operation on Arc Map 10.2.2 platform. For this analysis, landslide inventory map was prepared

using google earth imageries and field information.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 8: Causative Factors Map for Landslide Susceptibility Mapping


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Landslide susceptibility/Hazard map of the area is given below. This map shows that, the proposed

access road project lies in the moderate landslide susceptibility zone.

Figure 9: Landslide Susceptibility Map


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix B-3: Related to Chapter-3, Existing Environment

Figure 10: Landuse Map of Project Affected Area

Figure 11: Temperature of Khadbari

Source: DHM Data

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Tem

pera

ture

, oC

Year

Temperature of Khadbari, Sankhuwasabha Maximum

Minimum


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 12: Mean Monthly Variation of Temperature

Source: DHM Data

Figure 13: Available Rain Guage Stations Near Project Area

Source: Google Earth

Slope Stability

The slope stability in the rock is analyzed by plotting stereographic projection. Between chainage

0+000 to 13+720 at some places there is possibilities of plane failure along the joint as well as

wedge failure along the joint plane. Most of place in the rocky area has good slope stability

(Source: UAHEP, 2019). In the rock, the stereograph shows relation between natural hill slope

and foliation plane is oblique hence there is less possibility of failure.

0

10

20

30

40

Tem

per

atu

re 0

C

Months

Mean Monthly Temperature Variation

Average Min. Temperature Average Max. Temperature


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


Figure 14: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment in southern face of the road



Figure 15: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment in Northern face of the road


Table 11: Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along Road Alignment in all options

Location Chainage HS

and F

F and J1 F and J2 J1 and J2 Remarks

Between Gola and Namase

1 0+000-3+000 Stable Less stable Stable Less stable PL along J1

2 3+000-5+000 Stable Less stable Stable Stable PL along J2

3 5+000-8+000 Stable Stable Stable Stable TP along J1 and J2

4 8+000-11+000 Stable Less stable Stable Stable TP along J1

5 11+000-13+720 Stable Stable Stable Unstable ----------------

Between Namase and Rukuma

6 15+900-18+500 Stable Stable Unstable Stable ----------------

7 18+500-20+650 Stable Less stable Stable Stable PL along J2

8 20+650-21+190 Stable Stable Stable Stable ----------------



Along access road of IKHEP, the stereograph shows relation between natural hill slope and

foliation plane is oblique so there is less possibility of failure. However, there is possibility of plan

failure as well as wedge failures along the joint plane in the rock (Figure 5-6 and Table 5-7


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 16: Stereographic Projection along the Road alignment of IKHEP


Table 12: Slope Stability Condition of Rock Mass exposed along IKHEP Road Alignment

Location Chainage HS and

F

F and J1 F and J2 J1 and J2 Remarks

1 0+000-

0+530

Stable Less stable Stable Less stable PL along J1

2 0+530-

2+000

Stable Less stable Stable Stable -----------------




EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 17: Regional Geological Map of Project Area

Source: UAHEP Detail Engineering Design Report, 2019


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 18: Seismic Hazard Map of Nepal

Figure 19: Drainage Pattern of Project Area

Source: Department of Survey and GIS analysis


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 20: Spoil Disposal Area and Other Facilities


Appendix C: Document related to Biological Environment

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix C

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix C-1: Related to Chapter 3-Methodology


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 13: Method of Data Collection Related to Biological Environment

S.N. Components Required Data Methods for Data Collection

1. Forest • Forest type

• Forest Management

• Literature Review

• Site Visit

2 Terrestrial

Flora

• List of major plant species

• NTFPs

• Ethno-botanical uses

• Field Investigation;

• Sampling and census;

• FGD

• Key Informant Interview (KII)

3. Terrestrial

Fauna

• Type of wild mammals

• Type of Birds

• Types of Reptiles

• Types of Amphibians

• Wildlife Habitat

• Literature Review

• Field Investigation/Observation

• FGD

• KII

• Photographs

4.

Species

Conservation

Status

• Availability and status of rare,

endangered and protected

species of flora and fauna

• Verification of collected list of flora and

fauna with GoN laws, IUCN red List and

CITES Appendices.

Total Enumeration and Quadrat Sampling Division and Sub-division forest office of Sankhuwasabha were consulted regarding the forest

inventories methodology for access road. Taking into account the site accessibility, length of

access road, forest area to be surveyed and forest type, total enumeration survey and sample survey

were chosen. Total enumeration was done within 30m Right-of-Way (RoW; 15m on either side

from center line) of the proposed access road. During the period, DBH and height of all tree and

pole was measured and noted. Any new species of tree found outside the RoW was also noted.

Many components of the projects (road, project camp area, muck disposal site and quarry site) are

placed in the Makpalung community forest. Taking into account the site accessibility, area of forest

to be surveyed, forest type and distribution, quadrat survey was chosen. Following the

methodology as defined in Forest Inventory Guideline 2071 (Table 3-4), concentric circular plot

of radii 1.78m, 2.82m, 5.64m and 12.61m were used for the four vegetation subplots consisting of

seedling, sapling, pole and tree respectively.

Forest sample plots were taken along the centerline of access road at regular interval of about 1km.

In each plot, tree species were identified, and all trees equals or exceeding a diameter of 10cm at

breast height were counted with their height and DBH. Seedling and sampling were identified and

noted. Similarly, occurrence and distribution pattern of shrubs and herbs species available in and

around the sample plots were recorded. Additional information on herbs and shrubs was collected

from the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) by administering the biological questionnaire.

Altogether, 10 sample plots (of size 500m2 each for tree) were surveyed. This represents 6.2 %

of total forest area (0.5ha out of 8.076ha) impacted by the project. The ground vegetation and any

new species of tree sighted outside the sample plot were also noted. Based on this information,

loss of regeneration (saplings and seedlings), loss of vegetation (pole and tree class), species wise

standing wood volume and biomass is calculated.

For private trees (including fruit, fodder and other trees), Total enumeration was carried out. The

following table summarizes different methods used to collect baseline information on the

biological environment.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix C-2: Related to Chapter 5-Introduction

Table 14: Medicinal Herbs in Sankhusabha District

S.N. Local Name Scientific Name S.N. Local Name Scientific Name

1 Ban lasun Allium walichii 31 Allo Girardinia diversifolia

2 Banmara Eupatorium Species 32 Guras Rhododendrom

arboretum

3 Bikhma Aconitum

heterophyllum 33 Sunpati

Rhododendron

anthopogan

4 Bojho Acorus calamus 34 Amala Phyllanthus emblica

5 Bokre timur Zanthoxylum armatum 35 Harro Treminalia chebula

6 Chairaiti Swerita chirayta 36 Barro Terminalia bellirica

7 Dalchini Cinnamomum tamala 37 Nagbeli Lycopodium clavatum

8 Dom 38 Kurilo Asparagus racemosus

9 Gonar 39 Lokta Daphne bholua

10 Hadjur Viscum album 40 Rithha Sapindus mukorossi

11 Lakuri Fraxinus floribunda 41 Bishjara Acontum spp

12 Makarkaje 42 Amriso Thysanolaena maxima

13 Padamchal Rheum austral 43 Lapsi Choerospondias axillaris

14 Panchaaule Dactylorhiza hatagirea 44 kutki Picrorhiza

scrophulariflora

15 Pashanbed Bergenia ciliate 45 Bhakur Dioscorea spp.

16 Pipla 46 Sugandhawala Valeriana jatamansi

17 Satuwa Paris polyphylla 47 Jatamasi Nardostachys grandiflora

18 Setakchini Moringa Oleifera 48 Bish Aconitum palmatum

19 Silajit 49 Salla ko Khoto Pinus roxburghii

20 Siltimur Lindera neesiana 50 Sajjiwon Jatropha Prurita

21 Sisnu Urtica diaca 51 Aatish Aconitum heterophyllum

22 Thulo okhati Astilbe rivularis 52 Honey Bee honey

23 Timur Zanthoxylum armatum 53 Okhar Juglans regia

24 Titepati

yarsagumba 54 Chutro Berberis ariatata

25 Yarsagumba Cordyceps sinensis 55 Sarpaganda Rauwolfia surpentina

26 Sunakhari Orchid Species 56 Rudrakshya Elaeocarpus sphaericus

27 Majitho Rubia manjith 57 Aargeli Edgeworthia spp

28 Jhyau Permelia nepalensis 58 Bel Aegla marmelos

29 Kaulo Machilus vilosa 59 Bayer Ziziphus jujuba

30 Machhino Gaultheria diversifolia

Source: DFO-Sankhuwasabha 2074/075, and field study


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 15: Use of Medicinal Plants by Local people

S.N. Local Name Scientific Name Source Useful part Uses

1. Satuwa Paris polyphylla root

As an anesthetic, fever,

headache, stomachache, etc.

2. Silajit all parts dysentery

3. Thulo okhati Astilbe rivularis root For pregnant women

4. Pashanbed Bergenia ciliate root

For pregnant women to control

bleeding, for body ache

5. Hadjur Vanda cristata body To heal broken bone

6. Timur Zanthoxylum armatum fruit

Fever and cough, teeth ache,

to get rid of leach

7. Siltimur Lindera neesiana fruit

Fever and cough, teethache, to

get rid of leach

8. Bokre timur Zanthoxylum

acanthopodium fruit

Fever and cough, teeth ache,

to get rid of leach

9. Chairaiti Swertia chirayita forest Whole plant Common-cold, fever

10. Bikhma Aconitum

heterophyllum forest Against food poisoning

11. Yarsagumba Cordyceps sinensis Range

land root fever

12. Titepati

yarsagumba

root fever

13. Gonar forest flower As spice

14. Padamchal Rheum austral medicine

15. Banmara Eupatorium sp. Stream

bank in

wet area

leaf To control bleeding, as a

blood coagulant

16. Makarkaje

17. Dalchini Cinnamomum tamala Bark

and leaf Leaf, bark

Vomiting, stomachache,

diarrhea etc.

18. Setakchini Moringa Oleifera forest root Sold in market

19. Ban lasun Allium walichii root Sold in market

20. Dom medicine

21. Lakuri Fraxinus floribunda bark medicine

22. Bojho Acorus calamus root Sore throat

23. Panchaaule Dactylorhiza

hatagirea Forest Root Wound

24. Sisnu Urtica dioica Wet

land leaf Medicine

Source: Field Study


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Bergenia ciliate Astilbe rivularis

Urtica diaca Acorus calamus

Vanda cristata Lichens

Himalayacalamus sp. Amomum subulatum

Picture 1: NTFPs in the project area


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 16: Tree Species found along the Access Road

S.N Local Name Scientific Name

1 Faledo Erythrina variegata

2 Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla

3 Bhalayo Semecarpus anacardium

4 Siris Albizia Julibrissiun

5 Mauwa Madhuka Indica

6 Gogan saurauia nepaulensis

7 Lapsi Chorespondius axilaris

8 Utis Alnus nepalensis

9 Guyalo Callicarpa arborea

10 Saj Terminalia alata

11 Tooni Toona ciliata

12 Simal Bombax ceiba

13 Kaulo Persia ododratissima

14 Musure Katus Castanopsis tribuloids

15 Arkhaulo Lithocarpus elegans

16 Falamkath Casia samia

17 Chuwa ful

18 Shyalfushre

19 Bohori Cordia fragrantissima

20 Rato faledo

21 Kanchirnu

22 Maledo Erythrina variegate

23 Kalo chanp

24 Kutmiro Leatsea monopetala

25 Rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis

26 Guras Rhododendren spp.

27 Ras

28 Paiyeu Prunus cerasoids

29 Dudhilo Ficus nerifolia

30 Nimaro Ficus auriculata

31 Khanappa

32 Lekali timur

33 Kharane

34 Okhar Juglans regia

35 Phalant Quercus glauca

36 Bajrant Quercus sp.

37 Aasare

38 Bilaune

39 Gookul dhoop

Source: Field Study


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 17: Details of tree in Paripakha Community Forest along the road alignment

Provincial Government

Ministry of Industries, Tourisim, Forest and Environment

Division Forest Office -Sankhuwasabha

Estimate of Timber and Firewoods

Access Road of Upper Arun

Arun Sub Division Forest Office ,Num

District: Sankhuwasabha

RM: Bhotkhola Aspect: net vol (cft): 532.65

Slope (Degree):30 Canopy Coverage:45% Forest

Type:

Utis/

Mixed

firewood

(chatta): 1.31

Name of Forest: Paripakha CF

S. No. Local Name Scientific Name DBH

(m)

girth

(inches)

Height

ft Class

Gross

Vol.(cft)

Net Timber

Vol.(cft)

1. Musure Katus Castanopsis tribuloids 0.32 40 55 I 37.36 29.34




5. Maleto Erythrina variegate 0.3 37 50 I 29.85 23.44

6. Maleto Erythrina variegate 0.32 40 50 I 33.96 26.67

7. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.39 48 50 I 50.44 39.62

total 273.38 214.71

8. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.32 40 70 II 47.55 28.57

9. Mauwa Madhuka Indica 0.31 38 60 II 38.25 22.98

10. Musure Katus castanopsis tribuloids 0.27 33 45 II 21.76 13.07

11. Musure Katus castanopsis tribuloids 0.26 32 45 II 20.18 12.12




15. Maleto Erythrina variegate 0.32 40 45 II 30.56 18.36





EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

(inches)

Height

ft Class

Gross

Vol.(cft)

Net Timber

Vol.(cft)


20. Faledo Erythrina variegata 0.3 37 50 II 29.85 17.93



23. Kaulo Persia ododratissima 0.31 38 45 II 28.68 17.23

total 529.19 317.94

24. Bhalayo Semecarpus anacardium 0.18 22 23 III 4.94



27. Mauwa Madhuka Indica 0.12 15 32 III 3.06








35. Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla 0.22 27 23 III 7.38



38. Seto Siris Albizia procera 0.21 26 25 III 7.31

39. Seto Siris Albizia procera 0.23 28 25 III 8.77

40. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.26 32 30 III 13.45

41. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.24 30 32 III 12.23

42. Bohori Cordia fragrantissima 0.23 28 28 III 9.82





47. Musure Katus castanopsis tribuloids 0.23 28 40 III 14.04







EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

(inches)

Height

ft Class

Gross

Vol.(cft)

Net Timber

Vol.(cft)

53. Kutmiro Litsea monopetala 0.22 27 32 III 10.27









62. Faledo Erythrina variegata 0.16 20 30 III 5.09





67. Mauwa Madhuka indica 0.16 20 25 III 4.25






Total 310.43

Grand Total 1112.99 532.65


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 18: Details of tree in Muck Disposal Area

Arun Sub Division Forest Office, Num

District: Sankhuwasabha

Forest

Condition: Good

VDC/Municipality: Bhotkhola Aspect: Net vol(cft): 744

Slope (Degree):0-15 Canopy Coverage:45% Forest Type: firewood(chatta): 1.68

Name of Forest: Government Managed Forest (flood plain)

S. N. Local Name Scientific Name DBH

(m)

girth

inches

Height

(m)

hight

(ft)

Class

Gross Vol.(cft) Net Timber

Vol.(cft)

1. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.32 40 14 46 I 31.19 24.50



4. Saj Albizia Julibrissiun 0.41 51 14 46 I 51.20 40.21

5. Simal Bombax ceiba 0.3 37 14 46 I 27.41 21.53

6. Utis Alnus nepalensis 0.32 40 14 46 I 31.19 24.50








14. Simal Bombax ceiba 0.41 51 16 52 I 58.52 45.96




18. Lapsi Chorespondius axilaris 0.36 45 12 39 I 33.84 26.57

19. Lapsi Chorespondius axilaris 0.42 52 12 39 I 46.05 36.17

total 647.78 508.76

20. Faledo Erythrina variegata 0.34 42 12 39 II 30.18 18.13

21. Utis Alnus nepalensis 0.3 37 14 46 II 27.41 16.47


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

inches

Height

(m)

hight

(ft)

Class


Vol.(cft)




25. faledo Erythrina variegata 0.3 37 10 33 II 19.58 11.76

26. Mauwa Madhuka indica 0.3 37 12 39 II 23.50 14.12

27. Saj Terminalia alata 0.23 28 10 33 II 11.51 6.91

28. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.3 37 12 39 II 23.50 14.12

29. Musure katus Castanopsis tribuloids 0.3 37 10 33 II 19.58 11.76

30. mauwa Madhuka indica 0.27 33 10 33 II 15.86 9.53

31. Saj Terminalia alata 0.23 28 10 33 II 11.51 6.91

32. faledo Erythrina variegata 0.26 32 10 33 II 14.71 8.84


34. Aarkhaulo Lithocarpus elegans 0.31 38 8 26 II 16.73 10.05




38. Simal Bombax ceiba 0.28 35 10 33 II 17.06 10.25


total 391.54 235.24

40. Faledo Erythrina variegata 0.18 22 8 26 III 5.64



43. Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla 0.18 22 6 20 III 4.23

44. Guyalo Callicarpa arborea 0.18 22 8 26 III 5.64




48. Mauwa Madhuka indica 0.23 28 8 26 III 9.21



EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

inches

Height

(m)

hight

(ft)

Class


Vol.(cft)

50. Tooni Toona ciliata 0.2 25 8 26 III 6.96

51. Utis Alnus nepalensis 0.12 15 8 26 III 2.51





56. siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.21 26 9 30 III 8.64

57. Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.23 28 9 30 III 10.36



60. Musure katus Castanopsis tribuloids 0.21 26 6 20 III 5.76
















76. Kaulo Persia ododratissima 0.23 28 8 26 III 9.21




EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

inches

Height

(m)

hight

(ft)

Class


Vol.(cft)



81. Falam kath 0.2 25 6 20 III 5.22

82. Falam kath 0.23 28 5 16 III 5.75


84. mauwa Madhuka indica 0.23 28 8 26 III 9.21



87. tooni Toona ciliata 0.2 25 8 26 III 6.96

88. utis Alnus nepalensis 0.2 25 8 26 III 6.96



91. faledo Erythrina variegata 0.2 25 8 26 III 6.96






97. Aarkhaulo Lithocarpus elegans 0.2 25 6 20 III 5.22

98. Saj Terminalia alata 0.25 31 8 26 III 10.88











EIA Report NEA-ESSD


(m)

girth

inches

Height

(m)

hight

(ft)

Class


Vol.(cft)


109. Tooni Toona ciliata 0.23 28 8 26 III 9.21

110. Musure katus astanopsis tribuloids 0.32 40 10 33 III 22.28



113. Aarkhaulo Lithocarpus elegans 0.2 25 8 26 III 6.96


total 546.26

Grand Total 1585.57 744.00


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 19: Forest Status of Makpalung Community Forest

S.

N.

Lo

cal

Na

me

Rem

ark

s

Sci

enti

fic

Na

me

Cla

ss

To

tal

Plo

t A

rea

(S

am

ple

plo

t si

ze x

no

. o

f p

lots

)(h

a) In sample plot Per hectare Total in CF

No of

species

Gross

Vol.

(cft)

Net

Timber

Vol.

(cft)

No of

species

Gross

Vol.

(cft)

Net

Timber

Vol.

(cft)

No of

species

Gross

Vol.

(cft)

Net

Timber

Vol.

(cft)

1 Kaulo Tree Persia ododratissima I 0.5 1 18.91 14.85 2 37.82 29.71 16.15 305.47 239.91

2 Phalant Tree Quercus glauca I 0.5 1 35.87 28.17 2 71.74 56.35 16.15 579.39 455.05

3 Utis Tree Alnus nepalensis I 0.5 5 142.56 111.96 10 285.11 223.93 80.76 2302.55 1808.42

4 Chanp Tree Michelia champaka I 0.5 1 68.77 54.01 2 137.54 108.02 16.15 1110.78 872.41

total 8 266.11 209.00 16 532.22 418.00 129.22 4298.19 3375.79

1 Utis Tree Alnus nepalensis II 0.5 3 37.71 22.65 6 75.41 45.31 48.46 609.03 365.91

2 Chanp Tree Michelia champaka II 0.5 1 10.32 6.20 2 20.63 12.40 16.15 166.62 100.10

3 Saur Tree Betula alnoides II 0.5 1 10.20 6.13 2 20.40 12.25 16.15 164.73 98.97

4 Utis pole Alnus nepalensis II 0.1 2 6.39 3.84 20 63.94 7.68 161.52 516.39 62.05

total 7 64.62 38.82 30 180.38 77.64 242.28 1456.78 627.03

1 Bajrant Pole Quercus sp. III 0.1 1 23.11 10 231.15 80.76 1866.73

2 Bhalayo Pole Semecarpus

anacardium III 0.1 6 10.56 60 105.61 484.56 852.91

3 Champ Pole Michelia champaka III 0.1 2 13.63 20 136.32 161.52 1100.93

4 Gogan Pole Saurauia nepaulensis III 0.1 8 20.10 80 200.96 646.08 1622.94

5 Gurans Pole Rhododendron sp. III 0.1 2 4.21 20 42.11 161.52 340.05

6 Kaulo Pole Persia ododratissima III 0.1 5 15.60 50 156.01 403.8 1259.97

7 Phalant Pole Quercus glauca III 0.1 1 3.51 10 35.09 80.76 283.37

8 Phalant Tree Quercus glauca III 0.5 1 35.87 2 71.74 16.152 579.39

9 Syalfushre Pole III 0.1 1 1.53 10 15.34 80.76 123.85

10 Utis Pole Alnus nepalensis III 0.1 12 31.18 120 311.78 969.12 2517.96

11 Utis Tree Alnus nepalensis III 0.5 1 12.23 2 24.45 16.152 197.47

12 Vakkeamilo Pole Rhus javanica III 0.1 1 13.69 10 136.85 80.76 1105.21

13 Gamsing Pole III 0.1 5 21.01 50 210.07 403.8 1696.49

14 Jhigaine Pole Eurya acuminata III 0.1 3 3.59 30 35.94 242.28 290.28

15 Thapsigma Tree III 0.5 1 16.84 2 33.68 16.152 272.04

16 UN Pole III 0.1 3 3.99 30 39.93 242.28 322.48

Total 53 230.65 506 1787.03 0.00 4086.46 14432.07

Grand Total 68 561.38 247.82 552 2499.63 495.64 4457.95 20187.03 4002.83


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Figure 21: Sample Plot Location within Makpalung Community Forests


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 20: Vegetation Losses from Private Cultivation within Buffer Zone of MBNP

S.

No. Local Name Scientific Name

Tree Loss Total

Access

Road

Camp

Area

1 Utis Alnus nepalensis 12

2 Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla 1

3 maledo Macaranga pustulata 9

4 Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 8

5 Koiralo Bauhinia Variegata 5

6 Simal Bambox ceiba 4

7 Paiyeu 1

8 Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 5

9 Badahar Artocarpus lacucha 5

10 Khirro Sapium insigne 3

11 Cheuri Diploknema butvracea 2

12 Chilaune Schima wallichii 5

13 Faledo Erythrina variegata 3

14 Pipla Ficus religiosa 2

15 Bhalayo Semecarpus anacardium 1

16 aaru 3

17 Rudrakshya Elaeocarpus sphaericus 6

18 kadam Anthocephalus chinensis 2

19 tooni Toona ciliata 2

20 Gookle dhoop 1

21 Lapsi Chorespondius axilaris 8

22 Mauwa Madhuka indica 0

23 Saj Terminalia alata 0

Total 88

Source: Field study, 2020

Table 21: Vegetation from Paripakha Community Forest to be Impacted

S.

