The initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

Environmental Assessment Report

Initial Environmental Examination for Okhaldunga-Salleri Road Project Number: 44143 August 2010

NEP: Subregional Transport Enhancement Project Prepared by Department of Roads, Ministry of Physical Planning and Works for the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Table of Contents

I. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE INSTITUTION PREPARING THE REPORT................................ 1

A. NAME OF THE PROPOSAL...............................................................................................................................1 B. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE PROPONENT .................................................................................................... 1

II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................................................ 2

A. OBJECTIVE OF THE PROPOSAL....................................................................................................................... 2 B. RELEVANCE OF THE PROPOSAL .................................................................................................................... 2 C. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS BY THE PROPOSED SUBPROJECT.............................................................................. 2

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT AND SUBPROJECT................................................................. 6

C. THE PROJECT ................................................................................................................................................. 6 D. RATIONALE.................................................................................................................................................... 6 E. THE SUBPROJECT........................................................................................................................................... 8

1. Salient Features........................................................................................................................................ 8 2. Type of Goods to be Delivered................................................................................................................. 8 3. Proposal’s Capacity................................................................................................................................. 8 4. Materials to be Used ................................................................................................................................ 9 5. Details of the Technology ........................................................................................................................ 9 6. Manpower Requirement ........................................................................................................................... 9 7. Resources Required for the Implementation of the Proposal ................................................................. 9

IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT........................................................................................10

A. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...........................................................................................................................10 1. Alignment................................................................................................................................................10 2. Topography and Land Use.....................................................................................................................10 3. Geology and Soil ....................................................................................................................................10 4. Climate and Rainfall ..............................................................................................................................10 5. Hydrology and Drainage System...........................................................................................................11 6. Air, Dust, Water and Noise ....................................................................................................................12

B. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT .......................................................................................................................12 1. Vegetation...............................................................................................................................................12 2. Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) .....................................................................................................12 3. Protected Vegetation..............................................................................................................................12 4. Community Forest ..................................................................................................................................12 5. Terrestrial Wildlife.................................................................................................................................13 6. Birds........................................................................................................................................................13 7. Fish and Other Aquatic Animals............................................................................................................14

C. SOCIOECONOMIC AND CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT......................................................................................14 1. Demography ...........................................................................................................................................14 2. Ethnicity..................................................................................................................................................14 3. Literacy Rate ..........................................................................................................................................15 4. Economic Activities ................................................................................................................................15 5. Food Security .........................................................................................................................................15 6. Income and Expenditure ........................................................................................................................15 7. Market Centre.........................................................................................................................................16

V. IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROPOSAL ON THE ENVIRONMENT ........17

A. BENEFICIAL IMPACTS ..................................................................................................................................17 1. Construction Stage .................................................................................................................................17 2. Operation Stage......................................................................................................................................18

B. ADVERSE IMPACTS ......................................................................................................................................19 1. Construction Stage .................................................................................................................................19

(IV) IMPACTS ON THE CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT..........................................................................................22 2. Operation Stage......................................................................................................................................23

(IV) IMPACTS ON CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT .................................................................................................24

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VI. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS .................................................................................................................26

A. 'NO ACTION' ALTERNATIVE ........................................................................................................................26 B. DESIGN ........................................................................................................................................................26 C. TECHNOLOGY ..............................................................................................................................................26 D. TIME SCHEDULE ..........................................................................................................................................26 E. RAW MATERIALS.........................................................................................................................................27

VII. MEASURES TO REDUCE OR CONTROL THE IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION ON THE ENVIRONMENT .........................................................................................................................................28

A. GENERAL .....................................................................................................................................................28 B. BENEFIT AUGMENTATION MEASURES ........................................................................................................28

1. Construction Phase ................................................................................................................................28 2. Operation Stage......................................................................................................................................29

C. MEASURES TO MITIGATE ADVERSE IMPACTS.............................................................................................29 1. Construction Phase ................................................................................................................................29 2. Operational Stage ..................................................................................................................................33

VIII. MATTERS TO BE MONITORED WHILE IMPLEMENTING THE PROPOSAL..................37

A. GENERAL .....................................................................................................................................................37 B. TYPES OF MONITORING ...............................................................................................................................37

1. Baseline Monitoring...............................................................................................................................37 2. Compliance Monitoring .........................................................................................................................37 3. Impact Monitoring..................................................................................................................................38

C. MONITORING PARAMETERS ........................................................................................................................38 1. Physical Parameters ..............................................................................................................................38 2. Biological Parameters ...........................................................................................................................38 3. Socioeconomic Parameters....................................................................................................................38

D. MONITORING SCHEDULE AND RESPONSIBILITY..........................................................................................39 E. MONITORING COST .....................................................................................................................................43 F. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN .....................................................................................................43 G. ORGANIZATION OF THE PROJECT ................................................................................................................53 H. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE .................................................................................................55 I. PROMOTION OF GREEN HOUSE GAS REDUCTION........................................................................................55 J. GRIEVANCE RE-DRESS MECHANISM ...........................................................................................................55

IX. OTHER NECESSARY MATTERS .......................................................................................................57

A. REVIEW OF ACTS, REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES ...................................................................................57 B. CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES ........................................................................................................57

1. Legal Provisions for Environmental Integration ..................................................................................57 2. Guidelines...............................................................................................................................................63 3. Standards................................................................................................................................................66

C. PERMISSIONS AND CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR THE SUBPROJECT.....................................................66 D. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE PROCESS ...............................................................................................66

X. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .....................................................................................68

List of Tables Table 3.1 Summary of Estimated Quantities of Materials....................................................... 9 Table 3.2 Protected Vegetation ............................................................................................ 12 Table 3.3 Community Forests............................................................................................... 13 Table 3.4 Terrestrial Wildlife in the Subproject Area............................................................. 13 Table 3.5 Birds in the Subprojects Area ............................................................................... 13 Table 4.1 Likely Scale of Resettlement Impact in the Okhaldhunga – Salleri Subproject..... 19 Table 6.1 Environmental Impacts, /Mitigation Measures and Responsibility ........................ 34 Table 7.1 Compliance Monitoring ......................................................................................... 39 Table 7.2 Impact Monitoring ................................................................................................. 41 Table 8.1 Permissions / Clearances Required for the Subproject……………………………63

List of Figures Figure 2.1 Location Map of Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road ....................................................... 4 Figure 2.2 Okhaldhunga – Salleri – Phaplu Road Alignment.................................................. 5 Figure 3.1 Rainfall Pattern in Okhaldhunga from 1997 to 2006 (DHM, 2007) .................. 11 Figure 3.2 Rainfall Pattern in Solukhumbu from 1997 to 2006 (DHM, 2007)........................ 11 Figure 3.3 Ethnicity on the Subproject Area ......................................................................... 14 Figure 3.4 Food Sufficiency .................................................................................................. 15 Figure 3.5 Household Monthly Income ................................................................................. 16 Figure 3.6 Household Monthly Expenditure.......................................................................... 16 Figure 7.1 Environmental Management Organizational Structure ........................................ 54 Figure 8.1 Procedural Requirement for IEE Clearance…………………………………………64

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Annexes

Annex 1 Approval Letter & Terms of Reference

Annex 1.1 Approval Letter

Annex 1.2 Terms of Reference

Annex 2 Public Notice and Muchulkas (Deed of Inquiries)

Annex 2.1 Public Notice

Annex 2.2 Muchulkas

Annex 3 Recommendation Letters

Annex 4 Geology & Bio-engineering

Annex 5 Meteorological Data

Annex 6 List of Vegetation

Annex 7 Socioeconomic Data

Annex 8 List of Persons Contacted and Summary of Public Consultation

Annex 9 Questionnaires and Checklists

Annex 10 Photographs

Annex 11 Checklist of Review Comments from ADB and Verifications

Annex 12 Corresponding Outline of EIA Report (ADB-SPS 2009) to Sections of IEE

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Acronyms

ADB Asian Development Bank amsl Above mean sea level CBO Community Based Organization CBOs Community Based Organizations CDC Compensation Determination Committee CFC Community Forest Committee CFUG Community Forest Users Group CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species dB Decibel DBST Double Bituminous Surface Treatment DDC District Development Committee DDP District Development Profile DFO District Forest Office DHM Department of Hydrology & Meteorology DOR Department of Roads DSC Design Supervision Consultant EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan EPA Environmental Protection Act EPR Environmental Protection Rules ESA Equivalent Standard Ax1e GESU Geo- Environment and Social Unit GoN Government of Nepal ha hectare HH Household IEE Initial Environmental Examination LCF Local Consultative Forum LFB Local Forums of Beneficiaries m meter MOE Ministry of Environment MPPW Ministry of Physical Planning and Works NGO Non-Governmental Organization NRs Nepali Rupees NTFP Non-Timber Forest Product PAPs Project Affected Peoples PWD Public Works Directives RCS1P Road Connectivity Sector I Subproject RMP Road Master Plan SBST Single Bituminous Surface Treatment SPAPs Severely Subproject Affected Peoples SRN Strategic Road Network STDs Sexually Transmitted Diseases TOR Terms of Reference VCDP Vulnerable Community Development Plan VDC Village Development Committee 3R Recycle, Re-use and Reduce

I. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE INSTITUTION PREPARING THE REPORT

A. Name of the Proposal

1. Name of the Proposal is ‘‘Initial Environmental Examination of Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road Upgrading Works in Okhaldhunga and Solukhumbu Districts, Eastern Development Region.”

B. Name and Address of the Proponent

2. The Proponent is the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works, Department of Roads, Project Directorate (ADB). The Department of Roads (DOR) is the leading agency for road development under Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MPPW) and is responsible for translating government policies for the road sub-sector into the provision of services. The services it provides include planning, design, construction and maintenance of the Strategic Road Network, and provisions to ensure a reasonable level of service for all road users. The name and address of the Proponent is presented hereunder.

RCSIP, Subregional Transport Enhancement Project (VO4) Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and Works Department of Roads Project Directorate (ADB) Kathmandu, Nepal Telephone Number: 01 4437492, 4437493 Fax Number: 01 4437488 Address of DOR for Consultation Geo-Environment and Social Unit (GESU) Department of Roads Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal Telephone No. – 977-01-4262996 Fax No. 977-01-4262996 Email: gesunit@DoR.gov.np

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II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3. The Subproject road starts from Okhaldhunga which is 112 km from Mirchaiya Bazar (Mirchaiya Bazar is 224 km east of Kakarbhitta border along East West Highway). The proposed road is a continuation of Harkapur Okhladhunga Road leading further up to the Phaplu Bazar and is a part of Mirchaiya - Katari – Okhaldhunga - Salleri Road. DOR has accomplished upgrading to bituminous sealed gravel (Otta Seal) standard up to Ghurmi (Right Bank of Sunkoshi River) and is constructing a motorable bridge over the Sunkoshi River which is a major crossing for Subproject Road.

A. OBJECTIVE OF THE PROPOSAL

4. The objective of the Proposal is to upgrade the existing Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road following the design standards developed for Feeder Roads by the Department of Roads (DOR). The location and alignment maps of the Subproject are shown in Figure 2.1 and Figure 2.2. The upgrading works include widening of the roads up to 4.5m (with extra widening at the curves) and construction of side and cross drainages besides reinstatement of existing structures, and other civil works such as earthwork in cutting and filling, base and sub base course laying, wearing coat, embankment slope protection, masonry gabion works, cross drainage works and bio-engineering works. The Subproject after completion will result in a one-lane, DBST surfaced road.

B. RELEVANCE OF THE PROPOSAL

5. For the upgrading of a Feeder Road, an environmental assessment is a legal requirement before its implementation as per the provision of Schedule 1-d-6 related to Rule 3 of Environmental Protection Rules, 1997. In consequence, the IEE study of the Proposal is mandatory as per this provision. The IEE study of this road was carried out under ADB funded RCS1P Project and the study report was approved by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works, GoN in March 24, 2009. Following incorporation of comments and suggestions from ADB, the IEE study report was submitted to the office of Project Directorate (ADB), DOR in March 24, 2009 for a copy to be forwarded to ADB. The checklist of Review Comments from ADB and Verifications is presented in Annex 11 of this report. Field visit was made on May 21, 2010 to ascertain environmental issues and update IEE report as appropriate.

C. Anticipated Impacts by the Proposed Subproject

6. The proposed road passes through forest, cultivated, barren and pasture land. Therefore, a total of approximately 10 ha. of land will be affected for the upgrading of the proposed Subproject. Besides, the impacts associated with the cutting during construction stage are likely to alter the land use pattern of the subproject. 7. Some of the beneficial impacts will be slope stabilization in the Subproject area and control of soil erosion and landslides caused by slope instability, decrease in dust pollution and its impact on human life, income generation from employment during the construction phase and increased income from selling of agricultural products during operational phase. 8. The proposed Subproject is likely to result in an increase in local land value and income. The upgrading of the road will reduce running costs of vehicles due to lower fuel consumption and wear and tear of vehicle parts etc. The better condition of the road will also have beneficial impacts on income generation of the local people. The stabilization of unstable slopes by means of bio-engineering will also enhance the landscape aesthetics due to additional greenery and covering of these areas.

11. Potential adverse impacts due to the proposed Subproject are increase in slope instability and erosion due to the removal of vegetation and open cuts. Water pollution could result from waste disposal and spoil deposits if not properly managed. Air pollution due to dust particles and vehicle emissions, pollution of water, poor sanitation, road and work site accidents, social conflicts and other pressures on the local communities are the likely impacts during construction. 12. During the operation stage, soil erosion and small landslides in slopes along the road alignment during monsoon rain could occur. Cross drains may cause erosion of downhill agricultural fields during the monsoon period if not maintained properly. The identified impacts can be mitigated. The mitigation measures such as bio-engineering for stabilization of slopes and restoration of visual environment, road safety and occupational safety and hazards will be included in the technical feasibility and also in the detailed design. Mitigation measures for sanitation and health, pollution control and social and economic impacts are recommended and will be implemented during the Subproject implementation. 13. The initial environmental examination of the of the subproject ascertains that the project is unlikely to cause any significant environmental impacts. No additional studies or need of undertaking detailed EIA is envisaged at this stage. The DOR shall ensure that EMP and EMoP is included in Bill of Quantity (BOQ) and forms part of bid document and civil works contract. The same shall be revised if necessary during project implementation or if there is any change in the project design and with approval of ADB.

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Figure II.1 Location Map of Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road

Figure II.2 Okhaldhunga – Salleri – Phaplu Road Alignment

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III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT AND SUBPROJECT

C. THE PROJECT

14. The proposed loan and grant (the Project) will improve the country's road network totaling about 195 km, (i) providing north-south link of the country’s north eastern region to the east-west highway (EWH); and (ii) improving major international trade corridors in the country in conjunction with customs systems enhancement. The capacity of road sector and customs institutions will also be strengthened. The project will expand connectivity with remote areas and enhance the capacity of major international trade corridors to develop economy of project areas as well as integrate the project areas more effectively with their primary markets in India, and further to third countries, by enhancing the capacity of roads and customs clearance.

D. RATIONALE

15. Nepal’s transport infrastructure mainly consists of roads and civil aviation. Roads carry about 90% of all passengers and freight within the country. The road network has been expanded by 15% in the past 5 years from 17,182km in 2003/04 to 19,758km in 2008/09. However, Nepal continues to lag behind its neighbors in road infrastructure, with an estimated road network of low density at 0.7km per 1,000 people compared with 6.5km in Bhutan, 4.7km in Sri Lanka, 3.0km in India, 1.9km in Bangladesh, and 1.7km in Pakistan. In some parts of the country, there is no provision of road transport at all and 6 district headquarters in the hill and mountain areas remain without road access. In others, there is only partial access because of seasonal road closures and limitations on the vehicle types that can operate. This limits access of many communities in Nepal to national and regional markets. 16. Nepal’s economy highly relies on foreign trades. The ratio of total trades to GDP is about 50%. While GDP growth between 2001/02 and 2008/09 is about 4%, the growth in exports and imports is about 5%. Trade taxes are some of the major sources of government revenue in Nepal, e.g., about 22% of the total government revenue in 2005. Nepal needs to improve its transport network and transit logistics not only to integrate the remote areas of the country, but also to provide enabling environment for integrating the country into the regional and global market. SAARC1 Regional Multimodal Transport Study (SRMTS)2 identified priority transport corridors among SAARC countries from the South Asia regional perspective. 17. Poor connectivity is a major development constraint for Nepal. Inadequate feeder roads worsen the isolation of remote rural areas, mostly in northern hilly regions. These remote areas with high poverty incidence are required to be linked to markets in the country and further extended to those in neighboring countries. The north-south link could also be a potential transit route connecting India and PRC. In addition to the connectivity issue of remote hilly areas, there is also growing congestion at major international trade corridors, especially EWH and road sections around the borders due to rapid increase of vehicles in Terai areas. This congestion is due to low capacity and poor conditions of roads and limited capacity of customs clearance. The Government is required to expand connectivity of remote areas and, at the same time, to enhance capacity of major international trade corridors including EWH and border roads, and customs systems. To address these 1 South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation 2 SAARC Secretariat. 2007. Regional Multimodal Transport Study. Kathmandu. (prepared under ADB RETA 6187: Promoting South Asian Regional Economic Cooperation)

constraints, the Government developed and has been implementing the Priority Investment Plan (PIP 2007-2016) and the customs modernization plan. 18. The road sector development strategy under the Nepal's Three Year Interim Plan (TYIP, 2007/08-2009/10) includes (i) improving roads for the development of the dense and border area settlements and for the increase to accessibility to hitherto unserved remote areas with economic potential, and (ii) developing the east-west highway as the Asian Highway and the regional trade route in accordance with the concept of developing road networks for promoting South Asian regional development. The strategy provides adoption of the planned road asset management system for sustainable, reliable and safe road transport operations by preserving the existing road asset through prioritized implementation of repair, maintenance, rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads and bridges. 19. Project roads include: (i) the Salleri-Okhaldhunga and (ii) Okhaldhunga -Harkapur roads (100 km), which provides the remote north-eastern hilly areas with a north-south connection to EWH and further south to the Siraha border; (iii) the Khadbari-Chainpur road (44 km), which provides one of the unconnected district headquarters with a motorable road, and will make a planned north-south transit route connecting India at the Bitranagar border point and PRC at the KImathanka border; (iv) the Bhairahawa bypass (3.5 km), part of SAARC Road Corridors 10, connecting Kathmandu with Lucknow in India, which also complements India's ongoing Integrated Customs Posts Program; and (v) the Belbari-Chauharwa road (47 km), which is along EWH around border areas and part of the SAARC Road Corridor 4, facilitating subregional traffic through its Kakarvitta border post and India, to Bangladesh. Project roads have been selected based on environment, resettlement, social and economic impacts; and project readiness. The capacity enhancement of trade facilitation will also help reduce congestion of border areas by further speeding up clearance by using information technology and reducing and simplifying customs documentation and procedures. 20. The project will support government’s development in addressing the two issues: expand connectivity with remote areas and enhance the capacity of major international trade corridors. It will develop economy of project areas as well as integrate the project areas more effectively with their primary markets in India, and further to third countries, by enhancing the capacity of roads and customs clearance. The Project is relevant to achieving results of the Country Strategy and Program (2010-2014), enhancing global-local connectivity to facilitate regionally balanced economic growth; as well as the Regional Cooperation Strategy and Programs (2006-2008), improving South Asia subregional connectivity and facilitating intraregional trade in South Asia. The Project is included in the Strategy and Program (2010-2014) and the Regional Cooperation Operation Business Plan (2009-2010) as a national project with regional implications. 21. The project has been designed in coordination with other development partners to ensure equitable geographic coverage and avoid overlaps, and continues ADB's consistent engagement to improve road connectivity and capacity, and facilitate cross-border traffic in parallel with capacity development support, including road safety, social aspects, overload control, road asset management. The project has substantially enhanced project readiness, e.g., ADB project appraisal on all project roads is based on detailed design prepared by the consultants engaged by the government.

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E. THE SUBPROJECT

1. Salient Features

Subproject Upgrading of Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road and Link to Phaplu

Development Region

Eastern Development Region

District Okhaldhunga

VDCs Okhaldhunga, Baruneshwor, Barnalu, Bigutar and Jantrakhani

District Solukhumbu

VDCs Kerung, Tinla, Garma and Salleri

Total Length 58km

Road Standard Feeder Road Standard of DOR

Right of Way 30m (15m on both side of the center line of the road)

Road Width 4.5m (excluding side drain and widening at curves)

Surface Type All weather pavement sealed with DBST

Type of Work Upgrading

2. Type of Goods to be Delivered

21. The construction work includes following activities; civil works, slope protection and bio-engineering, social development and environmental protection activities.