N. Local Name Scientific Name

Avg.

DBH (m)

Gross

Vol.(cft)

Net Timber

Vol.(cft)

Remarks

1 Musure Katus Castanopsis tribuloids 0.25 255.04 150.17

Firewood:

1.31 chatta

2 Maleto Macaranga pustulata 0.32 242.97 157.76

3 Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.31 221.60 127.02

4 Mauwa Madhuka Indica 0.17 108.82 22.98

5 Faledo Erythrina variegate 0.23 125.07 57.48

6 Kaulo Persia ododratissima 0.31 28.68 17.23

7 Bhalayo Semecarpus anacardium 0.19 57.18 0.00

8 Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla 0.19 15.08 0.00

9 Seto Siris Albizia procera 0.22 16.08 0.00

10 Bohori Cordia fragrantissima 0.20 32.20 0.00

11 Kutmiro Litsea monopetala 0.22 10.27 0.00

Total 1112.99 532.65


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 22: Vegetation from National Forest to be Impacted

S.

N.

Local

Name Scientific Name

Avg. DBH

(m)

Gross

Vol.(cft)

Net Timber

Vol. (cft)

Remarks

1 Siris Albizia Julibrissiun 0.27 376.20 212.56

Firewood: 1.68

chatta

2 Saj Terminalia sp. 0.28 85.10 54.04

3 Simal Bombax ceiba 0.33 102.98 77.74

4 Utis Alnus nepalensis 0.23 418.26 230.72

5 Lapsi

Chorespondius

axilaris 0.39 79.89 62.74

6 Faledo Erythrina variegate 4.38 186.40 38.73

7 Mauwa Madhuka indica 0.23 132.26 45.66

8

Musure

katus

castanopsis

tribuloids 0.26 97.92 11.76

9 Aarkhaulo Lithocarpus elegans 0.24 28.91 10.05

10 Chuletro Brassiopsis hainla 0.18 12.77 0.00

11 Guyalo Callicarpa arborea 0.21 21.56 0.00

12 Tooni Toona ciliate 0.21 23.13 0.00

13 Falam kath 0 0.22 10.98 0.00

14 Kaulo

Persia

ododratissima 0.23 9.21 0.00

Total

1585.5

7 744.00

Table 23: List of Birds and Protection Status

S

N

Nepali name Scientific name English name Protected Status GoN CITES IUCN

Reported in Makalu Barun National Park

1 ufhn] lkm:6f] Abroscopus schisticeps Black-faced Warbler - - LC

2 sfF8] Eofs'/ Acanthoptila nipalensis

(Turdoides nipalensis)

Spiny Babbler - - LC

3 s}nf]tfn' jgrfx/ Actinodura egertoni Rusty-fronted Barwing - - LC

4 sfnLs07]

/fhlrlrNsf]6]

Aegithalos concinnus Black-throated Tit - - LC

5 s}nf]k]6]

/fhlrlrNsf]6]

Aegithalos iouschistos Rufous-fronted Tit - - LC

6 nfdk'R5«] a'Ë]r/f Aethopyga ignicauda Fire-tailed Sunbird - - LC

7 sfnLs07\ a'Ë]r/f Aethopyga saturata Black-throated Sunbird - - LC

8 g]kfn km"na'§f Alcippe nipalensis Nepal Fulvetta - - LC

9 cNtfO{ n]sr/L Prunella himalayana Altai Accentor - - LC

10 ;]tf]s07] ch'{gs Anthipes monileger

(Ficedula monileger)

White-gorgeted Flycatcher - - LC

11 u'nfkmLs07] r'OofF Anthus roseatus Rosy Pipit - - LC

12 /0fdQ dxfrLn Aquila heliaca Eastern Imperial Eagle - I VU

13 lkp/f Arborophila torqueola Hill Partridge - - LC

14 tfd] nfxfFr] Blythipicus pyrrhotis Bay Woodpecker - - LC

15 kx]nf]7"F8] ef/4fh Calandrella acutirostris Hume's Lark - - LC

16 lxdfnL /ftf]s08 Calliope pectoralis

(Luscinia pectoralis)

Himalayan Rubythroat - - LC

17 lemaL ltt' Carpodacus pulcherrimus Beautiful Rosefinch - - LC

18 /QmzLif{ /fhltt' Carpodacus puniceus Red-fronted Rosefinch - - LC

19 /ftf] lemaL ltt' Carpodacus rodochroa Pink-browed Rosefinch - - LC

20 k+vyf]Kn] ltt' Carpodacus rodopeplus Spot-winged Rosefinch - - LC

21 /fhltt' Carpodacus rubicilla Great Rosefinch - - LC

22 ws]{ /fhltt' Carpodacus rubicilloides Streaked Rosefinch - - LC

23 l;kfxL ltt' Carpodacus sipahi

(Haematospiza sipahi)

Scarlet Finch - - LC

24 l;ld|s /fhltt' Carpodacus subhimachalus Crimson-browed Finch - - LC

25 k+vyf]Kn] 7"nf]ltt' Carpodacus thura Himalayan White-browed

Rosefinch

- - LC

26 s}nf]sf]v]

5]kf/]r/L

Certhia nipalensis Rusty-flanked Treecreeper - - LC

27 /ftf]6fps]

emf8Llkm:6f]

Cettia brunnifrons Grey-sided Bush-warbler - - LC

28 /ftf]6fps] l6l;of Cettia castaneocoronata

(Tesia castaneocoronata)

Chestnut-headed Tesia - - LC

29 ufhn] kLtr/L Chloris spinoides

(Carduelis spinoides)

Yellow-breasted Greenfinch - - LC

30 :j0ff]{b/ xl/tr/L Chloropsis hardwickii Orange-bellied Leafbird - - LC

31 v}/f] afFb/r/L Cholornis unicolor

(Paradoxornis unicolor)

Brown Parrotbill - - LC

32 Chrysominla strigula Bar-throated Minla - - LC

33 a}hgL srf]jf Cochoa purpurea Purple Cochoa - - LC

34 l5/la/] jgk/]jf Columba hodgsonii Speckled Woodpigeon - - LC

35 lxdfnL dn]jf Columba leuconota Snow Pigeon - - LC

36 rfFb] afFb/r/L Conostoma aemodium Great Parrotbill - - LC

http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/22715454




































S

N

Nepali name Scientific name English name Protected Status

GoN CITES IUCN

37 sfnf]lrpF8]

jgEofs'/

Cyanoderma pyrrhops

(Stachyris pyrrhops)

Black-chinned Babbler - - LC

38 /ftf]6fps]

jgEofs'/

Cyanoderma ruficeps

(Stachyris ruficeps)

Rufous-capped Babbler - - LC

39 g]kfn eL/uf}+ynL Delichon nipalense Nepal House Martin - - LC

40 kxf8L sf]sn] Dendrocitta formosae Grey Treepie - - LC

41 bfhL{lnË sfi7s"6 Dendrocopos darjellensis Darjeeling Woodpecker - - LC

42 kLtf]b/ k'iksf]lsn Dicaeum melanozanthum Yellow-bellied Flowerpecker - - LC

43 Elachura formosa Spotted Elachura - - LC

44 km';|f]9f8]

vf]n]wf]lagL

Enicurus schistaceus Slaty-backed Forktail - - LC

45 Erythrogenys

erythrogenys

Rusty-cheeked Scimitar-

babbler

- - LC

46 gLn9f8] ch'{gs Ficedula erithacus Slaty-backed Flycatcher - - LC

47 gLndl0f ch'{gs Ficedula sapphira Sapphire Flycatcher - - LC

48 ;]tf]l6s] ch'{gs Ficedula strophiata Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher - - LC

49 gLnZj]t ch'{gs Ficedula superciliaris Ultramarine Flycatcher - - LC

50 l6sl6s] ch'{gs Ficedula tricolor Slaty-blue Flycatcher - - LC

51 kLtgog km"na'§f Fulvetta vinipectus White-browed Fulvetta - - LC

52 jg rfxf Gallinago nemoricola Wood Snipe - - VU

53 efsf{ rfxf Gallinago solitaria Solitary Snipe - - LC

54 ;f]O/g] tf]/LufF8f Garrulax albogularis White-throated

Laughingthrush

- - LC

55 km';|f]sf]v] tf]/LufF8f Garrulax caerulatus Grey-sided Laughingthrush - - LC

56 d'Fbfn] tf]/LufF8f Garrulax ocellatus Spotted Laughingthrush - - LC

57 sNsL tf]/LufF8f Grammatoptila striata

(Garrulax striatus)

Striated Laughingthrush - - LC

58 lxdfnL u|f08nf Grandala coelicolor Grandala - - LC

58 lxdfnL lu4 Gyps himalayensis Himalayan Griffon - - NT

60 l;laof Heterophasia capistrata Rufous Sibia - - LC

61 yf]Kn] n3'k+v Heteroxenicus stellatus Gould's Shortwing - - LC

62 ;]tf]k]6] v~h/L Hodgsonius

phaenicuroides

White-bellied Redstart - - LC

63 Horornis flavolivaceus Aberrant Bush-warbler - - LC

64 afv|] h'/]nL Hypsipetes leucocephalus Black Bulbul (Himalayan

Black Bulbul)

- - LC

65 ltnx/L r/f Ibidorhyncha struthersii Ibisbill - - LC

66 rfsf;"rs Indicator xanthonotus Yellow-rumped Honeyguide - - NT

67 lrlnd] Ithaginis cruentus Blood Pheasant - - LC

68 s}nf]k]6] h'/]nL Ixos mcclellandii

(Hypsipetes mcclellandii)

Mountain Bulbul - - LC

69 sfnf] lj/xLr/L Lalage melaschistos Black-winged Cuckoo shrike - - LC

70 lxdfnL eb|fO{ Lanius tephronotus Grey-backed Shrike - - LC

71 gLnf] /lag Larvivora brunnea Indian Blue Robin - - LC

72 /f]lri0f' ldl;of Leiothrix lutea Red-billed Leiothrix - - LC

73 n/jfg Lerwa lerwa Snow Partridge - - LC

74 WjfF;] 6fps]

ltt'eFu]/f

Leucosticte brandti Brandt's Mountain-finch - - LC

75 ltt'eFu]/f Leucosticte nemoricola Plain Mountain-finch - - LC

76 :j0f{jIf km"na'§f Lioparus chrysotis Golden-breasted Fulvetta - - LC











































S

N


GoN CITES IUCN

(Alcippe chrysotis)

77 km';|f]h'/]

lrlrNsf]6]

Lophophanes dichrous/

Parus dichrous

Grey-crested Tit - - LC

78 8fFkm] Lophophorus impejanus Himalayan Monal P I LC

79 s'y's] Megalaima asiatica Blue-throated Barbet - - LC

80 s'Sn'Ë Megalaima franklinii Golden-throated Barbet - - LC

81 nfnk'R5]| Minla ignotincta Red-tailed Minla - - LC

82 Monticola cinclorhyncha Blue-capped Rock-thrush - - LC

83 rfFbLk+v] lxpFr/L Montifringilla adamsi Black-winged Snowfinch - - LC

84 s}nf] ch'{gs Muscicapa ferruginea Ferruginous Flycatcher - - LC

85 ;'Gtn]ub}g dxfF7"F8 Mycerobas affinis Collared Grosbeak - - LC

86 w"kL dxfF7"F8 Mycerobas carnipes White-winged Grosbeak - - LC

87 k+vyf]Kn] dxfF7"F8 Mycerobas melanozanthos Spot-winged Grosbeak - - LC

88 xl/t lxd;'wf Myzornis pyrrhoura Fire-tailed Myzornis - - LC

89 ;fgf] gLntef Niltava macgrigoriae Small Niltava - - LC

90 ;'Gb/ gLntef Niltava sundara Rufous-bellied Niltava - - LC

91 3g/Qm ;'gr/L Oriolus traillii Maroon Oriole - - LC

92 xl/of] lrlrNsf]6] Parus monticolus Green-backed Tit - - LC

93 n3'7"F8] /fgLr/L Pericrocotus brevirostris Short-billed Minivet - - LC

94 ;]tf]ub{g] lrlrNsf]6] Periparus rubidiventris Rufous-vented Tit - - LC

95 wf]lagL v~h/L Phoenicurus

coeruleocephala

Blue-capped Redstart - - LC

96 ;]tf]k+v] v~h/L Phoenicurus erythrogastrus

(Phoenicurus erythrogaster)

White-winged Redstart - - LC

97 tgsDk v~h/L Phoenicurus hodgsoni Hodgson's Redstart - - LC

98 ;]tf]s07] v~h/L Phoenicurus schisticeps White-throated Redstart - - LC

99 kLtf]b/ lkm:6f] Phylloscopus affinis Tickell's Leaf-warbler - - LC

100 kLtlgu{d lkm:6f] Phylloscopus cantator Yellow-vented Warbler - - LC

101 WjfF;] lkm:6f] Phylloscopus fuligiventer Smoky Warbler - - LC

102 km';|f]s07] lkm:6f] Phylloscopus maculipennis Ashy-throated Warbler - - LC

103 7"nf]7"F8] lkm:6f] Phylloscopus magnirostris Large-billed Leaf-warbler - - LC

104 ;]tf]rZd] lkm:6f] Phylloscopus poliogenys

(Seicercus poliogenys)

Grey-cheeked Warbler

(Grey‐cheeked Leaf Warbler)

- - LC

105 ;'Gtn]/]vL lkm:6f] Phylloscopus pulcher Buff-barred Warbler - - LC

106 t'd'nsf/L lkm:6f] Phylloscopus

xanthoschistos

(Seicercus xanthoschistos)

Grey-hooded Warbler

(Grey-hooded Leaf Warbler)

- - LC

107 sTn] l8s'/]Eofs'/ Pnoepyga albiventer Scaly-breasted Cupwing - - LC

108 g[kfn l8s'/]Eofs'/ Pnoepyga immaculata Nepal Cupwing - - LC

109 Pomatorhinus

superciliaris

Slender-billed Scimitar-

babbler

- - LC

110 ;'of 3fF;]lkm:6f] Prinia crinigera Striated Prinia - - LC

111 g]kfn ltt' Procarduelis nipalensis

(Carpodacus nipalensis)

Dark-breasted Rosefinch - - LC

112 lxdfnL n]sr/L Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor - - LC

113 kf08'gogL n]sr/L Prunella immaculata Maroon-backed Accentor - - LC

114 /lag n]sr/L Prunella rubeculoides Robin Accentor - - LC

115 d';] n]sr/L Prunella strophiata Rufous-breasted Accentor - - LC

116 dbgf ;'uf Psittacula himalayana Slaty-headed Parakeet - II LC











































S

N


GoN CITES IUCN

117 sfnf]6fps]

eb|fO{Eofs'/

Pteruthius rufiventer Black-headed Shrike-

babbler

- - LC

118 xl/t eb|fO{Eofs'/ Pteruthius xanthochlorus Green Shrike-babbler - - LC

119 h'Nkm] h'/]nL Pycnonotus leucogenys Himalayan Bulbul - - LC

120 ws]{ h'/]nL Pycnonotus striatus Striated Bulbul - - LC

121 6]d' Pyrrhocorax graculus Yellow-billed Chough - - LC

122 ;'Gtn]6fps]

sfnf]ltt'

Pyrrhoplectes epauletta Gold-naped Finch - - LC

123 /ftf]6f]ps] l6pFl6pF Pyrrhula erythrocephala Red-headed Bullfinch - - LC

124 v}/f] l6pFl6pF Pyrrhula nipalensis Brown Bullfinch - - LC

125 jgrfx/ Sibia nipalensis

(Actinodura nipalensis)

Hoary-throated Barwing - - LC

126 kxf8L d§f Sitta himalayensis White-tailed Nuthatch - - LC

127 gLnk+v ldGnf Siva cyanouroptera

(Minla cyanouroptera)

Blue-winged Minla - - LC

128 s}nf]s07] l8s'/]

Eofs'/

Spelaeornis caudatus Rufous-throated Wren-

babbler

- - NT

129 lgufn] afFb/Lr/L Suthora fulvifrons

(Paradoxornis fulvifrons)

Fulvous Parrotbill - - LC

130 rFb'jf lrlrNsf]6] Sylviparus modestus Yellow-browed Tit - - LC

131 ;'gf}nf] /lag Tarsiger chrysaeus Golden Bush-robin - - LC

132 s}n]5ftL /lag Tarsiger hyperythrus Rufous-breasted Bush-robin - - LC

133 ;]tf]cfFvLef}+ /lag Tarsiger indicus White-browed Bush-robin - - LC

134 km';|f]k]6] l6l;of Tesia cyaniventer Grey-bellied Tesia - - LC

135 kLtxl/t l6l;of Tesia olivea Slaty-bellied Tesia - - LC

136 sf]ª\df lxpFs'v'/f Tetraogallus tibetanus Tibetan Snowcock I LC

137 ef]6 l;:sLg Spinus thibetanus

(Carduelis thibetana)

Tibetan Siskin - - LC

138 d'/f/L k'tnLr/f Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper - - LC

139 s6';6fps] lkm:6f] Tickellia hodgsoni Broad-billed Warbler - - LC

140 d'gfn Tragopan satyra Satyr Tragopan P III NT

141 sfg6f6] tf]/LufF8f Trochalopteron affine

(Garrulax affinis)

Black-faced Laughingthrush - - LC

142 l5s]{ tf]/LufF8f Trochalopteron lineatum Streaked Laughingthrush - - LC

143 sTn] tf]/LufF8f Trochalopteron

subunicolor

(Garrulax subunicolor)

Scaly Laughingthrush - - LC

144 s07] rfFr/ Turdus albocinctus White-collared Blackbird - - LC

145 dbgf rfFr/ Turdus boulboul Grey-winged Blackbird - - LC

146 km';|] rfFr/ Turdus unicolor Tickell's Thrush - - LC

147 ;'g7"F8] nfdk'R5] Urocissa flavirostris Yellow-billed Blue Magpie - - LC

148 ;]tf]sfg] h'/]r/f Yuhina bakeri White-naped Yuhina - - LC

149 y'knsNsL h'/]r/f Yuhina gularis Stripe-throated Yuhina - - LC

150 sfnf]sNsL h'/]r/f Yuhina nigrimenta Black-chinned Yuhina - - LC

151 v}/f] h'/]r/f Yuhina occipitalis Rufous-vented Yuhina - - LC

152 nfdf]7"F8] rfFr/ Zoothera monticola Long-billed Thrush - - LC

Source: http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/makalu-barun-national-park-iba-nepal/details




































http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/makalu-barun-national-park-iba-nepal/details

a) Scat of wild animal b) Scat of Sus scrofa

c) Droppings of Muntiacus vaginalis Dead snake found in the project area

Picture 2: Dropping of Wild Animals

a) Amomum subulatum b) Hevea brasiliensis

c) Magnolia campbellii d) Magnolia doltsopa

e) Bambox ceiba f) Gookul Dhoop

g) Elaeocarpus sphaericus h) Yushania maling

Appendix D: Documents related to Socio-economic Environment

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix D

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix D-1: Related to Chapter-5 (Existing Environmental Condition)

1.1.1 Project Affected District (PAD)

Proposed Access Road of UAHEP passes through the area of Sankhuwasabha District of Province

no.1 of federal democratic republic of Nepal. There are five municipalities and five RMs in the

district. The PAD covers an area of 3468.17sq.km.

Demographic Characteristics

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) 2011, total population of PAD is 158,742 with

75,225 (47.39%) male and 83,517 (52.61%) female which occupy 0.60% in the total population of

country (26,494,504). The population density of the district is 45.62 (persons/sq.km) which is lower

than the national population density (180). Total household (HHs) of PAD is 34,624 with an average

size of 4.58. Population growth of the district from the last decade is -0.03 which is lower than the

national population growth rate (1.35). The average literacy rate is 69.38 which is higher than the

national average literacy (65.9%). The urban population of PAD is 68.48%. The number of the

urban population has been highly increased when GoN has announced (2073-11-27/2074-2-11)

many new municipalities by incorporating existing VDCs. Details of demographic characteristics

of the PAD are given in the following table;

Table 24: Demographic Characteristics of the PAD

S.N. Demographic Characteristics Sankhuwasabha

1 Total Population 158,742

2 Male 75,225 (47.39%)

3 Female 83,517(52.61%

4 Total Numbers of HHs 34,624

5 Average Households size 4.58

6 Population Density (persons/ sq.km) 45.62

7 Population Growth Rate (2001-2011) -0.03

8 Population Below 14 Years 35.69

9 Economically Active Population (15-59 years) 54.93

10 Elderly Population 60+years 9.39

11 Sex Ratio (Males per 100 Females) 90.07

12 Total Population 5 years and Above 143,478

13 Percent of Literacy Rate (5 years and above) 69.38

14 Total Area of the Districts (Sq. km) 3468.17

15 Percent of District Population Compared with Country's (%) 0.60

Source: CBS-NPHC, 2011

Caste/Ethnicity

Like Nepal, the PAD is diverse in caste/ethnic composition, inhabiting with co-existence and mutual

harmony. The major caste/ethnic composition of the PAD includes Chhetri (18.35%), Rai (10.66%),

Tamang (10.44%), Kulung (6.15%), Sherpa (5.83%), Limbu (5.47%), Gurung (5.43%), Bharmin-

Hill (5.34%) and others (32.33%). Here, other includes Newar, Kami, Damai/Dholi, Sarki, Magar,

Yamphu, Bhote, Yakkha, Sanyasi/Dasnami, Kumal, Bhujel, Thulung, Khaling, Chamling, Majhi,

Thakuri and Badi etc.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 25: Population by Caste/Ethnicity in the PAD

S.N. Caste/Ethnicity Population Percentage

1 Chhetri 21125 18.35

2 Rai 16928 10.66

3 Tamang 16574 10.44

4 Kulung 9755 6.15

5 Sherpa 9257 5.83

6 Limbu 8682 5.47

7 Gurung 8623 5.43

8 Brahmin-Hill 8479 5.34

9 Others 51319 32.33

Total/Percentage 158,742 100.00


Mother Tongue

According to CBS 2011 there are all together 123 mother tongues in Nepal. Out of which Nepali,

Tamang, Sherpa, Kulung, Limbu, Yakkha, Gurung, Magar and Rai are dominant ten languages

spoken by the people in the PAD where 46.18% population speak Nepali Language. This is followed

by Tamang (8.82%), Sherpa (7.95%), Kulung (6.63%), Limbu (4.95%), Yakkha (4.29%), Gurung

(2.91%), Magar (2.29%), Rai (2.20%) and other languages (10.60%). Here, other languages include

Newari, Khaling, Chamling, Thulung, Lhomi, Kumal, Majhi, Hindi, Sankrit and Kohi etc in the

PAD.

Figure 22: Population by Mother Tongue in the PAD


Religion

Hindu, Kirat, Buddha, Christian, Prakriti and Islam are the six dominant religions followed by the people

of the PAD. According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072) about 42.73% population in the PAD follow

Hindu Religion, this is followed by Kirat (28.75%), Buddha (26.62%), Christian (1.47%), Prakriti

(0.11%), Islam (0.03%), others (0.05%) and not identified (0.25%). Here, other includes Jain, Bon

and Bahai in the PAD.

0.00%

5.00%

10.00%

15.00%

20.00%

25.00%

30.00%

35.00%

40.00%

45.00%

50.00%


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Table 26: Distribution of Religion in the PAD

S.N. Religions Number Percentage (%)

1 Hindu 67826 42.73

2 Kirat 45643 28.75

3 Buddha 42254 26.62

4 Christian 2331 1.47

5 Prakriti 169 0.11

6 Islam 41 0.03

7 Others 75 0.05

8 Not identified 403 0.25

Total 158,742 100.0

Source: DDC-Sankhuwasabha, 2072

Education and Literacy Status

Educational facility in the PAD is delivered by four types of 379 schools- 254 primary, 62 lower

secondary, 43 secondary and 20 higher secondary. Additionally, there are 32 (13 primary, 13 lower

secondary and 6 secondary) institutional schools also delivering education in the PAD. There are

five campuses for higher education in the PAD.

Table 27: Schools in the PAD

S.N. Description PAD

Total Community Institutional

1 Primary 254 13 267

2 Lower Secondary 62 13 75

3 Secondary 43 6 49

4 Higher Secondary 20 - 20

Total 379 32 411


In literacy status, average literacy rate (population of 5 years and above) in the PAD is 69.38% with

male literacy (77.47%) and female literacy (62.20%). This figure is higher as compared to national

literacy rate 65.9%. The literacy status of PAD is satisfactory as compared with national average.

Table 28: Literacy Status of the PAD

PAD

Population Aged 5 years

and Above Can Read and Write Literacy Status

Total Male Female Total Male Female Average Male Female

Sankhuwasabha 143,478 67,469 76,009 99,542 52,267 47,275 69.38 77.47 62.20

Percentage (%) 100.00 47.02 52.98 - - - - - -


Economically Active Population in PAD

Out of 158,742 population in the PAD, more than half 75,225 (54.93%) population belong to age

group of 15 to 59 years. These groups of population are economically active population. The

remaining 7,445 (45.07%) population are economically in-active. The economically in-active

population includes 56,651 (35.69%) population aged below 15 years and 14,898 (9.38%)

population of 60 years and above aged. The dependency ratio in the PAD is 1:1.2. However, children

age group 10 to14 years and senior citizen significantly contribute as economically active population

in terms of work as a farming labour, looking after cattle, water, and fuel wood and fodder collection.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Occupation and Employment

The major occupation of families in PAD is subsistence farming and livestock and tourism for their

livelihood. Some people are engaged in business, government service, wage labor, agro-based

industries, etc. Major occupations of the people in PAD are given in the table below;

Table 29: Occupational Distribution in the PAD

S.N. Description

Percentage Male Female

1 Agriculture, forestry and fishery workers 26,094 31,205 57,299 81.92

2 Craft and related trades workers 1890 576 2466 5.53

3 Service and sale workers 1,604 1,691 3,295 4.70

4 Professionals 1762 730 2492 3.56

5 Elementary occupations 876 1041 1917 3.05

6 Technicians and associate professionals 444 164 608 1.30

7 Plant/machine operators and assemblers 292 52 344 0.86

8 Office assistant 76 278 354 0.81

9 Managers 182 217 399 0.64

10 Security Workers 5 65 70 0.19

11 Others and unmentioned 239 463 702 1.36

Total 34,150 35,796 69,946 100.00

Percentage (%) 48.82 51.18 100.00 -


According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072), majority of the workers (81.92%) in PAD are still

involved as agriculture, forestry and fishery worker. This is followed by 5.53% as craft and related

trades workers, 4.70% as service and sale workers, 3.56% as professional workers, 3.05% as

technicians and associate professionals, 0.86% as plant and machine operation and assemblers,

0.81% as office assistant, 0.64% as managers, 0.19% as security workers, and 1.36% are others and

unmentioned.

Agriculture

Agriculture is the prime economic activity of the people in PAD. The total area of the PAD is

3468170ha. Out of which, 28956ha (0.83%) land is cultivated. Out of 28956ha cultivated land, about

34.58% (10,013ha) land is irrigated. Similarly, about 86.60% (29,983HHs) of total HHs of PAD are

engaged in agriculture and its related activities. Paddy, wheat, maize and millet are the major

agricultural productions. Besides, oilseeds, cash crops (black cardamom, Rudraksha, coffee, tea and

Amriso), citrus farming (orange, Junar, lemon), fruits (mango, banana, apple), potato, vegetables

are also produced in a large scale in the PAD (DDC-Sankhuwasabha, 2072).

Table 30: Land Use in the PAD

S.N. Land Use Sankhuwasabha District

2058 B.S. 2068 B.S.

1 Total cultivated Land (ha) 25201 28,956

2 Total Irrigated Land (ha) 12051 (47.82) 10,013.40 (34.58%)

DDC-Sankhuwasabha, 2072


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Road, Transportation and Communication

Infrastructural development (road and transportation development) is the major parameter of

development. Most of the part of the PAD does not have motarable road. However, it is linked by

142.7km long Koshi Highway (49.5 black top, 25.2 gravel and 68 earthen). There is regular bus

service to Dharan and Kathmandu from district head quarter. Bus, Micro, Truck, Tractor and

motorcycle are common in the main market place of the PAD. PAD has also Tumlingtar Airport.

Similarly, there are also postal offices, telephone services, mobile services and internet facility

(partially) in the main market place of the PAD.

Trade and Industries

The PAD is very rich in raw materials; however, it is very poor in the case of industrial activities

due to the lack of technological development, skilled manpower, appropriate market and limited

production. Altogether six large industries related to production of drinking, clothes, paper and

wood and wood related goods (excluding furniture) are operated in the PAD. Similarly, service

oriented, production, agriculture and forestry, tourism, mineral and energy oriented 639 cottage and

small industries are registered in the PAD (DDC Sankhuwasabha, 2072).

Energy

The PAD is connected with 33 kilo volt (kV), 11kV and 0.4/0.23 kV line system. Altogether 210kW

energy is generated from ten micro hydropower projects in the PAD. Major micro hydropower

projects operating in the PAD include Kusuwakhola (15kW), Lakhuwakhola (15kW), Hewakhola

(12kW), Deumaikhola (14kW), Niduwakhola (12kW), Sabhakhola (25kW), Khangaluwakhola

(17kW), Shisuwakhola (60kW), Wasuwakhola (25kW) and Chhuksumkhola (15kW). Out of former

25 VDCs of the PAD, 13 VDCs and three municipalities have access of electricity. (DDC-

Sankhuwasabha, 2072).

Electricity is a main source of lighting in the PAD. About 52.58% HHs (18,201) use electricity as

source of lighting. This is followed by kerosene (22.84%) solar (9.29%), bio-gas (0.13%) and

4.77%HHs uses others sources of fuel for lighting. Similarly, majority of HHs (94.62%) use

wood/firewood for cooking as cooking fuel whereas only 0.08% HHs use electricity as cooking fuel.

This is followed by Liquefy Petroleum Gas (4.13%), kerosene (0.52%) and bio-gas (0.20%), (CBS,

2011).

Public Health, Drinking Water and Sanitation

The health service in the PAD is delivered through the existing district government hospital, primary

health center, health post, sub-health post, village clinic, vaccinate clinic and some other private

health institutions.

Table 31: Heath Institution in the PAD

S.N. Types of Health Institutions Number

1. District Hospital 1

2. Primary Health Center 2

3. Health Post 23

4. Sub-Health Post 23

5. Village Clinic (Gaunghar Clinic) 117

6. Vaccine Clinic (Khop Clinic) 206

7. AyurvedicPharmacy (Aushadhalaya) 4

Source: DDC Sankhuwasabha, 2072


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

According to DDC-Shankuwasabha (2072) there is one district hospital, two Primary Health

Centers, 23 health Posts, 23 Sub-Health Posts, 117 Village Clinics (Gaughar Clinics), 206

Vaccine Clinic (Khop Clinic) and four Ayurbedic Pharmacy in Samkhuwasabha. Besides, there

are also some Ayurveda aushadhalayas like District Ayurveda Health Center, Dedanna

Aayurveda Aushadhalaya, Bala Aayurveda Aushadalaya, Aankhibhue Ayurveda Aushadhalaya.

Traditional healing of Dhami/jhankri and Lama is also practice in the PAD.

The major diseases reported as according to the local health posts are Gastritis, Headache, Acute

Tonsillitis, Impetigo, Falls/Injuries, Lower Respiratory, Intestinal Worms, Typhoid (Enteric

Fever), Conjunctivitis, etc. In case of emergency, the hospital at nearby city (Dharan) is referred.

Whereas in the case of drinking water, main source of drinking water in PAD is tap/piped water.

About 67.59%HH use tap/piped water. This is followed by spout water (20.33%HH), uncovered

water (8.31%HH), river/stream (1.84%HH), covered well/kuwa (1.31%HH), other sources

(0.24%HH) and not stated (0.39%HH). Similarly, about 77.83%HHs in PAD have toilet facilities

(CBS, 2011). Thus, awareness level towards health and sanitation (particularly towards safe

drinking water, use of toilets, etc.) is satisfactory in PAD.

Migration Patterns

Migration for the quest of work is a common phenomenon in PAD as that of other parts of the

country. Most of the people are migrated to Gulf countries. The absent population of Nepal has been

a major issue in demographic, social and economic aspect too. However, such migration has

currently helped to improve socio-economic status of the local people and has positive impact on

local economy too.

According to CBS (2011), about 7.68% population of 27.70%HH (9,589) of the PAD are absent

(outside migration) with 92.93% male and 9.07%female. This figure shows at least one member

from every three HH (27.70%) is absent or is living out of the country from the PAD. This is higher

than the national absent HH (25.42%). Detail is given in the table below;

Table 32: Absent Population in the PAD

Sankhuwasabha Total

Absent

HHs Population

HHs Population Total Male Female

Total 34,615 158,742 9,589 12,198 11,335 863

Percentage (%) 100.00 100.00 27.70 7.68 92.93 9.07


According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072), out of 12,198 absent population, 79.23% of the

population migrated into foreign country for private job. This is followed by 8% for institutional

job, 4.03% for dependent, 1.77% for study, 0.70% for business purpose, 1.16% for other purposes,

4.89% not identified and 0.22% left the district due to conflict. Similarly, out of 12198 absent

population, 51.64% had migrated to Middle East Countries. This is followed by 27.59% to Ocean

Countries, 13.40% to India, 2.07% to other Asian Countries, 1.69% to European Union Countries,

1.09% to North American Countries (America and Canada), 0.73% to SAARC (South Asian

Association for Regional Cooperation) Countries excluding India, 0.35% to Asian Pacific

Countries, 0.13% to African Countries, 0.13% to other European Countries, 0.07% to South

America/Caribbean Countries, 0.33% to other countries and 0.78% not identified.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Tourism Activities

Sankhuwasabha District has also popular tourism place in Nepal. The main tourists’ destinations in

Sankhuwasabha District are Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area, Arun Valley

(world deepest valley 457m), Makalu Mountain (world fifth highest pick 8,463m), Tinjure-Milke-

Jaljale Rhododendron Conservation Area and Barun Himnadi Dobhan Sabha Pokhari, Gupha

Pokhari are very popular. Similarly, ‘The Great Himalayan Trail’ is also popular trail for the tourists

trekking in Sankhuwasabha. Other tourist’s areas such as; Siddhakali Temple, Manakamana

Temple, Khempalung Shivadhara, Gupha, Syabun Jaubari Mahadev Gupha, Pathivara Sarangumba,

Kimathanka Tasichhorilng Gumba, Shiva Parbati Cave, Nageshwar Cave, Panch Pokhari,

Salpapokhari, Dudkharka Jangal, Aklepokhari, Matsya Pokhari, Guphapokhari, Baneshwar Naagi

Kailash Temple and Phirphire Danda. Similarly, Mera Area, Saisima, Savapokhari are very popular

as the major religious and tourists’ areas in the PAD. In the meantime, Sankhuwasabha District has

potentiality of eco-tourism and cultural tourism too.

Religious, Historical and Archeological Sites

PAD is also famous for religious and historical aspect too. Some religious places in the district are

Jaubari Mahadev Cave, Dharmasala, Darmadevi Temple, Rambeni Temple, Gauridhara, Sinhadevi

Temple, Gupteshwar Mahadev, Jalpadevi Temple, Jalkanya Devi, Tasi Tchiring Gumba, Yangudi

Gumba, Manakamana Temple, Bhimsen Than and Barah Temple. Similarly, Thuklung, Hedangana

Gadi, Majarpati, Yanglapa Darbar, Rewahang Darbar Gadi and Rewahang Darbar, etc. are the

popular historical places in the PAD.

Gender Aspect

Gender equality is a key component of human development. Overall Nepal still has a gender gap,

so is found in PAD. The female population exceed the male population, as a result the sex ratio is

low (90.07). The female literacy has remarkably increased in the past decades however it is still low

(62.20%) than the male literacy (77.47%). About 29.44% (9,500) HHs is female headed. There has

been a rise in female-headed HHs due to the increased of male into foreign employment. Land and

property holding is dominated by male. Only 10.14% (3,511) female has holding land and property

which is less than the national level (19.71). The number of females holding land and property has

been increased to 10.14% against 0.29% in CBS 2001. However, economic empowerment of

women is still a challenge in PAD. About 52.04% women got married between the age group 15-

19 years. On the contrary, only 28.27% male got married between age group 15-19 years. This

figure shows huge gap between male and female in the PAD.

1.1.2 Project Affected Area (PAA)

The proposed Access Road passes through two RMs i.e. Bhotkhola and Makalu RM of

Sankhuwasabha District. The administrative boundary of Bhotkhola RM is made up merging the

previous VDCs i.e. Kimathanka, Chepuwa, Hatiya and ward n. 1-3 of Pawakhola. Similarly,

Makalu RM is made up merging the previciuos VDCs i.e. Makalu, Pathibhara, Noom, ward n. 4-

9 of Pawakhola and ward n. 5-8 of Yaaphu. The total area of the PAA is 1158.46 sq.km

(639,01sq.km of Bhotkhola RM and 519.45 sq.km of Makalu RM).

Demographic Characteristic of the PAA

According to the CSB, 2011, the total population of the PAA is 20,148 with 49.60% male and

50.40% female. The population of the PAA covers only 12.69% of the total population of the PAD


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

(158,742) and 0.08% in the total population of country (26,494,504). The total number of HHs is

4,301 with an average HH size 4.68. The average population density of the PAA is 17.29

persons/sq.km which is very low than the average population density of the PAD (45.62

persons/sq.km) and nation (180). The sex ratio is 98.42 which is more than PAD (90.07) and national

average (94.2). Detail of the demographic characteristics of the PAA is given in the following table;

Table 33: Demographic Characteristics of the PAA

S.

N.

PAA Total Male Female HHs Avg.

HH Size

Area

(km2)

Pop. Density

(person/sq.km)

Sex

Ratio 1. Bhotkhola 6576 3204 3372 1379 4.77 639.01 10.29 95.02

2. Makalu 13572 6790 6782 2922 4.64 519.45 26.13 102.90

Total/Average 20,148 9,994 10,154 4,301 4.68 1,158.46 17.39 98.42

Percentage (%) 100.00 49.60 50.40 - - - - -

Source: CBS, 2011 and Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development, Gov. Nepal

(http://www.mofald.gov.np/en/nepal-nagarpalika-gaupalika-list)

Caste/Ethnicity

The PAA is populated by heterogeneous caste/ethnic groups such as Janajati, Chhetri, Dalits and

Brahmin-Hill. Janajati caste/ethnic groups are the dominant caste/ethnic groups inhabiting in the

PAA. Out of total population of PAA, 89.47% population are from Janajati caste/ethnic groups such

as Yamphu, Bhote, Sherpa, Gurung, Tamang, Lhomi, Rai, Kulung, Magar, Limbu, Mewahang Bala,

Newar, Chamling and Khaling. Considerable percentage of higher caste/ethnic groups like Chhetri

and Brahmin (5.86%) reside in the PAA. However, 3.49% Dalits (Kami and Damai/Dholi) and

1.19% other caste/ethnic groups also live in the PAA. Brahmin and some Janajaati groups like

Magar, Chamling, Mewahang Bala and Khaling present only in Makalu RM. Similarly, Newar lives

only in Bhotkhola RM (former Hatiya VDC). Detail is given in the table below;

Table 34: Population by Caste/Ethnic Group in the PAA

S.N. Caste/Ethnic Groups PAA

Total Percentage Bhotkhola Makalu

1

Janajati

Yamphu - 4266 4266 21.18

2 Bhote 4034 - 4034 20.02

3 Sherpa 510 3269 3779 18.76

4 Gurung 188 1311 1499 7.44

5 Tamang 258 1130 1387 6.89

6 Lhomi 1074 - 1074 5.33

7 Rai 262 727 989 4.91

8 Kulung 22 584 605 3.00

9 Janajati Others 32 359 391 1.94

10 Chhetri - 20 1063 1083 5.38

11 Dalits - 83 620 703 3.49

12 Brahmin - - 97 97 0.48

13 Others - 94 145 239 1.19

Total 6,576 13,572 20,148 100.00

Source: CBS, 2011

Mother Tongue and Religion

PAA is dominated by Janajati caste/ethic groups so, majority of the population (82.53%) speak their

own mother tongues like Shepra, Yamphu/Yamphe, Tamang, Gurung, Lhomi, Kulung, Chamling, Rai,

Khaling, Newar, Thulung, Belhare, Chamling, Magar, Limbu etc. where only 15.52% population speak

Nepali Language. Here, other Janajati Languages include Rai, Khaling, Newar, Thulung, Belhare,

http://www.mofald.gov.np/en/nepal-nagarpalika-gaupalika-list


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Chamling, Magar and Limbu. However, it was observed during field survey that Nepali Language is

common among the indigenous people too as the medium of communication to other caste/ethnic

groups. Most of the Janajati follow Buddhism whereas Chhetri, Brahmin and Dalits are Hindu by

birth and speak Nepali Language in the PAA.

Table 35: Population by Mother Tongue

S.N. Mother Tongue PAA

Total Percentage Bhotkhola Makalu

1

Janajati Tongue

Sherpa 4654 3269 7923 39.32

2 Yamphu/Yamphe 23 4682 4705 23.35

3 Tamang 251 1092 1343 6.67

4 Gurung 0 756 756 3.75

5 Lhomi 724 0 724 3.59

6 Kulung 23 614 637 3.16

7 Others 297 245 542 2.69

8 Nepali - 508 2619 3126 15.52

9 Others - 96 295 391 1.94

Total 6,576 13,572 20,148 100.00


Education and Literacy

Education plays significant role in the overall development. According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072),

the educational facility in the PAA has been delivering by four types of 50 community schools (38

primary levels, 7 lower secondary levels, 3 secondary levels and 2 higher secondary levels).

Additionally, there are also 3 institutional schools (2 primary and 1 lower secondary) in the PAA.

Table 36: Numbers of Educational Institutions in the PAA

PAA School Level

Total Primary Lower Secondary Secondary Higher Secondary

a. Community Schools

Bhotkhola 13 3 1 1 18

Makalu 25 4 2 1 32

Total 38 7 3 2 50

b. Institutional Schools

Bhotkhola 2 0 0 0 2

Makalu 0 1 0 0 1

Total 2 1 0 0 3

Total (a+b) 40 8 3 2 53


Over all literacy rate of the PAA is 55.89%. The literacy status of the PAA is not satisfactory as

compared with the overall literacy rate of PAD (69.38%) and national (65.9%). Out of PAA literacy

rate, male literacy rate is 65.61% and female literacy rate is 46.39%. The literacy rate of Bhotkhola

RM is 47.77% which is lower than Makalu RM (59.84%). It is due to Bhotkhola RM is located in

remote hill area and the educational facility is harder than Makalu RM. Similarly, female literacy

level is low in PAA as compared to the male literacy rate. This is possibly due to the lack of

awareness towards education as the PAA is a remote hilly area has lack of physical facilities.

Nowadays, the level of awareness has been increased and the parents are sending their children to

school for education.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Economically Active Population

Out of total, more than half 53.31% population in the PAA are between age group 15 to 60 years.

These groups of population are economically active population. The remaining 46.69% population

is economically in-active. The economically in-active population includes 7,669 population aged

below 15 years and 1,738 population of 60 years and above aged. The dependency ratio in the PAA

is 1:1.1. However, children age group 10 to14 years and senior citizen were found to be engaged in

labour contribution as economically active population in the PAA in terms of work as a farming

labour, looking after cattle, and collection of water, fuelwood and fodder.

Table 37: Population in PAA by Economically Active and In-active

PAA Below 15 Age 15-59 Above 60

Total Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female

Bhotkhola 2420 1134 1286 3508 1757 1751 649 295 354

Makalu 5250 2677 2573 7233 3541 3691 1089 570 519

Total 7669 3810 3859 10741 5298 5442 1738 864 874

Percentage (%) 38.07 49.68 50.32 53.31 49.33 50.67 8.63 49.73 50.29


Occupation

Agriculture is the major occupation of local people in the PAA. Most of the people are engaged in

agricultural activities having land and livestock. Rest of the people are engaged in business,

government service, labor etc. However, large numbers of young locals are in foreign employment

from the PAA. Further, black cardamom farming is a significant production as the income

generation occupation of people in the PAA. During the field survey, it was observed that the main

income sources of the people of nearby settlements are agriculture, livestock and business on the

one hand and on the other hand off-farm activities include professional services, petty trade, business

(hotel and restaurant), pensions, wage labor are secondary sources of income of the people of nearby

settlements. Similarly, foreign remittance has played a significant role as the income sources of

many HHs in the PAA as in other parts of Nepal. As far as the PAA is concerned, the level and

structures of consumption are more or less similar to the other part of the country. Most of the

expenditure is for the consumption of food items following education, health, festivals, energy,

purchasing assets, consumption goods and other non-food items.

Agriculture Farming and Production

The PAA is the hill land, so farmers have more upland (Bari and Pakho) than the low lands (Khet)

and rice is grown in monsoon season only in low lands. According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072),

PAA has 2165ha cultivated land including 19ha (0.88%) a year-round irrigated land, 686ha

(31.69%) irrigated land only in rainy season and 1460ha (67.44%) non-irrigated land as depicted in

the following table.

Table 38: Cultivated Land in the PAA

S.N. PAA

Cultivated Land (Ha) Total

Land

(ha)

Irrigated Land

throughout year

Irrigated land only in

rainy season

Non-irrigated

land

1 Bhotkhola - 10 281 291

2 Makalu 19 676 1179 1874

Total 19 686 1460 2165

Percentage (%) 0.88% 31.69% 67.44% 100



EIA Report NEA-ESSD

The cropping patterns and selection of crops depend on the land quality, monsoon and availability

of irrigation facilities in the PAA. During the field survey, local people informed that agricultural

land is cultivated twice a year. The cropping pattern is mostly dominated by two cropping systems

comprising of paddy and oilseeds, paddy and potato in irrigated land and in non-irrigated area the

cropping pattern is maize and millet, maize and oilseeds, maize and vegetable or other appropriate

combination of crops. According to DDC-Sankhuwasabha (2072), the major crops grown in the

PAA are maize, millet, paddy, wheat and barley. The major cash crops are potato, black cardamom,

oilseeds and pulses. Similarly, banana, lemon, guava, orange and so on are the major fruits

production in the PAA. Livestock raising (mainly cow, buffalo, yak, sheep, goats, hens and bee-

keeping) is an important subsistence farming activity in the PAA that provide milk, meat, wool,

eggs and honey as a cash income.