22. The final output of the Subproject is a finished bituminous sealed all weather road.

3. Proposal’s Capacity

23. After upgrading activities, the road will be 4.5m wide. It will serve traffic levels from 86 vehicles per day in 2011, the year of opening, to 176 vehicles per day after ten years. The cumulative ESA over 10 years for a single lane road is estimated at 0.19 million. 24. The capacity of the road will be increased due to the improved sealed pavement conditions.

4. Materials to be Used

25. The materials to be used in the Subproject works are presented in following Table3.1. Table III.1 Summary of Estimated Quantities of Materials

Item description Unit Quantity

Earthwork Excavation cu.m. 752,800.00

Boulders for soling, random rubble masonry and gabion boxes.

cu.m. 90,800.00

Concrete class M10/40 cu.m. 1,350.00

Gravel as filter material cu.m. 2,660.00

Common back fill material cu.m. 125,200.00

Reinforced concrete pipe (NP3, 90Ø; NP2, 60Ø) RM 1,300.00

Reinforcement steel MT -

Formwork materials sq.m. 1,100.00

Gravel materials for sub base cu.m. 64,000.00

Base materials cu.m. 44,500.00

Bitumen for DBST lit 66,7000.00

Aggregates for DBST MT 7,500.00 Source: Feasibility Survey of Okahaldhunga-Salleri (Phaplu) Road, 2008

5. Details of the Technology

26. Mechanized methods for specialized works will be employed, such as for sub-base and base course spreading, compacting, and finishing with a bituminous seal. Labour - intensive methods may be used for other works such as bio-engineering that can be done manually, including small earthworks, constructing drains and retaining structures etc. Local people will be given priority for the works according to their skill and qualification.

6. Manpower Requirement

27. The anticipated work force required for the Subproject is 1,18,677 person-days for skilled and 5,40,829 person-days for unskilled labourers respectively. The unskilled labour should primarily be recruited from among the local communities, giving due preference to disadvantaged groups and women whenever possible.

7. Resources Required for the Implementation of the Proposal

28. The total construction cost needed for this Subproject is about NRs.1184.317 million including VAT (as per Design Report, 2008).

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IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

29. This section describes the physical, socioeconomic and cultural environment of the Subproject area. The information provided in this sub-chapter is based on (i) primary field studies and household surveys conducted by the Consultant’s Team, (ii) stakeholder meetings resulting from the Public Consultation process undertaken by the Consultants and (iii) secondary data on bio-physical, ecological, social and other relevant information. For more technical details, reference is made to the Feasibility Study for the Upgrading Works for Okhaldhunga – Salleri Road.

A. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

1. Alignment

30. Initially, the road alignment follows the ridge of Okhaldhunga and then runs in a southeast to southwest face of the hill slope up to Patale. After Patale the road alignment runs on a southeast to northeast face of the hill slope up to Samle. Then, the road alignment follows the west face of the hill slope. The road alignment passes through mostly dry cultivated land, forests and villages including Biplate, Chitre, Thade, Jantardhap, Patale, Saune, Pekarnas, Salme, Mude, Salleri and Phaplu.

2. Topography and Land Use

31. Out of 58km total length, 22km lies in Okhaldhunga District and the remainder, about 37km in Solukhumbu District. The road alignment starts at elevation of about 1,800m amsl at Okhaldhunga and ends at about 2,450m amsl at Phaplu. The maximum elevation is at Jantardhap/Mudhe (3,050 m amsl). 32. The alignment passes mostly through rural settlement areas (68%), cultivated land (20%) and village forest land (12%).

3. Geology and Soil

33. The dominant rock types present in the Subproject area include Phyllite, Schist, Gneiss and Quartzite. The common soil types include Alluvial, Colluvial and Residual soils.

4. Climate and Rainfall

34. The climate of the Subproject area varies from sub-tropical to temperate. The maximum monthly average rainfall (1997-2006) was recorded by the meteorological station of Okhaldhunga to be 485.8mm in July. The minimum rainfall of 7.8mm occurred in November (Fig 3.1 and Annex 5).

10-year-average rainfall

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Month

Rai

nfa

ll i

n m

m

Figure IV.1 Rainfall Pattern in Okhaldhunga from 1997 to 2006 (DHM, 2007)

35. The maximum monthly average rainfall (1997-2006) was recorded by the meteorological station of Solukhumbu to be 494.4mm in August. The minimum rainfall of 5.2mm occurred in December (Fig 3.2 and Annex 5).

Figure IV.2 Rainfall Pattern in Solukhumbu from 1997 to 2006 (DHM, 2007)

5. Hydrology and Drainage System

36. The road crosses the Pokin Khola, Pakhere Khola, Jantarkhani Khola, Andai Khola, Solu Khola, Sega Khola, Tilpung Khola and other minor tributaries. These tributaries drain into the Solu Khola and Dudh Koshi River. The Solu Khola flows in a north to southeast

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direction whereas other tributaries of the Solu Khola flow in a northwest to southeast direction.

6. Air, Dust, Water and Noise

37. Generally air, water and noise quality is pristine but dust nuisance occurs when vehicles pass through the road. There are no external sources that would lead to water pollution.

B. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

1. Vegetation

38. The major forest types according to Stainton (1972), that are found in the Subproject area are Schima–Castanopsis forest, Alder forest, Quercus semecarpifolia forest, Rhododendron forest, Abies spectabilis forest and Tsuga dumosa forest (Annex 6).

2. Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP)

39. The major NTFP species found in the Subproject area are Edgeworthia gardneri (Argeli), Daphne bholua (Lokta), Swertia chirayita (Chiraito), Centella asiatica (Ghodtapre), Rubia manjith (Majitho), Gaultheria fragrantissima (Dhasingre) and Acorus calamus (Bojho).

3. Protected Vegetation

40. The protected vegetation found in the Subproject area consists of three tree species and one herb species (Table 3.2). However, none of the species is affected by the upgrading activities of the road. Table IV.1 Protected Vegetation

Remarks S.N. Local Name Scientific Name

IUCN Category CITES Code

1. Champ Michelia champaca E Appendix III

3. Okhar Juglans regia - Appendix III

4. Okhar Juglans regia (bark) - Appendix I

5. Loth Salla Taxus baccata - Appendix II

6. Chiraito Swertia chirayita V

E= Endangered V= Vulnerable T= Threatened

4. Community Forest

41. The road alignment passes through the following community forests.

Table IV.2 Community Forests S.N. Chainage Name of CF Main Species

1. 34+000 to 36+000 Jhodeni Kadeni Pinus wallichiana, Rhododendron arboreum, Tsuga dumosa, Alnus nepalensis

2. 25+000 to 27+000 Surke Pinus wallichiana, Alnus nepalensis

3. 22+000 to 24+000 Jhimir Jhoreni Pinus wallichiana, Alnus nepalensis, Tsuga dumosa

5. Terrestrial Wildlife

42. The terrestrial wildlife found in the Subproject area includes a number of common as well as rare species (Table 3.4). Table IV.3 Terrestrial Wildlife in the Subproject Area

Remarks S.N. Local Name Scientific Name IUCN

Category CITES Code

1. Chituwa Panthera pardus Appendix I3 2. Mirga Cervus duvauceli E Appendix I 3. Byonso Canis lupus V Appendix I 4. Badar Macaca assamensis Appendix II2 5. Kharayo Caprolagus hispidus E Appendix I 6. Bagh Panthera tigris E Appendix I 7. Bhalu Melursus ursinus Appendix I 8. Ghoral 9. Syal Canis aureus 10. Dumsi Hystrix Spec 11. Chauri Bos sp.

Note: E= Endangered V= Vulnerable T= Threatened

6. Birds

43. The types of birds found in the Subproject area are listed in Table 3.5. Table IV.4 Birds in the Subprojects Area S.N. Local Name Scientific Name CITES Code

1. Mayur Pavo cristatus Appendix I

2. Kalij Lophura leucomelanos

3. Danphe Lophophorus impejanus Appendix I

4. Munal Tragopan satyra Appendix III

5. Malewa Columba sp.

6. Bhyakur Turdoides sp.

3 Appendix I includes those species which are threatened with extinction 2 Appendix II includes those species which are not yet threatened, but could become endangered if trade is not controlled 3 Appendix III includes those species which are identified by any party as being subject to regulation in that country and which require international co-operation to control trade.

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S.N. Local Name Scientific Name CITES Code

7. Chil Milvus migrans

8. Titra Francolinus francolinus

9. Battai Coturnix coturnix

10. Gauthali Hirundapus caudacutus

11. Dhukur Streptopelia sp.

12. Kokle Dendrocitta formosae

13. Kag Corvus splendens

14. Chibe Dicrurus sp.

7. Fish and Other Aquatic Animals

44. The major river in the area of the Subproject is the Solu Khola, a perennial tributary of Dudh Koshi River. The River is rich in fish diversity. The major species found in the river are Sahar (Tor spp.), Puntius conchonius, Barilius bendelisis, Eel (Anguilla bengalensis), Jalkapoor (Ompac bimaculatus) and Asla (Schizothorax spp. and Schizothoraichthus spp.).

C. SOCIOECONOMIC AND CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

45. The baseline information is based on 190 randomly selected households (20% of households in communities adjacent to the road).

1. Demography

46. The total population of the surveyed households is 962; males comprise 48 percent of this total population. The average household size is 5.

2. Ethnicity

47. The major ethnic group in the Subproject area (about 39%) is the Indigenous Janajati (Figure 3.3.and Annex 7).

32%

39%

24%

5%

Brahman/Chhetri

Janajati

Newar

Dalit

Figure IV.3 Ethnicity on the Subproject Area

3. Literacy Rate

48. In the Subproject area, about 79 percent of the total population is literate and the majority of this population (about 32 %) has completed Primary Level education. Out of the total illiterate population, females comprise 78 percent. (Annex 7).

4. Economic Activities

49. The major economic activity in the Subproject area includes students which consist of 35 percent. Some of the other activities include farm works (28%), business (8%), public services (4%) and private services (2%). (Annex 7).

5. Food Security

50. 4 percent of the households have food sufficiency for less than three months whereas the majority of households (about 38 percent) have food sufficiency for six to eight months.

4%

24%

38%

10%

19%

5%

< 3 Months

3 - 6 Months

6 - 9 Months

9 - 12 Months

> 12 Months

No Production

Figure IV.4 Food Sufficiency

6. Income and Expenditure

51. The majority of households (about 48 percent) have monthly incomes between Rs 3,000 to 6,000. Approximately 17 percent of households have monthly incomes of less than Rs 3,000 and are regarded as ultra poor families (Figure 3.5)

3-5 Months

6-8 Months

16

16

17%

48%

22%

5%8%

Below Rs 3000

Rs 3000 - 6000

Rs 6000 - 9000

Rs 9000 - 12000

Rs 12000 andmore

Figure IV.5 Household Monthly Income

52. About half of the households have monthly expenditures between Rs 3,000 to 6,000. Very few households (about 1 percent) have monthly expenditures of Rs 12,000 and more (Figure 3.6).

30%

50%

17%

2%

1%

Below Rs 3000

Rs 3000 - 6000

Rs 6000 - 9000

Rs 9000 - 12000

Rs 12000 andmore

Figure IV.6 Household Monthly Expenditure

7. Market Centre

53. The major market centres in the Subproject area include the Bus station (Okhaldhunga), Chitre, Patale, Todke and Salleri Bazar.

V. IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROPOSAL ON THE ENVIRONMENT

54. Identification and prediction of environmental impacts have been made for the proposed actions/activities of the Subproject during the construction and operation stages of the Subproject. Both beneficial and adverse impacts were analyzed. 55. The potential impacts have been predicted in terms of their magnitude of significance (low, moderate and high), extent (site specific, local and regional) and duration (short term, medium term and long term) as well as their nature (direct and indirect).

A. BENEFICIAL IMPACTS

56. Beneficial impacts due to the implementation of the Proposal during construction and operation have been assessed and further enhancement measures are suggested. Local potential areas have been identified that can be promoted to enhance the local economy. They are related mainly to improving the livelihoods of the local people. The likely beneficial impacts envisaged during construction and operation stages of the Proposal are:

1. Construction Stage

57. The proposed road passes through various settlements in the two Districts. The construction works will attract many people of the nearby areas for different opportunities ranging from labouring to skilled work. There would also be spin-offs leading to improved farm and off-farm activities, which may ultimately benefit the local economy. The beneficial impacts of the Subproject during the construction stage are summarized below. a. Employment and Income 58. The first and foremost benefit that local people may expect from the construction works is employment. The construction approach which emphasizes using local people tends to directly benefit the people living in the directly affected areas. The construction works offer a wide range of works for unskilled, skilled and semi-skilled labourers. Local people would generate substantial incomes from unskilled and semi-skilled jobs. The amount of money that is injected in the rural economy in the form of wage earnings will directly enhance the initiation of various ancillary economic activities and enterprise development. The impact is thus direct, of high significance, local but is short term in nature. If the earned wage incomes are saved and utilized for micro-enterprises, benefits can be for long term duration. b. Enterprise Development and Commercialization 59. During the construction period, different types of commercial activities will come into operation in order to meet the demand of labour groups, construction crew and Subproject teams. In general, the enterprises will include food and tea shops, groceries, lodges and restaurants for serving large numbers of people. The demand for local products such as pulses, vegetables, fruits, etc. will rise during the construction period which may provide added impetus for local production and marketing. This will contribute to the local rural economy and may help reduce rural poverty. Such benefits may contribute to enterprise development which often continues to entrench beyond the construction period. This impact will be direct, of moderate significance, local and short-term to long-term in nature.

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c. Skills Enhancement 60. The underlying policy of the labour intensive approach is to employ local (unskilled) labour force for works that can be carried out manually. This strategy not only provides employment opportunities for the local poor people but also supports the transfer of skills and technical know-how while working in construction work such as masonry, gabion works and roadside plantation. This impact will be direct, of high significance, local and long-term in nature.

2. Operation Stage

61. A number of beneficial impacts of the Proposal are anticipated during the operational stage, some of which are indicated below: a. Improved Access 62. The upgraded road will offer easy, comfortable and quick access to the local people as well as to visitors. The improved road surface will reduce the wear and tear on vehicles thus reducing the general costs for spare parts; increase the fuel efficiency and reduce vehicular emissions. This will be of direct, medium, significance, regional and of long-term impact. b. Slope Stabilization 63. The improved access of the road along with effective bioengineering measures add up stability to the slopes which in turn controls the soil erosion. c. Air Pollution Reduction 64. After completion of DBST surfacing, sealed road will not create dust pollution. As a result there will be improvements in the road corridor environment and ultimately beneficial to human health and agricultural products. There will be reduction in respiratory diseases in human beings and production of dust free vegetables along the road corridor area. Hence the upgraded road will reduce dust emission and the associated health hazards. d. Increased Crop Productivity and Promotion of Small Scale Industries 65. The upgraded works of the road provides improved access to seeds, chemical fertilizer, irrigation, agriculture extension, new crop technologies and markets assisting in increased agriculture production and diversification. Agro-industries may be established in nearby areas based on local products such as raw materials. This will enhance economic activities within the area. Such impacts are direct, of medium significance, regional extent and of long-term in nature. e. Enhancement of Social Services and Quality of Life 66. Because of the easy access to transportation, other socioeconomic developmental activities including health, education, communication, market, etc can be increased. The operation of the road will also contribute to the increase in quality services in the social sector as more competent agencies and people will enter into the area to provide services. This will have indirect, moderate significance, regional and long-term impact of the proposed Subproject.

f. Rise of Land Values 67. Road construction and upgrading often leads to rise in land values along the road corridor. Increased land values also enhance farmer’s capability for borrowing loans on collaterals. High value lands are easily acceptable to banks and micro-finance institutions to provide loans. This impact will be direct, of moderate significance, local and long-term in nature.

B. ADVERSE IMPACTS

68. The Subproject activities during construction and in the operation of the road may create a number of adverse impacts on the local environment. These are discussed briefly in the following sub-sections.

1. Construction Stage

(iii) Impact on Social, Economic and Cultural Environment a. Impacts due to Loss of Cultivated or Other Land 69. Upgrading of the existing road will no major adverse impact on cultivated and other land. b. Impacts due to Loss of Private Properties and Infrastructures

70. Based on preliminary data, it is estimated that a total number of 1,116 plots will be affected. Following properties listed on Table 4.1 will be affected and they will have to be dismantled and relocated. Table V.1 Likely Scale of Resettlement Impact in the Okhaldhunga – Salleri Subproject

Types of Assets Affected No

Affected Structures

Affected Status

Remarks

Residential building 4 Partial Structures to be demolished

Buddhist temple/shrine 1 Partial To be demolished

Compound wall 4 Fully To be demolished

Gate 1 Fully To be demolished

Source: Consultant’s Estimate 2008 c. Population Displacement

71. The upgrading works will be conducted along the existing alignment. Hence, there will be no adverse impact on population displacement issue on the Subproject area. d. Impacts on Cultural, Religious, Historical Sites and Public Importance Places 72. Acquisition of cultural or religious or historical site and public importance places will not occur during the construction work.

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e. Landscape Disturbance 73. A major component of the Subproject is upgrading of the existing road. Minimal landscape disturbance will occur since the width of the existing road is sufficient in most of the places for upgrading. Only in few locations will additional land is required mainly to improve road geometry like curve widening and constructing of road side drains, thus limited excavation and filling will be required during construction of the road in Subproject area. Therefore this issue is not significant due to the construction of the road in the Subproject area. f. Dispute in selecting construction works (conflict of local people hiring local

labor)

74. During construction of the proposed road there will be chances of dispute in selecting construction workers from the local area. Thus, for this issue, priority should be given to hire local labours and probability of work should be given to all based on the requirement. g. Pressure on Social Service Facilities 75. Influx of large numbers of construction crews will exert pressure on existing local social service facilities such as communication, water supply, solid waste management, health and medicine, transportation, etc. However, the impacts will be indirect, low significant, short-term and local in nature. h. Occupational Health and Safety 76. During the construction phase, work personnel will be exposed to various health risks and hazards. The hazards will be notable due to injuries to workers while working in the construction without adequate safety measures and equipment. Typical health hazards will be encountered during rock cutting, slope cutting, handling hazardous materials (e.g. bitumen and diesel), machinery movement, bitumen works, side casting, slope stabilization, etc. Other potential impacts to health are respiratory and eye diseases due to exposure to dust and emissions. 77. Health risks are commonly associated with poor labour camp conditions. Unsafe water sources and unhygienic conditions (lack of latrines and washing facilities) bear the risk of additional and often endemic diseases, such as dysentery, diarrhea, and cholera. Uncontrolled water logging and badly managed borrows pits bear the risks of spreading water borne diseases like malaria fever. Increase in Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) such as HIV/AIDS, caused among others by the influx of outside and migrant labourers might pose health risks to the public. Inadequate living space and harassment may increase the stress levels for labourers, especially those who are recruited from outside the local communities. Most of the impacts related to this will be of direct, moderate significance, local and short-term in nature. i. Conflicts due to Influx of Construction Workers 78. The amount of money that enters into the area during construction phase as wage payment may induce local inflation. Increased income of local labourers and construction crews of the contractor can lead to negative impacts such as spread of alcohol consumption and gambling. Influx of migrant workers also bears potential for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV/AIDS. These impacts leading possibly to social and cultural conflicts will be direct, low in magnitude, local and short-term in nature.

(iii) Impacts on the Biological Environment a. Impact on Vegetation and Forest Resources 79. The proposed upgrading works entail clearing of some tree branches along the road alignment and no trees need to be cut down. b. Impact on Biodiversity and Natural Habitats 80. Due to upgrading of the road, vehicles will travel at higher speeds. There will be further disturbance to wildlife due to accelerated and intensified vehicular movements, which may further increase the adverse effects of habitat fragmentation. These effects would be particularly acute in forest sections where there will be increased incidences of vehicle hit on the wildlife trying to cross the road. The anticipated impacts will be of moderate significance, local and long-term. c. Community Forest 81. The proposed upgrading works does not loss any community forest area. Therefore, there will be no impact due to loss of forest land. (iii) Impacts on the Physical Environment a. Slope Stability, Soil Erosion and Downstream Sedimentation 82. Removal of vegetation and open cuts which expose soil to rain and wind could cause soil erosion, downstream sedimentation as well as landslides. This can become a major source of silt in the monsoon increasing suspended and bed load in rivers and clogging drains of road and irrigation canals. Such erosion can also trigger landslides. However, being an existing road, the construction work will not require major earth excavation and also no places are found to be geological hazards in nature in Subproject area. Therefore impact will be direct, low magnitude, site specific and long-term in nature. b. Impacts on Water Resources by Inadequate Drainage 83. The water bodies within the Subproject area are primarily springs, drinking water supplies and irrigation. A limited number of causeway/culverts and other cross-drainage structures already exist. Proper repair and maintenance of the existing structures will be required and there will be no residual adverse impacts on the environment at their locations. However, many additional cross drainage culverts will be required to cross the flow of water along the road alignment. c. Impacts due to Spoil Disposal and Stock Piling of Materials 84. The excavation of materials particularly from road widening and grade improvement needs to be disposed off in appropriate locations which may not always be readily available. The common problems from inappropriate disposal of spoils are contamination of water bodies and gully formation and erosion of spoil, especially when combined with unmanaged surface water runoff. Disruption of natural drainage pattern can cause scouring, erosion and landslides. The impacts will be of direct, high significance, site-specific and long-term in nature.

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d. Impacts due to Quarrying Materials and Borrow Pit Operation 85. The road upgrading works include pavement construction, retaining walls, breast walls and other structures which will require boulders, sand and aggregates. The quarry sites for these materials are at Lipe River (high gradient flow) and at Beni (8 km away from the Phaplu) and also Local quarries which are adjacent to the road at Ch 2+600, Ch 18+000 and Ch 22+500. The quarry sites at Ch 28+000 and Ch 30+200 completely lie in the local conserved forest area. These are already established quarries and local people are using these quarrying materials for local construction purpose. However, for extraction of materials from the forest areas legal permit/clearance from District Forest Office and respective community forest users group is required. The extraction of materials from inappropriate places and in excessive quantities can seriously damage local environment, for example quarrying on high slope and fragile land can result slope instability and extraction of sand/gravel/boulder in excessive quantities from river can cause landslide, erosion etc. Deforestation can be caused due to extraction of construction material from local forest areas. Consequently, adverse impacts in this Subproject area due to quarrying activities will be of direct, moderate significance, site-specific and long-term in nature. In this Subproject, cutting of earth will exceed the earth fill thus borrowing of this material is not required. e. Impacts Originating from Noise and Vibration 86. At present, the Subproject area does not experience noise pollution. However, during construction, the increased construction activities mainly movement of heavy equipment and the operation of crusher plants may cause noise pollution in the vicinity of the plants. There may be vibration effects along the road alignment resulting in cracks in old sheds and houses due to use of vibratory roller, tippers, chips spreader etc.

(IV) IMPACTS ON THE CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT

a. Impacts Originating from Air and Water Pollution 87. During implementation of the Proposal, there are chances of dust emission. This will be temporarily intense along the construction sites. Roadside dwellers, travelers, and workers may be affected by dust. As most of the construction works will be carried out during the dry season, dust emission will be expected to be locally high. Dust will also affect the road side vegetation and agricultural crops. 88. During the construction stage, the water bodies are at risk of being affected due to the disposal of excavated materials and waste by the labour camps, dust, fuel leakage, inappropriate use of bitumen and their storage, heating, spreading and spill of various hazardous materials. 89. The anticipated impacts on air and water bodies will be direct, low significance, local and short-term in nature. b. Occupational Health and Safety. 90. Impacts: During road paving, workers are subjected to physical, and chemical hazards and noise. From vegetation clearing, placing of the asphalt coat, curing, placing of asphalt mix, and compaction, workers are exposed to physical hazards from operating machineries and moving vehicles. Some may be exposed to elevated working condition particularly in clearing vegetation. Almost all workers will be exposed to weather elements, noise, and working in limited area to minimize traffic obstruction.

c. Community Health and Safety 91. Impacts: Communities traversed along the Okhaldunga-Salleri Road will be subjected to a range of health and safety risk during road paving. These impacts include dust, noise and vibration from construction vehicle transit, communicable diseases from influx of temporary migrant workers. The more significant health and safety issues from road project are pedestrian safety, traffic safety, and emergency preparedness.

2. Operation Stage

(iii) Impact on the Social, Economic and Cultural Environment a. Population Pressure and Impact due to New Settlement along the Road

Alignment 92. Ribbon development i.e., the establishment of settlements, shops and food stalls along the roadside soon after the construction of a road is a common feature in Nepal. The increase in land value adjoining road and land speculation are important drivers for such undesired and uncontrolled development. The negative consequences of such activities are encroachment in the right of way, road blockage, delays in private and public transport, increase in local accidents, hindrance for maintenance works, reduction of the overall road capacity, etc. Such impacts are direct, of high significance, local and long-term in nature. b. Employment Generation for Local People 93. After completion of Subproject road local employees will not be required. Therefore there will be no employment generation for local people on operational stage. However, after the better transportation facility people will inspire to establish different type of enterprise development which automatically will result in increase of employment opportunity for local people. c. Social Conflicts 94. There are a number of road-induced impacts that have the potential to exert pressure on the local communities and cause potential social conflicts. Improved road accessibility and connectivity can, for example, trigger or increase illegal activities such as alcohol consumption, gambling and prostitution. Businessmen from other places may come and displace the poor farmers and people of the area. Such impacts may lead to social conflicts situations with varying severity and duration. The likely impacts may therefore be indirect, moderate significance, local and long-term in nature. Roadside Debris 95. Road litter will be generated during road operation, in addition to the potential of illegally dumped wastes, municipal wastes from the rest areas, animal carcases, vegetation waste from RoW clearing, and sediment from the drainage canals. These debris will deteriorate receiving water bodies, pose health hazards and nuisance to the motorist and general public in general. Another form of debris is the use of road carriage for temporary storage of construction materials like bricks, gravel, or concrete mixing platform for vertical structures which poses risk of accident to motorist.

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(ii) Impacts on the Biological Environment a. Impacts on Forest Resources 96. The pressure on forest and forest resources during operation phase will result indirectly from the improved public/vehicular access to forest areas. The impacts on these forests may include accelerated logging, illegal extraction of timber and fuel wood and incidental forest fires. Depending on the setting and the incidence, impact prediction may range from low to moderate significance, locally and long-term. b. Wildlife Disturbance and Poaching 97. Fast vehicular movement (especially during night time) and excessive use of the horn in forest and other habitats may disturb wildlife. Typical road-associated impacts are collision with wildlife, particularly birds in this Subproject road. (iii) Impacts on the Physical Environment a. Impacts due to Slope Instability and Poor Slope Management 98. During the operational phase, the hill slope along the road alignment and nearby areas may be destabilized due to slope cutting, inadequate drainage works, faulty construction, de-vegetation of the area and unsuitable disposal of spoil. The destabilization of slope may also be expedited due to human activities in the road neighborhood such as quarrying stones or soil, animal grazing. This may cause damage to the road. The impacts will be of direct, moderate significance, site-specific and long-term in nature. b. Impacts on Water Resources Caused by Poor Drainage 99. Poor maintenance of drainage structures, especially after heavy rainfall and landslides, will lead to drainage problems, water logging, and erosion. Apart from road damage, minor slope failures may occur causing problems to the local environment. c. Road Accidents 100. Operation of the road will also increase the chances of road accidents, particularly involving children. Inadequate provisions of road safety measures such as road safety signals, lack of enforcement of traffic rules, houses built adjoining road, schools adjacent to road, etc. during operation period may invite accidents. The anticipated impacts will be direct, of low magnitude, local and long-term in nature. d. Noise and Vibration 101. Due to movement of vehicle there could be increase in noise level and it may affect human beings and livestock. The impacts associated with this will be of direct nature, moderate magnitude, locally confined and long term.

(IV) IMPACTS ON CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT

a. Pollution of Water Resources 102. The practices connected with car/truck washing in streams and near wells and springs have the potential to cause local water pollution by leakage of fuel, lubricants and hydrocarbons that may not only affect the aesthetic value of water bodies but also have

detrimental effects on the health of people and animals relying on these sources. The impacts associated with this will be low in magnitude, locally confined and long term. b. Air Pollution 103. The source of air pollution in this area will be the exhaust from the vehicles using fossil fuels and vehicle fumes from any other fuel powered mechanical equipment. This will have impacts on the degradation of air quality. It is common practice for pressure horns to be used in Nepal. This is likely to increase the noise level and it may affect human beings and livestock. The impacts associated with this will be of direct nature, moderate magnitude, locally confined and long term.

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VI. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS

104. As the scope of the proposed activity will be limited to the upgrading of the existing road, there is not much room for alternatives at the Subproject level. However, there could be alternatives in the implementation stage which could be selected to suit the local conditions and given situations. As the subject road is being used, the business as usual scenario will certainly have a significant impact on the beneficiaries as well as the environment. Thus the ‘no action' alternative will be discussed in detail here with some Subproject component level alternatives. 105. The improvement strategy selected will have minimum impact on the environment alongside the road. The strategy selected depends on the following issues.

A. 'NO ACTION' ALTERNATIVE

106. In the absence of the road improvement, the potential socioeconomic development of the Subproject area will be affected in the medium and long term. The present road condition is poor and the average traffic speed is less than 15Kph thus causing high fuel consumption and cost, wasted time (man-hour loss), increased vehicle maintenance, etc. In addition, arrangements for better and safer travel of road users, which is grossly lacking in present condition, will be made. The surface improvements would improve the riding quality and allow faster movement and safer journeys. The ‘no action’ alternative will affect the expectations of the villagers and local leaders. The environmental condition of the road may further deteriorate. The current poor condition of the road would be further worsened. Such a situation would also be detrimental to the concept of sustainable development. In this context, the ‘no action’ alternative will decrease the quality of life of the people in the Subproject area.

B. DESIGN

107. The key design alternatives relate to the choice of pavement type, type of structures and materials for the road. Scope for alternative alignments is limited as the existing road is being upgraded and only minor changes in the road alignments to improve the road geometry will be undertaken. The flexible pavement design is based on the field tests and investigations. Existing road side drains are utilized as much as possible. Where existing road side drains are found inadequate, new drains with stone masonry or concrete construction are proposed. The capacity of the existing cross drainage structures is assessed and some of the structures are to be reconstructed to increase capacity. A hydrological assessment of all cross drainage sites is carried out along the road to determine the adequacy of existing structures and as well as to design and construct new drainage structures.

C. TECHNOLOGY

108. There are many alternative construction methods for the road such as pavement construction methods; pre cast pipe or in situ culvert construction and building techniques. For the surface course double bituminous surface treatment DBST is applied at the road carriageway. At shoulders, single bituminous surface treatment (SBST) is applied. Bioengineering works are considered for all bare cut and fill slopes and at roadside landslides. A detailed breakdown of the bioengineering measures will be carried out during the detailed design stage, the area requiring bioengineering works was determined and included in the Engineer's estimate.

D. TIME SCHEDULE

109. The upgrading of Okhaldhunga-Salleri Road under RCS1P-STEP (VO4) will be implemented over 2 years commencing in the fourth quarter of 2010 and is expected to be

completed in the fourth quarter of 2012. The soil work or excavation activities of the Subproject should be avoided during monsoon period. The construction activities will be carried out during the day time only.

E. RAW MATERIALS

110. The major sources of materials identified are in the Lipe River and at Beni and also Local quarries which are adjacent to the road along the road alignment at Ch 2+600, Ch 18+000, Ch 22+500, 28+000 and Ch 30+200 (Annex 4).

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VII. MEASURES TO REDUCE OR CONTROL THE IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION ON THE ENVIRONMENT

A. GENERAL

111. Mitigation refers to the measures that are designed to cope with adverse consequences and to enhance the positive impacts on the environment as a result of the project implementation. Mitigation measures are recommended actions that reduce, avoid or offset the potential adverse environmental consequences of the project activities. The mitigation measures are of curative, preventive and compensatory types. Different measures that have been proposed for the augmentation of beneficial impacts and minimization of the adverse impacts of the proposed road upgrading works are described below.

B. BENEFIT AUGMENTATION MEASURES

1. Construction Phase

a. Employment Opportunities to Increase in Local Incomes and to Combat Poverty

112. The Subproject will use local labour with emphasis placed on obtaining labour from the road influence area. The Subproject will employ local poor, vulnerable and socially excluded people (Janajati, Dalit) and women, without gender discrimination. Based on past experience in other projects, this will divert a good portion of the total Subproject costs to local people. This will not only improve their economy but also contribute to skills development. 113. Much work will be facilitated through local NGOs/CBOs to ensure that disadvantaged persons will be adequately considered in this process and that everyone receives fair and timely remuneration. The Subproject will ascertain that these NGOs/CBOs will receive beforehand adequate training to carry out the required tasks and to ensure that further livelihood and income generation programs will be jointly undertaken to improve overall economic situation. It is anticipated that through adequate income generation and livelihood development programs, the earned money will be utilized (with the assistance of the NGOs/CBOs) in such a way that it will generate multiplier effects; for example by investing in cooperative, long-term ventures in farming and off-farming activities, crop diversification, agro-industries, cottage industries based on local resources, etc. b. Enhancement of Technical Skills 114. During the road upgrading works, the local labourers will receive manifold skills training in construction techniques, small engineering structures and bio-engineering works. They also will receive additional knowledge in waste management, material handling and general application of environmental health and social precautionary measures. By augmenting their capacity, local people being involved in the Subproject will find it easier to find skilled manpower jobs in the future, thus securing their livelihood as an alternative/additional occupation to agriculture.

2. Operation Stage

a. Promotion of Small –Scale Industries 115. After the completion of the Subproject, the road will provide better access to the local farmers to sell their products to bigger markets at better prices. This will encourage local people to establish small scale industries, cultivate/harvest cash crops and expand other micro-enterprises such as handicrafts. In the context of the proposed road, there is potential for promoting small-scale cottage industries based on locally available raw materials and products and tourism industry. b. Enhancing Quality of Life 116. As a by-product of increase in productivity and subsequent increase in income levels from micro-enterprises and by the gradual development of additional facilities and services in the area due to better access, it is expected that there will be an overall improvement in the quality of life of rural people. Students will save time traveling to school and it will reduce the travel time to social services, market areas and traveling to other parts of the country.

C. MEASURES TO MITIGATE ADVERSE IMPACTS

1. Construction Phase

a. Socioeconomic and Cultural Aspects 117. In order to minimize the socioeconomic and cultural impacts, identified above, the following mitigation measures are recommended for implementation during the construction stage.

Loss of Property and Infrastructures

118. The land acquisition and other property losses due to the activities of the Subproject are mitigated by compensatory measures and additional allowances are provided to the affected persons as per Entitlement Matrix.

Stress on Public Utilities

119. The Contractor needs to arrange for sufficient water supplies and proper sanitation facilities for its labour force. Separate arrangements are necessary for work camp and labour camps. The anticipated cost and specific conditions for necessary arrangements are included in the construction contract. 120. Mitigation Measures: Development and implementation of transportation management plan to ensure work zone safety and workers safety training are the principal measures to address risk occupational safety risk. The transportation management plan will be prepared by the contractor at least 45 days from the commencement of the construction and submitted Project Director for review and approval. 121. The plan will clearly establish work zones to separate workers on foot from traffic and equipment, by rerouting traffic to alternative roads or shoulders, and closure of lanes and diversion to remaining lane. If traffic cannot be completely diverted, contractors will employ temporary protective barriers to shield workers from accident due to collision and channeling devices like traffic cones and barrels to clearly delineate work zones. Mobile or movable self-power warning lights will be use to the extent of avoiding flaggers when

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possible. The selection of work space/stretches will ensure that blind spots from on-coming traffic is minimize or totally eliminated. Strict maximum vehicle speed in work spaces shall be observed and no more than 30 kilometers per hour. Finally, the contractor shall certify to the Project Director at least 30 days before commencement of work that all workers have undergone training in safety practices on working in hazardous condition, working at night and in low-visibility conditions, use of high-visibility apparel and other personal protective equipment, and proper illumination of work space. 122. Workers doing overhead works (e.g vegetation and electric line clearing or installation of overhead signages) will ensure that work place is barricaded from authorized access, proper training of hoisting/lifting equipment, proper maintenance of lifting equipment, strict implemention of equipment lifting procedures, and proper use of ladders. 123. To protect workers from exposure to chemical hazards during construction principally associated with dust from paving activities, heavy equipment exhaust emissions, painting, and use of diesel. Contractors are required to use millers and pavers with exhaust ventilation system, correct use of asphalt product particularly application at right temperature to avoid fuming of bitumen, proper maintenance of vehicle to reduce emissions, reduce engine idling inside work areas, use tailpipe extenders to vent equipment exhaust away from operator and workers, and use of protective clothing when working with mixture of asphalt and solvents. The use of lead containing paints will be prohibited in any of work related to this subproject. 124. To protect against exposure to elevated noise levels from heavy equipment and operating near fast moving vehicles, personal hearing protection will be provided by the contractor to all workers on-site. To reduce health impacts related to cumulative exposure, the contractor will practice work rotation programs among the workers. Month noise monitoring will be conducted by the Contractor and ensure that:

No employee is exposed to noise level greater than 85 dB(A) for more than 8 hours without personal hearing protection

No unprotected ear will exposed to peak noise level of 140 dB(A) All hearing protection devices should able reduce noise to the ear at least 85

dB(A) Periodic medical hearing checks should be performed on workers exposed to

high noise levels 125. Finally, the contractor will ensure the Project Director that qualified first-aide is provided in the work area at all time and accessible to all workers. Since most of the work will be done in remote sites, a written emergency procedure should be available in dealing with cases of trauma or serious illness to the point that patients can be transferred to the nearest hospital. 126. The Proponent assumes that the community involvement in the Subproject activities is a precursor for successful implementation of the Subproject. Local civil servants, NGOs and CBOs will be encouraged to get actively involved in the implementation of the environment and other related activities. Community Health and Safety 127. Motorcylist, and bicyclists are exposed to risk of collision from other vehicles while children, are vulnerable due to their behavior, lack of knowledge on traffic hazards less visible to motorist. The contractor will ensure availability of safe corridors and crossings of pedestrian and bicyclist on where paving activities are located in inhabited areas.

Consultations will be made by the contractor’s supervising engineer with affected communities on location preferences of safe crossings. The contractor will also install barriers to avoid pedestrian from crossing hazardous sections. Approaches to these temporary safe crossings will be provided with traffic calming devices, and appropriate signs, signals and markings. 128. To avoid or minimize collision involving vehicles, the contractor will be responsible for the installation of signs, signals, markings, speed limits, warnings of sharp turns. To reduce collision with animals and vehicles, the contractor will install warning signs to alert drivers of road sections that are know animal crossing, and use of reflectors along roadside to deter animal crossing. 129. Finally, emergency preparedness shall be discussed with the traversed communities to coordinate efforts with the DoR, local police, and community in addressing emergency situations like vehicular accidents, pedestrian accident, or release of oil and chemical spills. Signs will be establish on inhabited areas that enumerates the telephone numbers of agencies concerned when such accidents occur. b. Biological Aspects Biodiversity 130. Use of timber for construction of workers camp and fuel wood for cooking can be minimized through the supply of tents, mobile sheds and supply of kerosene. Fallen trees should be used for the construction of sheds and labour camps. Fuel wood use should be banned for construction workers. Individual cooking can be discouraged through the provision of a mess. Kerosene supply should be regular and easily available to the construction workers. The illicit activities of construction workers in poaching and trade of wildlife and forest products should be monitored and controlled. The anticipated cost and conditions associated with these activities are included in the construction contract. c. Physical Aspects

Slope Stabilization

131. Water management and bioengineering works have already been included in the Subproject design. However some damaged areas have been identified where water specific bioengineering measures should be applied. Bioengineering works have been included in the subproject design for implementation. The recommended measures are shown in Annex 4

Spoil Disposal and Stock Piling of Construction Materials

132. Construction debris should be disposed at designated spoil sites only, far away from water resources and efforts should be made to minimize such waste as far as possible through reuse, reduction, and recycling concept. Similarly, land for the stockpiling of construction materials must be suitably selected such that it does not occupy private land, affect agricultural lands and must obtain written permission from land owners and local bodies prior its use. The site should be cleaned promptly after completion. The specific conditions for stockpiling of construction materials and spoil management are included in the construction contract

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Water Resources by Inadequate Drainage

133. Limited number of causeways/culverts and other cross-drainage structures are already existing along the road alignment which are needed to be repaired and maintained and also additional cross drainage structures are added during the construction stage as designed where felt to be necessary to cross the water through the alignment.