Trade and Industries

The PAA is very rich for the availability of raw materials. It would be milestone to create employment

and reduce the poverty, if agriculture, forest, minerals, and herbs-based cottage and small industries

were opened in the area. There are 37 (31 in Makalu RM and 6 in Bhotkhola RM) cottage and small

industries in the PAA (DDC-Sankhuwasabha, 2072). However, large scale trade and industries are not

in practice in the PAA due to the lack of appropriate skills, market area and low level of production.

Num, Gola, Seduwa Bajaar and Kimathanka are the main market places in the PAA.

Energy

The PAA has no national grid for electricity. Some micro-hydropower projects have played

significant role to electrify in the PAA. However, most of the HHs depends on solar for electricity.

Major micro hydro projects in the PAA are Basuwa Khola Micro Hydro Project (25kW) and

Chhuksum Khola Micro Hydro Project (15 kW), Hwangkhola Micro Hydro Project (8kW) (DDC-

Sankhuwasabha, 2072). According to CBS (2011), more than half HHs (66.35%) use solar and only

4.67% HHs use electricity for lighting in the PAA; followed by kerosene (12.41%HHs), bio-gas

(1.13%HHs) and other fuel (15.1% HHs).

Table 39: HHs in the PAA by Fuel Usually Used for Lighting

PAA Total

HHs Solar Kerosene Electricity Bio Gas Others Not

Stated Bhotkhola 1379 1069 154 16 49 90 2

Makalu 2922 1785 380 185 0 560 12

Total 4301 2854 534 201 49 649 15

Percentage (%) 100 66.35 12.41 4.67 1.13 15.10 0.35


Similarly, most of the HHs (98.96%) in the PAA use wood/firewood for cooking. Only 0.40%

0.17% and 0.06% HHs use gradually LPG, kerosene and bio-gas as the fuel usually used for cooking

fuel (CBS, 2011).

Table 40: HHs in the PAA by Usually Used Fuel for Cooking

PAA Total

HHs

Wood/

Firewood

LP

Gas

Kerosene Bio

Gas

Others Not

Stated Bhotkhola 1379 1369 4 1 1 - 4

Makalu 2922 2887 14 6 1 1 12

Total 4301 4256 17 7 2 1 16

Percentage (%) 100.00 98.96 0.40 0.17 0.06 0.03 0.38



EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Public Health, Drinking Water and Sanitation

The major diseases reported as according to the local health posts are Gastritis, Headache, Acute

Tonsillitis, Impetigo, Falls/Injuries, Lower Respiratory, Intestinal Worms, Typhoid (Enteric

Fever), Conjunctivitis, etc. In case of emergency, the hospital at district headquarters

(Khandabari) and nearby city (Dharan) is referred.

In case of drinking water facility, more than two third HHs (70.83%) use tab/piped water as a main

source of drinking water. This is followed by spout water (18.37%HHs), uncovered well/kuwa

(5.61%), river/stream (4.05%HHs), covered well/kuwa (0.38%HHs) and other sources

(0.38%HHs). Similarly, more than half (58.83%) HHs in the PAA does not have toilet facility in

the PAA. Only 40.87% HHs has toilet facility. Details of the main sources of drinking water and

toilet facility in the PAA are given in the table below;

Table 41: HHs in the PAA by Using Main Sources of Drinking Water

PAA Total Tap/Piped

Water

Spout

Water

Uncovered

Well/Kuwa

River/

Stream

Covered

Well/Kuwa

Others Not

Stated Bhotkhola 1379 848 437 30 58 - 2 4 Makalu 2922 2199 354 211 116 16 14 12

Total 4301 3046 790 241 174 16 16 16 Percentage (%) 100.0 70.83 18.37 5.61 4.05 0.38 0.38 0.37


Table 42: HHs in the PAA by Toilet Facility

PAA Total HHs HHs With Toilet Facility HHs Without Toilet Facility Not Stated Bhotkhola 1379 489 888 2 Makalu 2922 1269 1640 12

Total 4301 1758 2528 15 Percentage (%) 100.00 40.87 58.78 0.35


Migration

The absent population of Nepal has been a major issue in demographic, social and economic aspect.

In the PAA, people are generally found to be migrated from hill to Terrain and rural to urban area

for better opportunity of their life as other hilly part of Nepal. According to CBS (2011), there are

529 absent population (both inside and outside migration) of 373 HHs with 79.96% male and only

20.04 % female. This figure shows access of female into foreign employment is lower as compared

with male. Out of total HHs, people of about 10.73% HHs are absent in the PAA that shows at least

one member from every ten HHs (10.73%) is absent or is living out of the country from the PAA.

However, this figure is lower as compared with the PAD (27.70%) and national absent HHs 25.42%.

Table 43: Absent Population in PAA

S.N. PAA Total HHs Absent HHs

1 Bhotkhola 1379 122 2 Makalu 2922 340

Total 4301 562 Percentage (%) 100.00 10.75


Gulf countries and India are the main destination countries of the migrants. Local people reported

during the field visit that the push factors (social factors, economic factors, political factors, personal

factors) and pull factors (easily available of unskilled work, easy entry and exit, high rate of wage,


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

pressure of relatives and friends) have predominantly played significant role leading to abroad

migration in the PAA.

Road, Transportation and Communication

The project area has access of 4km long Num-Makalu (Seduwa) earthen road. Similarly, there are

some under constructing roads in the PAA like 162km long Khadbaari-Kimathanka, 160.75km

long Basantapur to Num road, 31km long Kuwapani-Uwa Gaun (Pathivhara) earthen road, 9km

long Kimathanka Border-Chaukidanda (Kimathanka) earthen road. Similarly, Jeep service is also

available from Khandbari-Num (40km long) and Khandbari-Num-Dobhane (50km long) in the

PAA (DDC-Sankhuwasabha, 2072). People in the PAA mainly depend on postal, mobile phone

(Partially) and sky phone (partially) for communication.

Religious, Historical and Archeological Sites

Barun River is itself a religious place for IPs community of the PAA. Each RM has at least one

gumba as the religious place in the PAA. Major religious and historical places in the PAA are

Taanchholing Gumba, Yangudi Gumba, Heling Gumba, Saran Gumba, Barun River, Tatopani

Gumba, Rewahang Palace (historical Place) in Bhotkhola RM and Taasichhoring Gumba,

Shivlinga Temple, Chheling Gumba, Namtang Gumba, Khempalung Shivadhara, Gauridhara,

Hedangana Gadi (historical place) in Makalu RM.

Tourism Activity

Tourism is one of the important income sources for a few HHs and has high potentiality of

development in the PAA. Some tourists’ area in the PAA are Shivalinga Temple, Sarchung Gumba,

Chheling Gumba, Namtang Gumba, Taasichholing Gumba, Dudhpokhari, Siddha Pokhari,

Sanopokhari, Bhootpokhari, Taato Chhanju, Bandukepokhari, Shivadhara, Taansijom,

Jhimjhimma, Kimathanka Village and Tatopani Mul in Bhotkhola RM. Similarly, popular tourists’

area in Makalu RM are Makalu Barun National Park, Dudhkunda, World 5th highest peak Makalu-

I (8463m), Makalu-II (7,678m), Num Danda, Bhatbhateni Danda, Juryai Danda, Mangasima Danda,

Barun Pokhari, Hedangana and confluence of Barun Glacier. Trekking and camping activities are

reported in the PAA. Similarly, PAA is very rich in cultural diversity. People of diversified groups

and multilingual communities inhabit in the PAA, so PAA has potentiality of cultural tourism.

Further, PAA is very rich in natural heritage, so there is potentiality of eco-tourism too.

Cultural Practices and Religious Feast and Festivals

Since the project area is dominantly inhabited by Buddhist and Hindu people. So, Hindu festivals

like Dashain, Tihar, Teej, Janai Purnima, Chaite Dashain and Maghe Sankranti etc. are widely

celebrated in the PAA. In the same way, a large number of indigenous people (IPs) are inhabited in

the PAA who celebrate Buddha Jayanti and Lhosar (New Year festival according to Tibetan

calendar), Chasok Tannaam, Udhauli, Ubhauli, Gaijatra, Chaakchaakur (Kulung), Saakela, Dhaan

Naach, Syabru Naach, Hurla Naach, Selo Naach, Laama Naach, Damphu Naach, Rodi etc.

Similarly, popular cultural activities in the PAA are Bhailo and Deushi (singing and dancing

activities) in Tihar, Holi, Bhajan/Kirtan (praying by singing) in Ram Nawami and Kirshna

Janmastami, Baalan, cultural programs in Shripanchami, Dhami and Jhankri Naach (dance

performed during various religious activities and festivals). Other religious activities in the PAA are

Paasni (rice feeding ceremony for newly born babies), Bratabanda (thread wearing ceremony of

teenage boys), marriage, Shraadha (worship for the soul of the dead people), etc.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Gender Aspect

In the PAA, population of female is higher as compared with male population. Even the

economically active populations of female in the PAA is higher than male. On the other hand, school

enrollment, literary status and absent population of female are lower as compared to male population

as depicted by the following figure. The female literacy has remarkably increased in the past decades

however it is still low 46.39% than the male literacy (65.61%). Only 20.04% female have been

migrated into foreign employment which is four times less than male (79.96%). On the other hand,

there has been a rise in female-headed HHs in the PAA and this might be due to the increase of male

migration, however economic empowerment of women is still a challenge in the PAA. In addition,

women's economic activity is still low in non-agriculture sector possibly due to the tradition of

working in agriculture only and lack of education. This figure shows the status of women is not

satisfactory as compared with male in the PAA.

Figure 23: Comparative Status of Male and Female in the PAA


The proposed project lies in rural area. So, there is still prevailing gender disparity. Men have

better access and control over opportunities and resources. It was observed the fact during the

field survey that female play and bear multiple roles and responsibilities in the household works

like preparing food, collection of water, fuel wood and fodder, looking after children and senior

family members, ensuring proper sanitation, taking care of livestock, undertaking agricultural

works etc. in term of workload distribution. On the other hand, men do the heavy physical

works related to agriculture and farming in the PAA.

Jointly made decisions practice in household activities by men and women is common in the

PAA. The area is dominated by IPs, so women have no restrictions to go outside in participating

mother’s group, women group and co-operative etc. whenever needed.

The constitutional provisions and federalism implementation of Nepal offer new opportunities for

a stronger participation and meaning role of women in the decision-making process through local

election. So, every ward has elected one-woman member.

49.5 49.33

65.61

79.96

50.5 50.67

46.39

20.04

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

Total Pop. Economically Active Pop. Literacy Rate Absent Pop.

Male

Female


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Activities

All together 40 (24 in Makalu and 16 in Bhotkhola RM) NGOs/INGOs have been working in the

PAA in the field of social, religious, health and sanitation sectors. Besides this, empowerment,

welfare and awareness programs for women, youth, dalits and disables have been also delivering

by the NGOs/INGOs and Clubs in the PAA (DDC-Sankhuwasabha-2072). Major NGOs/INGOs

and clubs working in the PAA are presented in the following table.

Table 44: NGOs/INGOs in the PAA

S.N. NGOs/INGOs Work Area Major Programs/Activities

1 The East

Foundation Whole District

➢ Community Forest Development

➢ Herbs, Nursery and Plantation

➢ Community Justice

2 Samaj Sparsa

Samiti, Chainpur Whole District

-

3 Akal Mahila

Samuha, Nepal Whole District

➢ Health, education of single women,

environment, tourism and women right

➢ Skill training and income generation

➢ Saving and Credit Mobilization

4

Sankhuwasabha

Tourist Development

Centre

Whole District

5

NELHOS-Nepal

Lhomi Society,

Nepal

Makalu RM (former Hatiya,

Chepuwa, Kimathanka

VDCs), Bhotkhola RM

(former Pawakhola,

Pathivara and Num VDCs)

➢ Literate Program in Lhomi Language

➢ Literate Program in Tamang Language

➢ Jhyambe Menkang Health Kendra

6

Himalaya

Education Centre

(HIC)

Makalu, Pathibhara,

Pawakhola, Hatiya,

Chepuwa and Kimathanka

➢ Girls Residential Scholarship Program

➢ Improved Burner Distribution Program

➢ Library establishment Program

7

Creative

Community

Development Centre

(CCDC)

Whole District

➢ Legal lobbying for violence victims

➢ Gender violence minimization program

➢ Foodstuff distribution for orphanage and

senior citizens’ home

8 Nepal Red-cross

Society Whole District

➢ Relief and rescue

➢ Tracing Service

➢ Contribution for health upgrade and

improvement, prevention of diseases,

pain minimization

➢ Community development and public

welfare related works and etc.

9 Rural Development

Centre Whole District

➢ Facilitation for social mobilization


1.1.3 Project Affected Wards

The proposed Access Road locates in ward no. 2 and 4 of Bhotkhola RM and ward no. 3 of Makalu

RM. The administrative boundary of ward no. 2 and 4 of Bhotkhola RM is made up adjusting the

previous Chepuwa VDC (ward 1 to 9) and ward no. 5 to 9 of Hatiya VDC respectively. Similarly,


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

the administrative boundary of ward no. 3 of Makalu RM is made up integrating the previous

Pathivara VDC (ward no. 1 to 9). All together, the proposed project affects three wards of two

RMs.

According to the CSB, 2011, the total population of the project affected wards is 4992 with

49.24% male and 50.76% female. The population of the project affected wards covers only 24.78%

of the total population of the PAA (20148), 3.14% of the PAD (158,742) and 0.02% in the total

population of country (26,494,504). The total number of HHs is 1,122 with an average HH size

4.45. The sex ratio is 97 which is less than PAA (98.42), more than PAD (90.07) and national

average (94.2).

Settlements

The project area traverses through middle mountain region of Northern Nepal, so settlements are

scattered in the area. The nearest settlements from DIA of the project are Sibrung (approx. 60HH),

Hema (approx. 22HH), Rukuma (approx. 25HH), Namase (approx. 70HH), Pipinkha, Jijinkha

(approx. 6HH), Shyakshila (135 approx. HH), Samatar, Limbutar (approx. 5HH), Kapase (approx.

17HH), Gola (approx. 25HH) etc. The approximate HH number of the settlements is presented as

reported by local people during the social survey in 2020. The settlements are at typical rural setting

and houses are traditional type.

Picture 3: Houses and nearby Settlement

The settlements are dominated by indigenous caste/ethnic groups i.e. Bhote, Tamang, Rai, Sherpa,

Newar, Gurung etc. Similarly, there is significant presence of Dalits in the Sibrung village. Most of

the people are the followers of Buddhism and Hinduism by religion.

These settlements are mountainous, so main occupation of the people residing in the nearby

settlements are agriculture farming and small-scale livestock for livelihoods. Similarly, other

occupation are service, small business, foreign employment and wage labor. Main agricultural

productions of the settlements are millet, maize, wheat, potato and paddy (in lower belt settlement).

The cropping pattern in the affected area by the project is mostly dominated by one cropping system

comprising of black cardamom also known as ‘queen of spices’, the main income source of the

people reside in the nearby settlements.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Picture 4: Black Cardamom Farming in the Affected Area

Black cardamom farming has brought a significant change in the income source of the people and

raised the living standards of them. During the field survey, local people reported that people of

these settlements work for about three months in black cardamom farming in a year and maintain

their round year livelihood by selling it. The difference in the life style and home texture between

black cardamom cultivators and black cardamom non-cultivators can clearly be seen in the

settlements. Black cardamom cultivators’ have improved their livelihoods. However, collapse of its

prices in recent years have left farmers uncertain in their future. Before cultivating black cardamom,

people of these settlements used to collect herbs and sell the collected herbs in Hile, Dhankuta,

Dharan and Terai Districts. Local people reported that migration is very low from the settlements

as compared to other hill area of Nepal. However, some people reported to be migrated to Khandbari

(district headquarter), Dharan and Itahari.

a. House of Non- black cardamom cultivator’s a. House of black cardamom cultivator’s

Picture 5: Housing Pattern

Most of the HHs in the settlements use electricity and solar as the source of lighting and firewood

particularly for cooking and heating purposes. Piped water and public tabs are common in the

settlements as the source of drinking water. Regarding the health facility, people of these settlements

depend on health post of Gola, nearest market place from these settlements that is in 10 minutes to

eight hours of walking distance. Some of the HHs still do not have toilet facility in the settlements.

Comparatively, the health and sanitation condition of the nearby settlements are not satisfactory.

Child marriage is still in practice in nearby some settlements.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

These nearby settlements of the proposed Access Road are in remote hill area. So, people of the

settlements mostly depend on foot trails. Mule and porter are used to carry daily goods. Similarly,

modern communication facilities like email/internet and fax are not available in the settlements.

Local and national newspapers are also not available in the settlements. People in the nearby

settlements mainly depend on postal and sky phone (rarely) for communication. There are no any

industries.

a. Foot Track

b. Mule Carrying Goods

Picture 6: Foot Track and Goods Carrying Practice in the Settlements.

The nearby settlements from the proposed access road is dominated by IPs, so women have better

status in the household and family life. Generally, men have owned farmland and homes, however,

joint decision is required to sell it. Most of married women have not received parental property but

can own personal property (Pewa). Notable domestic violence and girl trafficking in the nearby

settlements were not reported during the field visit. The status of women is relatively liberal in social

norms and values in these settlements. Women have excellent know-how of customary dance skills

which they perform in the marriage ceremony and other cultural activities in the village.

Picture 7: Local women Performing Traditional Cultural Dance during Marriage Ceremony

These nearby settlements are very rich in cultural diversity. People of diversified groups and

multilingual communities inhabit in the settlements. These settlements have potentiality of cultural

tourism. Further, these settlements are very rich in natural heritage, so there is potentiality of eco-

tourism too.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

a. Maane at the side of foot trail

b. Practice of Shamanism

Picture 8: Practice of Cultural Belief in the Nearby Settlements

Table 45: List of Affected Land Owners Due to Muck Disposal Area and Access Road to Muck Disposal Area

S.N. Name of Owner’s Project Components

1 Dawa Gangu Lama Muck disposal Area Siprung

2 Kasang Sherpa

3 Dawasangu Lama

4 Lakchung Bhote

5 Sunarten Bhote

6 Dorchi Bhote

7 Kedar Gurung Access Road to Muck Disposal Area

8 Jyabu Bhote

9 Jija Sherpa Hema

10 Gopal Sherpa

11 Chhedar Sherpa

12 Tek Bd Rai

13 Subash Tamang

14 Bikash Tamang

15 Japan Tamang

16 Gopal Tamang

Table 46: Date< location and Participants in PRA

S.N. Date Venue of Meeting No. of Participants

1 2076/11/15 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung 7

2 2076/11/14 Bhotkhola-4, Pipinkha 6

3 2076/11/16 Bhotkhola-4, Jijinkha 10

4 2076/11/18 Bhotkhola-4, Hema 11


6 2076/11/16 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung Khola 4

7 2076/11/16 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung Gaun 8

8 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Gola 12


10 2076/11/22 Bhotkhola-2, Rukuma 10



13 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Syaksila 10

14 2076/11/23 Makalu-3, Samatar 11


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

15 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Golabazar 4

16 2076/11/18 Bhotkhola-4, Lingam Gola 4

17 2076/11/18 Bhotkhola-4, Naamase 7

18 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Gola 4



Total 172

Table 47:List of Owner’s of Affected Structure

S.N. Name of Owner’s Settlement

1 Temba Lama (Bhote) Siprung

2 Jabu Bhote

3 Ladar Bhote

4 Chujung Bhote

5 Singee Bhote

6 Datuk Sherpa

7 Panduk Lama

8 Jamyang Lama

9 Ratna Bd Tamang Hema

Distribution of Sample for Socio-economic Survey

The distribution of sample included socio-economic survey of 190 project affected HHs, 20 public

consultations, 10 KIIs and 3 market survey in the affected RMs/Municipality.

Table 048: Distribution of Sample

S.N. District PAA

HHs

Survey

RM/Municipality level

PRA KIIs

Market

Survey

1 Sankhuwasabha

Makalu 190

1 4 1

2 Bhotkhola 19 6 2

Total 190 20 10 3

Table 49: Methodologies for Collecting Socioeconomic and Cultural Data

S.N. Parameter Literatur

e Review

Field Investigation

KI

I

PRA

HH

Survey

Marke

t

Survey

FGD Meetings/

Consultation

Social Features

1 Demography √ √

2. Settlements √ √ √

3 Ethnicity √ √ √

4 Language √ √ √ √

5 Religion √ √ √

6 Festivals √ √ √ √

7 Migration √ √ √ √

8 Gender Aspect √ √ √ √ √

9 Law and Order Situation √ √ √


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.N. Parameter Literatur

e Review

Field Investigation

KI

I

PRA

HH

Survey

Marke

t

Survey

FGD Meetings/

Consultation

10 Education and Literacy √ √ √

11 Health and Sanitation √ √ √

12 Road and Transportation √ √

13 Energy √ √ √

14 Communication and Other Facilities √ √ √

15 Development Initiative/Activities in

the Project Area √ √ √

16 Tourism activities √ √ √

Economic Features

17 Local price information √

18 Economy √ √ √

Cultural Features

19 Archeological, Historical and

Religious Sites √ √ √

20 Aesthetic value √ √

21 Attitude of the local people to the

development of this project √ √


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix D-2: Related to Chapter 7-Environmental Impact

Table 50: Percentage of Land Loss due to Land Acquisition (Access Road of Upper Arun, Access

Arun of Ikhuwa Khola and Tunnel Portal)

S.