Construction Material Quarries

134. The quarries should be limited to the areas which are not geologically or ecologically weak. After completion of construction activities the quarries should be filled or otherwise altered by forming gently slopes and applying bio-engineering and plantation in forest areas, wherever necessary. And also protect the proposed conserved forest areas to maintain greenery. The specific conditions for opening and closing of quarries and the cost associated with these operations are included in the construction contract.

Accident Risk and Road Safety

135. Information signboards will be placed at required places and safety measures installed as precautionary measures. These also form a component of the Design and the cost is included in the subproject design for implementation.

Noise Pollution and Vibration Effect

136. Attempts should be made to operate heavy construction equipment in the day time only. Cracks in buildings caused by vibration need to be monitored closely. If such problems arise, alternative methods should be employed. For the safety of construction workers, earplugs must be provided while on duty. The anticipated cost and specific conditions related to noise and vibration containment are included in the construction contract. d. Chemical Aspects

Water Pollution

137. Disposal of construction spoil in and near water bodies should be strictly prohibited. Such spoil should be disposed of at designated spoil sites only and efforts should be made to minimize such waste as far as possible through reuse, reduction, and recycling concepts. Similarly, the contamination of water by the use of cement and bitumen should be avoided and strictly monitored. The Contractor needs to arrange for sufficient water supplies and proper sanitation facilities for its labour force. Separate arrangements are necessary for work camp and labour camps. The anticipated cost and specific conditions related to water pollution containment are included in the construction contract.

Air Pollution

138. Water should be sprayed on the road surface as required during construction and protective equipment for the construction workers should be provided. The construction vehicles should be well maintained and should strictly comply with the GoN pollution regulation with compulsion in obtaining green sticker. Similarly, all construction plants should adhere to emission regulation. The vehicles carrying construction materials should ensure that it is well sealed and covered so as to avoid littering. The anticipated cost and specific conditions related to air pollution containment are included in the construction contract.

2. Operational Stage

a. Socioeconomic and Cultural Aspects

New Settlements along the Road Corridor

139. The DDC, VDCs should make local communities aware of the importance of the road RoW. The DDC and VDCs must develop strategies for controlling new settlements along the road corridor and these efforts should help to establish planned settlements only.

Social Conflicts

140. The improved road accessibility and connectivity could lead to increased rate of social crimes such as girls trafficking, drug abuse, etc which can be controlled by strengthening the local communities through mass awareness.

Stress on Public Utilities

141. The Contractor needs to arrange for sufficient water supplies and proper sanitation facilities for its labour force. Separate arrangements are necessary for work camp and labour camps. Roadside Debris 142. The DoR, through the GESU will conduct information and education campaign on proper solid waste management. Communities will be taught the values of keeping the roads free of litter or illegally dumped wastes. Recycling will be promoted particularly in the segregation of wastes and recovery bottles and cans from the parking lots and rest areas for recycling. Collection of dead carcasses for immediate burial will be promoted within the villages. On a monthly basis, the DoR will collect illegally dumped wastes along the subproject road. The DoR will coordinate with VDC prohibiting the use of roads for temporary storage of construction materials. b. Biological Aspects

Protection of Forest Resources

143. The adverse impacts on forest resources should be reduced by the control of indiscriminate felling and smuggling of trees and forest products, and poaching of wildlife. Impacts on threatened plant species should be minimized through re-plantation in nearby vicinity.

Birds and Wildlife Collision

144. This should be minimized through the construction of speed humps in sensitive areas and posting of speed limit signs. To reduce noise and air pollution in nearby settlements, planting of trees on the road side should be implemented. c. Physical Aspects

Slope Stabilization

145. Water management and bioengineering works shall be applied during the road construction period. Also such work shall be given due consideration during the maintenance

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period and during operation of the road. The geologically weak and ecologically weak areas which need regular rehabilitation and renovation have been identified in the design period. A system already exists for regular rehabilitation and renovation of such areas including assignment of responsibility.

Accident Risk and Road Safety

146. Information signboards should be placed, speed humps should be constructed as precautionary measures and traffic rules and regulations should be strictly enforced. d. Chemical Aspects

Air and Water Quality

147. The local traffic regulating agencies should take responsibility for encouraging the use of good condition vehicles. For control of water quality the VDCs along the roadside must control haphazard cleaning of vehicles and the leakage of fuels and lubricants into water channels. Users’ committees for drinking water and irrigation may be helpful in informing the VDCs if there are problems in this respect. 148. The effects of chemicals resulting from leakage from vehicles can be minimized by preventing their drainage into the adjacent water courses. 149. The table below gives the impacts, augmentation/mitigation measures and responsibility of the proposed Subproject in a matrix format. Table VII.1 Environmental Impacts, /Mitigation Measures and Responsibility

Environmental Impacts Impacts NatureMagnitude Extent Duration Total

valuesBenefit Augmentation Responsibility

Beneficial Impacts Construction Stage Employment Generation

D H(60) L(20) ST(05)

85

Preference to local workers for employment

Proponent/ Contractor

Enterprise development and commercialization

I M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Counseling through line agencies

Line Agencies

skills enhancement

D H(60) L(20) LT(20)

100 Providing employment and

training

Proponent/ Contractor

Operation Stage

Improved access D H(60) R(60) LT(20) 140

Proper maintenance during operation

DoR

Air pollution reduction

D M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Upgrading of road Road Users/ VDC/Municipality

Slope stabilization

D H(60) L(20) LT(20) 100 Bioengineering measures Road Users/ VDC/Municipality

Increased crop productivity

D M(20) R(60) LT(20) 100 Improved access to materials Road Users/ VDC/Municipality

Enhancement of social services

I M(20) R(60) LT(20) 100 Easy access to socioeconomic development activities

Road Users/ District Police Office/ VDC/Municipality

Rise of land value D M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Upgrading of road Road Users/ VDC/Municipality

Construction Stage Social, Economic and Cultural Environment Loss of Private Properties and Infrastructures

D M(20) L(20) ST(05) 45 Compensation Contractor/Proponent

Occupational Health and Safety

D M(20) L(20) ST(05) 45 Protective Clothing, Gloves, Masks, Boot etc. to worker/Provision of Insurance and Compensation

Proponent DSC and Contractor

Pressure on Social Service Facilities

I m(10) L(20) ST(05) 35 Provide good health and sanitation facilities to local workers

Contractor

Conflicts due to influx of construction workers

D m(10) L(20) MT(10) 40 Priority will be given to local workers

Contractor

Biological Environment Biodiversity and natural habitat

I M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Control illegal felling, Kerosene Supply and Ban on use of Firewood/Environmental Awareness

Contractor/Local People / Community Forest User Group / DFO

Physical Environment Slope Instability D m(10) SS(10) LT(20) 40 Bioengineering measures Proponent/DSC/ Contractor Spoil disposal D H(60) SS(10) LT(20) 90 Use of designated spoil sites Proponent/

Contractor Noise and Vibration

D m(10) SS(10) ST(05) 25 No mitigation measures Required for Noise Pollution as it will minor and Short term protective measures should provide only for workers

Contractor

Chemical Environment Air, Water D m(10) L(20) ST(05) 35 Construction Waste

Accumulation and Disposal at Designated Site Away from Water Resources/ Minimization of Such Waste Through 3R concept/Sprinkling of water for minimization of dust.

Contractor/ Proponent/DSC

Operation Stage Social, Economic and Cultural Environment Population pressure and impact due new settlement along the road alignment

I H(60) L(20) LT(20) 100 Land development plan VDC, DDC, CDO and other line agencies

Social conflict I M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Mass awareness DDC,VDC, Road User’s Groups Biological Environment Forest Resources I M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Controlling of indiscriminate

felling and smuggling of trees and forest products

VDC, DDC, CDO and other line agencies

Birds and wildlife collision

I m(10) SS(10) LT(20) 40 Local Awareness/Speed humps/ Hoarding Board with Messages

Road Users/VDC/ Municipality

Physical Environment Slope instability of Poor Slope Management

D m(10) SS(10) LT(20) 40 Bio-engineering measures Contractor/ Subproject

Road Accident D m(10) L(20) LT(20) 50 Traffic Regulation/Speed humps

Road Users/ District Police Office/ VDC/Municipality

Noise Pollution Traffic Regulation Road Users/ District Police

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Office/ VDC/Municipality Chemical Environment Air and Water I M(20) L(20) LT(20) 60 Use of good condition

vehicles Must control haphazard cleaning of vehicles and the leakage of fuels and lubricants in to water channels

Road Users/VDC/ Municipality

On the basis of ranking methodology of National Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines

Magnitude H= High (60) M= Moderate (20) m= minor (10) Extent R= Regional (60) L= Local (20) SS= Site Specific (10) Duration LT= Long Term (20) MT= Medium Term (10) ST= Short Term (05) Nature D= Direct I= Indirect

A sum of the impact values for magnitude, extent, duration provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25.

VIII. MATTERS TO BE MONITORED WHILE IMPLEMENTING THE PROPOSAL

A. GENERAL

150. Monitoring for the implementation of environmental protection measures provides a basis for logical comparison for the predicted and actual impacts of a proposal. Environmental monitoring involves the systematic collection of data to determine the actual environmental effect of the Subproject, compliance of the Subproject with regulatory standards, and the degree of implementation and effectiveness of the environmental protection. Monitoring must be an integral part of the implementation of the mitigation measures during Subproject construction, and will generate important information and at the same time should improve the quality of Subproject implementation. 151. The National EIA Guideline (1993) and EPR, 1997 require monitoring plan and indicators, schedules and responsibility be identified in the IEE report. The following sub-sections deal with the various components of the monitoring programme in order to promote the full integration of monitoring activities in Subproject works and implementation.

B. TYPES OF MONITORING

152. The National EIA Guidelines of 1993, the EIA Guidelines for the Forestry Sector of 1995 and the draft EIA Guidelines for Road Sector propose three stages for monitoring. They are baseline monitoring, compliance monitoring and impact monitoring.

1. Baseline Monitoring

153. Baseline monitoring helps to determine the baseline condition of the environmental resource. In general, it is carried out if there is a significant time lapse between the preparation of the IEE report and the construction stage or a change in environmental quality is noticeable. This Subproject will proceed for construction immediately after the approval of this IEE report and hence, baseline monitoring is not required for this Subproject.

2. Compliance Monitoring

154. Compliance monitoring is essential in order to ensure that environmental protection measures recommended by this study and other requirements set forth during the approval of the Subproject are complied with. This monitoring is not concerned with determining the actual effect of the Subproject activities on the environment

155. Although, environmental monitoring is not the responsibility of the Proponent, under the existing environmental laws, the Subproject has included the monitoring for the compliance of the technical specification as an in-built practice. The agencies responsible for monitoring should ensure compliance of activities such as; inclusion of mitigation measures in the design and tender documents, budget allocation for mitigation measures and monitoring, compensation arrangements, operation of burrow pits and spoil disposal sites, storage procedure, arrangement of construction activities etc.

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3. Impact Monitoring

156. Impact monitoring is generally carried out to assess the effectiveness of the environmental mitigation measures and provides actual levels of impacts in the field. Hence an impact monitoring evaluation study is proposed by the end of the Subproject construction phase or within two years of Subproject implementation. Impact monitoring evaluation will focus on each predicted impact and effectiveness of environmental protection measures. This will also focus on the stability of slopes, spoil disposal sites, work camps and labour camps, wastes on the local environment. The utilization of cash compensation to the extent possible, condition of the forest in the vicinity of the Subproject area, water management, damage to human facilities, incremental change in production of high value commodities, increase in other sources of income, employment generation, road side plantation, social status, impediment to wildlife movement, etc

C. MONITORING PARAMETERS

157. These would be based on the level of site-specific information or existing data series and impacts prediction. Efforts should be made to make the indicators measurable and diagnostic with low natural variability and broad applicability. In this context, the following indicators will be monitored during the Subproject construction and operational stages of the Subproject.

1. Physical Parameters

158. Construction sites should be monitored with special attention paid to sites of unstable soil type, which have a potential for soil erosion. Air, noise and water quality parameters should be monitored once every three-month in the construction phase and once every year in the operation phase. Regular supervision of materials handling at earthworks and the stockpiling of construction materials in conjunction with environmental protection measures should be specified in the contract documents and tender documents.

2. Biological Parameters

159. The use of fuel wood and construction materials may increase with the road upgrading work. Restaurants, and tea stalls should be monitored regularly. Unstable land and steep slopes should be maintained through bioengineering. This needs serious consideration of species types, and survivability of planted species.

3. Socioeconomic Parameters

160. The Subproject will provide employment opportunities to a number of construction workers. However, the Contractor may employ outside labourers to accomplish the assigned work in time, thereby exerting additional pressure on environmental resources. Hence, the Subproject will monitor and ensure that the maximum amount of employment is given to local workers to ensure local employment; health and sanitation facilities in the work camp and labour camp, number of children of construction workers and number of labour force collecting the drinking water from the public tap; type of compensation provided to the affected people, and type and extent of damage to local infrastructure such as drinking water pipes, irrigation schemes, and rehabilitation of such facilities.

161. Furthermore, the Subproject will monitor the frequency of illness of the construction workers and cases of respiratory disease, type and number of accident, availability of first aid and emergency services and awareness of the workers and roadside people on occupational health and safety. The Subproject will also monitor the events of social disharmony and related disputes, gambling and liquor drinking, if any, and related disputes, disposal of construction wastes near the temples and water resource during the construction stage. 162. During the operational stage, the Concerned body (Ministry) will monitor intermittently the air and noise pollution and its effect on roadside settlers, and changes in socioeconomic conditions of the local people.

D. MONITORING SCHEDULE AND RESPONSIBILITY

163. The Institution directly involved in monitoring is the DOR of Ministry of Physical Planning and Works. DoR with its Consultants are responsible for managing the upgrading and maintenance works of the proposed road. Respective DDC and VDCs are expected to support DoR in this work. Similarly, involvement of DFO and community forest users group are also very important for the protection of flora and fauna. 164. Regular monitoring by the Subproject hired Environmental Consultant to ensure proper construction practices and implementation of the mitigation measures is therefore very essential. Besides the regular monitoring work, periodic evaluation of the follow-up works regarding the implementation of mitigation measures is required. 165. The Consultants Team would take responsibility for periodic monitoring of the environmental performance, in addition to the regular supervision and guidance of Subproject technicians at the site.

Table VIII.1 Compliance Monitoring

Parameters Verifiable Indicators Verification Methods Schedule Responsible

Implementing Agency

Responsible Monitoring

Agency

Final alignment selection as per IEE/EMP recommendation

Incorporation of IEE/EMP recommendations into alignment selection process

Walk through along final road alignment, verifying sensitive areas

Initial stage preconstruction phase

Technical consultant

MPPW/DOR and DSC

Land and property acquisition and compensation

Cadastral records, land and properties acquisition procedures; preparation of inventory of infrastructures likely to be affected

Public consultation, photos; geo-referencing; check inventory against cadastral records and discuss with people

Initial stage pre-construction phase- well ahead of construction

CDC, DOR NGO, LCF

CDC, MPPW/DOR

Compensation process for lost properties

Legal provisions by GoNCompensation paid

Check compliance with legal procedures, photos

Well ahead of construction

CDC, DOR, NGO, LCF

CDC, MoPPW/DoR

Site selection and preparation of construction logistics

Subproject’s arrangement for materials storage and construction activities

Site observation, geo-referencing and photographic documentation

Beginning of the construction period

Technical Consultant, Contractor

MPPW/DOR DSC

Incorporation of IEE/EMP recommendation

Incorporation of IEE/EMP recommendation into Subproject design document

Review of final design document and Subproject specifications

Following the completion of detailed design

DSC / Contractor

MPPW/DOR DSC

Use of local labour, Specifications which Records of the During the Contractor DOR

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Parameters Verifiable Indicators Verification Methods Schedule Responsible

Implementing Agency

Responsible Monitoring

Agency

particularly vulnerable groups and women

obligate the contractors to observe certain quotas for employing local labour, specially vulnerable groups and women

NGOs/LCF who facilitate and coordinate the process for local people’s employment, interviews

entire period where labour work is contracted

NGO LCF LFB

DSC, NGO, LCFLFB

Awareness and orientation training on road construction to technicians, and locally employed labourers

Training programs for skill development, occupational safety and environmental protection associated with road construction works

Specifications; training records, check training programme reports, assess feedback from participants

Beginning of construction and during construction

Contractor and NGOs, under guidance of the Technical Consultant

Proponent (DOR) DSC

Occupational health safety

Health and safety regulations, first aid and medical arrangements, contingency plan

Spot checks at camps and work sites, photos, accident records, causes

Throughout construction activities

Contractor Proponent (DOR) DSC

Environmental protection measures, including pollution prevention, water and soil management, spoils, sensitive habitats, and critical sites, protection of fauna and flora

Arrangement specified in the Code of Practice and in Manuals relating to environmental protection; records and observations on pollution, waste management, spoil deposit. Training programs for labourers to prevent impacts on wildlife sensitive habitats, forests and fuel wood use

Site inspection, discussion with Subproject management, consultants, and local people. Quarrying site-specific impacts, photos, laboratory tests where required. Existing patrol, control, and enforcement mechanisms, enforcement records

During construction period

Contractor Proponent(DOR)DSC

Air noise and water pollution, public health and accident risks

Air, water and noise pollution measurements; health and safety regulations, first aid and medical arrangements, contingency plan, safety awareness programme

Laboratory test of site-selected samples, point source noise data, spot checks at camps and work sites, photos, accident records from traffic police; training records and material, road signs

Throughout construction activities

Contractor Proponent(DOR)DSC

Restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction of all infrastructure services disrupted or damaged by the Proposal activities

Continued services by the facilities and functional public life

Site observation, DDC records, public consultation meetings, photos

During construction

Contractor Proponent(DOR)DSC

Adequate technical and environmental supervision

Adequate number of technicians regularly at site

Check number and type of technicians available at site Skill of work carried out Discussion

During construction

Contractor Proponent(DOR), LFB, DSC

Clean Up and reinstatement of the construction sites (camps, quarries)

Decommissioned sites indicate no adverse/residual environmental impacts, and are rehabilitated to the satisfaction of he supervisor and land owners

Site observation, comparative photos, consultation with land owners and CBOs

At the end of construction period

Contractor Proponent(DOR), LFB, DSC

Table VIII.2 Impact Monitoring

Parameters Verification

Methods Location Schedule

Responsible Implementin

g Agency

Responsible Monitoring Agency

Physical Mass/debris management

Observation with photograph and measurement

Project site Once in 3months Project Proponent (DOR) Design, Supervision Consultant (DSC) team

Landslides and slope protection measures

Observation with photograph and measurement

Project site Once in 3months Project Proponent (DOR) Road Users/DSC

Water sprinkling to minimize dust

Observation and inquiry

Project site Twice a weak Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Provision of drainage facility

Observation and measurement

Project site Construction stage

Proponent (DOR) DSC

Air, water, soil quality and noise level

Observation Project site Once in 3 months Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Landslides and soil erosion

Observation and measurement

Project site Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Use of safely measures (helmet, mask, Protective Clothing, Boot etc.)

Observation Project site Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Quantity of disposal materials

Truck record Project site Once a weak Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Chemical Use of bitumen Observation and

inquiry Project site Construction

stage Project Proponent (DOR)

DSC Leakage from vehicles

Observation and inquiry

Project site Construction stage

Project Respective DDC/VDC/Municipality and Subproject

Biological

Illegal Logging Measurement and inquiry

Forest land Construction stage

- Proponent (DOR) DSC / CFUG and DFO

Use of Firewood for cooking, timber for camping by worker

Measurement and inquiry

Work camp Construction Stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC / CFUG and DFO

Poaching of wildlife and protected species

Observation and inquiry

Forests Construction stage

- CFUG/ VDC, Municipality and DFO

Wildlife movement

Inquiry Project site Construction stage

- Proponent (DOR) DSC / CFUG and DFO

Socioeconomic

Employment to local people

Inquiry/file record Project site Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Type of damage to public infrastructure

Observation and inquiry

Project site Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

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Parameters Verification

Methods Location Schedule

Responsible Implementin

g Agency

Responsible Monitoring Agency

Number of tea shops and small hotels and commodity shops

Observation and inquiry

Project area Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

First-aid and emergency services

Observation and inquiry

Project site Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC

Settlement growth and encroachment of RoW

Observation and measurement

Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC

Number of accidents

Inquiry, District Police Office

Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC

No. of labor force using public drinking water tap

Inquiry, watching Settlement Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team

Awareness on occupational safety

Inquiry Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team

Health and Sanitation facilities

Observation and inquiry

Project area Construction stage

Project Proponent (DOR) DSC team

Cultural and religious

Damage to temples, pati-pauwa, chautara

Observation and inquiry

Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team

Change in socioeconomic status

Survey and study Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team

Maintenance and rehabilitation

Observation and survey

Project area Construction stage

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team and Contractor

Rehabilitation of work camp and labour camp

Observation and survey

Camp sites Immediately after construction

Projrect

Proponent (DOR) DSC team and Contractor

E. MONITORING COST

166. The DoR/PMU in association with the Consultants are expected to conduct the monitoring activities during the pre-construction and construction stages. Environmental compliance monitoring for pre-construction and construction stages is carried out by MoPPW/DoR/GESU and a lump sum amount of NRs. 2,160,000. (two million one hundred sixty thousand only) needs to be allocated which includes air, water and noise quality measurement and monitoring.

F. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

167. The Environmental Management Action Plan (EMAP) identifies key issues likely to arise from Subproject implementation, and proposes mitigation measures, including monitoring schedule and responsibility. It is not clear in the EPR as to whether an EMAP should be included in the IEE study, as this is a new initiative. The EMAP outlines Subproject description and aims of EMAP, environmental management roles and responsibilities, road design, road construction management of different activities, site supervision, monitoring and reporting, records, audits and corrective measures, improvement proposals, bio-engineering techniques, and cost estimates for mitigation measures (DOR, 1999). 168. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared and a copy of the EMP is given in Table 7.3. 169. Taking into account these considerations, the EMP of this Subproject follows basic concepts of management. These concepts focus on the inclusion of planning, organization staffing, directives, co-ordination, reporting within a broad framework. In a nutshell, the EMP guides the Subproject management in such a way that the environmental protection measures are adequately implemented. The organizational chart for implementing the EMP is illustrated in the figure 7.1.

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Table VIII.3 Environmental Management Plan Institutional

Responsibility Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

[A] Environmental Enhancements 1. Upgrading of

road through settlement areas

Improved side and cross drainage and improved road geometry. Blacktopping in settlement areas will be carried out as per design. Health and sanitation of the settlement area will be improved.

Major settlement areas

Construction Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

2. Road side amenities

Installation of bus bays as per designs. Erection of road furniture - e.g., traffic signs, speed zone

signs as per design.

Throughout Subproject road corridor

Construction ~1,368,432 Contractor SC, PD/DOR

3. Slope stabilization

Carry out bioengineering as per detailed design Throughout Subproject road corridor

Construction ~751,458 Contractor SC, PD/DOR

4. Cultural properties

Enhancement of all cultural properties Throughout Subproject road corridor

Construction Construction contract

Contractor SC, MPPW/PD/DOR

[B] Pre-Construction Stage 1. Land and

property losses / acquisition

Initiate all necessary land and property acquisition procedures prior to the commencement of any related work.

Adhere to the land acquisition procedures in accordance to RAP’s Entitlement Framework.

Throughout Subproject road corridor

Design/Pre - Construction

Subproject preparation cost

PD/DOR SC

MPPW/PD/DOR

2. Permits Obtain all necessary permits for commencement of roadwork and provide a copy to the Contractor.

Obtain written permission from landholders, Municipality, DDC and VDC under the Local Self-Governance Act, 1998 prior to commencement of various activities related to construction work and provide copies to the Supervising Consultant.

Throughout Subproject road corridor

Pre – Construction

Subproject preparation cost Construction contract

PD/DOR, SC Contractor

MPPW/PD/DOR SC

3. Worksite survey, Pegging and

Conduct layout survey of the proposed upgrading works. Locate, pegout and seek approval from the Supervising

Consultant for each ancillary site prior to the commencement

Throughout Subproject road corridor

Pre - Construction

Construction contract

Contractor

DSC, PD/DOR

IEE Study Report July 2010 Okhaldhunga - Salleri Road

RCS1P-PPTA-STEP (VO4) (ADB Grant No. 0051 – NEP (SF)) 45 Detailed Design

Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

approval of related activities. Inspect and approve, if correct all ancillary sites.

Subproject Cost

SC

[C] Construction Stage 1. Quarries of

Subproject works

Locate and peg quarries and seek approval from the Supervising Consultant.

Obtain permission/license for extraction of materials from Stakeholders, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

Locate extraction sites restricted to small areas; preferably on existing quarry sites and sites without any tree cover; away from dwellings, archeological, religious or cultural sites; sites which will not have water logging problem in future; having lowest value production land and sites where effects will be temporary.

Minimize extraction by re-use of materials. Strip and separately stockpile all topsoil and ensure each site

drains into a sedimentation trap before runoff is discharged from the site. Prevent ponding of surface water through adequate drainage.

Restore the site maintaining natural contours and vegetation.

Location of selected quarries propesed during construction time

Design & Construction

Construction contract

Contractor

SC, PD/DOR

2. Borrow pit Borrow pit is not considered due to excess in cut volume compared to the fill volume

NA NA NA NA NA

3. Spoil and construction waste disposal

Re-use excess material as per detail design. Locate disposal sites on stable ground without excessive

slope; that avoids water courses and wetlands; that will not promote instability and result in destruction of property, vegetation and local services. Preferably permissible sites are abandoned quarries in order to restore original contour.

Avoid haphazard side casting and use small spoil benches to prevent slope overloading.

Identify, peg and seek approval from supervising consultant for permissible fill disposal sites.

Location of selected spoil and construction waste disposal sites. Excess cut material can use in the road as a filling material if specification permit.

Construction 1,417,850 Contractor and SC

SC, PD/DOR

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

Obtain permission from local stakeholders, DDC, VDC where required as appropriate.

Restrict disposal at approved locations with correct placement of fill.

Where required, apply bio-engineering measures for vegetative cover to prevent surface erosion.

Measures will be taken to prevent earthworks and gabion works from impeding rivers, streams, water canals, or drainage system.

4. Cut and fill

operation Survey and peg crest of cut batter and toe of earth

embankments. Bench earth embankments prior to filling to enable keying. Fill shall be carried out in layers no deeper than 150mm and

appropriately compacted before applying next layer. Cut and fill slopes shall be protected using conventional civil

engineering structures in conjunction with bio-engineering stabilization measures as per design to rehabilitate erosion prone and problem sites.

Throughout the Subproject road corridor

Construction 10,709,631.00 Contractor SC, PD/DOR

6. Water Management (Drainage, cross-drainage, gully protection etc.)

Suitably sized side drains, causeways, cross-drainage structures, bridges will be constructed as per detailed design.

Cascades, steps, energy dissipaters, and check dams including bio-engineering measures are to be constructed as per design for gully protection to avoid depth and side erosion of river beds.

Standpipes and public water supplies should not be used to extract water for construction works, without prior permission of VDC.

Public shall be consulted regarding location of drainage outfalls.

Care shall be taken not to disrupt or contaminate the irrigation water supply or the supplies to the local public water supplies

Throughout Subproject road corridor.

Construction 10,053,334 Contractor SC, PD/DOR

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RCS1P-PPTA-STEP (VO4) (ADB Grant No. 0051 – NEP (SF)) 47 Detailed Design

Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

7. Stockpiling of Construction Materials

Locate, peg and seek approval from the supervising consultant for the use of stockpile sites.

Stockpile should not be located on water courses; should not be within 50m of schools, hospitals or public standpipes; and should not affect locals and their properties.

Obtain written permission from landowners and local bodies for stockpiling on their land.

Stockpiles should be covered with tarpaulins. For large stockpiles, it should be enclosed with side barriers and also covered when not in use.

Provide intervening vegetated buffer to control any un-expected run-off.

Seed topsoil stockpiles with a cover crop where they are to be retained for more than one month.

Clean area properly after completion.

Location of identified stockpiling sites.

Construction Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

8. Top Soil Saving and Re-use

Save all available top soil from ROW sites and re-use it on completed road formation batters approved by Supervising Consultant.

Strip and stockpile topsoil from all ancillary sites that are to be disturbed.

Keep stockpiled topsoil separate from sub-soil material. Sow a cover crop on each top soiled batter soon after top soil

installed.

Throughout Subproject road corridor

Construction Construction Contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

9. Reinstatement of

Services / Cultural sites

Inventory of all services / cultural sites to be reinstated. Locate and reach agreement with affected landowners and

local people / end users (VDC) regarding services (i.e. irrigation canal, water supply lines, standpipes, drainage ditches and walking trails, chautara’s(public resting places etc) to be maintained, temporarily cut and reinstated including timing and location of cuts and reinstatements. Obtain written permission from affected landowners / local people regarding temporary cessation of services.

Subproject area. Construction Construction Contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

All community facilities likely to be impacted (i.e. temples, Stupas (Buddhist temple), patipauwa(public resting place), traditional ceremonial site etc.) be avoided, protected and re-provisioned as necessary at locations with access acceptable to the local stakeholders, end users (to satisfaction of VDC).

Works shall be planned with timing to avoid / minimize impact to cultural festivals.

Moving of religious structures shall be done based on the results of public consultation.

10. Use of

Bitumen Fuel wood shall not be used for heating bitumen. Bitumen

shall be melted in heaters using kerosene, diesel or gas fuel. Bitumen drums should be stored in dedicated areas, not

scattered along the road and any small accidental spills should be cleared up immediately. No bituminous material shall be discharged into side drains. Bitumen shall not be applied in strong wind or rainy conditions.

Subproject area. Construction 8,405,572 Contractor SC, PD/DOR

11. Stone Crushing Plant / Hotmix Plant / Batching Plants

Locate, stake out and seek approval from Design Supervision Consultant for stone crushing plant.

Locate plant site away from population centers, drinking water intakes, cultivated lands and sensitive ecosystem preferably at least 500m from settlement and habitation.

Obtain permission from local stakeholders, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

Stone crushing equipment / cement batching shall be fitted with dust control devices and operated as per Manufacturer’s Specification.

Bitumen mixing plant should have in-built mechanisms for the absorption of gases.

The plant shall be operated during day time. Restore the site maintaining natural contours and vegetation after use.

Location of selected Plant sites.

Construction Stage

Construction Contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

12. Labour Camp Locate, peg and seek approval from DSC for labor camp Locations of selected Construction Construction Contractor SC,

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

Location and Management

sites. Camps shall not be located near settlements; near water

supply intakes; or sites that affect the access by local people to drinking water. Camp shall not be in the vicinity of landslide and flood plains.

Provide and maintain proper drinking water, sewerage and waste disposal facilities at the camps.

Ensure no wood is burnt by any worker on or off site. Camps shall be provided free of cost, with electricity and regulator & adequate fuel supplies of LPG or Kerosene.

Prohibit workforce from poaching wildlife and cutting trees. After use, sites shall be cleared and restored to near natural

or stable conditions with vegetative cover.

labour camps. contract PD/DOR

13. Work Camp Location and Operation

Locate, peg and seek approval from DSC for work camp sites.

Camps shall not be located near settlements and ; near water supply intakes; or sites that affects locals access to drinking water. Camp shall not be in the vicinity of landslide and flood plains.

Provide and maintain proper drinking water, sewerage, waste disposal including first aid unit medical facilities at the camps.

Used oil, lubricants shall be recovered, re-used or removed form site.

Explosives, oil, petrol, and grease shall be managed according to Provisions of this Management plan.

After use, the site shall be cleared and restored to near natural or stable conditions.

Locations selected for work camps.

Construction Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

14. Combustibles and Toxic Materials Management

Hazardous materials shall not be stored near surface waters sources

Used lubricants and oils shall be collected and recycled or disposed off site.

Plastic sheeting shall be placed under hazardous material

Subproject area

Construction

Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

storage area to collect and retain leaks and spills. Contaminated runoff from storage areas shall be captured in

ditches or ponds with an oil trap at the outlet. Contaminated and worn plastic sheeting shall be packed into

drums and disposed off site. Explosives shall be used as per the prevailing GON

regulations. Water Quality (EC, PH, DO, TSS, Oil and Grease).

Conforming WHO standards.

Four sensitive locations as directed by SC.

Every three months

For water quality monitoring. ~80,000.00 (4 sites x 8 times x 2500)

15. Air Pollution Stone crushing plant / Hotmix plant / Batching plant shall be appropriately located at least 500m from settlement & habitation fitted with dust suppression equipment.

Road construction area shall be maintained damp by periodical spray of water.

Delivery vehicles will be covered. Mixing equipment will be well sealed and equipped as per

existing standards. All construction vehicles should comply with Motor Vehicles

and Transportation Management Act as amended – mandatory Green Sticker.

Provide temporary hoardings where required to minimize dust impact on locations of temples and other cultural sites.

Provision of speed control measures in settlement and working areas to limit traffic speed.

Air pollutant parameters (TSPM, PM10, Sox, NOx, Cox) will be monitored regularly during construction. Conforming NAAQS of Nepal.

Subproject area, Crusher Plant site. Four sensitive locations as directed by SC.

Construction Every three months

Construction contract For air quality monitoring ~1,600,000.00 (4 sites x 8 times x 50,000)

Contractor Through approved monitoring agency

SC, PD/DOR SC, PD/DOR

16. Noise Pollution and Vibration Effects

Ensure plant and equipment used for construction conforms to best practices.

Vehicles and equipment used will be fitted with silencer and maintained to keep noise at minimum levels.

Subproject area, Crusher Plant site

Construction

Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

Workers will be provided with appropriate ear muffs/plugs specially at crusher site

Noise barriers will be placed in urban and sensitive locations i.e. schools, hospitals etc.

Cracks caused by vibration due to construction activities need to be monitored closely and alternative be sought where problem arises.

Work will be restricted to day hours specifically at urban and sensitive locations.

Noise levels (1 hr Leq dB(A)) levels will be monitored regularly. Conforming WHO standards.

Four sensitive locations as directed by the SC.

Every three months

For noise level monitoring ~480,000.00 (4 sites x 8 times x 15,000)

17. Safety, Accident Risks and Health

Adequate lighting and safety signal devices be installed for work safety.

Adequate warning signs, safety barriers, traffic calming measures and persons with flags to control traffic will be provided for work safety.

Protective clothing including helmets, masks, boots, gloves, ear plugs and goggles should be provided for workers safety.

At every work place, a readily available first aid unit including an adequate supply of dressing materials will be provided.

Maintain health care system at construction camps including regular visits by trained medical staff for routine check up of workers and avoidance of communicable disease.

Temporary diversions will be provided wherever necessary, with proper drainage facilities.

Electrical Equipment will be checked and certified regularly. Provide and install all road signs as per design. Impart road safety education to all villagers, schools, clubs

and drivers of construction vehicles.

Subproject area Construction Construction contract

Contractor SC, PD/DOR

[D] Operation Stage 1. Air and Noise

Pollution Maintain signs and speed restrictions on the road section

within settlements area to reduce vehicle speed, dust Villages and forest areas

Operation

Maintenance

DOR Transport

DOR

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Institutional Responsibility

Environmental Issues / Component

Remedial Measures / Actions Approximate

Location Time Frame

Mitigation Cost (NRs.) Implement

ation Supervision

generation, and where horns will not be blown and traffic speed will be regulated.

Strict enforcement of vehicle emission standards. Maintain road side tree plantation Air pollutant parameters (TSPM, PM10, SOx, NOx, COx, Pb).

Conforming NAAQS of Nepal. Water quality (EC, PH, DO, TSS, Oil and Grease).

Conforming WHO Standards. Noise levels (1 hr Leq dB(A). Conforming WHO standards.

Four sensitive sites Four sensitive sites Four sensitive sites

Every six months Every six months Every six months

cost (4 sites x 2 times

x 50,000) 400,000 (4 sites x 2 times x 2,500) 20,000 (4 sites x 2 times x 15,000) 120,000

Manage-ment Department Through approved monitoring agency.

DOR, GESU

2. Safety Measures

Traffic management plan will be developed, especially along congested locations.

Traffic control measures, including speed limits, will be enforced strictly.

Further encroachment and squatting within the ROW will be prevented.

No school or hospital will be allowed to be established within 50m of the road without permission from the planning authorities.

Throughout Subproject corridor

Operation Maintenance cost

Local Govt. Body, DOR

DOR

Note: Cox = Oxides of Carbon. DDC = District Development Committee. GESU = Geo-environment and Social Unit. PD/DoR = Project Directorate/Department of Roads. NOx = Oxides of Nitrogen. ROW = Right of Way. SC = Supervising Consultant. SOx = Oxides of Sulfur. TESU = Traffic Engineering and Safety Unit. TSPM – Total Suspended Particulate Matter. VDC = Village Development Committee.

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G. ORGANIZATION OF THE PROJECT

170. As per the EPR of 1997, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works is legally responsible for environmental monitoring works. The Project Implementation Unit (PIU) will carry out the monitoring of the implementation of the EMP by the Contractor through its Supervision Consultant. 171. The DOR has also established the Geo-Environment and Social Unit (GESU) in 1991 in order to integrate environmental aspects into the road development and maintenance projects. The GESU has, inter alia, issued the Environmental Management Guidelines in 1997 and the Policy Document for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in 2000. PIU will co-ordinate with DOR's GESU and get the additional technical assistance required for the implementation of the environmental protection measures. 172. The PIU may also seek additional technical assistance from the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation and the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology as and when necessary. 173. The DOR and MPPW will evaluate the monitoring results, as and when necessary. The Subproject intends to invite an independent monitoring team to safeguard its environmental image. The environmental agencies will have a number of opportunities to visit and monitor the Subproject activities as a part of compliance monitoring. Hence, environmental monitoring is an additional commitment of the Proponent to best implement the mitigation measures and make the road environment-friendly. 174. PIU staff will work alongside the construction and operation personnel to ensure that the measures and requirements outlined in the EMP are carried out effectively.

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Figure VIII.1 Environmental Management Organizational Structure

175. Figure 7.1 is illustrates, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MoPPW) as the monitoring body of the Subproject. Department of Roads (DOR) Geo-Environment and Social Unit (GESU) is integrated environmental aspects into the road development and maintenance projects. The Project Director of ADB coordinates both GESU and District level offices like District Forest Office, District Agriculture Office, District Irrigation Office. The other government and non-governmental organizations such as CDC, CDO, DDC/VDC, District Survey Office, Local Consultative Forums (LCF), NGO/CBO are working with coordination with the Project Director. The consultant supervisors and monitors the implementation of the EMP and the contractor implementation the work according to the EMP.

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176. The proposed Environment Management Plan is to be implemented by the Contractor during the construction phase. The supervision consultant will monitor the implementation on day to day basis. And also the DoR/GESU and PIU will be monitored during the construction and its impact monitoring after completion of the project. Other local organization like DDC,VDC, CFUGs, DFO, DAO, DIO etc. are also monitored the implementation of the EMP if required.

H. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE

177. In accordance with EPR, 1997 and its amendment, a public notice was published in a National daily newspaper, Nepal Samacharpatra on 2064.11.01 B.S. (13/02/2008 A.D.) and public consultations were carried out during the preparation of the IEE in the areas concerned, including the villagers indirectly affected by the Subproject. The VDCs and DDC representatives, and regional and local NGOs and community-based organizations and other stakeholders were also consulted. Major issues raised were road accidents, use of local manpower and resources, compensation for the affected land and households etc, the details of which are given in Annex 8. The issues raised during public consultation were addressed in the preparation of the IEE report. Copy of the public notice is given in Annex 2.1 and recommendation letters are attached in Annex 3 and deeds of inquiry (Muchulkas) are attached in Annex 2.2. Field visit was made on May 21, 2010 to ascertain environmental issues and update IEE report as appropriate. The IEE report will be accessible to interested parties and general public through information center of MPPW, DOR/GESU and PD/ADB including DOR website.