N. Name of Owner's Address Parcel No.

Total

Area in

Parcel

Affected

Area

% of Loss

of Land

from the

Parcel

1 Dhan man Biswokarma Hatiya-8 504 730 416.779 57.09

2 Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-8 218,225,226,266 58775 14311.559 24.35

3 Phurjyang Bhote Hatiya-8 224 1610 864.298 53.68

4 Sinema Bhote Hatiya-8 222 925 108.519 11.73

5 Devi Tamang Hatiya-8 223 3151 2455.795 77.94

6 Jambu Bhote Hatiya-8 268,197 14550 1193.432 8.20

7 Ratna Bdr. Biswokarma Hatiya-8 182 850 159.091 18.72

8 Nurpu Bhote Hatiya-8 183,184,86 2065 899.175 43.54

9 Lepsang Bhote Hatiya-8 185 395 139.026 35.20

10 Phul Maya Gurung Hatiya-8 521 1430 471.274 32.96

11 Sun Maya Tamang Hatiya-8 558 1580 124.014 7.85

12 Surendra Tamang Hatiya-8 559 800 2.685 0.34

13 Phurjyang Bhote Hatiya-8 220 430 60.303 14.02

14 Jumba Bhote Hatiya-8 213 2810 1973.536 70.23

15 Man Bdr. Biswokarma Hatiya-8 214 205 31.029 15.14

16 Wanji Bhote Hatiya-8 212 1760 532.917 30.28

17 Lakpa Chhedar Bhote Hatiya-8 265 1090 725.069 66.52

18 Jhyapli Rai Hatiya-8 217,231,198 7875 5028.146 63.85

19 Lepsang Bhote Hatiya-8 230,229 4980 1793.763 36.02

20 Man Bdr. Biswokarma Hatiya-8 503 730 755.873 103.54

21 Sate Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 203 2435 755.859 31.04

22 Ram Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 196,197 3030 1097.028 36.21

23 Lakpa Chhedar Bhote Hatiya-8 205 1835 270.06 14.72

24 Kasang Bhote Hatiya-8 204 1360 980.042 72.06

25 Dawa Sangbu Lama Hatiya-8 206,207 2385 1686.557 70.72

26 Rinjim Sherpa Hatiya-8 208 3210 1347.15 41.97

27 Lakpa Sanje Bhote Hatiya-8 209 2870 902.68 31.45

28 Jumba Bhote Hatiya-8 263 2910 52.678 1.81

29 Lakpa Syangje Bhote Hatiya-8 264 2390 0.053 0.00

30 Dal Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 275 1830 1513.887 82.73

31 Ningma Sing Tamang Hatiya-8 276,277 15070 9544.969 63.34

32 Phurpu Chhiring Siwa Hatiya-8 528 4578 3687.617 80.55

33 Lestuk Sama Hatiya-8 529 4142 3476.249 83.93

34 Genda Angjuk Bhote Hatiya-8 527 3881 3313.945 85.39

35 Pemma Sama Hatiya-8 526 4324 3653.324 84.49

36 Sargaman Tamang Hatiya-8 494 150 5.237 3.49

37 Man Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 493 1170 499.102 42.66

38 Jai Bahadur Rai Hatiya-8 497,498 6115 2885.949 47.19

39 Sher Bahadur Rai Hatiya-8 496 - 11454.775 #VALUE!

40 Temba Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-6 1012 2450 407.77 16.64


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.


Total

Area in

Parcel

Affected

Area

% of Loss

of Land

from the

Parcel

41 Latsang Bhote Hatiya-6 1013 1610 371.387 23.07

42 Nupu Bhote Hatiya-6 1015 1560 13.644 0.87

43 Sunkeshari Gurung Hatiya-8 456 10365 451.199 4.35

44 Nar Bahadur Shrestha Hatiya-8 460,462 16045 11331.241 70.62

45 Sarga Man Tamang Hatiya-8 468 38570 3164.116 8.20

46 Padam Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 533 8013 1071.17 13.37

47 Kamala Gurung Hatiya-8 532 4006 886.998 22.14

48 Padam Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 569 2230 1133.928 50.85

49 Japan Sing Gurung Hatiya-8 568 11225 462.745 4.12

50 Gopal Kumar Tamang Hatiya-8 530 4006 1009.101 25.19

51 Sarga Man Tamang Hatiya-8 466 23070 8306.391 36.01

52 Bhim Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 467 445 423.35 95.13

53 Dhan Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 465 16295 6916.662 42.45

54 Ram Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 453 22170 10562.126 47.64

55

Khangu Bahadur

Gurung Hatiya-8 454 24110 8691.391

36.05

56 Nur Bahadur Shrestha Hatiya-8 459 5410 206.528 3.82

57 Bhim Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 452,444 38250 2630.05 6.88

58 Bishnu Maya Tamang Hatiya-8 443 790 183.466 23.22

59 Pasang Bhote Hatiya-8 442 38190 8690.856 22.76

60 Lappha Syangje Bhote Hatiya-8 455 10720 3756.81 35.04

61 Thilen Aanju Bhote Hatiya-9 924,915 3558 130.199 3.66

62 Isha Bhote Hatiya-9 526 3370 244.414 7.25

63 Dachin Bhote Hatiya-9 898 1602 475.384 29.67

64 Pechhiring Bhote Hatiya-9 897 1602 1602 100.00

65

Chhamangi Chhedar

Bhote Hatiya-9 896 1602 179.509

11.21

66 Kami Bhote Hatiya-9 570 21840 189.914 0.87

67 Pokchung Bhote Hatiya-9 575 10175 4019.504 39.50

68 Yutok Bhote Hatiya-9 547 1650 568.548 34.46

69 Dukpa Bhote Hatiya-9 678,631 8595 3587.78 41.74

70 Karma Bhote Hatiya-9 677 3370 364.217 10.81

71 Rate Tamang Hatiya-9 919 623 11.424 1.83

72 Lakpa Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-9 676 2445 1662.906 68.01

73 Lyachep Bhote Hatiya-9 674 2430 696.239 28.65

74 Dinma temwa Bhote Hatiya-9 645 8535 3351.369 39.27


76 Ishi Bhote Hatiya-9 623,567 38335 7648 19.95

77 Minchur Bhote Hatiya-9 566 11445 1.721 0.02

78 Chhiring Thinduk Lama Hatiya-9 900 9277 361.52 3.90

79 Thungsing Bhote Hatiya-9 912 1140 25.794 2.26


81 Kija Bhote Hatiya-9 632 10190 3067.362 30.10

82 Kami Bhote Hatiya-9 636 8320 3851.761 46.30


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.


Total

Area in

Parcel

Affected

Area

% of Loss

of Land

from the

Parcel

83 Jenje Bhote Hatiya-9 618 10985 217.775 1.98

84 Rinjin Bhote Hatiya-9 659 4935 1735.136 35.16

85 Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-9 658 7160 1814.108 25.34

86 Chekpa Bhote Hatiya-9 660,662 8410 3153.874 37.50

87 Rinjin Bhote Hatiya-9 661 1210 277.995 22.97

88 Sinem Bhote Hatiya-9 664 2810 1124.302 40.01

89 Thungsing Bhote Hatiya-9 914 72 14.787 20.54

90 Karna Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 406 8520 1827.254 21.45

91 Karna Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 383,399 31370 4968.062 15.84

92 Dhan Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 393,394 2665 1275.614 47.87

93 Bim mama Tamang Hatiya-8 395 1725 17.253 1.00

94 Panden Bhote Hatiya-9 850 3620 880.536 24.32

95 Lakpa Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-9 513,512 11570 1951.2 16.86

96 Sinem Bhote Hatiya-9 511,510 3430 #REF! #REF!

97 Jenje Bhote Hatiya-9 34 5190 307.181 5.92

98 Wangjen Bhote Hatiya-9 851 7160 750.23 10.48

99 Rinjin Sherpa Hatiya-8 420 12565 3999.806 31.83

100 Kalu Tamang Hatiya-8 419 26325 3661.944 13.91


102 Ram Lal Tamang Hatiya-8 413,477 #REF! #REF! #REF!

103

Krishna Bahadur

Tamang Hatiya-8 407 14680 803.747

5.48

104 Ram Lal Tamang Hatiya-8 412 12805 2364.687 18.47


106

Krishna Bahadur

Tamang Hatiya-8 376 635 478.074

75.29

107 Ratna bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 384 5390 75.438 1.40

108 Karna Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 382 23020 588.012 2.55

109 Man Bahadur Gurung Hatiya-8 392 16925 794.643 4.70

110 Sher Bahadur Tamang Hatiya-8 34 922 307.181 33.32

111 Lakpa Chhiring Bhote Hatiya-9 709,710 3520 379.019 10.77

112 Pasang Temba Bhote Hatiya-9 713 5035 1959.066 38.91

113 Pemwa Bhote Hatiya-9 712 7910 3709.577 46.90

114 Sinem Bhote Hatiya-9 700 5080 2254.16 44.37

115 Rinjin Bhote Hatiya-9 711,708 8740 1345 15.39

116 Minjur Bhote Hatiya-9 608 10120 290.857 2.87

117 Lyachep Bhote Hatiya-9 699 670 202.06 30.16

118 Temba Bhote Chepuwa-1 1593 100 31.022 31.02

119 Pimba Bhote Chepuwa-1 1598 795 597.115 75.11

120 Rinjosha Bhote Chepuwa-1 1612 9050 731.292 8.08

121 Dharche Bhote Chepuwa-1 1541 5580 575.095 10.31

122 wangwang Bhote Chepuwa-1 154,615,531,556 8430 4395.997 52.15

123 Wangjen Bhote Chepuwa-1 15,481,555 4130 2658.057 64.36

124 Chhiring Bhote Chepuwa-1 1549 3080 1641.432 53.29


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.


Total

Area in

Parcel

Affected

Area

% of Loss

of Land

from the

Parcel

125 Jyamang Bhote Chepuwa-1 15,471,560 9240 6834.434 73.97

126 Wanjya Bhote Chepuwa-1 1597 17560 3786.864 21.57

127 Gambu Bhote Chepuwa-1 1562 2440 50.512 2.07

128 Bhima Bhote Chepuwa-1 1571 2370 2.064 0.09

129 Pasang Chong Bhote Chepuwa-1 1567 2300 856.05 37.22

130 Dharche Bhote Chepuwa-1 1566 1680 900.814 53.62

131 Jyabu Bhote Chepuwa-1 1565 2300 2207.726 95.99

132 Chhenang Bhote Chepuwa-1 1564 1120 1120 100.00

133 Balamu Bhoteni Chepuwa-1 1563 1410 1376.862 97.65

134 Jumi Bhote Chepuwa-1 1561 5050 3486.793 69.05

135 Phurpu Bhote Chepuwa-1 1559 7010 2096.429 29.91

136 Pimwankha Bhote Chepuwa-1 1552 25825 6398.28 24.78

137 Nimba Chhiring Bhote Chepuwa-1 1557 8080 3802.593 47.06

138 Lakpa Bhote Chepuwa-1 1554 3740 2387.787 63.84

139

Dorchi Chung Chung

Bhote Chepuwa-1 1653 3140 1633.156

52.01


141 Chhindekpa Bhote Chepuwa-1 1630 8840 2284.135 25.84

142 Phupu Lenduk Bhote Chepuwa-1 16,361,637 10140 5110.509 50.40

143 Phurpu Chhedar Bhote Chepuwa-1 1635 3625 1350.664 37.26

144 Dandi Bhote Chepuwa-1 1634 3020 1093.261 36.20

145 Chhiring Bhote Chepuwa-1 1631 1910 59.096 3.09

146 Chhichyak Bhote Chepuwa-1 1632 8845 171.632 1.94


148 Urchen Bhote Chepuwa-1 16,551,087 4240 1296.757 30.58

149 Wanjeng Bhote Chepuwa-1 112,113 4760 736.011 15.46

150 Wang Wang Bhote Chepuwa-1 110 4410 3722.167 84.40

151 Hesa Lenduk Bhote Chepuwa-1 111 1040 161.127 15.49

152 Dhanche Bhote Chepuwa-1 1088 8310 555.306 6.68

153 Pema Anjuk Bhote Chepuwa-1 1092 6590 2668.363 40.49

154 Doema Bhoteni Chepuwa-1 1812 1260 607.931 48.25

155 Tenjing Bhote Chepuwa-1 1810 630 16.549 2.63

156 Renja Wangdi Bhote Chepuwa-1 1811 630 545.148 86.53

157 Chhyanwa Bhote Chepuwa-1 1090 7340 5483.226 74.70

158 Pasang Jumba Bhote Chepuwa-1 1089 882.268 234.801 26.61

159 Tengwa Bhote Chepuwa-1 1086 2625 568.347 21.65

160 Mutok Bhote Hatiya-9 172,58 4740 3046.294 64.27

161 Pasang Chechung Bhote Hatiya-9 873 4105 1923.732 46.86

162 Chichyak Bhote Hatiya-9 872 2610 1205.322 46.18

163 Chiring Dhindun Lama Hatiya-9 885 2041 1105.829 54.18

164 Chiyang Chedar Bhote Hatiya-9 887 2042 626.26 30.67

165 Pechiring Bhote Hatiya-9 886 2041 1304.256 63.90

166 Dachin Bhote Hatiya-9 884 2041 142.303 6.97

167 Aangdi Bhote Hatiya-9 955 1054 450.96 42.79


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

S.


Total

Area in

Parcel

Affected

Area

% of Loss

of Land

from the

Parcel

168 dachin Bhote Hatiya-9 882 2010 574.344 28.57

169 Tashi Bhote Hatiya-9 786 3100 1643.043 53.00

170 Tenjin Bhote Hatiya-9 956 4331 1325.137 30.60

171 Jomma Bhote Hatiya-9 48 13270 237.955 1.79

172 Dima phinjo Bhote Hatiya-9 831 1085 224.789 20.72

173 Dinjek Bhote Hatiya-9 832 1085 969.792 89.38

174 Chiridinduk lama Hatiya-9 86,85 7985 2865.427 35.89

175 Jemma Bhote Hatiya-9 82 6710 6.361 0.09

176 Dorji Bhote Hatiya-9 62 6195 358.437 5.79

177 Nurpu Bhote Hatiya-9 88 4595 1954.586 42.54

178 Dima temwa Bhote Hatiya-9 91 2940 1921.856 65.37

179 Chekpa Bhote Hatiya-9 179,178 13290 6120.036 46.05

180 Pemwa Bhote Hatiya-9 177 5810 1091.175 18.78

181 Dima temwa Bhote Hatiya-9 90 6940 4040.91 58.23

182 Chenje Bhote Hatiya-9 49 5010 2242.519 44.76

183 Pasa chechung Bhote Hatiya-9 50,60,89 13200 7866.729 59.60

184 Pasang Gundi Bhote Hatiya-9 54 12040 4606.106 38.26

185 Jomma Bhote Hatiya-9 55 12790 6828.98 53.39

186 Chuwang Bhote Hatiya-9 59 2210 2184.273 98.84

187 Mutok Bhote Hatiya-9 58 1970 1885.203 95.70

188 Chesing Bhote Hatiya-9 57 1910 1697.871 88.89

189 Pasang Temwa Bhote Hatiya-9 56 19035 12328.261 64.77

190 Dawa Tamang Pathibhara-3 282,280,278 14691 9438.231 64.24

191 Dhan Bdr. Rai Pathibhara-3 199 6290 26.561 0.42

192 Karna Bdr. Tamang Pathibhara-3 281 4243 3144.26 74.10

193 Raj Man Tamang Pathibhara-3 205,215 12790 5354.676 41.87

194 Chhatraman Tamang Pathibhara-3 214 4665 469.301 10.06

195 Purna Prasad Rai Pathibhara-3 207,209,216 11500 1457.243154 12.67

196 Chandra Bdr. Tamang Pathibhara-3 208 900 209.077 23.23

197 Pancha Bdr. Tamang Pathibhara-3 210,206 7250 4156.671 57.33

198 Karna Bdr. Tamang Pathibhara-3 276,211 7150 5985.633 83.72

199 Dilip Kumar Rai Pathibhara-3 203,201 6845 3045.993 44.50

200 Dhan Bdr. Rai Pathibhara-3 200 5130 345.358 6.73

201 Karnimaya Tamang Pathibhara-3 277 6205 5160.233 83.16

202 Chhirimaya Rai Pathibhara-3 279 6205 4576.881 73.76

203 Indra Bdr. Rai Pathibhara-3 284 4243 1783.861 42.04

204 Karnamaya Tamang Pathibhara-3 283 4243 3577.422 84.31


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix D-3 : Photographs of Houses to be Impacted by the Road

Picture 9: Project Affected houses

Note- Kachchi: Mud/Wood/Bamboo wall with Thatch or Bamboo Roof, Semi-Pakki: Cement/Brick/Stone

wall with Zinc plate Roof, Pakki: Cement/Brick wall with RCC Roof.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix D-3: Related to Chapter 8 (Mitigation Measures)

Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan (RRP)

HHs whose house needs to be relocated will receive a housing rehabilitation allowance. From the field

observation, it was observed that the SPAFs don’t want to resettle voluntarily. The reasons behind

unwillingness for resettlement are adaptation problem in new society and good neighborhood in current

place, possible loss of business and service.

a. Relocation of House

Out of the ten HHs who will lose their structures, all HHs will be relocated as these HHs do not have any other

residential houses. They, lose their place of residence, are categorized as SPAFs.

b. Applicable Policy and Legislation

Land Acquisition Act, 2034 is the main legislative system for land and other physical asset acquisition. The

procedure defined in the Act will be followed for the acquisition. Compensation Fixation Committee (CFC)

to be chaired by Chief District Officer of the concern district will determine the compensation rates of each

unit at replacement cost. Project proponent is the responsible for the implementation of RRP.

c. Entitlement Framework

The entitlement framework accordingly specifies compensation and /or rehabilitation measures for two units

of entitlement individuals including affected individuals and their households, and groups. Loss of private

assets will be valued and compensated based on the entitlement policy matrix.

d. Government Property

Government infrastructures and facilities affected by the project will be repaired or replaced in consultation

with the relevant department authorities. Government forest land will be acquired by getting approval from

MoFE. In this context, acquisition of government infrastructure is no applicable for this project. However,

project will acquire government land (public land/forest land including community forest land).

e. Displacement Allowance

In addition to the compensation for asset losses, HHs who are losing residential houses will be entitled for

the displacement allowances. HHs, which required to be relocated, will receive a housing displacement

allowance equal to per capita income (per capita income is taken as $1090 which is equivalent to NRs.

130,800 (@ 1$= NRs.120, Source: world bank latest report) of one year based on the calculation for a HH.

Hence, the total displacement allowance for 10HHs is estimated to be NRs. 1,308,000. The customary

practice in Nepal to pay allowances or related benefit is based on average household's size. Titleholders,

tenants in own accommodation and squatters will be entitled to this allowance, to be paid at the time of

compensation payment.

f. Transportation Allowance

Project will affect structures of ten HHs and these HHs will get transportation allowance. A total of NRs.

400,000 (NRs 40,000 per HH) has been allocated as transportation allowances. The total cost for relocation

is (displacement allowance and transportation allowance) NRs.1,708,000.

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix E: List of Participants during Consultation Meeting

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix E

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix E

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix E

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Photographs during Consultation

Appendix F: Public Notice

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix F

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix G: Recommendation Letters and Public Deeds

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix G

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix H: Public Consultation and Public Hearing

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix H

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Public Consultation

• Introduction The public consultation process involves visiting the areas along the Access Road alignment, identifying the

stakeholders, consulting with them with the objectives of the project, gathering their views and opinions

regarding the projects. The involvement of the public from the conceptual stage of the project is essential for

the success of any development activities. Public consultation and information disclosure from the beginning

is also important to reduce misunderstandings and successful implementation of a project. It is a process of

both information giving and listening issues and concerns of public for planning and successful implementation

of the project with full support of the stakeholders. Therefore, the project has given high emphasis to public

consultation and information disclosure throughout the EIA process.

The National EIA Guidelines states that public involvement is one of the main parameters for the success of

any development project. The EPR, 2054 also makes it mandatory for holding one public hearing in one of the

affected Rural Municipality or Municipality (former VDC or municipality). This section discusses and outlines

the consultation carried out with the local people and other stakeholders. It also gives all the government and

the public consultations that have taken place during the course of the EIA.

Similarly, as per EPR, 2054 public involvement is mandatory during the Scoping for EIA of any proposal. The

EPR, 2054 specifies that "In regards to any proposal requiring EIA, the proponent shall publish a notice in any

national level daily newspaper, affixing the notice in Rural Municipality or Municipality (former VDC or

Municipality) where the proposal is to be implemented, as well as the schools, hospitals, health posts and

concerned individuals or institutions of that area, to offer in writing their suggestions concerning the possible

impact of the implementation of the proposals on the environment within a 15 day time period". It further states

after the publication of the notice "anyone who wishes to offer his opinion and suggestion in that connection

may offer his opinion and suggestions to the concerned proponent within 15 days from the date of publication

of such notice…" The object of this rule is to inform the public of proposed project development and provide

a reasonable time to gather their concerns, comments suggestions and recommendations concerning potential

project impacts.

• Approaches for Public Involvement

Public consultation during Scoping Phase Public notice was published in National Daily Newspaper "Gorkhapatra" on the 2074/03/30 BS for the scoping

study. The main objectives of the notice were:

• To inform the public about the project itself and the area to be affected

• To request the concerned people, organization, NGOs and RMs to send comments and suggestions

regarding the project.

After the publication of the notice, the team visited for the Scoping exercise. The suggestions, comments and

information received from all the affected people, organizations, NGOs and RMs (former VDCs) offices during

the Scoping phase have been incorporated while preparing the report.

Some suggestions received during the scoping phase were as follows:

• Reasonable compensation for land and property,

• Employment to PAFs and locals

• Rural electrification in the Makalu RM


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

• Improved scientific agricultural farming training regarding black cardamom and herbs

• Skill oriented training to SPAFs

• Resettlement of displaced HHs

• Properly manage of muck generated during the excavation

• Suggest to include local representative in CDC

• Compensation of remaining portion of land after acquisition which is not viable for cultivation need

to be provided.

• Adequate awareness creation programs before and during project construction,

• Issue of occupational health and safety hazards,

1.1 Public Consultation and Participation during EIA

Public consultation during EIA involved formal and informal discussions with a range of district and local

level stakeholders. HH survey of the directly project affected HHs and informal meetings/consultations with

key stakeholders of the project area were used as the main tool of community consultation and information

dissemination for preparation the EIA report. During the consultations, the participants were requested to

express their views, concerns/issues regarding the project as well as they were informed regarding the project

and its activities. Information such as project purpose, project type, impact area, likely impacts and potential

opportunities due to project implementation were provided to the people during the consultation. Checklists

and questionnaire were developed to facilitate the KIIs and HH survey. During the field survey, emphasis was

placed on consultation with affected communities and people living in adjoining areas, to inform them about

the proposed project and give them an opportunity to express their views. Altogether 20 PRA, four market

surveys, 10 KII and socio-economic survey of 190 affected HHs were conducted in the project area.

1.2 RM Level Meetings

Altogether 20 PRA meetings were conducted in the project area. The main objective of these meetings was to

collect the issues/concerns of local people regarding the project as well as to inform the local people about the

proposed Project. The participants of the meetings were project-affected families, farmers, job-holders, wage

labors, small businessman and students of the project affected RMs. Altogether 172 participants of the project

area participated in consultation meetings. The minutes of the meetings are given in Appendix E.

Meetings Conducted in Project Area

S.N. Date Venue of Meeting No of Participants


2 2076/11/14 Bhotkhola-4, Pipinkha 6


4 2076/11/18 Bhotkhola-4, Hema 11


6 2076/11/16 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung Khola 4

7 2076/11/16 Bhotkhola-4, Siprung Gaun 8

8 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Gola 12





13 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Syaksila 10

14 2076/11/23 Makalu-3, Samatar 11

15 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Golabazar 4

16 2076/11/18 Bhotkhola-4, Lingam Gola 4


18 2076/11/17 Bhotkhola-4, Gola 4


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S.N. Date Venue of Meeting No of Participants



Total 172

Informal Meetings/Consultations

Informal meetings/consultations were conducted with relevant district level government officials at districts

headquarter, Khandbari. Similarly, informal meetings/consultations were also conducted at local levels with

key stakeholders.