I. PROMOTION OF GREEN HOUSE GAS REDUCTION

178. CO2 is emitted by the large number of operating automobile vehicles, machines, hot mix plant’s, crusher plant’s etc. during construction. Poor vehicle upkeep may aggravate CO2 emissions. Whilst CO2 emissions during road construction is short term and location specific, vehicle upkeep of other party during operation phase is also the major air polluting cause. Though CO2 emissions magnitude driven by transportation sector in Nepal is relatively insignificant, with newly built road, air quality will be improved as a result of reduction in traffic congestion and waiting times when vehicles are kept idling. Traffic congestion due to cross border commercial vehicles is a routine activity noted in the town of Bhairahawa. The mitigation measures recommended and as summarized below is designed to promote in reduction of Green House Gas.

Newly proposed planting(s) of road side avenue trees. The subproject will ensure that Stone crushing equipment / hotmix plant should

have in-built mechanism for the absorption of gases and shall be operated as per Manufacturer’s Specification.

The subproject will ensure that all construction vehicles to comply with GoN Pollution Regulation and possesses Green Sticker for operation.

The Local Traffic Regulating Agencies during operation phase should take responsibility to ensure use of good condition vehicles complying GoN pollution regulation with Green Sticker.

J. GRIEVANCE RE-DRESS MECHANISM

179. Public dissent, especially amongst local stakeholders is obvious and common to surface upon the road stretch where its activity is undertaken and continued without suggested environmental safeguards being correctly respected most notably during material extraction, locating cross outfall drainage over private land and draining out

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hazardous spills over the private land without consent of the landowner, and finally, creating inconvenience to the locals (littering arable land, dust hazard, noise pollution etc.) because of inappropriate construction practice.

180. The concern/grievances from local/affected people may come up related to inappropriate implementation of various components of EMP. These issues can be easily addressed through acknowledgement, evaluation and corrective action and response approach. To resolve grievance from public or stakeholders concerning the subproject will be directed to the PIU. For local stakeholders’ convenience, this mechanism will be affected by establishing mandatory “grievance register book” at the Office of PIU. The register book will delineate i) date of grievance registered ii) name / address of grievance lodger (stakeholder) iii) nature of grievance being lodged and iv) location / site of fault works requiring corrections. 181. Firstly, it will be assessed if the grievances are genuine or suggestion is acceptable. Accordingly, response will be given within 15-30 days by the concerned PIU in consultation with the Supervising Consultant. In case the PIU through Supervising Consultant is unable to resolve the issue, the matter will be forwarded to the Geo-Environment and Social Unit, DOR. The corrective action will be carried out as per the response or action plan indicated to the stakeholder. The outcome shall also form part of quarterly report to ADB. Grievance re-dress mechanism shall be translated in Nepali language and posted to the respective VDC/DDC/Municipality office by DoR at least 30 days prior to commencement of construction works.

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IX. OTHER NECESSARY MATTERS

A. REVIEW OF ACTS, REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES

182. In Nepal, various instruments are in place to make easy the integration of environmental aspects in development proposals. During the course of this study, relevant Acts, Regulations, Policies and Guidelines have been thoroughly reviewed in order to understand the provisions made to integrate the road development and environmental conservation. This study is made on the basis of these Acts, Rules, Regulation and Guidelines. The main documents that are also relevant to this Subproject are presented hereunder:

B. CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES

183. GoN has accorded high priority to the development of infrastructure, including road construction, in the current Tenth Plan (NPC, 2002). Environmental issues in Nepal are a prominent part of development projects. Inadequate terrain-specific and environmentally suitable road designs and construction practices have been recognized as causing high road rehabilitation and reconstruction costs. Recognizing this, GoN has formulated a policy of internalizing environmental management in sectoral development projects and programs, including road construction. The proposed Subproject aims to achieve this by incorporating measures to avoid and mitigate potential impacts throughout the project’s development phases (i.e. upgrading design, upgrading works and post-upgrading). 184. At present, following policy documents are relevant in this study.

Policy guidelines of tenth five year plan, GoN, Planning Commission, 2002

National Transport Policy

1. Legal Provisions for Environmental Integration

185. The following are the legal provisions that require integration of environment in different development Subprojects and programmes. a. Environmental Protection Act, 1997 186. The Environmental Protection Act, 1997 and Environmental Protection Regulation, 1997 (first amendment, 1999) contain several provisions to institutionalize the integration of environmental aspects in development Subprojects including road sector, and empowers Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, to approve EIA report. Similarly, in case of IEE level study, line Ministry, which is Ministry of Physical Planning and Works for the proposed Subproject, is authorized to approve the Final IEE Report. The following are the highlights of the EPA, 1997; 187. The Act recognizes the interdependence between development and the environment and shows the concerns for minimizing the impacts of environmental degradation on people, animal, and plant species and their physical surroundings.

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188. The Act obliges the proponent to undertake IEE and EIA of proposal, plans or Subprojects which may cause changes in existing environmental condition and authorizes MOE to clear all EIA and line Ministry for IEE study, 189. Empowers MOE to prohibit the use of any matter, fuel, equipment or plant, which has adverse effects on the environment, 190. The Act has provisions for polluters to compensate affected persons from polluting activities. Empowers government to provide additional incentives to any industry, occupation, technology or process, which has positive impacts on environmental conservation, has provisions to establish an Environmental Protection Fund to be used for environmental protection, pollution control and heritage conservation, and it gives the government authority to declare specific area as environmentally protected areas. b. Environmental Protection Rules, 1997 (First Amendment, 1999) 191. In the process of implementing EPA (1997) effectively the Environmental Protection Rule (EPR) came into force in 1997 and was amended in 1999. The EPR contains elaborate provisions for the process to be followed during the preparation and approval of Subprojects requiring EIAs and IEEs including scoping documents, terms of reference, public consultations and hearings, and environmental monitoring and auditing. The environmental legislation empowers the concerned Ministry to monitor the environmental activities including mitigation measures and MOE for environmental auditing. For IEE, the concerned Ministry, which is the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works in case of the proposed Subproject, is authorized to approve the Final IEE Report. The EPR also lists the types of development activities requiring IEE or EIA level Study. It also gives an outline of content of the terms of reference document, IEE and EIA report. c. Public Roads Act, 1974 192. The Department of Roads may temporarily acquire the land and other property adopting compensatory measures during the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of the public roads according to the Act (Article 14 &15). The Act also empowers the DOR to operate quarries, borrow pits and other facilities during the road construction (Article 17). In sum the Act facilitates the acquisition of land and property for the extraction of construction materials and development of other facilities as well as to maintain greenery along the roadside with adoption of compensatory measures. d. Road Board Act 2002 193. Roads Board Act, 2002 necessary provisions on repair and maintenance of roads, minimizing the expenditures to be incurred in repairing and maintaining the roads and making transparent and effective the repairing and maintaining works of the roads. The autonomous body of Roads Board was established to carry out routine, recurrent, periodic, and emergency repair and maintenance works of the road and to make an arrangement for imposition on and collection of tolls from the motor vehicles plying on the road.

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e. Labor Act 1992 and Labor Rules, 1994 194. Labor Act, 1992 (first amendment 1998) and Labor Rules, 1994 deals deal with manual labor. Clause 46 under Section 7 deals particularly with Construction industry. The Act defines working time as eight hours a day and a weekend leave. A half and hour break should be given as snack and tea break before continuous work of maximum five hours. Attendance Registry should be maintained properly. Clause 27 to 32 under Section 5 gives details for occupational health and safety requirement to be maintained for labors. Child labor (below 14 years) is prohibited, and between 14 to 16 years of age should be given proper training before putting them in work. It calls for insurance and safety management of labors. It also directs to establish camp near temporary working sites with drinking water, food, sanitation and residential facilities of numbers of labors are fifty or more in construction projects. The Labor Rule, 1994 guarantees equal wage for male and female. It also lists the percentage of compensation for different types of accidents during work at site. f. Forest Policy, 1993 195. The forest policy is attracted when a development project directly or indirectly impacts on the forest resources. The forest policy is directed, inter alias, to contribute food production through effective interaction between forestry and farming system, to protect land against degradation by soil erosion, landslide, and other effects of ecological disturbances, and to conserve ecosystem and genetic resources. However, the forest policy re-emphasizes to avoid forest destruction or tree cutting while constructing infrastructures during implementation of project other than forest sector. The policy has prioritized the protection of Siwalik, the geologically vulnerable area, with a view to ensure watershed conservation, and maintenance of water recharge. The policy also stresses conservation of endangered species. It has reiterated that forest area will not be used for any activities other than prescribed in Operational Forest Management Plan. The forest policy emphasizes the implementation of community and private forestry development programs, national parks and conservation areas management programs, soil and watershed conservation program, management and development of medicinal plants, and conservation of biological diversity. g. Forest Act, 1992 (Amended in 1998) and its Rules, 1995 196. The Forest Act, 1992 (amended in 1998) contains several provisions to ensure the development, conservation, management and sustainable use of forest resources. The Act categories the forest into five categories viz.; state managed forest, community forest, leasehold forest, private forest and religious forest. The GON has promoted users to manage forests in the form of community forests based on an approved work plan. The work plan should contain a list of activities that will be implemented in the community forest. It is significant that Article 27 of the Act contains provisions to take back the community forest if any activity causes significant adverse impact on environment or the users group that does not comply with terms and conditions. 197. The Act in general, prohibits the use of forest areas for development Subprojects, but its Article 68 empowers GON to issue permission to use the required portion of forest for development with the assurance that it does not significantly affect the environment. Based on the Forest Legislation, GON has legally protected thirteen plant species including Khair and Sal.

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h. Local Self-Governance Act, 1999 198. The Local Self-Governance Act, 1999 empowers the local bodies for the conservation of soil, forest, and other natural resources and implementation of environmental conservation activities. The Village Development Committees (VDCs), Municipalities and District Development Committees (DDCs) are mandated to take up the responsibilities for the formulation and implementation of a programme relating to the protection of the environment and bio-diversity, and to give adequate priority for the protection of the environment during the formulation of local level plans and programme. i. Three Years Interim Plan (2007-2009) 199. One of the objectives of the Transport sector is to develop the identified eight trade and transit corridors between neighboring Countries India and China. Other objective of the transport sector related to the subproject is to develop and operate safe roads by suitable road safety and traffic management activities including raising public awareness on such activities. 200. Policy and working policies of the Transport sector in the Interim Plan is that the roads connecting the DHQs to be gradually upgraded (sealed). The construction, repair and maintenance works for roads connecting the major hydropower, irrigation, tourism and similar projects will be executed as part and parcel of the concerned projects. 201. The environmental strategies of the Interim Plan are to launch development programs by internalizing environmental management; mobilize non-government private sector, local agencies and the public in increasing public awareness on environment; determine and implement additional by - Laws on air, water, soil and sound pollution; and by making action plans prioritize and implement Treaties and Conventions on environment, which Nepal has endorsed. 202. One of the policies of the Interim Plan is to institutionalize the environmental monitoring auditing through an effective implementation of approved environmental reports (IEE and EIA). j. Interim Constitution of Nepal, 2007 (with amendment) 203. The Interim Constitution of Nepal made the provision to every person has the right to live in a clean environment. It also made provision in Article 35[5] the State shall make necessary arrangements to maintain the natural environment. The State shall give priority to special protection of the environment, and rare wildlife, and prevent further damage due to physical development activities, by increasing awareness of the general public about environmental cleanliness. Provision shall be made for the protection of the forest, vegetation and biodiversity, their sustainable use and for equitable distribution of the benefits derived from them. k. Land Acquisition Act, 1978 204. The Land Acquisition Act (amendment 1993) guides the compulsory acquisition of land. GON can acquire land at any place and in any quantity by giving compensation

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pursuant to the Act for the land acquired for any public purpose(s) or for operation of any development project initiated by GON institutions. l. Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 205. Soil and Watershed Conservation Act makes provision to control floods landslides (watershed conservation rules, 1985) the watershed conservation office is authority and district watershed conservation committee must implement watershed conservation practices and public participation for soil and land protection.

m. Water Resources Act, 1992

206. Water resources act (1992)makes provision for the rational use of surface and underground water .the act seeks to prevent environment and hazardous effects from the use of water and prohibit water pollution by chemicals ,industries waste .water may only be used in anner that does not permit soil erosion, landslide or flood. Pollution of drinking water is prohibited under the Nepal drinking water corporation act (1989).

n. The Aquatic Animal Protection Act, 1961 and First Amendment, 1998

207. This Act indicates an early recognition of the value of wetlands and aquatic animals, Section 3 renders punishable to any party introducing poisonous, noxious or explosive materials into a water source, or destroying any dam, bridge or water system with the intent of catching or killing aquatic life. Under Section 4 of the Act, Government is empowered to prohibit catching, killing and harming of certain kinds of aquatic animals by notification in Nepal Gazette.

o. Motor Vehicle and Transportation Management Act, 1992 and Rules, 1997

208. This act sets standard for vehicles emission and mechanical condition foe vehicle registration by the transport management office and the TMO can deny a permit based on environmental factor. Standard are set for petrol and diesel engine under the Nepal vehicle mass emission standard 1999.

p. Reference Manual for Environmental and Social Aspects of Integrated Road Development, 2003

209. The manual has been prepared by DOR under Road Maintenance and Development Project (RMDP). The Manual is designed to help integrate social and environmental considerations, including public involvement strategies, with technical road construction practices. It suggests stepwise process of addressing E&S issues alongside the technical, financial and others. The Manual is based on the experiences of Nepal, as well as incorporates the national (EPA, 1997; EPR, 1997) and international ‘best practices’. It suggests process of environmental and social assessment process, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders at various stages of the project, advice on impact mitigation action plans, and process for involving the public.

q. Public Works Directives, 2002

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210. The PWD combine Financial Administration Regulation (FAR) and other rules and regulations on technical, social and environmental matters to provide a single source of procedures and reference documents for implementing public construction works. The PWD are intended for use by GON’s agencies in the implementation of central-level and district-level projects carried out by regional, divisional or district offices of GoN. The PWD also incorporate procedures and procurement documents for implementing small projects and thus local bodies may benefit from adopting many of the contents of the PWD. Definitions of Public Works and Project are given in the PWD Procedural Directives. It is clear from these that Public Works involve ‘any type of construction’, whilst the term Project is slightly vague and includes ‘social development activity’. The PWD also make clear reference to Projects Implemented by Local Bodies, and notes that the Local Self Government Act, Local Self Government Rules and Local Body FAR are framed under HMG/Ns decentralization policy.

r. Guide to Road Slope Protection Works, DOR, 2003

211. This guide provides the concept on road slope disaster management whose objectives are to maintain the traffic operation, to secure the traffic safety, to reduce the environment degradation and to minimize the traffic operation cost, slope protection works and option for road slope protection in details. s. Nepal Road Statistics, 2004 212. The Department of Roads (DOR), Ministry of Physical Planning and Work have published Statistics of Strategic Road Network, which contains data and maps of road network the year 2004 AD. This document is prepared based on Geographic Information System (GIS). It helps the performance of road sector projecting an overall growth of road network in the country. t. Child-Related Act, 1993 and Child Labour Act, 2001 213. The Child-Related Act 1993 and the Child Labour (abolition and regulation) Act, 2001 are the major acts related to child labour in Nepal. The Article 2 (Ka) of these acts refers ”Child” to the children below 16 years of age. The Child Labour (Abolition and Regulation) Act is the most recent and revolutionary decision to overcome the child labour problem in Nepal. Article 3 clause 1 of the act states that any child below the age of 14 years prohibited for labour employment. However, clause 2 states that it is prohibited to engage children below 16 years in works in risk-prone sectors such as public transportation and construction related works. In other words, any employment of children below the age 16 is to be excluded from becoming contracted in any of the SRN subprojects’ construction works. Children between 14 and 16 years of age may become engaged in other light and low-risk jobs such as roadside planting and drainage clearing.

u. The Tenth Five Year Plan, 2002-2007

214. The Tenth Plan (2002-2007) has identified EIA as a priority area, and it emphasizes on environmental monitoring of the project that have undergone EIA process. The Plan focuses on the need for setting-up national environmental standards with the strategy of internalizing environmental management into the development programmes. The Plan has also realized to carry out Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) with the long term policy of promoting environmental governance.

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215. The Plan emphasized on the local participation in environment conservation, according to the Local Self Governance Act 2055, through the local bodies, make them responsible and capable to manage local natural resources.

v. International Conventions and Treaties

216. Nepal is a signatory to many international agreements, conventions etc. related to environmental conservation such as: Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat, (1971); Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITIES-1973); The Convention on Biological Diversity (1992). Internalization of these Conventions and Treaties into domestic laws and policies is in progress.

2. Guidelines

217. Guidelines, including the draft EIA Guidelines for Road Sector, 1996, facilitate the proponents to prepare environmental assessment reports. These guidelines have been thoroughly reviewed and all pertinent issues have been incorporated during the preparation of this Report. a. National Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines, 1993 218. In order to integrate the environmental aspects in development projects and programs, the government has developed the National EIA Guidelines (1993). The guidelines provide guidance to project proponent on integrating environmental mitigation measures, particularly on the management of quarries, borrow pits, stockpiling of materials and spoil disposal, operation of the work camps, earthworks and slope stabilization, location of stone crushing plants, etc. b. Forestry Sector Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines, 1995 219. The forestry sector EIA guidelines aim to facilitate the sustainable use of forest resources for the socioeconomic development and to meet the basic needs of the communities for the forest products. The positive and adverse impacts of any development project in the forest area are to be identified and plans must be developed to minimize environmental damage conserving genetic resources and bio-diversity. c. Environmental Management Guidelines, GESU/DoR 220. Environmental Management Guidelines, GESU/DOR, July 1999 have been prepared as part of the program undertaken jointly by GoN and the World Bank under the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Project. These Guidelines are formally approved by Minister level decision on Kartik 22, 2053 BS (1997). The Guidelines are the part of operational practices for all road maintenance, rehabilitation and construction activities under DOR. The guideline consists of environmental mitigation measures to be incorporated into DOR Subprojects, procedures for public participation, and socioeconomic considerations. The environmental mitigation measures are broken down into twelve categories including (i) quarries; (II) borrow pits; (iii) spoil and construction waste disposal; (iv) work camp location and operation; (v) labour camp location and operation (vi) earthwork/slope stabilization (vii) use of bitumen (viii)

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stockpiling of materials (ix) explosive, combustible and toxic materials management (x) setting up and operation of stone crushing plants (xi) water management (xii) air and water pollution. 221. Implementation methods for undertaking mitigation measures for each of the activities are also given in the guideline. The Guideline suggests methods for determining how and when the public should be included in the environmental analysis. The guidelines also advise on socioeconomic impacts and strategies for reducing or avoiding the potential negative impacts and for maximizing the beneficial impacts to local residents. The socioeconomic impacts include important issues of land acquisition and compensation and other economic impacts with markets for agriculture production, agriculture inputs, nutrition, extraction of natural resources beyond replenishment, migration and influx of migrants, land speculation, illegal logging and mining, portering, etc. It also includes impacts on cultural heritage. d. Policy Document of DoR on Environmental Assessment in the Strategic

Road Network, 2000 222. The purpose of the Policy Document is to explain, basically the DOR Engineers on what environmental assessment procedures involve and to propose a straightforward set of procedures which make it workable and useful. The document lists Screening, IEE, Scoping, EIA and Monitoring as the five main types of environmental assessment activities. The different phase when a particular type of EA is required is also listed in the document. The document lists the category of environmental adverse impacts, the problems and their general mitigation measures. The document then guides the various steps to be taken while carrying out an EA. Indicative environmental monitoring checklist is given in the document. e. Environmental and Social Management Framework, 2007 223. The Environmental and Social Management Framework report (ESMF) is prepared for the Department of Roads (DOR) to compile in an overview and guidance manner, various safeguard and compliance aspects of environmental and social issues related with the Sector Wide Road Program and the Priority Investment Plan Study for Nepal’s Strategic Road Network (SRN) planning for 2007 to 2016. The study commenced in September 2005 and was completed in December 2006 , GESU/DOR, June,2007 has been prepared as part of the Sector Wide Road Program and Priority Investment Plan Study under funding from World Bank/International Development Agency/Road Maintenance and Development Project. The Environmental and social Management Framework, 2007 is a guide to Environment and social issues associated with new road construction and upgrading. It suggests for the mechanism in line with the current legal and policy framework for integration of environmental and social recommendation in to project planning, design and implementation. f. Interim Guidelines for Enhancing Poverty Reduction Impact of Road

Projects, 2007

224. This guideline develops the procedures in line with the national policy and to complement the methods and producers as provided public works directives to provide guidance for adopting suitable mechanism to contribute to enhancing poverty reduction

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impacts of road project and to familiarize the DOR officials on the basic poverty concepts, its measurement, links between road sector investment and poverty reduction, scope of enhancing poverty reduction impacts within DOR road project g. Environmental Assessment Guidelines, ADB, 2003 225. The Guidelines for Environmental Assessment, 2003 clearly indicate the objectives and process for conduction of the IEE in terms of Subproject screening, preparation of Terms of Reference, desk review, field work, data analysis and interpretation (identification, prediction and analysis of impacts), mitigation measures, monitoring plan and reporting. h. Environment Policy of the Asian Development Bank, 2002 226. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an Environment Policy to meet the challenges of the region's rapidly increasing environmental degradation. Rapid population increase, dramatic changes in production and consumption patterns, and massive rural-to-urban migration have transformed the way environment and natural resources are used. The Environment Policy has five thrusts to meet the major challenges Interventions to reduce poverty. Mainstreaming environmental considerations in economic growth. Maintaining global and regional life-support systems. Human activities are altering the ecological processes that shape climate, cleanse the air and water, regulate water flow, recycle essential elements, and keep the planet fit for life. Working in partnerships and Further integration in ADB operations. i. Guideline for Road Corridor and Alignment Selection, 2002 227. The Guidelines for Road corridor and Alignment Selection, Rural Access Programme (RAP), 2002. This also indicates articulately the environmental consideration in alignment selection. This document provides the process and methods for environmentally sound road corridor selection. j. Priority Investment Plan, DoR, 2006

228. The Priority Investment Plan (PIP) Study conducted for the Department of Roads (DoR). The Study was conducted in two Parts: Part I was the overall planning study and Part II involved the detailed feasibility study of around 800km of high priority road improvement. A summary of the overall Study findings: Part I: Planning Studies, including the Sector Wide Road Programme and preparation of the 10-Year Priority Investment Plan (PIP); and Part II: Detailed Technical & Economic Feasibility Studies for upgrading and new construction of over 800km of priority road. k. Forest Produce Collection and Sales Distribution Guidelines, 2001

229. Clause 3 to 10 of the Guideline have specified various procedure and formats for getting approvals for vegetation clearance, delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation of the wood volume etc. and government offices and officials responsible for the approval, delineation and evaluation.