Public Hearing

Introduction

During the EIA report preparation, Public Hearing in the project affected area is mandatory. The EPR

2077, Rule 6 specifies that "… whilst preparing the environmental study report, the proponent shall

organize a Public Hearing about the proposal is to be implemented and collect opinions and

suggestions." The object of this rule is to assure full public involvement through the solicitation of

opinions and suggestions concerning the contents of the EIA Report. The constitution of Nepal also

guarantees citizen of right to information of public interest. Environment Protection Act, 2076 and

Environment Protection Rules, 2077 further elaborate right of stakeholders to participate in EIA

process.

The public hearing programs of the Access Road of Upper Arun Hydropower Project were organized

in the four places of the project sites at Barun Basic School, Sibrung, Bhotkhola RM-4 on Mangsir 9,

2077 (23 November, 2020), Naamase Gumba, Naamase, Bhotkhola RM-4 on Mangsir 10, 2077 (24

November, 2020), Chepuwa Gumba, Chepuwa, Bhotkhola RM-2 on Mangsir 12, 2077 (26

November, 2020) and Ward Office, Makalu RM-3 on Mangsir 14, 2077 (November 28, 2021). The

Representative from MBNP, District Coordination Committee, RM/Ward Office, NEA-UAHEPL

and NEA-ESSD were participated in the programs. Local communities and the members from

affected families had also participated in the programs. Besides, other participants included the

representatives from affected CFUGs, local youth clubs and journalist of local media. The list of the

participants of the public hearing is attached in Appendix H.

Table 1-1: Date, Venue and Number of Participants in the Public Hearing Programs

District Date Venue of Public Hearing Program

No. of

Participants

RM Location

Sankhuwasabha

2077/08/09

(Nov., 23, 2020) Bhotkhola RM-4

Shree Barun Basic

School, Sibrung, 41

2077/08/10

(Nov., 24, 2020)

Naamase Gumba,

Naamase 39

2077/08/12

(Nov., 26, 2020) Bhotkhola RM-2 Chepuwa and Rukma 60

2077/08/14

(Nov, 28, 2020) Bhotkhola RM-3 Ward Office 28

Total 168


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Objectives of the Program

The objectives of the program are:

• To inform the local people, line agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders on the technical and

environmental aspects of the proposed project.

• To update the local people about the present status and on-going activities of the project.

• To provide an opportunity to all the stakeholders and communities in the proposed project area

and to raise issues and concerns pertaining to the project.

• To revise the EIA report based on the concerns of local people.

Approach and Methodology

Following methodologies were used to conduct the Public Hearing program;

• Preparation of Brochure

A brochure with relevant information about the EIA findings of the proposed project was prepared in

Nepali Language and distributed to the participants of the public hearing programs. The brochure

contained the relevant information about the background of the project, its technical salient features

and brief environmental description. The environmental description includes brief baseline condition

of the project area, potential beneficial and adverse impacts, proposed mitigation measures,

environmental management plan as well as environmental monitoring and auditing of the project. A

copy of the brochure is attached herewith.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

• Publication of Notice

A notice regarding the program was published in Local weekly newspaper, Sankhuwasabha Express

(dated 19 November, 2020) and broadcasted from local FM-Radio (Radio … MHz, Sankhuwasabha).


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

• Request letter to Line Agencies

Request letters were sent to the concerned government line agencies for their participation in the

program. The date, venue and the time of the program was also mentioned in the letter. These letters

were sent to the concerned government agencies and ministries including, MoFE, MoEWRI, DoED,

affected RMs, DCCs, MBNP, CFUGs and local stakeholders. The list of participants including the

local people, representatives, local line agencies and the notice is attached in Appendix H.

• Arrangement of Program

Four places, first was Shree Barun Basic School, Sibrung, Bhotkhola RM-4 for Mangsir 9, 2077

(November 23, 2020), second was Naamase Gumba, Naamase, Bhotkhola RM-4 for Mangsir 10,

2077 (November 24, 2020), third was Chepuwa Gumba, Chepuwa, and Rukma, Bhotkhola RM-2 for

Mangsir 12, 2077 (November 26, 2020) and fourth was ward office of Makalu RM-3 for Mangsir 14,

2077 (November 28, 2020) were selected as the venues for public hearing programs to ease the people

to participate from the project affected areas. One team was deployed with the coordination of ESSD,

to the site for necessary arrangement for the program.

• Registration of Participants

The participants were requested to register their name, address and occupations in preformatted table

at the registration desks. The brochure were distributed to the participants and asked them to take

their seat.

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix H

EIA Report NEA-ESSD


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

• Recording of the Program

Video recording of the public hearing program was done. Photographs were taken as follows;

Photographs


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Response to the Queries

The queries and suggestions from the public were obtained through written slip (Appendix H). The

project representative and ESSD-staffs responded the queries and concerns of the participants.

Description of the program

The Public Hearing program was conducted as mentioned as below.

• Each Public Hearing program started at 11.00 am on Mangsir 9, 10, 12 and 14, 2077 (November

23, 24, 26 and 28, 2020) at Sibrung, Naamase, Chepuwa of Bhotkhola RM and office of Ward

no. 3 of Makalu RM, Sankhuwasabha District.

• Chairing the Dais by the Chairperson, Chief Guest and other respected Guests.

• Presenting the welcome speech to the guest.

• Presenting the finding of the EIA study and objectives of the program by ESSD staff

• Views of the representatives, governmental line agencies, locals of affected communities.

• Responses to the queries and Closing Speech.

The EIA presentation informed the local people about the major impacts of the project, mitigation

measures, compensation procedures and enhancement measures to be taken to cope those impacts.

Following the presentation, members of the civil society and representative from affected groups

expressed their view and concerns.

They encouraged the local people to take benefit of the opportunities given by the project. At the

end of the program, question and answer session was held where the people from different field

business, service, represents of RMs/ward members, social workers, teachers and representative of

PAFs are actively participated and strongly expressed their voices. They specified that they are not

against development and fully support the project but would want full consideration from project

side to address their demand regarding compensation and employment. Inquiries and responses of

the local people mostly focused on:

Table 51: Summary of Key Issues/Concerns of Local People

S.N. RMs Key Issues Mitigation

Measures Remarks

1. Bhotkhola-

4, Siprung

• Came to hear that the project will affect a structure of

Barun Basic School in Siprung. Request to create an

appropriate reading environment in the school with

properly managed the affected structure, land and

drinking water facility.

• Request to establish library, construct toilet and

provide computer and sports materials to the school.

• Section

7.4.4

• Section

7.3.3

2. Bhotkhola-

4, Jijinkha

• Main income source of the PAFs i.e. black cardamom

will be lost by the project, so project should provide

reasonable compensation of loss of black cardamom

and conserve the black cardamom farming.

• Should conserve the Naagsthan, water spring source

and Bhimsen Thaan while constructing the Access

Road.

• Project should prevent the possible landslide and

provide skill training on livestock and agricultural.

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.4


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


Measures Remarks

3. Bhotkhola-

4, Jijinkha

• Project should acquire the remaining small portion of

land where construction of house and cultivation is

not possible.

• Muck generated due to excavation of the road should

be managed properly. Project should also protect the

source (Mul) of water, if any affected by the project

activities.

• Section

7.4.1.4

• Section 7.2

4. Bhotkhola-

4, Hema

• The Access Road of the UAHEP and IKHEP should

be constructed protecting the standing trees and crops.

• Employment to locals should be provided based on

their skill.

• Skill enhancement training regarding black cardamom

farming should be provided.

• Section 7.3

• Section 7.1

• Section

7.4.2.1

5. Bhotkhola-

4, Siprung

• Priority on employment and skill enhancement

training should be given to PAFs and locals.

• Obligatory condition should be made to consume the

local agricultural production like vegetables, meat,

milk and eggs by the project workers.

• A rapport builder committee should be formed to

confirm the good relation between locals and project

personnel.

• Scholarship of health personnel for local health unit

and engineer for RM should be assisted by the project.

• Section 7.1

• Section

7.4.2

6.

Bhotkhola-

4, Siprung

Tol

• Compensation of the affected structure, land and

black cardamom farming land should be provided

evaluating reasonably.

• Possibility of dry up the source of stream and well due

to the construction of the road and tunnel, so other

proper source should be identified.

• The standing trees, herbs, grass, firewood of the

affected area would be lost, so appropriate

management and evaluation should be carried out.

• Infrastructure development and reading environment

to Barun Basic School located in Siprung should be

created by the project.

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.2

• Section

7.3.2

• Section

7.4.1.2 and

Section

7.4.1.3

7.

Bhotkhola-

4, Siprung

Gaun

• Skill development training to the local women of

project affected area should be provided based on

their qualification.

• Women of the affected area should get employment

based on their educational qualification.

• Agricultural training should be provided to the

women of Siprung Tol.

• Section

7.4.2

• Section 7.1

8. Bhotkhola-

4, Gola

• Have to provide skill-based training.

• Project has to manage Engineer and H.A. to the

affected locals in free of cost.

• Section

7.4.2

Project cannot

manage H.A and

engineer.

9. Bhotkhola-

4, Siprung

• There are 7HHs of Dalits in Siprung, Bhotkhola-4.

Two HHs (house and land) and one HH (land

registered in the name of another person) in the place

should be managed properly providing appropriate

compensation to each group.

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.2

• Section 7.1


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


Measures Remarks

• Assist to convert the currently adopted traditional iron

work of Dalit into advanced and scientific.

• Locals should be employed in the project providing

skill base training.

10

Bhotkhola-

2, Rukuma

• Information centre of UAHEP should be in

Bhotkhola-4, Namase.

• Reasonable compensation (at the rate of NRs.1600000

per ropani) should be provided to the PAFs.

• Special priority on education and health should be

given.

• Scholarship regarding technical field should be

provided to the locals of the affected area that helps

their livelihood.

• Share should be provided to the locals.

• Section

7.4.1.1

Till the date, there

is no provision of

share in Access

Road of

Hydropower

Project.

11

Makyalung

Basic

School

Bhotkhola-

2,

Rukuma,

• Suggest plastering the class room and constructing the

boundary wall of the school located within the

affected area by the project.

• Inform as needed of educational materials like

computer, projector and other latest materials as well

as drinking water and hill-tank in the school.

• Request to provide awareness program regarding the

risk of tunnel road on health.

• Section

7.4.3

• Section

7.4.2

12 Bhotkhola-

4, Jijinkha

• Compensation of acquired land and crops from

Jijinkha and Limbutar should be provided.

• Project should provide employment and skill-based

training to the PAFs and locals.

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.2

• Section

7.4.2

13 Bhotkhola-

4, Syaksil

• The land should be taken at a reasonable price if

required by the UAHEP, as the land is adjacent to the

road near Gola Bazaar of Bhotkhola RM.

• Medicine herbs like Thulo okhati, Pakhanbet, Timbur,

Silaji will be lost.

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.2

• Section

7.4.1.3

14. Makalu-3,

Samatar

• Suggest to construct the road protecting the water

source and Debithan (place of worship), if any.

• Reasonable compensation of acquired land and loss of

black cardamom due to the construction of access

road to IKHEP should be provided.

• Project should provide employment and skill-based

training to the PAFs and locals as per their capacity.

• Awareness program regarding the prevention of

landslide, assurance of not affecting the local cultural

way of life while constructing the road and

agricultural intensification training programs should

be carried out.

• Have to collect suggestions from locals prior to

construct the project.

• Section

7.4.1.10

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.2

• Section 7.1

• Section

7.4.2


EIA Report NEA-ESSD


Measures Remarks

15.

Bhotkhola-

4, Gola

Bazaar

• There should be work of environmental protection,

improvement and rejuvenation by keeping the

affected area in a state of readiness by disseminating

clear information about the package work. The local

community should be mobilized through this project

by providing free education to the local community

through competent technology.

• Section 7.2

• Section 7.3

• Section 7.4

16.

Bhotkhola-

4, Lingam

Gola

• Suggest starting the construction work of UAHEP

as soon as possible.

Project will start

as soon as

possible

17.

Bhotkhola-

4,

Naamase

• Skill based training like sewing and knitting should

be provided.

• Reasonable compensation (at the rate of NRs.

1500000 per ropani) of the acquired land should be

provided.

• Main income source of livelihood i.e. black

cardamom will be lost due to the construction and

operation of the project. So, compensation of the

black cardamom should be provided calculating the

production of 25 years at the rate of 55000 per man

(40kg).

• Project has to rehabilitate affected 55HHs in

appropriate location that has to be affected by the

project.

• Section

7.4.2

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.1.2

• Section

7.4.1.15

18. Bhotkhola-

4, Gola

• Should start the UAHEP as soon.

• Local resources and manpower should be

mobilized.

• Project should allocate budget to modern

communication channel and safety management.

• Project should construct respecting the local

cultures and values.

• Section 7.1

• Section

7.4.1.12

19. Bhotkhola-

4, Namase

• Every citizen who has reached 18 years of age

should be insured of NRs. 2,000,000.

• Fees had to be waived for medium industries and

lighting.

• Compensation should be guarantee as the affect.

• Project should manage one house one employment.

• A model technical school building has to be

constructed in Namase.

• Section 7.2

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section 7.1

• Section

7.4.3

Till the date, there

is no provision of

insurance beyond

the project

construction

workers.

20. Bhotkhola-

4, Namase

• Liaison office should be at Namase, a middle part.

• Skill based training like wiring, driving, vegetable

farming and overseer should be provided.

• Compensation of the acquired land should be

provided as per the demand of locals.

• Have to aware all the people of the affected area

regarding project.

• Have to assist in the construction of school

building, health post building, playground, Gumba

building and mother group’s building.

• Section

7.4.2

• Section

7.4.1.1

• Section

7.4.3

Table 52: Issues Raised by the Stakeholders during Public Hearing Programs


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S N Major Areas

of Concern Issues Raised

Mitigation

Measures Remarks

1

Land

acquisition

and

Compensation

• Appropriate compensation of land should be

provided.

• Compensation of the land within RoW should be

given.

• Compensation should be provided as soon as

possible.

Section 8.3

2

Compensation

of Houses,

other

Structures and

public

structures

• Appropriate compensation of affected structures

(houses, toilets, sheds and other structures)

should be provided or should be transferred in

another location.

• Appropriate compensation of public structure

should be provided.

Section 8.3

3

Compensation

of crops and

private trees

• Appropriate compensation of crop loss (black

cardamom) and trees loss should be provided.

• Compensation for black cardamom cultivation in

the land above the tunnel.

• The negative impact on agriculture, herbs, fruits

and cardamom cultivation should be addressed.

Section 8.3

4 Livelihood

• The impact should be addressed once the project

is implemented. Means of livelihood should be

guaranteed.

• There should be a clear outline of how to

preserve the livelihood the affected families.

• Rehabilitation and relocation should be in the

right place.

Section 8.3

5 Employment

opportunity

• Local should be given prior consideration for

employment based on qualifications and skills.

• Dalit community should get service facilities and

employment.

Section 8.3

6 Environmental

Issues

• Environment impact needs to be properly

identified and make its proper management with

the participation of local people.

• Should be focused on controlling noise and air

pollution.

• Have to make clear plan of tree felling,

management and compensation and discuss with

local affected people.

Section 8.2

Section 8.1

7 Local

development

• Assistance should be given to drinking water

management, construction of school building,

irrigation, repair of monastery, shrines and

temples

• The school should have physical development

including furniture, electricity, playground,

school building, materials for the students.

• RCC Bridge between Chepuwa and Rukuma

over Arun River should be constructed.

Section 8.3.

Project can’t

construct

Bridge, as

this is beyond

the scope of

the project.

8 Enhancement

programs

• Should be given agricultural, skill

development/earning oriented training to PAFs

based on the qualification.

• Prior to project construction, skills-based

training should be conducted for employment

Section 8.3


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

The project proponent delivered their best efforts to address the queries and concerns of the

participants of the program. The proponent also assured the best and effective ways or methods in

order to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the beneficial/positive impacts of the project.

The local people expressed their emphasis on the importance of cooperation and coordination for

smooth implementation of the project. At the end of the program, the Chairman presented his closing

remarks.

Local people were positive towards the implementation of the project as they are not against the

development; however, they want to address their demand regarding compensation to be addressed

genuinely from the project side. The proponent is also concerned about genuine issues of the public.

9 Awareness

programs

• Awareness programs regarding bio-diversity

and environmental issues should be given to the

locals.

• Occupational hazards and safety awareness

program should be conducted.

Section 8.2

Section 8.3

10 Others

• Local demand should be addressed as per ILO

169.

• The access road and the muck dumping site is

close to the Shree Barun Basic School, so the

school should be made safe and noise free.

• A certain amount of royalty should be allocated

for local development and infrastructure should

be developed.

• The existing structures need to be preserved.

• The Compensation Determination Committee

should have one man and one woman from the

affected family.

• Free health service facility should be managed

to the affected local people.

• Social security needs to be taken care of

• The project should be carried out only with the

consent of the local affected.

• The cultural heritage affected by the project

should be managed in one place.

• The first survey must be maintained.

• Action plan to control likely robbery, drugs,

sexual violence, etc. from outside workers

should be clearly formulated.

• The basis and outline of land lease should be

clear.

• Electricity and shares should be provided free

from the project.

• Scholarship should be arranged.

• The access road should connect the Koshi

Highway and other areas with community

organizations here.

• If the physical structure is damaged during the

construction of the project, it should be

repaired.

• Drinking water should be managed if the source

of water is dried.

Section 8.3

Till the date,

there is no

provision of

royalty from

the access

road of

Hydropower

Project.

Further, there

is no

provision of

share in the

access road.

The access

road will be

constructed

as the per

need of

project. So,

project can’t

connect the

access road

to other areas

with

community

organization

of the local

area.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix I: Monitoring Cost

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix I

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Monitoring Cost

The total cost for the monitoring activities has been estimated as NRs. 17,771,970/– Table 53: Environmental Monitoring Cost

S.N. Item No. of

Persons

Man-

month

Rate/Mont

h (NRs.)

Amount

(NRs.)

A. Pre-construction Phase

1 Manpower

Senior Environmental Expert 1 1 54,030 54,030

Team Leader 1 2 43,890 68,440

Environmental Expert 1 1 40,380 40,380

Socio-economist 1 1 40,380 40,380

Civil Engineer 1 1 40,380 40,380

Support Staff 2 2 30,500 61,000

Sub-total 7 8 3,23,950

2 Out of Pocket Expenses

TA/DA LS 80,000

Field Assistant LS 30,000

Transportation LS 100,000

Report Production LS 20,000

Miscellaneous LS 10,000

Sub–total 2,40,000

Total of Pre-construction Phase 5,63,950

B. Construction Phase

1 Manpower

Senior Environmental Expert 1 4 54030 216120

Coordinator 1 12 43890 526680

Civil Engineer 1 6 40380 242280

Environmentalist 1 6 40380 242280

Socio-economist 1 6 40380 242280

Electrical Engineer 1 6 40380 242280

Liaison Officer 1 2 30550 61100

Support Staff 5 30 30500 915000

Sub –total 12 72 26,88,020

From Outsourcing

Environmental Safeguard Officer 1 30 80000 2400000

Social Safeguard Officer 1 30 80000 2400000

Support Staff Site Office-1 1 30 35000 1050000

Database Expert 1 2 80000 160000

Sub-total 4 92 6,010,000

2 Out of Pocket Expenses

TA/DA LS 500,000

Fuel and maintenance LS 1,000,000

Vehicle hire/ purchase/ maintenance LS 4000000

Fuel for Vehicle LS 600000

Report Production LS 100,000

Office Rent (Site Office) 24 months 15000 360,000

Computer and Printer LS 100,000

Electricity, drinking water and communication LS 100000

Community Consultation LS 80,000

Site office Furnishing LS 150000

Computer and Printer LS 120000

Office Accessories and Operation Cost LS 200000

Institutional (ESSD) Strengthening LS 1000000

Community Consultation LS 100000

Miscellaneous LS 100,000

Sub-total 8510000

Total of Construction Phase 1,72,08,020

Grand Total (Pre-construction and construction monitoring) 1,77,71,970

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix I

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Appendix J: Review of Policies and Legal Provision

Access Road of UAHEP Appendix J

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Introduction

Nepal integrated environmental aspects in all its development activities and projects only from early 1980s.

Environment conservation was included in the policies since the Fifth Plan (1975-1980). The second

milestone was taken during the Sixth Plan. The Sixth Plan under the environment and land use policy

emphasized the integration of environmental aspects into the construction of large-scale development

projects. Then finally, in the Seventh Plan it was stated that developmental programs would be implemented

only after an approved EIA/ IEE report. The Eighth, Ninth and Tenth Five Year Plans have further

emphasized the making of more effective EIA systems. The formulation of sectoral Guidelines, promotion

of participatory EIA/IEE system and inclusion of mitigation cost into the total project cost were some of the

activities included in these three five-year plans.

The prevailing Acts, Policies, Regulations and Guidelines, which are required for the construction and

operation of hydropower projects in Nepal, have been reviewed as per the following while preparing the

present EIA report. The proponent will abide by any other laws besides those already mentioned in the

documents that are attracted due to different activities that will be undertaken during project implementation.

The Constitution of Nepal

In the Article 30 of Part 3 of the Constitution of Nepal states about the Right to Clean Environment:

According to this article all citizens shall have the right to live in clean environment, and in case if there is

injury caused from environmental pollution or degradation, the victim have the right to obtain compensation.

In the same way, Article 51(g) explains Policies relating to Protection, Promotion and use of Natural

resources under the Policies of the State as follows;

• to protect, promote, and make environmental friendly and sustainable use of, natural resources

available in the country, in consonance with national interest and adopting the concept of

intergenerational equity, and make equitable distribution of fruits, according priority and preferential

right to the local communities,

• to make multi-purpose development of water resources, while according priority to domestic

investment based on public participation,

• to ensure reliable supply of energy in an affordable and easy manner, and make proper use of energy, for

the fulfilment of the basic needs of citizens, by generating and developing renewable energy,

• to develop sustainable and reliable irrigation by making control of water-induced disasters, and river

management,

• to conserve, promote, and make sustainable use of forests, wildlife, birds, vegetation and bio-diversity,

by mitigating possible risks to environment from industrial and physical development, while raising

awareness of general public about environment cleanliness,

• to maintain the forest area in necessary lands for ecological balance,

• to adopt appropriate measures to abolish or mitigate existing or possible adverse environmental

impacts on the nature, environment or biological diversity,

• to pursue the principles of environmentally sustainable development such as the principles of polluter

pays, of precaution in environmental protection and of prior informed consent,

• to make advance warning, preparedness, rescue, relief and rehabilitation in order to mitigate risks from

natural disasters.

Plan and Policy

National Energy Crisis Reduction and Development Decades, 2072 (2015) Concept paper

The then MoEn has declared 2016-2026 as the National Energy Crisis Reduction and Electricity

Development Decade (Energy Emergency Decade). In this regard, the then MoEn has issued a Concept Paper


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

on Elimination of Energy Emergency and Electricity Development Decade, 2015 (2072) “Concept Paper”

on February 18, 2016, with the objective to substantially end the power outage within the next one year,

completely end power outage (even in the dry season) within the next two years, and to ensure energy security

within the next decade. The concept paper also contains the provision that hydropower projects with a

capacity of more than 10 MW should be awarded only through competitive bidding. The proposed law is

expected to facilitate the implementation of the 10-year National Energy Emergency Decade.

Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan, 2050 (1993) and 2055 (1998)

Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP) were endorsed to further institutionalize environment

protection in the development processes. The NEPAP recognize that a growing number of people are exposed

to pollute from industrial enterprises. The NEPAP identifies the following factors as contributing to this

process:

• Industrial plan inappropriately cited close to population centers

• Insufficient emphasis on fuel efficiency

• Little, if any pollution abatement equipment used for reducing emission, and

• A total lack of industry pollution standards

Hence, NEPAP emphasizes the need for mitigating adverse environmental impacts to address urban and

industrial development, air and water pollution and infrastructure development.

Fifteenth Periodic Plan (2076/77-2080/81 BS)

This plan identifies several constraints within the hydropower sector including inadequate supply during the

dry season, unreliable electricity distribution system, lack of transmission line and constraints with land

acquisition amongst others. This plan recommends construction of an internal as well as cross border

transmission lines to enhance reliable supply of electricity. Lack of integrated and managed development,

haphazard urbanization, inadequate environmental assessments are some of the critical issues identified in

this plan. This plan further highlights the need for formulation of national standards for water, air, soil, noise,

radioactive, hazardous waste and electrical waste. It recommends mandatory requirement of EIA and EMP

for all infrastructure projects.

National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2071 (2014-20)

The GoN prepared and implemented Nepal Biodiversity Strategy in 2002 and Nepal Biodiversity Strategy

Implementation Plan in 2006. Useful experience and lessons have been learnt from the implementation of

the strategy and the plan. Moreover, substantial changes have taken place in the socio-political and

environmental contexts of the country over the last decade. Several new themes and issues have emerged or

gained prominence since 2002. In light of these changes, MoFE has prepared this revised 'Nepal, National

Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2014-2020'. It has been prepared to meet the national needs

for managing biodiversity on a sustainable basis for the benefit of present and future generations, and also to

fulfill the country’s international obligations. It has a long-term (i.e. 35 years) vision, and includes specific

short-term (up to 2020) strategies and priorities for action.

Hydropower Development Policy, 2058

The Hydropower Development Policy was promulgated in 2001. The main objectives of the policy include

producing clean energy through the development of hydroelectric projects and to help conserve the

environment. It is stipulated that one of the policies is to extend the use of electricity for achieving a reduction

in the utilization of fuel wood and to render necessary assistance in the conservation of forest and

environment.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

National Policy on Land Acquisition, Compensation and Resettlement, 2071

The National Policy on Land Acquisition, Compensation and Resettlement in Development Projects in Nepal

was prepared in September 2006 by the National Planning Commission (NPC) with ADB assistance. The

Policy has the following guiding principles:

• “Appropriate and adequate compensation for the loss of assets or income is a fundamental right of all

project affected persons. Physically displaced people must be relocated with basic amenities such as

school, health posts and other facilities.

• All affected persons should be assisted to restore at least their pre-project income and livelihood sources.

• The absence of legal title to land should not be a bar for compensation, resettlement and rehabilitation

assistance.

• Vulnerable groups such as Janajati/Adivasi, Dalits, landless, women, especially women-headed

households, differently-abled, poverty groups and senior citizens are entitled to special benefit and

assistance packages in addition to compensation and resettlement.”

National Climate Change Policy, 2076

The major aim of this policy is to direct the way for the in various levels and related sectors to establish

progressive society mitigating the risks related to climate change impacts. The need for formulation of this

new policy after climate change policy, 2067 (2011) change in national as well as international dimensions,

to effectively address change in climate change management sector, new policy has been formulated

according to lessons learnt from implementation of previous policy. The aim of this policy is to develop

climate progressive society and national socio-economic development.

Policies, stategy and working policy related to this policy are agriculture and food security; forest,

biodiversity and watershed conservation; water resources and energy; rural and urban settlement; industry,

transport and physical infrastructure; tourism, natural and cultural heritage; health, water supply and

sanitation; disaster risk reduction and management; gender equality and social inclusion, livelihood and good

governance; capacity development; research, technology development and communication; climate fund

management.

National Environment Policy, 2076

As environmental conservation is multidimensional and international issue, Nepal has shown obligation in

various international treaties and agreements. This policy has been formulated to direct the environment

related acts, rules and other sectoral laws in relation to achieving sustainable development balancing the

environment and development; to fulfill the international commitment and co-ordinate and collaborate

governmental, non-governmental institute, community, private sector as well as federal, provincial and local

level.

Major objective is pollution control, solid waste management and greenery enhancement in order to secure

the right to live in clean and healthy environment. Policy related to pollution control encompasses control,

abatement and mitigation of all kinds of pollution, use of environmentally friendly technologies in operation

of industries, hospitals and transportation, regulation of chemicals in products etc. Policy related to

environmental mainstreaming include internalizing environmental aspects in developmental projects. Other

related policies are environmental justice, public participation, sustainable development, research and

capacity development. Similarly, other aspects of this policy include institutional organization, role of

federal, provincial and local level in the implementation of this policy, financial and legal asplect, monitoring

and evaluation.

National Forest Policy 2075 (2019)

This Policy aims to strengthen the forest resources of Nepal as follows:


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

• Manage forest resources sustainably, increase productivity of forest area/sector, and increase overall

production from forests.

• Conserve biodiversity, conservation of sources, and equal sharing and distribution of environmental

services gained from conservation.

• Encourage the private sector for the development and conservation of the forest sector. The policy also

aims to promote forest-based entrepreneurships, diversification, and value addition through marketing,

creation, and promotion of green employment.

• Reduce and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate-related hazards and enhance climate change adaptation

measures and resilience in Nepal. The policy also promotes good governance, inclusion, and social justice

for the conservation of forest resources.

• Enhance the conservation policy, which aims to encourage forest conservation groups to manage the forest

in a scientific way to strengthen ecosystems and other environmental services.

• Protect forests, conservation areas, watersheds, biodiversity, and wildlife through sustainable and

participatory management and their equitable distribution.

• Provide ownership of the forest area to the federal government, whereas Non-Timber Forest Products

(NTFPs) ownership is vested upon the management group or community

National Land Policy, 2075

The goal of this policy is to make qualitative transformation in economic prosperity of the nation and living

standard of the people through equitable distribution, maximum use and good governance of land. One of

the six objectives of the policy, which aims to create favorable environment for land acquisition for

development projects and to ensure that land acquisition would not increase cost of development project, is

directly relevant for ETP project. This policy also aims to establish a methodology for scientific valuation of

land. The policy has devised several strategies and working policies to achieve its objectives which includes:

minimization of adverse impacts on local residents as far as possible while selecting land for development

projects; provision of basic facilities such as roads, electricity, and drinking water with priority while

resettling fully displaced households in a new site; concession on capital gain tax to landowners for lands

acquired by the project; and minimization of forest, residential, and agricultural land while acquiring land

for the project. There are several other strategies and working policies in this policy which attempts to make

land acquisition process for development projects simpler and also ensure that the adverse impact of the

project on local people are minimized.

National Wetland Policy, 2059

In conformity with the commitment made in Ramsar Convention 1971, government of Nepal has prepared

National Wetland Policy 2059. The goal of the policy is to manage and conserve wetlandsresources in a

sustainable way with local people participation. So, the policy has objective of people’s participation in the

management of wetlands and conserve wetland biodiversity with wise use of wetland resources. In particular,

it has policy related to wetland management based on local participation, wise use of wetland resources,

promotion of awareness, prevention and control on invasive species, prohobition of works in wetland, and

future work regarding wetland conservation and management.

National Water Plan, 2005

The National Water Plan 2002-2007 (NWP) was prepared to implement the Water Sector Strategy of Nepal.

The Plan targets an increase in Nepal’s hydropower generation from 600MW in 2007 to 4,000MW by 2027.

The NWP emphasizes the need for Strategic Environmental Assessment. Section 7 of the NWP highlights

the Environment Management Plan (EMP) as a strategic document for the implementation, monitoring and

auditing of environmental protection programs.

Water Resources Strategy, 2002


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

The GoN, through the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS), formulated its first

comprehensive Water Resources Strategy (WRS) in 2002. To contribute to the national goal of improving

the living conditions of the Nepali people in a sustainable manner, the WRS has formulated short-term (five

year), medium-term (15 year) and long-term (25 year) strategies for the water resources sector.

Acts

Land Acquisition Act, 2034 (1977)

The Act covers all aspects of land acquisition and compensation to private landowners for land and other

assets. Article 3 of the Act empowers Government of Nepal (GoN) to acquire any land at any place for any

public purpose, subject to compensation under this Act. As per Article 4, the GoN may also decide to acquire

land for other institutions to implement projects in the interest of general public. The institution requesting

for land acquisition is required to pay all costs associated with such acquisition. Article 5 had made provision

for appointing Officer for Preliminary Action. Article 6 outlines procedures for preliminary action relating

to acquisition of land, and Article 7 has made provision for compensation of losses incurred during

preliminary action. Article 9 of the Act relates to notification of land acquisition. Article 13 makes a provision

for compensation rate. The compensation would be paid in cash as per this Act; there is no provision for

land-for-land compensation. Article 18 of this Act requires Chief District Officer (CDO) to prepare a list of

persons to compensation and issue a notice accordingly for the information of the concerned persons. This

Article has also made provision for lodging complaints by unsatisfied persons and grievance redress

mechanism. As per Article 27 of the Act, land could also be acquired through negotiation.

Public Road Act, 2031

The Public Road Act is the governing legislation for construction and operation of road in Nepal. As per

Article 3A of the Act, construction of permanent structures (building) is prohibited within the right of way

of road. If it is required to acquire any land for the development, expansion or improvement of public road,

the project can acquire the land in accordance with the law relation to the acquisition of land adopting

compensatory measures (Article 14 and 15). Article 16 has the provision to maintain greenery along the road

side. Article 16 has the provision for the extraction of construction material required for development of road

with adoption of compentation measure.

Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 2039 (1982)

In order to manage watersheds of Nepal, the Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 was enacted. The

act is devoted to the protection of watersheds. Under Section 10 of SWCA, power is extended to the

Watershed Conservation Officer to grant permission to construct dams, drainage ditches and canals, cut

privately owned trees, excavate sand, boulders and soil, discharge solid waste and establish industry or

residential areas within any protected watersheds. The Act outlines the essential parameters necessary for

proper watershed management.

The Act is relevant to the proposed project as the project will utilize the soil for dam foundation, access road

and construction of other project components. There is likely to impact on soil and watershed condition of

the project area. Hence, the project is obliged to follow the Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 2039

(1982) during project implementation.

Water Resources Act, 2049 (1992)

The objectives of the Water Resources Act, 2049 is to make legal arrangements for determining beneficial

uses of water resources, preventing environmental and other hazardous effects thereof and also for keeping

water resources free from pollution. The Act strives to minimize environmental damage to water bodies,

especially lakes and rivers through environmental impact assessment studies and the proponents who wish

to use water resources for various purposes should prepare EIA report before a license can be granted. The


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

Act stipulates that soil erosion, flooding, landslides or any significant impact on the environment should be

avoided in all uses of a water resource. The provisions made in Water Resources Act, 2049 (1992) is

mandatory in case of the implementation of the proposed project. As per the provision, the environmental

impact mitigation and enhancement measures have been proposed in view of environment conservation.

Electricity Act, 2049 (1992)

Electricity Act, 2049 is related to survey, generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. Electricity

includes electric power generated from water, mineral oil, coal, gas, solar energy, wind energy, etc. Under

Section 3 of the Act, it is stated that survey, generation, transmission or distribution of electricity without

obtaining a license is prohibited. The Electricity Act, 2049 also contain provisions to minimize soil erosion,

flood, air pollution and damage on environment while producing electricity and transmission of the power

(Article 24). NEA is responsible for electricity transmission and distribution.

Forest Act, 2076

This Act classifies national forest into government-managed forests, forest conservation areas, community

forests, collaborative forests, and religious forests. The Act also aims to promote private, public, and urban

forests. Article 42 of the Act empowers the government to permit the use of any part of the national forest

for national pride projects, the implementation of a plan or project of national priority, and projects approved

by the Investment Board Nepal, if there is no other alternative to forest land and if the environmental

assessment conducted as per prevailing Act shows that the use of such forest would not lead to significant

adverse impact on the environment. As per Article 42(2), the project needs to make available the equivalent

amount of land to the government for forest development. Such lands should be in similar ecological and

geographical areas and near the impacted national forest as far as possible. If the project is not able to buy

lands, it could deposit the money needed to buy such land in the Forest Development Fund established as per

Article 45 of the Act. Article 42 (5) requires the project developers to pay the expenses needed to reforest

and maintain reforested area for five years.

Local Government Operation Act, 2074

As the Local Self-Governance Act, 2055 (1999) was scrapped after the implementation of new constitution,

this act is enforced by GoN in 2074/06/29 accordingly. This act has paved a strong legal foundation towards

institutionalizing executives, legislative and quasi-judiciary practice of the newly formed local government.

The legal mechanism has been enacted as per the Article 296 (1) of the Constitution of Nepal so as to leverage

local leadership and governance system. It has been introduced by upholding the spirit of local autonomy

and full decentralization with the motive to distribute fruits of democracy in a proportional, inclusive and

just manner. The act has stipulated several arrangements related to authorities, duties and responsibilities of

local government.

Labour Act, 2074

The new Labor Act is now effective from the date of assent by the President on Sept. 04, 2017 (2074-05-

19)by virtue of Section 3 (f) of the Interpretation of Statute Act, 1953 (2010). The new Labor Act has repealed

the Labor Act 1992 (2048) (the "Previous Act"). The New Labor Act has brought complete change in

employment regime in Nepal.

The Act clearly mentions that the appointment letter should be issued for all the employees which include

their working hours, working time, wages and other benefits. The Act allows for the time bond contract for

the manpower required for development work. The Act specifies that working hours for the Anabolic and

women must be within 6 AM to 6 PM which clearly restrict to deploy women in night works. The Act also

state that equal opportunity shall be given to women as men. Similarly Working Hours continue to be 8 hours

a day and 48 hours a week, overtime has been increased to 24 hours per week from 20 hours a week. New

Labor Act provides that the minimum remuneration of workers, public and weekly holidays should be as


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prescribed. The employer can deduct the expenses incurred in providing food and lodging from remuneration

if such is provided. Domestic workers should be allowed to celebrate festivals as per their culture, religion,

tradition.

Section 4 prohibited to engage in force labour. The New Labor act also prohibits Non-Nepalese citizen to be

engaged at work in any of the posts which is same as per the previous act. The New Labor Act continues the

general terms of hiring of foreign nationals by a local entity that the foreign nationals can only be hired if the

Nepalese citizen could not be available for any skilled technical post even after publishing an advertisement

in the national level public newspapers and journals. Where 20 or more employees are engaged, employer

shall constitute a Safety and Health Committee as per section 74 of the New Labor Act. There were no such

provisions in the previous act. Where 10 or more employees are engaged in the entity, employer shall also

constitute the Collective Bargaining Committee as per section 116 of the New Labor Act. The new labor act

excludes certain matters from the collective demand and such matter includes:

• If it is contrary to the constitution of Nepal

• If it is against the interest of others due to being baseless allegation

• If it is prejudicial to the personal conduct of any worker or employee

• If it is unrelated to the entity

• If it is without expiry of the time of the collective bargaining agreement

• If it is about the rate and benefit prescribed for social security

Section 6 prohibits for discrimination on the ground of religion, colour, sex, caste, tribe, origin, language,

ideological conviction or any other similar ground. It also clarified that the following acts shall not be

considered discrimination:

• to give preference to any person for employment on the basis of inherent requirement of a job or service;

• to engage a female worker who is pregnant, in any work or service which is easier and suitable to her

condition without any reduction in the remuneration and benefits; or

• to give preference to any physically challenged worker in any job responsibility suitable to his/her

physical condition.

Environment Protection Act, 2053

Nepal has enacted a comprehensive and umbrella type Act, the Environment Protection Act, 2053 (EPA,

1997) which is now enforced through appropriate regulatory measures. The EPA provides a legal basis for

the concerned authorities for regulation of an IEE or EIA. Section 3 of the Act requires the proponent to

conduct an IEE or EIA in relation to the prescribed proposals. The Act uses the word proposal instead of

Projects which makes the scope of the Act much broader in relation to environmental studies. Proponent

includes any government, semi government or non-government agency or organization submitting an

application for the approval of a proposal and possessing the responsibility to work according to such a

proposal or implementing the proposal.

According to the provision in Section 6 (1) of the Act, the relevant agency is empowered to grant approval

for the IEE and EIA report, only if it finds that no significant adverse effects will be caused to the environment

by the implementation of the proposal. Implementation of any proposal without the approval of the relevant

agency is prohibited by the Act. As per EPA, 1997, the proposed project has obligation to carry out EIA prior

its implementation.

Environment Protection Act, 2076

Government of Nepal has enacted this Environment Protection Act in 2076 BS. Section 3 of the Act requires

proponent to conduct Environmental Study: Comprehensive Environmental Study, Initial Environmental

Examination or Environmental Impact Assessment. Section 4 highlights the detailed need of alternative

analysis. Section 5 and 6 relates to scoping and TOR as well as its quality. Section 8 and 9 highlights the


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provision related to approval of environmental study reports and prohibition of implementation of the project

without approval of the reports. Strategic environmental assessment, Environmental Management Plan and

Supplementary Environmental Impact assessment are focused in section 9-11. In terms of pollution control,

section 15-20 highlights the provisions related to pollution control, import and management of hazardous

chemicals, establishment of laboratory, sample collection, pollution control certification. Section 21 and 22

is related to provision of Environmental inspector, their rights and duties. Section 23-28 mainly describes

climate change related provisions including information dissipation, adaptation plans, mitigation works,

climate change risks management, formulation of standards etc. Section 29-34 describes provisions related

to conservation of national heritage and environmental conservation area including the establishment of

environmental protection fund, formation of council, its roles and responsibilities. Section 35 to 37 specifies

penalty and compensation regarding provisions of this Act. In addition, Section 47 of the Act specifies that

for matters concerning applications or complaints related to EPA, 2053 (the previous Act), the same Act will

be applicable.

Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 2056

This Act has defined the ‘Child’ as a person who has not achieved the age of 14 year. Article 3 bans

employing a child below the age of 14 to work as a laborer. No child shall be engaged in works as a laborer

against his/her will by way of persuasion, misrepresentation or by subjecting him/her to any influence or fear

or threat or coercion or by any other means and working hour for the child is mentioned in Article 4.

Solid Waste Management Act, 2068

Article 4 rests the responsibility of the solid waste management under the prescribed standards with the

persons or institution that has generated the waste whereas Article 5 mandates reduction of the waste at

source. Article 9 make the institution responsible to transport the solid waste to the waste disposal facility.

The local body is made responsible for the monitoring of solid waste management by Article 21. Article 38

stipulates discharge of solid waste without the consent of the local body as an offence and Article 39

provisions for the punishment /penalty in case of offense.

An Act to Regulate and Control of International Trade of Endangered Wild Fauna and Flora, 2073

This Act is enacted and enforced adopting Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild

Fauna and Flora, 1973 to which GoN is a signatory state. The main objective of this Act is to implement

CITES through protection of endangered species and controlling and regulating the wildlife trade. The Act

has strictly prohibited the trade, use, farming, breeding or transport (export or import) of endangered species

of fauna or flora or their samples. However the Act has provided some flexibility in the above provision by

obtaining license. The amendments in the Act will be subsequently endorsed in the project, when and where

applicable.

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 (1973) is enacted to make arrangement for the

management of national parks, conservation of wildlife and their habitat and regulation of hunting. It also

conserve, promote, develop, and make appropriate arrangements for and the use of places which are of special

importance from the point of view of natural beauty and to maintain good manners and welfare of the general

public. According to this Act, Conservation Area is an area to be managed according to an integrated plan

for the conservation of natural environment and balanced utilization of natural resources. GoN declare an

area as a national park or reserve or conservation area by publishing a notice in the Nepal Gazette and by

indicating its boundary. GoN can also abandon or transfer the ownership or alter the boundaries of an area

by publishing a notification in the Nepal Gazette. With the interest of national park, reserve or conservation

area, GoN make arrangements for operating hotels, lodges, public transport services or similar other services

or facilities by itself or through other parties by entering into a contract. GoN entrust the management of any


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

conservation area to any institution established with the objective of conserving nature and natural resources

for a particular period by notifying in the Nepal Gazette. As per the Act, 26 mammal species, 9 bird species

and 3 reptiles species of Nepal have been enlisted into the protected categories.

Explosive Act, 2018 (1961)

Implementation of RGHEP will require explosives in the excavation works of road, tunnels, an underground

powerhouse, aggregate quarry etc. As per the provisions of the Article 4 of the Act emphasizes the need of

permission for the use, sell, transportation and import of explosive item. The act made provision of penalty

up to NRs. 20,000 if transporting or using the explosive items without proper permission. The act authorized

chief District Officer to grant such permission. According to Article 8 of the act any accident caused by the

use of explosives shall be informed to nearest Police Station to the earliest possible.

Aquatic Animals Protection Act, 2017 (1960)

This Act was amended in 2055 covering wide area including water resources projects. Article -5 (B)

emphasized that fish ladder must be constructed while constructing dam for hydropower generation,

irrigation or other purposes. The act also mentioned that other alternative provision such as fish hatchery etc.

should be explored as mitigation measures for the loss of fish density and diversity. Section 4 empowers the

government to prohibit catching, killing and harming of aquatic animals through notification in the Nepal

Gazette. This act is in effective because no proper agency has been designated the responsibility of

administering and enforcing the Act. Department level proper agency should be identified and placed with

full authority for the enforcement of the Act.

Land Use Act, 2076

The Land Use Act, 2019 has come into force in Nepal. As per the act, land has been classified into 10

categories: agricultural; residential; commercial; industrial; mining and mineral; forest; river, stream, pond

and wetland; public use; cultural and archaeological; and others. The land classification is based on the

composition and use of the land. The classification has not clearly pinpointed guthi land, which is religious

land in the name of temples or shrines, from the revenue of which the religious ceremonies or festivals

associated with the temples or shrines are celebrated and the repairs and maintenance of the temples or shrines

are carried out.

The act has been introduced based on the condition of land, population growth, requirements of land for

various purposes like food and habitation and the need for economic development and infrastructure building,

among others. The main aim of the act is to ensure that land is properly used and managed and that land set

aside for one purpose is not used for other. The act has assigned the responsibility for implementing the act

to not only the federal government but also to the provincial and local governments. As per the act, three

tiers of the government should constitute councils to bring provisions of the act into implementation. The

federal government should draft maps of all the local levels and ensure that all the local governments are

abiding by provisions of the act. The local governments, on their part, should ensure that the people are

adhering to provisions of the act. For this, they will have to form implementation committees under the

leadership of the heads of the local governments. So the local levels have a major role to play in ensuring

implementation of the act.