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3. Standards

230. The DoR has issued several Standards for the environmental management of road Subprojects, including the EIA Guidelines for the Road Sector (1997), which was prepared under the broad framework of the National EIA Guidelines (1993). This publication sets out environmental assessment requirements for road construction and upgrading Subprojects. Schedule 1 of these Guidelines, relating to the level of assessment required for different Subproject types, is almost identical to the 1997 Environment Protection Rules.

C. PERMISSIONS AND CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR THE SUBPROJECT

231. The legal framework of the country consists of several acts, notifications, rules, and regulations to protect environment and wildlife. List of required clearances / permissions related to environment has been summarized in Table 8.1.

Table 8. 1 : Permissions / Clearances Required for the Subproject

S.No. Clearances Acts/Rules/Notifications/GuidelinesConcerned

Agency Responsibility

A. Pre-construction Stage 1 Environmental

Clearance (categorized as “B” with IEE requirement)

Environmental Protection Act 1997 and Environmental Protection Rules, 1997 (First Amendment, 1999).

Ministry of Physical Planning and Works

Department of Roads / PD, DOR (ADB)

2 Land Acquisition and Compensation

Land Acquisition Act (1997 as amended 1993)

Ministry of Physical Planning and Works

Department of Roads / PD, DOR (ADB)

3 Felling of Trees Forest Act, 1992 (Amended in 1998) and Local Self-Governance Act, 199

Ministry of Forest Department of Roads / PD, DOR (ADB)

B. Implementation Stage 4 Permission for

construction material quarrying (stone, cobble, sand, gravel, soil etc)

Local Self-Governance Act, 1999 and Soil, Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 and Watershed Conservation Rule, 1985.

Concerned Project and Concerned VDC, DDC and Municipality

Contractor

5 Consent to operate Hot mix plant, Crushers, Batching Plant

Local Self-Governance Act, 1999 Concerned Project and Concerned VDC, DDC and Municipality

Contractor

6 Consent for disposal of sewage from labour camps

Water Resource Act, 1992 Concerned Project Contractor

7 Pollution Under Control Certificate

Motor Vehicle and Transportation Management Act, 1993

Department of Transport

Contractor

D. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE PROCESS

232. The procedure for obtaining environmental clearance for IEE has been depicted in Figure 8.1.

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67 EQMS India Pvt. Ltd

Proponent Concerned Body MPPW

Based on TOR

Fig. 8.1: Procedural Requirement for IEE Clearance

Proposals prescribed in Schedule 1 of the EPR, 1997

TOR Preparation and Submission Rule (5.1)

TOR Approval as it is or in the Revised form (Rule 5.4)

Preparation of the IEE Report (Rule 7.1)

Investigations into the Report

If no significant impact, Issuance of approval within

21 days upon receipt (Rule 11.1)

Submission of 15 copies of the IEE Report to the Ministry (via its department) for Approval (with recommendation letter of the concerned VDC

or Municipality) (Rule 10)

Monitoring and Evaluation by the Concerned Body

(Rule 13)

IEE Report (draft) Open for Public for written opinions and suggestions for 15 days

Affix Notice in the concerned VDC or Municipality, DDC, School, Hospital, Health Post

Collect deed of the public enquiry (Muchulka) A 15-days Public Notice in the national daily

newspaper Inclusion of opinions and suggestions received into the

IEE Report (Rule 7.2)

Post IEE Report Approval Report to be complied with

while implementing the proposal (Rule 12)

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X. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

233. The proposed subproject has been categorized as Category ‘B’ based on environmental screening and assessment of likely impacts while the initial environmental examination ascertains that it is unlikely to cause any significant environmental impacts. Few impacts were identified attributable to the proposed subproject, all of which are localized and temporary in nature and easy to mitigate. 234. The subproject proposed road corridor does not pass through or located nearby any national park, wildlife sanctuary, reserved forests, or any other ecologically sensitive or protected areas. No archaeological/protected monument is located in the project vicinity. The land use pattern around the alignment is predominantly agricultural. 235. No significantly adverse environmental impacts of the proposed Subproject for upgrading of Okhaldhunga - Saleri is forseen. Most of the adverse impacts identified and predicted are of minimal and short to medium terms as well as reversible in nature. However, gully and soil erosion and small slip failures have been observed on the existing alignment, which need necessary measures to be employed during and after the upgrading work. For this, bio-engineering measures have been proposed and included in the Design. The upgrading of Okhaldhunga–Salleri Road will have significant positive impacts by reducing dust nuisance, improving the road environment, providing a smooth riding surface and avoiding possible traffic accidents through improvement of sharp curves and improved vertical road geometry. Furthermore, the Subproject will also create employment opportunities during the construction stage and enhance socioeconomic development and provide a dependable all-weathered transportation facility through the proposed route. 236. The proposed road upgrading works do not exceed any of the prescribed thresholds by EPA, 1996 and EPR, 1997 (First Amendment 1999) and other relevant Acts and Regulations. Thus, an EIA study for the proposed Subproject is not required. 237. In general, the subproject received immense support from local people. The local people appreciated that besides providing an all weather efficient connectivity to large populations (majority of them are rural and in flood affected areas) and improving the traffic scenario in the region, it will bear out several other positive benefits.

238. The initial environmental examination of the of the subproject ascertains that the project is unlikely to cause any significant environmental impacts. No additional studies or need of undertaking detailed EIA is envisaged at this stage. The DOR shall ensure that EMP and EMoP is included in Bill of Quantity (BOQ) and forms part of bid document and civil works contract. The same shall be revised if necessary during project implementation or if there is any change in the project design and with approval of ADB.

IEE Study Report July 2010 Okhaldhunga - Salleri Road

RCS1P-PPTA-STEP (VO4) (ADB Grant No. 0051 – NEP (SF)) 69 Detailed Design

References ADB, 2003, Environmental Assessment Guidelines.

Baral, H.S. (ed.), 2003. Nepalka Charaharu.

Department of Roads, (2003). Reference Manual for Environmental and Social Aspects

of Integrated Road Development. MPPW, GON, Kathmandu.

District Profile of Nepal, 2007/2008, Intensive Study & Research Centre.

HMGN, 2000.Environment Protection Act, 1996 and Environment Protection Rules,

1997(amended in 1999), MOE.

HMGN, 2002.Public Works Directives.

HMGN, 2002. Forest and Vegetation Types of Nepal. Ministry of Forests and Soil

Conservation, Nepal.

HMGN, 2002. Nepal Biodiversity Strategy. Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation,

Nepal.

ISRC, 2007/08. District Profile of Nepal. Intensive Study and Research Centre

Kathmandu.

Department of Road, Planning and Design Branch, Geo-Environmental and Social Unit,

2007. Environmental and Social Management Framework. Kathmandu, Nepal.

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Annex 1

Approval Letter and Terms of

Reference

Annex 1.1

Approval Letter

72

72

74

74

Annex 1.2

Terms of Reference

Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and Works

Department of Roads Project Directorate (ADB)

Road Connectivity Sector I Project ADB GRANT NO. 0051-NEP (SF)

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION STUDY FOR

UPGRADING OF OKHALDHUNGA-SALLERI ROAD

ND LEA Inc., Canada in association with

CEMAT Consultants (Pvt.) Ltd., Nepal, Soil Test (Pvt.) Ltd., Nepal and

Total Management Services, Nepal

March, 2008

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ToR for IEE Study of March 2008 Okhaldhunga-Salleri Road

Road Connectivity Sector I Project (ADB Grant 0051 - NEP) Feasibility Study, Detailed Design and Construction Supervision

i

ToR for IEE Study of March 2008 Okhaldhunga-Salleri Road

Road Connectivity Sector I Project (ADB Grant 0051 - NEP) Feasibility Study, Detailed Design and Construction Supervision

i

Table of Contents

1. Name And Address Of The Institution Preparing The Report (Proponent): ........ Error! Bookmark not defined.

2. Proposal ...................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. (a) General Introduction Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.1 Background Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.2 Salient Feature Of The Project Error! Bookmark not defined.

2.3 Brief Description Of The Project Area ......................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.4 Description Of The Alignment ..................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.5 Settlements ................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.6 Major Crossings .......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.7 Access To The Project Road ...................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.8 Objectives ................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

(b) Relevancy Of The Proposal Error! Bookmark not defined. 3. Procedures To Be Adopted While Preparing The Report .......... Error! Bookmark not

defined. 3.1 Desk Study.................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 3.2 Field Study .................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 3.3 Report Preparation...................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 4. Review Of Acts, Policies, Rules, Regulations And Guidelines... Error! Bookmark not

defined. 5. Required Time, Budget And Study Team For Preparing The ReportError! Bookmark

not defined. 5.1 Time Schedule ............................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. 5.2 Estimated Budget........................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. 6. ………… (Deleted By First Amendment, Gon, 1999).. Error! Bookmark not defined. 7. Specific Impacts (Issues) Of The Proposal On The Environment .....Error! Bookmark

not defined. 7.1 Social And Economic Issues....................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.1.1 Construction Stage Error! Bookmark not defined. 7.1.2 Operation And Maintenance Stage Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.3 Cultural And Physical Issues....................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 7.3.1 Construction Stage Error! Bookmark not defined. 7.3.2 Operation And Maintenance Stage Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.4 Chemical Issues.......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 7.5 Biological Issues ......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.5.1 Construction Stage Error! Bookmark not defined. 7.5.2 Operation And Maintenance Stage Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.6 Management Issues.................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 8. Alternative Analysis..................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 8.1 Design ......................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 8.2 Project Site.................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 8.3 Technology, Procedure Of Operation, Time Schedule, Raw Materials To Be Used

.................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 8.4 Other Matters .............................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

ii

ii

9. Matters Concerning The Prevention Of The Impact Of The Implementation Of The Proposal On The Environment (Mitigation Measures) Error! Bookmark not defined.

10. Matters To Be Monitored During Implementation Of The Proposal (Environmental Monitoring Plan) .......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

11. Other Necessary Matters ............................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. 12. Deliverables ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. List of Table

Table 1.1 Time Schedule ..................................................................................................... 9

List of Figures

Figure 2.1 Location Map........................................................................................................ 5

Figure 2.2 Key Map ............................................................................................................... 6

Annex

Annex Public Notice

ToR for IEE Study of March 2008 Okhaldhunga-Salleri Road

Road Connectivity Sector I Project (ADB Grant 0051 - NEP) Feasibility Study, Detailed Design and Construction Supervision

i

List of Acronyms

ADB Asian Development Bank

CBOs Community Based Organizations

DDC District Development Committee

DDP District Development Profile

DoR Department of Road

DRILP Decentralized Rural Infrastructure and Livelihood Project

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMAP Environmental Management Action Plan

EMP Environmental Monitoring Plan

EPA Environmental Protection Act

EPR Environmental Protection Rules

GEU Geo Environmental Unit

GoN Government of Nepal

IEE Initial Environmental Examination

MOEST Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology

MoPPW Ministry of Physical Planning and Works

NGO Non Governmental Organization

PAPs Project Affected Peoples

PWD Public Works Directives

RCS1P Road Connectivity Sector I

RMP Road Master Plan

SPAPs Seriously Project Affected Peoples

SRN Strategic Road Network

ToR Terms of Reference

VDC Village Development Committee

Km Kilometre

M Meter

2

2

Annex 2

Public Notice and Muchulkas

Annex 2.1

Public Notice

4

4

Annex 2.2

Muchulkas

6

6

8

8

10

10

12

12

14

14

16

16

18

18

Annex 3

Recommendation Letters

20

20

22

22

24

24

26

26

28

28

30

30

32

32

Annex 4

Geology & Bio-engineering

1

Annex 4 Geology & Bio-engineering

A. Sources of Construction Materials

Source Description of

source Type of material

Estimated Quantity

M3

Suitability for works

Lipe Khola

The site is 4km away from the Okhaldhunga and there is motorable access to the site. The river has high gradient flow

Alluvial deposits comprising of boulders, cobles, gravel and sand. The dominant rock type of source are gneiss, phyllite and schist.

SB = 10,000

Suitable for use for masonry, gabion, subgrade and sub base.

Local Quarry Material available along the road alignment (km2+600)

The dominant rock type of source are quartzitic phyllite, schist and gneiss.

SB>50000

Local Quarry

Material available along the road alignment (km18+000).

The dominant rock type of source are quartzitic phyllite, schist and gneiss.

SB = 50,000

Suitable for use for masonry, gabion, subgrade and sub base.

Local Quarry

Material available adjacent to the road along alignment at km 22+500.

Potential quarry comprising of the dominant rock type of quartzitic phyllite and limestone.

SB = 50,000,

Suitable for use for masonry, gabion, subgrade and sub base.

Local Quarry

Quarry at km 28+000 adjacent to the road along the road alignment. The site completely lies in the local conserved forest.

Potential quarry comprising of the dominant rock type of quartzitic and phyllite.

SB= 30,000

Suitable for use for masonry, gabion, subgrade and sub base.

Local Quarry

Quarry at km 30+200 adjacent to the road along the road alignment. The site completely lies in the local conserved forest.

The dominant rock type of source are quartzite, phyllite and schist.

SB >50,000

Suitable for use for masonry, gabion, subgrade and sub base.

Beni (Sample testing in progress)

The site is 8km away from the Phaplu and there is mule track access to the site. Long access road to be built.

Alluvial deposits comprising of cobles, gravel and sand. The dominant rock type of source are gneiss, phylite and schist.

Sand > 50000 SB>50000 B>100000

Suitable for use for subbase, base and possible for surface chips.

SB = Sub-base, B=Base

2

2

B. Landslide and Mitigation Measures

Slide Chainage Type Position Kind Causes Mitigation Measures Present slope

No Landuse (DD/DA) Dimension of

slide Condition

1 0+560-580 CSF Along road All Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Barren Dry SW/Steep/LM

2 0+820-840 CSF Along road All/Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Bush/Res. Dry SW/Steep/LM

3 0+960-980 CSF Along road All/Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

4 1+180-200 CSF Along road Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

5 1+380-400 CSF Along road Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

6 1+540-550 CSF Along road Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

GS/Barren Dry SW/Steep/LM

ati7 2+660-700 CSF Along road Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

8 5+120-140 CSF Along road Coll Landuse/USCR DR Stable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

9 6+650-700 Landslide Along road Rock Landuse/Fr. rock DR Stable

Bush/Barren Dry SW/Steep

10 7+080-100 CSF Along road Coll/Rock Landuse/Fr. rock DR Stable

Bush/Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

11 7+330-360 CSF Along road Coll/Rock Landuse DR Stable

Bush/Forest Seepage SW/Steep/LM

12 9+500-570 Landslide Along road Coll/Rock Landuse/Fr. rock DR Stable

Barren Seepage SW/Steep/LM

13 11+780-800 Soil erosion below road Coll/Rock Landuse DR Stable

Bush/Barren Dry SW/Steep/LM

14 13+480-500 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Unstable

Bush/tree Dry SW/Steep/LM

15 14+920-940 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Bush/Barren Dry SW/Steep/LM

16 17+030-050 VFS below road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

17 18+080-110 Landslide/SE Along road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Bush/Barren Dry SW/Steep/LM

18 27+100-130 CSF Along road Coll/Rock Landuse DR Stable

DCL/Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

19 27+240-250 VFS below road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

20 28+380-400 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR

Bush Dry SW/Steep/LM

21 28+980-29+000 Landslide below road Coll/RS Landuse DR Stable

DCL/Tree Dry SW/Steep/LM

22 29+960-30+000 Soil erosion Along road Coll Landuse DR Unstable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

23 34+800-900 CSF below road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

24 44+200-400 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Unstable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

25 45+600-510 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Dry SW/Steep/LM

26 46+900-960 CSF below road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

27 51+600-620 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Forest Dry SW/Steep/LM

28 56+340-360 CSF Along road Coll Landuse DR Stable

Dry SW/GW

3

C. Bio-engineering

Details of Site Characteristics of Existing Failure and Bio-engineering Application for Slope Protection

Chainage Site Characteristics Function required Bio-engineering

Application

From To

Location

Altitude m (asl)

Land use pattern

Type of failure

Cause of failure

Slope angle

(Degree)

Soil type

Moisture Vegetative structure Civil structure

Selected species (Local name)

1+180 1+210 Hill-

valley 1903 Forest

Shallow failure

Surface water <45 Colluvial

Stony Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Brush layering

Proposed retaining wall

Khar, Amliso, Asare

3+375 3+395 Valley Forest/

cultivated land

Erosion Surface water <45 Colluvial Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Utis, Katus

5+120 5+140 Hill Forest Erosion Surface water,

undercutting>45

Stony, Colluvial

Dry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso

6+650 6+700 Hill Bushes Shallow failure

Undercutting, fractured rock

>45 Stony,

ColluvialDry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso

7+330 7+360 Hill Bushes Shallow failure

Undercutting, Loose

materials >45 Colluvial Dry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso

7+500 7+560 Valley 2225 Cultivated

land Erosion

Loose materials,

Surface water<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Brush layering Khar, Amliso, Asere,

Utis,Nigalo

7+600 7+650 Valley 2225 Cultivated

land Erosion

Loose materials,

Surface water<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Brush layering Khar, Amliso, Asere,

Utis,Nigalo

9+500 9+570 Hill Bushes Erosion Surface water,

fractured rock>45 Colluvial Dry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso

11+780 11+840 Valley 2492 Bushes Erosion Loose

materials, Surface water

<45 Colluvial Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Khar, Amliso, Asare, Utis, Nigalo

13+000 13+080 Valley 2605 Bushes Erosion Surface water <45 Colluvial Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Utis, Nigalo

4

4

Chainage Site Characteristics Function required Bio-engineering

Application

From To

Location

Altitude m (asl)

Land use pattern

Type of failure

Cause of failure

Slope angle

(Degree)

Soil type

Moisture Vegetative structure Civil structure

Selected species (Local name)

13+480 13+500 Hill Bushes Shallow failure

Surface water,

undercutting>45 Colluvial Dry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso, Nigalo

14+920 14+940 Hill Bushes Shallow failure

Surface water,

undercutting>45 Colluvial Dry Armour Grass plantation

Proposed retaining wall

Khar, Amliso, Nigalo

17+030 17+050 Valley 2822 Bushes Erosion,

gully Surface water <45 Colluvial Moist

Armour, reinforce, drainage

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Rip-rap drain Khar, Amliso, Asere, Utis,Nigalo