The provincial and local governments are also required to formulate their own land use laws based on the

act. The federal government can review the land use plan every seven years, whereas the provincial

governments can do so every five years. The local governments can, however, review the land use plan as

and when required. Such a review can be made on the basis of changing patterns of demography,

urbanisation, specific needs for land use for economic and infrastructure development and so on.


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

The land use plans should clearly show the location of industrial corridors, special economic zones, national

projects, inter-provincial projects, heritage sites, religious and cultural sites, academic institutions, security

areas, disaster-prone zones, biodiversity-protection zones, roads, health institutions, irrigation canals and

other areas as designated by the government. The act has provided for a land bank, which is itself a new

concept in the country. Under the concept, land belonging to various people will be pooled together and

leased out to those who are willing to invest in agriculture. The investors can even embark upon collective

farming, which will give a shot-in-the-arm to agricultural production and productivity.

Children Act, 2075

On 18th September 2018, the Government of Nepal endorsed The Act Relating to Children, 2075 (2018),

paving the way to respect, protect and fulfil the rights of children in Nepal. It builds upon certain national

and international provisions that are meant to promote children's rights. Nepal's 2015 Constitution actually

has an article dedicated to children’s fundamental rights - but this new act translates these provisions and the

children’s fundamental rights provided in the constitution, into a legislative provision, which then allows

children to exercise their rights legally.

The new Children's Act in Nepal is very different. It substantially differs from the earlier children's act of

1992, as it recognises that children are entitled to these rights - and the state has an obligation to uphold their

rights. This obligation is three-fold - the need to respect the rights, protect the rights and fulfil the rights of

Nepal’s children. Another new significant addition to the provision list includes that everything must be done

to promote the best interest of the children.

Consumer Protection Act, 2075

Consumer Protection Act is expedient to make amendment to and consolidation of the legal provisions

relating to consumer protection in order to protect and promote constitutional rights of the consumers to

obtain quality goods and services, to provide judicial remedy for the enforcement of the rights obtained by

the consumers, and provide compensation for harm and injury likely to be caused to the consumers.

Contribution Based Social Security Act, 2074

Contribution Based Social Security Act 2017 (2074) (Social Security Act) was passed by the Parliament on

July 24, 2017 (Shrawan 09, 2074) and accorded the assent by the President on 13 August, 2017 (2074-04-

29). The Social Security Act will be effective from November 11, 2017 (Kartik 25, 2074) by virtue of Section

1(2) of the Act. Section 1 (2) of the Social Security Act provides that it will be effective from 91 (Ninety

One days) from the date of assent by President and has ensured the social security rights to labours working

in the country.

Government notification is required for the Social Security Act to be applicable to any industries, business

or service sector. The Social Security Act provides that the government publishes the notice in Nepal gazette

prescribing the sector, industries, business, service or employer undertaking certain transaction to whom the

Social Security Act applies. The Social Security Act specifies the Scheme that shall operate. The Scheme

Include (a) Medical and Health Protection Scheme, (b) Maternity Protection Scheme, (c) Accidental

Protection Scheme, (d) Old-age Protection Scheme, (e) Dependent Family Protection Scheme, (f)

Unemployment Protection Scheme. The Fund has also authority to introduce other Schemes.

Muluki Dewani Samhita Act 2074 (d'n'sL b]jfgL ;+lxtf P]g, @)&$_

To maintain the morality and financial interest of the public by maintaining law and maintaining good interest

in the social and cultural fields, according to the complete provision of the law and order, Nepal Government

has endorsed the Muluki Dewani Samhita Act 2074, which was implemented from Bhadra 1, 2075 BS.

Eligibility for marriage 20 years for both male and female, Women can use maternal family name after


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

marriage, Government approval is a must for child adoption by foreigners, widow can claim husband's

property, husband can also file for divorce at court, One year cooling period on divorce application, landlords

cannot remove tenants without prior notice of 35 days are the major legal provisions ensured by this Act.

Intergovernmental Fiscal Arrangement Act, 2074

As per the provisions in the Intergovernmental Fiscal Arrangement Act, 2074, Schedule-4, 50 % of the total

royalty obtained from hydropower will be allocated to the Government of Nepal, 25% to the concerned state

and 25% to the concerned local level.

Rules and Regulations

Water Resources Rules, 2050

It is mandatory under Rule 17(e) of the regulation that any person or corporate body, who desires to obtain

a license for utilization of water resources must state in his application that appropriate measures will be

taken to lessen the adverse effects due to the project on the overall environment. Rule 19 stipulates that the

water resources committee shall publish a notice giving detail information about the project to the people.

Electricity Rules, 2050

Regulation on electricity sectors have been formulated for the implementation of the provisions made in the

Electricity Act, 2049. The Electricity Rules, 2050 emphasize environmental analysis, which should include

environmental mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts likely to occur while developing hydro-

electricity (Rule 12 and 13).

Rule 12 (f) and Rule (g) are related to the EIA/ IEE process which emphasize that the EIA report should

include measures to be taken to minimize the adverse effects of the project on social, biological and physical

environment and should also elaborate utilization of local labour, source of materials, benefits to the local

people after the completion of the project, training to local people in relation to construction, maintenance

and operation, facilities required for construction site and safety arrangements.

Forest Rules, 2051 (1995)

Rule 65 of the Forest Rules stipulated that in case the execution of any project having national priority in any

forest area causes any loss or harm to any local individuals or community the proponent of the project itself

will bear the amount of compensation to be paid. Similarly, the entire expenses required for the cutting and

transporting the forest products in a forest area should be borne by the proponent of the project.

Environment Protection Rules, 2077

The Environment Protection Rules (EPR) was endorsed in 2077 in the month of Asar and was made under

the provisions of the Environment Protection Act. The Rules states that, for any hydropower generation

project of capacity 50MW or above, an EIA is mandatory.

The EPR identifies three types of projects base on its Environmental assessment requirements. It has given

standard formats for many environmental assessment study reports. Under this Rules, the EIA of the

proposed project has to be carried out by the proponent and should get approval from the MoFE prior to the

project implementation.

Environment Protection Rules, 2054

The Environment Protection Rules (EPR) was endorsed in June 1997 and was made under the provisions of

the Environment Protection Act. The Rules states that, for any hydropower generation project of capacity

50MW or above, an EIA is mandatory.

The EPR adopts the environmental assessment criteria mentioned in the EIA guidelines. However, the EPR

establishes the administrative framework for assessment, exhibition and determination of the EIA/IEE, in

terms of issues needed to be addressed and the format/layout of the EIA/IEE document. Under this Rules,

the EIA of the proposed project has to be carried out by the proponent and should get approval from the

MoFE prior to the project implementation.

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030

To implement Section 33 of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 (1973), National Parks

and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030 (1974) was prepared. Chapter 2, Section 3 of this Rule focused on

publishing a notice at least 35 days of time period to submit the shield tender in the major newspapers for

operating any services from any bodies of the Government of Nepal inside national parks and reserves. To

operate any services or facilities related to construction work within the national park or reserve, the person

shall take the approval of the Government of Nepal. Except the Government employees deputed for the duty,

other person shall not be allowed to enter into the preserved national reserve without receiving the written

permission from the chief. The permission shall be provided only for a scientific research.

Labor Rules, 2075 (2018)

The Labor Rules has been published in Nepal Gazette on June 22, 2018 (Asar 08, 2075) with immediate

effect and has repealed the then Labor Rules, 1994 (2050) (“Previous Labor Rules”). Major highlights of the

Labor Rules have been briefly described in the following paragraphs.

Rule 3 of the Labor Rules has set out the criteria for determining if any dispute arises on whether or not an

employment is regular employment. It has also specified the additional matters to be covered under the

employment contract. Rule 4 of the Labor Rules requires the employment contract to cover (a) nature of

employment, (b) primary work of the employee and his/her position, (c) statement that the employees' service

rule will be integral part, (d) date, time, place of contract and its effective date, (e) Other important terms and

conditions related to the work or service of the employee.

The employer can determine the work hours on the basis of the nature of the work of the entity. The notice

of the work hours however, should be given to all the employees. It also provides that the employer may put

the employee to work on rotation based on nature of its work. It seems that the Labor Rules envisages to put

the employee in different shifts.

Solid Waste Management Rules, 2070 (2013)

The Solid Waste Management Rules have been issued by the GoN by exercising the power conferred by

Section 50 of the Solid Waste Management Act, 2068. Major highlights of the Rules have been briefly

described in the following paragraphs.

• The Local Body shall, while fixing segregation at least of organic and non-organic solid waste at its

source under Section 6, have to make management and segregation of harmful or chemical waste

separately. If it is prescribed as above, the individual, organization or agency generating such solid

waste, shall have to make segregation as prescribed.

• The Local Body shall conduct programs for increasing people's awareness in relation to applying

appropriate technology for making segregation through reduction of generation of solid waste at its

source and management under Sub-Rule (1).

• No one shall discharge solid waste by mixing harmful, chemical, organic or inorganic waste with

other waste. The arrangement for final discharge should only be made after processing of harmful,

chemical, organic or inorganic waste into a general waste.

• After processing, if the harmful, chemical, organic or inorganic waste needs to be managed through

the Local Body, any individual, organization or agency responsible for the management of solid

waste may make a request to the Local Body for the management of the solid waste, and the Local

Body may manage such solid waste by charging the required service fees.

• The collection, storage and transportation of harmful, chemical, organic or inorganic waste shall only

be done by applying a safe mode. The processing of harmful, chemical, organic or inorganic waste

shall be done so as to destroy the harmful elements in such waste and final discharge and disposal

shall only be done if the treated waste has turned into a normal waste.

Contribution Based Social Security Regulation, 2075

Nepal government has approved the Contribution-based Social Security Regulations on November 11, 2018

and ensured the social security rights to labourers working in the country. The Regulations has made

arrangements for providing social security to the contributors. As per law, both employers and employees

must mandatorily deposit their instalment for the scheme and it is applicable for all types of workers. The

Regulations has provisions for enlisting in the Social Security Fund, the individuals drawing salary from the

government fund, the labourers in the informal sector and self-employed individuals.

The contribution-based social security scheme is funded through the contributions made by the workers and

the employers. The scheme is set to initially include medical, health and maternity benefit; accidental and

disability benefit; benefits for dependent family members and old-age benefit. This is a historical step

towards achieving decent work for all. The Government plans to extend the scheme to workers in the informal

sector soon.

Guidelines and Working Procedures

National EIA Guidelines, 2050 (1993)

The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 developed by the National Planning Commission in conjunction with

IUCN, set out the process for the environmental review and management of infrastructure projects in all

sectors and the respective roles of certain GoN agencies and project proponents. The guideline was part of a

comprehensive program to develop the national and sectoral guidelines for establishing a national system for

EIA which was part of GoN's National Conservation Strategy. The schedules attached to the Guidelines

include:

Schedule 1 : Projects requiring IEE Report

Schedule 2 : Projects requiring EIA

Schedule 3 : EIA based on project sites

Schedule 4 : Format for Terms of Reference

Schedule 5 : EIA Report Format

Schedule 6 : Format of EIA Report Annexes

It is mandatory to follow the National EIA Guidelines, 2050 (1993) during the EIA. Following the guidelines,

the environmental impact prediction and evaluation of the proposed project has been done on physical,

biological and socio-economic and cultural environment of the project area. The guideline is used for analysis

of significant issues.

EIA Guidelines for Forestry Sector, 1995

The GoN in keeping with the spirit of the National Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines, 1993

framed EIA guidelines for the forestry sector in 1995. The Guideline aim to facilitate the sustainable use of

forest resources for socio-economic development and meeting basic need to the community regarding the

forest products, to make proposals socio culturally acceptable, economically feasible, and environmental

friendly to conserve genetic resources and biodiversity and minimize environmental damage in forest areas

and facilitate in identification of positive and negative impacts of programs to be implemented by other

agencies in forest areas. The guideline emphasized the need of carrying out an EIA/IEE of development

projects and programs proposed for implementation in forest areas.

Forest Production, Collection and Sales Distribution Guidelines, 2057

The Clauses 3 to 10 of the Guidelines have specified various procedure and formats for getting approval for

vegetation clearance, delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation of wood volume etc. and

government offices and officials responsible for the approval, delineation and evaluation. These provisions

have a direct relevance to the development of the project and need compliance to these provisions. These

provisions have a direct relevance to the development of the project and need compliance to these provisions.

It is obligation to the project for getting approval in view of vegetation clearance and evaluation of wood

volume from DFO prior to the construction phase.

Community Forest Guidelines, 2058 (2001)

This guideline has been prepared by including amendments of acts, rules by officials of GoN and related

experts. Through these guidelines, persons involved in the development and management of community

forest like facilitators, user groups, forester and managers etc. will get help to understand about the process

and stages of development of community forest. Forest Users Group, forest officials, NGOs and INGOs are

getting benefit by this guideline. Till date, more than 15000 Community Forests have been handed over to

the CFUGs.

Working Procedure and Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for National Priority Project,

2076

Guideline for the use of forest area for development projects of National Priority projects reiterates the use

of the forest area only if other options are not available. The projects requiring the forest land area have to

make alternative studies to minimize the forest land use areas. The proponent of the National Priority Project,

National Pride Project, Priority Transmission Line Project and Investment Allocated Project from Investment

Board has to get the approval from the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

The proponent of the project has to provide the land equal to the forest land permanently occupied by the

project to the ministry of forest and environment. The government project has to make the provision of such

land cost at its cost-estimate. Otherwise, Ministry of finance has to provide such cost.

The proponent has to afforest the area equal to the forest area lost at minimum or the proponent could deposit

the required amount as per forest norm to the division forest office. The proponent should plant 10 trees for

every loss of tree and pole and look after the plantation for 5 years to ensure their protection and growth of

every planted tree. Or the proponent deposit the required amount for plantation and protection for five years

to the DFO.

Order for Remission of Land Ceiling Exemtion, 2074

Nepal Government, Ministry of Land Reform and Management published a notice in Section 67 number 29

Nepal Gazette part 5 dated 2064/06/25, by using the authority given in Article 12 of Land Reform Act 2021,

containing the provision to purchase more than dissociated land by the education or health institution,

hydropower, cultural, industrial work, work for agricultural industry and co-operative farming organization,

if such industry or institutions need.

Guidelines for Licensing of Electricity Project, 2075

GoN has introduced new guideline for licensing power project. The guideline focuses briefly on the

procedures for taking survey license of production, generation and distribution of power project, its

amendment, renewable and dissolution.

Working Policy for Physical and Infrastructure Construction and Operation within Protected Area,

2065

This policy describes the terms and conditions required for implementing projects inside the National park

or reserves. This policy states that no land will be made available for construction of any development work

except of national priority within the protected area. It further states that for the hydropower utilizing the

water flowing inside the National Park or along the boundary of the National Park all the hydropower

components should be constructed outside the National Park, 10% of monthly discharge and the discharge

quantified by the EIA report should be released. Implementation of mitigation measures, allocation of royalty

for the protection of National Park, payment for use of natural resources and monitoring are some of the

conditions mentioned in this policy. Similarly, for any water diversion project within the national park or

reserves, a minimum of 50% of the monthly discharge should be released. This policy has made the provision

of compensatory plantation of 25 seedling for every tree or pole loss. This policy has made the provision of

compensatory plantation of 25 seedling for every tree or pole loss from the protected areas.

Social Security Schemes Operation Directives, 2018

The Social Security Fund (the “SSF”) has formulated the Social Security Schemes Operational Directives

(“Directives”) to operate the Social Security Schemes pursuant to Section 10 of the Social Security Act. The

Directive has been approved by the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security on November 22,

2018 (2075/08/06) and has been effective thereof.

Standards and Manuals

National Ambient Air Quality Standard, 2069 (2012)

The National Ambient Air Quality Standards, 2012 enforced by GoN has set maximum concentration limit

for nine air quality parameters. These parameters includes total suspended particles (TSP), particulate matter

(PM10), sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon mono-oxide, lead, benzene, PM2.5 and Ozone. The standards

has also prescribed the test methods for these parameters. The project during its construction and operation

will have to comply with the set standards for the ambient air quality.

Nepal Vehicle Mass Emission Standard, 2069 (2012)

In order to regulate the vehicular emission, GoN released the Nepal Vehicle Mass Emission Standard, 2069.

This standard has set the limit values on different parameters of emission for petrol and diesel fueled vehicles.

These parameters include carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, oxides of nitrogen particulate matters (PM) and

smoke opacity. Furthermore, these standards are based on type approval and conformity of production of the

vehicles.

National Ambient Sound Quality Standard, 2069 (2012)

It has set the limit of allowable noise/sound intensity in different areas at different time, during the day and

the night. The limit of sound intensity is different for different area like industrial area, commercial area,

settlement areas in rural and urban settings, etc. These standard will be complied.

Standard on Emission of Smoke by Diesel Generators, 2069 (2012)

Emission standards are set for the new and existing diesel generators by the GoN. The standard has set the

limits on four parameters of emission including Carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), oxide of nitrogen

(NOx) and Particulate Matter (PM). This standard is set in accordance with the EURO III and Bharat III

standards. The generators to be used during project construction will follow these standards.

Hydropower Environmental Impact Assessment Manual, 2018

This Manual should be used in conjunction with the Nepal’s National EIA Guideline which dictates the

minimum standards, administrative systems and processes and templates to be followed during an EIA for

any qualifying project. Where appropriate, good international practices have been included with this Manual

to augment the standard EIA approach, and assist hydropower project proponents in better defining

environmental and social risks, responsibilities and opportunities. Specifically, the Manual can be used at

different phases and for different purposes for the preparation and review of EIAs for hydropower projects.

The Manual can be used for all types of hydropower projects that require an EIA based on the Environment

Protection Act and its regulations, particularly Schedule-2 of the regulations. It aims to facilitate the EIA

process for all hydropower projects such as run-of-river (diversion and/or storage), storage reservoir and

pumped storage facilities and associated facilities of the project such as power transmission lines, substations,

construction materials management, and access roads.

The Manual outlines the approach for preparing, submitting, reviewing and implementing EIAs related to

hydropower in Nepal. Section 4 highlights stakeholder engagement and public participation, section 5 and 6

is adhered to screening and scoping. Section 7, 8 and 9 related to identifying, assessing and managing

environmental and social impacts.

Forest Products, Collection, Sale and Distribution Directives, 2073

The directives have specified various procedures and formats for getting approval for vegetation clearance,

delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation of wood volume, etc. and government offices and

officials responsible for the approval, delineation and evaluation. These provisions have a direct relevance

to the development of the project and need compliance to these provisions.

Community Forest Resource Inventory Guidelines, 2061

With the aim to assist Community Forest Users Group for sustainable forest management, community forest

resource inventory guideline bwas prepared. The inventory guideline has six chapters. Second chapter of the

guideline include forest resource inventory methodologies, tools, sample size and intensity, resource

requirement etc. Chapter three contains data collection methodologies, sample design techniques and forest

stock estimation techniques including forest diversity. There is data analysis techniques and utilization of

information obtained from data analysis in chapter four and five.

International Conventions

Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992

The convention contains a series of far reaching obligations related to the conservation of biological diversity

and sustainable uses of its components. One of these obligations is the requirement for environmental study.

The purpose of an environmental study in relation to biodiversity conservation is to identify in advance:

• The aspects of the project which is likely to have significant adverse effects on biological diversity

at genetic, species and ecosystem level, and

• The steps to be taken to avoid or minimize significant adverse effects to ensure that the proposed

project comply with existing environmental legislation

The GoN has included 17 species of plants and 39 species of wild animals in the protection list.

If the project area is in the core habitat of these species and project activity will likely to affect them,

mitigation measures shall be proposed and be implemented to avoid and/ or mitigate the adverse impacts.

Nepal is a party to the convention of Biological diversity and in accordance to the article 14, adequate

attention should be given to minimize and or avoid the impacts.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), 1973

Nepal became a signatory state to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild

Fauna and Flora (CITES) on June 18, 1975. That aims to control the trade of certain wildlife species to

prevent further endangered species of their survival. CITES classified species according to the following

criteria:

• Species threatened with extinction,

• Species which could become endangered,

• Species that are protected.

As Nepal is party to the convention related to species conservation, attention should be given to evaluate the

impacts of the project activities on meeting their obligation. It is relevant to EIA that species protection list

could also be used to evaluate the significance of the identified and predicted impacts. Plant and wild animal

species under legal protection provides a basis to purpose EMPs for their conservation and for least damaging

them during project implementation.

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1992

Nepal is a signatory nation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC),

1997. Article 4 (f) urges to take climate change considerations into account, to the extent feasible, in the

relevant social, economic and environmental policies and actions, and employ appropriate methods, for

example impact assessments, formulated and determined nationally, with a view to minimizing adverse

effects on the economy, on public health and on the quality of the environment, of projects or measures

undertaken by them to mitigate or adapt to climate change.

ILO Convention of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (No.169)

Nepal ratified International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 169 on September 14, 2007. In 2007

the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the General Assembly. The

declaration reaffirms the importance of the principle and approaches provided for under Convention No. 169

and its adoption therefore provide a fresh impetus for promoting the ratification and implementation of 169.

ILO Convention No. 169 highlights the need to recognize indigenous and tribal people’s specific knowledge,

skills and technologies as the basis for their traditional economies and self-determined development process.

Article-1 of the convention provides definition of the tribal indigenous people. Article-6 deals the

consultation of the people concerned through appropriate procedure in particular through their representative

institutions. Whenever, consideration is being given to legislative or administrative measures which may

affect them directly.

In Article 15, the rights of the people concerned to the natural resources pertaining to their lands shall cover

the total environments of the areas which the people concerned occupy or use. The peoples concerned shall

wherever possible participate in the benefit of such activities and shall receive fair compensation for any

damage which they may sustain as a result of such activities. Article 16 (2) clearly mention that where the

relocation of these peoples is considered necessary as an exceptional measures such as relocation shall take

place only with their free and inform consent.

Where their consent cannot be obtained, such relocation shall take place only following appropriate

procedures established by national laws and regulations, including public inquiries where appropriate, which

provide the opportunity for effective representation of the peoples concerned. Article 16 (3) mention that

whenever possible these peoples shall have the right to return their traditional land as soon as the grounds

for relocation cease to exist. Article 16 (5) elaborated the persons thus relocated shall be fully compensated

for any resulting loss or injury. The ILO Convention on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, 1989 (No.169) is

relevant for the proposed project as there are indigenous and tribal families in the project affected area. The

project will acquire and utilize most of the natural resources belonging to those families. Hence, the project

has obligation to have consultation and taking consensus from them before the implementation of the project.

Article-15 states that the rights of the people concerned to the natural resources pertaining to their lands shall

be specifically safeguarded. Provision includes the people to participate in the use, management and

conservation of these resources. This provision creates some confusion and ultimately brings conflict

between the project proponent and resources owners. Project share distribution and employment priority to

these people will somehow reduce the possible conflict. The provision made in the ILO Convention on

Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, 1989 (No.169) is not line fully with the prevailing acts and rules regarding

environmental study of the proposed project.

Appendix K: World Bank Funding Letter

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix K

Appendix L: Declaration

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix L

Access Road of Upper Arun HEP Appendix M

Appendix M: Approved TOR

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