18+080 18+110 Hill Bushes Erosion Surface water,

undercutting>45 Colluvial Moist

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Khar, Amliso, Asere, Utis,Nigalo

25+200 25+220 Valley 2826 Forest Erosion Surface water <45 Residual

, Colluvial

Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Khar, Amliso, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

27+100 27+130 Hill Forest Erosion Surface water,

undercutting>45 Residual Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Asere, Utis, Nigalo

27+240 27+270 Valley Forest Erosion Loose

materials, Surface water

<45 Residual

, Colluvial

Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Asere, Utis, Nigalo

28+380 28+400 Hill Forest Erosion Undercutting >45 Residual

, Colluvial

Dry Armour Grass plantation Khar, Amliso, Nigalo

28+980 29+000 Valley Forest Erosion Loose

materials, Surface water

<45 Residual

, Colluvial

Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Khar, Amliso, Asere, Lokta, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

5

Chainage Site Characteristics Function required Bio-engineering

Application

From To

Location

Altitude m (asl)

Land use pattern

Type of failure

Cause of failure

Slope angle

(Degree)

Soil type

Moisture Vegetative structure Civil structure

Selected species (Local name)

30+000 30+040 Hill-

valley Forest

Shallow failure

Loose materials,

Surface water<45

Residual,

ColluvialDry

Armour, reinforce, drainage

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Rip-rap drain Khar, Amliso, Asere, Lokta, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

34+800 34+900 Valley Forest Erosion Surface water <45 Colluvial Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Khar, Amliso, Utis, Nigalo, Salla, Populus, Painyu

43+600 43+620 Hill-

valley 1872 Forest

Erosion, gully

Undercutting <45 Colluvial Moist Armour,

reinforce, drainage

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Rip-rap drain Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

44+000 44+060 Valley 1858 Forest Erosion Surface water <45 Colluvial Moist Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

46+900 46+940 Valley 1984 Forest Erosion Loose

materials, Surface water

<45 Colluvial Dry Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Brush layering

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

51+600 51+650 Hill-

valley Forest

Shallow failure

Surface water,

undercutting<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

53+600 53+620 Hill-

valley 2148 Forest Erosion

Surface water,

undercutting<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

6

6

Chainage Site Characteristics Function required Bio-engineering

Application

From To

Location

Altitude m (asl)

Land use pattern

Type of failure

Cause of failure

Slope angle

(Degree)

Soil type

Moisture Vegetative structure Civil structure

Selected species (Local name)

54+000 54+020 Hill-

valley 2158 Forest Erosion

Surface water,

undercutting<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation, Live checkdam

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

56+340 56+360 Hill Forest Erosion Surface water,

undercutting<45 Colluvial Dry

Armour, reinforce

Grass plantation, Shrub and tree seedling plantation

Khar, Amliso, Bains, Populus, Utis,Nigalo, Salla, Painyu

Annex 5

Meteorological Data

8

8

Annex 5 Meteorological Data A. Precipitation Data (1997-2006) in Okhaldhunga

B. Temperature Data (1997-2006) in Okhaldhunga

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

June

July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Year max min max min max min max min max min max min max min max min max min max min max min max

1997 15.2 4.6 16 4.9 21.9 10.3 21.8 11.4 25.6 14.8 26.5 17.2 26.2 18.2 25.3 17.9 25.2 16.4 23.2 11.9 21.2 9.7 16.1

1998 15.7 5.1 17.5 7.4 19.1 8.9 23.1 13.7 25.9 16.2 27.5 19.1 25 18.5 24 18.1 25.7 17.3 25 15.6 22.1 12 19

1999 17.2 6.3 22.1 10.4 23.8 12.1 27.7 16.5 24.6 16 25.2 17.7 24.8 17.8 24.5 17.7 24.9 16.9 23.4 14.2 22.1 10.2 18.2

2000 17.2 5.5 17.3 4.7 21.7 9.5 25.7 13.7 26.3 15.9 26.3 17.7 25.7 17.9 25.6 17.7 24.8 16.4 25.3 14.3 22.1 10.6 18.4

2001 16.8 4.8 20.3 7.6 23.4 10.5 25.6 13.3 24.9 14.9 26.4 17.3 26.6 18.2 25.9 17.7 25.3 16.9 23.9 14.1 22.4 10.6 17.9

2002 16.3 5.6 19.3 7.9 22.2 10.7 23.7 13.2 24.5 15 25.4 17.2 25.2 18.1 26.1 17.5 25.1 16.3 23.9 13.4 21.5 10.3

2003 16.8 5.5 17.4 6.6 20.6 9.2 25.2 13.6 26.4 15.5 25.1 17.2 25.1 17.7 25.8 18 24.5 17 23.5 14.4 20.3 10.4 16.9

2004 15.7 5.5 18.1 7.4 22.9 12.7 24.1 13.5 24.7 16.1 24.8 16.8 24.1 17.2 26.3 18 23.8 17 22.2 13.1 19.5 9.6 17.1

2005 14.5 5.6 18.3 7.8 21.6 10.8 24.5 13.5 24.6 14.9 25.8 17.7 24.6 17.8 24.6 17.8 25.3 17.5 22.7 13.9 19.9 9.6 17.4

2006 17.9 7 20.1 10.5 21.6 11 23.4 13.4 24.8 16.1 24.8 17.2 25.5 18.4 26.2 18 24.6 16.5 24.3 13.8 21.2 10.1 18.3

C. Rainfall Data from 1997-2006 in mm, at Salleri, Solukhumbu

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 1997 28 8 12.5 81 102.5 255 454.3 430.5 111 60 0 271998 2.5 22 97 69 50.5 248 504.5 529.3 187.5 16.5 22.5 21999 8 0 5 1.5 188 334.7 460.5 448.3 429.5 192 0 02000 0.5 8.1 21.5 58 160.1 296.8 545.2 450.4 267.4 22.2 0 02001 0 8.5 11.5 81 127.9 312.5 282.5 521 176.9 76.4 39 02002 26 13 19.1 55.3 201.5 200.5 610.5 705 304.5 38 1.5 2.22003 17.2 72 68 52.5 57.5 268 432.7 544.5 423.5 24 2 142004 14 5.5 14 99.2 107.5 191.2 405.2 404.7 198.3 57.2 11 02005 32.7 5.2 59.4 12.7 35.5 185.7 326.7 483.7 124.1 78.9 0 02006 0 0.2 38.4 101.1 85.2 200.6 405.7 427.4 196.5 57.9 5.9 7.5

Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

1997 25.2 6.5 11.7 86.4 127.8 219.5 465.5 657.8 303 35.2 0 55.4

1998 0 11.9 84.9 94.9 220.3 214.6 469.9 607 183.8 17.4 21.2 0

1999 0 0 0 21 243.7 342 448.4 481.2 269.5 175.6 37.1 8

2000 0.1 11.3 5.1 59.9 118.5 288.7 335.2 480.9 143.6 26.2 0 0

2001 1.4 21 1.2 75 218.8 277 444 703.1 364.1 84.7 1.8 0

2002 24.4 12.6 58.4 57.5 182.6 253.1 621.9 504.9 251.6 32.8 1.2 0

2003 20.6 42.9 70 35.4 19.9 431.3 477.1 266.7 295.7 35.1 1.2 19.7

2004 17.8 0.4 11.3 97.5 196.4 220.6 663.2 138.3 116.2 140.8 16 0

2005 30.2 1.8 42.7 59.9 79.7 283 613.8 485.2 176.5 129 0 0

2006 0 0 20.8 154.5 163.1 385.8 319.3 349.5 284.5 9.3 0 9.6

Annex 6

List of Vegetation

1

Annex 6 List of Vegetation List of Vegetation found in the Project Area

S. No.

Local Name

Scientific Name

1 Uttis Alnus nepalensis

2 Gurans Rhododendron arboretum

3 Angeri Lyonia ovalifolia

4 Khote Salla Pinus roxburghii

5 Maleto Macaranga sp.

6 Dudhilo Ficus nerifolia

7 Nimaro Ficus auriculata

8 Gogan Saurauia napaulensis

9 Chilaune Schima wallichiana

10 Katus Castanopsis inidica

11 Okhar Juglans regia

12 Thingre Salla Tsuga dumosa

13 Khasru Quercus semecarpifolia

14 Kabhro Ficus lacor

15 Kutmero Listea monoptela

16 Gobre Salla Abies spectabilis

17 Salla Pinus wallichiana

18 Loth Salla Taxus baccata

19 Champ Michelia champaca

1

Annex 7

Socioeconomic Data

1

A. Population and household size in the subproject area

Total Number of Households: 190

Sex Total Population Percentage Average HH Size

Male 464 48 2

Female 498 52 3

Total 962 100 5

B. Average Household Income

S.No Income Range No of Households Total Monthly

Household Income (Rs)

Average Monthly HH Income (Rs)

1 Below Rs 3000 33 68,350 2,071

2 Rs 3000 - 6000 90 401,558 4,462

3 Rs 6000 - 9000 42 316,200 7,529

4 Rs 9000 - 12000 10 101,833 10,183

5 Rs 12000 and more 15 371,200 24,747

Total 190 1,259,142 6,627

C. Average Household Expenditure

S.No Expenditure Range No of Households Total Monthly

Expenditure (Rs)

Average HH Expenditure per

Month (Rs)

1 Below Rs 3000 57 119,171 2,091

2 Rs 3000 - 6000 96 424,839 4,425

3 Rs 6000 - 9000 32 219,103 6,847

4 Rs 9000 - 12000 3 31,933 10,644

5 Rs 12000 and more 2 26,626 13,313

Total 190 821,673 4,325

2

2

D. Ethnicity

Sex S.No Ethnicity

Male Female Total

1 Brahman/ Chhetri 52 9 61

2 Janajati 64 10 74

3 Newar 37 9 46

4 Dalit 6 3 9

Total 159 31 190

E. Literacy

S. No

Educational Level Achieved

Male Percentage Female Percentage Total Percentage

1 Illiterate 45 5 158 16 203 21

2 Literate 63 7 50 5 113 12

3 Primary Level 123 13 123 13 246 26

4 Lower Secondary Level 53 6 48 5 101 10

5 Secondary Level 106 11 63 7 169 18

6 Higher Secondary Level 24 2 17 2 41 4

7 Graduate 9 1 2 0 11 1

8 Graduate and Above 1 0 1 0 2 0

9 Children 37 4 34 4 71 7

10 School Not Attended 3 0 2 0 5 1

Total 464 48 498 52 962 100

3

F. Economic Activities

Sex S.No Economic Activities

Male % Female % Total Percentage

1 Farm Work Own Land 81 8 174 18.1 255 27

2 Farmwork Own Land & Sharecroping 1

0 8 0.8 9 1

3 Share Cropping 1 0 8 0.8 9 1

4 Agricultural Service 51 5 17 1.8 68 7

5 Public Service 29 3 5 0.5 34 4

6 Private Service 18 2 5 0.5 23 2

7 Children 37 4 35 3.6 72 7

8 Business 33 3 44 4.6 77 8

9 Raising Livestock 0 - 1 0.1 1 0

10 Forest Products 0 - 0 0.0 0 0

11 Student 162 17 171 17.8 333 35

12 None 8 1 15 1.6 23 2

13 Working Abroad 21 2 2 0.2 23 2

14 Others 3 0 2 0.2 5 1

15 Wages 19 2 11 1.1 30 3

Total 464 48 498 51.8 962 100

G. Average Plot Size by Tenure

S. No Tenure System No of Plots

Total Area (sq.m) Average Plot Size

(sq.m)

1 Own Cultivated 269 1,803,803 6,706

2 Share Cropped (out) 21 134,024 6,382

3 Share Cropped (in) 14 43,704 3,122

4 leased/ Contract 3 20,350 6,783

Total 307 2,001,880 6,521

4

4

H. Average Plot Size by Land Type S. No

Tenure System No of Plots Total Area

(sq. m) Average Plot Size (sq. m)

Percentage

1 House Plot 66 240,756 3,648 21

2 Khet 16 83,914 5,245 5

3 Bari 188 1,485,564 7,902 61

4 Commercial 1 554 554 0

5 Kharbari\Shrubs 18 77,695 4,316 6

6 Pasture 18 113,396 6,300 6

Total 307 2,001,880 6,521 100

I. Food Security

S. No

Months HH can meet own food need

Total No of HHs Percentage

1 1 Month 4 2

2 2 Months 3 2

3 3 Months 7 4

4 4 Months 19 10

5 5 Months 19 10

6 6 Months 55 29

7 7 Months 3 2

8 8 Months 15 8

9 9 Months 6 3

10 10 Months 9 5

11 11 Months 0 0

12 12 Months 4 2

13 More than 12 Months 37 19

14 No Production 9 5

Total 190 100

5

Annex 8

List of Persons Contacted & Summary of the Public

Consultation

1

Annex 8 List of Persons Contacted & Summary of the Public Consultations A. List of Persons Contacted List of Consulted People in the Project Area

S. No

Name Address Designation

1 Shesh Raj Dahal Bigutar and Baruneshwor VDCs, Okhaldhunga

VDCs -Secretary

2 Ananda Raj Bhandari Sagarmatha Primary School, Okhaldhunga

Principal

3 Dev Raj Bhattarai Barnalu, Okhaldhunga VDC-Secretary

4 Naindra Raj Rai Okhaldhunga VDC, Okhaldhunga VDC-Secretary

5 Bhim Kurmari Karki Okhldhunga VDC, Okhaldhunga Local

6 Tej Bahadur Subedi Okhaldhunga VDC, Okhaldhunga Local

7 Mitthu Kumari Shrestha Barnalu, Okhaldhunga Local

8 Anita Shrestha Barnalu, Okhaldhunga Local

9 Girme Sherpa Barnalu, Okhaldhunga Local

10 Gim Maya Magar Jantrakhani, Okhaldhunga Local

11 Bam Bahadur Magar Jantrakhani, Okhaldhunga Local

12 Sita Magar Jantrakhani, Okhaldhunga Local

13 Bhim Kumari Thapa Magar Jantrakhani, Okhaldhunga Local

14 Geeta Kapali Health Post, Salleri, Solukhumbu Health Post-Chief

15 Megh Raj Dhakal District Livestock Office, Solukhumbu Livestock Development Officer

16 Kebal Prasad Dhungana Tinla and Kerung VDCs Solukhumbu VDCs-Secretary

17 Ram Kumar Khadka Solukhumbu Service

18 Ramesh Nepal Salleri, Solukhumbu VDCs-Secretary

19 Hom Bahadur Shrestha Garma, Solukhumbu Farmer

20 Bhim Kumari Garma, Solukhumbu Local

21 Purna Maya Magar Kerung, Solukhumbu Local

22 Bhim Bahadur Ranabhat Tinla, Solukhumbu Local

23 Narayan Karki Tinla, Solukhumbu Local

24 Shambhu Bahadur Khatri Tinla, Solukhumbu Local

25 Khiru Maya Magar Kerung, Solukhumbu Local

26 Babita Magar Kerung, Solukhumbu Local

27 Gun Bahadur Rajbhandari Salleri, Solukhumbu Local

28 Anku Lama Salleri, Solukhumbu Local

2

2

B. Summary of the Public Consultations

Participants Date of Consultation Male Female

Locations Issues Raised/Concern expressed

18.03.2008 5 3 Okhaldhunga

Involvement of the local people during road construction

Local manpower should be given first priority

20.03.2008 3 5 Jantradhap

Do not remove any trees Construct the road by minimizing

pollution Need improvements particularly at

turning areas

21.03.2008 2 7 Chitre

Involvement of the local people in road construction time

Need improvement of road as soon as possible

22.03.2008 4 3 Patale

Local manpower and resources will be used maximum

Involvement of the local people during road construction

Do not remove any trees Construct the road as soon as

possible

24.03.2008 4 5 Mude Illegal logging and selling of trees

should be monitored after the upgrading works

25.03.2008 4 2 Salme

Construction of road side drain for the proper management of surface water run off

safety measures to reduce road accident should be adopted

Proper disposal of excess soil material

Number of tourists are increared due to better road facility

Uses of local resources andmanpower for the construction of road

Provide land for the road, if required by the improvement of road aligment

26.03.2008 5 4 Salleri Bazaar

monitoring of health hazards should

be done Number of tourists are increared due

to better road facility Uses of local resources

andmanpower for the construction of road

28.03.2008 4 3 Phaplu

Employment facility Dust should be minimized Road upgrading facilitates the selling

of their local products

1

Annex 9

Questionnaires and Checklists

2

2

4

4

6

6

8

8

10

10

12

12

14

14

16

16

18

18

Use Status Remarks

S. N.

Local Name of Plant

Tim

ber

Fir

ewo

od

Fo

dd

er

Med

icin

e

Co

mm

on

Fre

qu

ent

Sp

arse

Ra

te

En

dan

ger

ed

Note: Common (>70%), frequent (40-70%), sparse (10-40%), Rare=locally very low in number, and endangered (number decreasing). Also mention major/common tree species found here and there and other species found (i.e. other trees, shrubs and herbs)

20

20

Annex 10

Photographs

2

2

Annex 10 Photographs

Starting Point at Ramailodanda, Okhaldhunga (Ch 0+000)

Improper Soil disposal along the road side damaging the vegetation (Ch 17+000.00)

Road alignment at 22+900 showing agricultural land

Road alignment showing agricultural and barren land (Ch 37+000.00)

Rhododendron arboreum along the road alignment (Ch 42+300.00)

Road alignment along the Solu river at (Ch 43+762.00)

Women preparing wheat at Salme VDC ((Ch 43+800.00)

Buddhist Temple along the road to be demolished partially for upgrading (Ch 48+000.00)

Settlement area at Salleri Bazaar(Ch 53+000.00)

Agriculture land along the road (Ch 53+000.00)

Source of water along the road alignment

Hotel Gate and Compound wall to be demolished at (Ch 55+900)

Annex 11

Checklist of Review Comments from ADB and Verifications

2

2

Project: Grant No. 0051-NEP: Road Connectivity Sector 1 Project Component: Okhaldhunga Salleri Road Submission: Feasibility Study (March 2009)

Section: Volume 2, IEE

A B C D E Ref. Comments/Suggested Changes

Response by Consultant / DOR

Verification by ADB

Status

1 Volume 2, IEE The contents of IEE are generally in line with ADB requirements

2 Chapter 4, Para 73

It is mentioned that quarries at Ch. 28+000 and Ch. 30+200 are located on forest areas. Kindly elaborate the options considered and reason for selecting these quarries in forest areas. What mitigation measures are proposed? Is there any legal permit / clearance required from forest department to use materials from these quarries.

Addressed in Chapter 4, paragraph no. 83 and Chapter 6, paragraph no. 121

3 Chapter 7, para 149

Kindly describe responsibilities of each expert involved in the implementation of EMP i.e. Environmental Expert at GESU, PIU, Consultant and Contractor.

Addressed in Chapter 7, paragraphs no. 156 – 162.

4 Chapter 7 Section of Public Consultations is missing. Kingly include summary of public consultations and issues raised by communities during consultations

Addressed in Chapter 7, paragraph no. 163

5 Chapter 8 – Section 8.2.2 (b)

Kindly correct the names of relevant ADB policies and guidelines

Addressed in Chapter 8, Section 8.2.2, bullet g and h

Annex 12

Corresponding Outline of EIA Report (ADB-SPS 2009) to

Sections of IEE

4

4

Corresponding Outline of EIA (ADB-SPS 2009) to Sections of IEE

Outline of EIA (ADB-SPS 2009) Sections of IEE

A. Executive Summary 2. Summary of the Proposal

B. Policy, Legal, and Administrative Framework

8. Other Necessary Matters

C. Description of the Project 3. Description of the Proposal

D. Description of the Environment (Baseline Data)

3.2 Detailed Particulars of the Subproject Area

E. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

4. Impacts of the Implementation of the Proposal on the Environment

6. Measures to Reduce or Control the Impact of the Implementation of the Subproject on the Environment

F. Analysis of Alternatives 5. Alternative Analysis

G. Information Disclosure, Consultation, and Participation

7.8 Public Consultation and Disclosure

H. Grievance Redress Mechanism 7.10 Grievance Re-dress Mechanism

I. Environmental Management Plan 7. Matters to be Monitored while Implementing the Proposal

J. Conclusion and Recommendation 9. Conclusions and Recommendations