Stakeholder-Engagement-Plan-SEP-West-Bengal-Electricity ...

Document No.: IISWBM/ESMF-SEP/WBSEDCL/2019-2020/001-4 (Version: 1.6)

ESMF FOR WBEDGMP UNDER WORLD BANK ASSISTANCE

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

March, 2021

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ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK FOR WBEDGMP

UNDER WORLD BANK FUND ASSISTANCE

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

Document No.: IISWBM/ESMF-SEP/WBSEDCL/2019-2020/001-04 (Version: 1.6)

WEST BENGAL STATE ELECTRICITY

DISTRIBUTION COMPANY LIMITED Vidyut Bhavan, Bidhan Nagar

Kolkata – 700 091

Executed by

Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management, Kolkata – 700 073

March, 2021

CONTENTS

ITEMS PAGE

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 - 3

1.1 Project Description 1

1.2 Objectives of the SEP 2

1.3 Framework for Stakeholder Engagement Plan 3

2.0 IDENTIFICATION & ANALYSIS OF STAKEHOLDERS 4-11

3.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN 12-19

3.1 Process of Engagement of Stakeholders 12

3.2 Stakeholders Engagement Activities 13

4.0 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENT 20 - 20

5.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM 21-25

21

22

24

24

5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

Project Steering Committee

Grievance Redressal Committee

Court of Law

GRM Budget

25

ITEMS PAGE

6.0 CONSULTATION & DISCLOSURE 26-29

6.1 Consultation Mechanism 26

6.2 Information Disclosure Mechanism 28

6.3 Feedback Mechanism 29

APPENDIX 1

Detail of Stakeholder Consultation Workshops at Selected District/Town for Formulation of ESMF including SEP

APPENDIX 2

Detail of Vulnerable Stakeholder Consultation at Selected District/Town for Formulation of ESMF including SEP

P A G E | I

ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary of SEP

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.0 INTRODUCTION

West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) is a power distribution licensee for almost the entire State of West Bengal and accounts for about 80% of the power supply in the State and caters to almost 18.1 million customers (2018-19). At present grid connectivity has been extended in every nook and corner of the State covering 99% villages. To achieve Power for All (PFA) objective, the Government of West Bengal (GoWB) has sought World Bank assistance to support part of their investments in High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS), 33/11 KV GIS, Underground Cabling (UG) across select districts/towns (besides modern technology and institutional capacity building) to facilitate increased availability of power, improve service delivery and reduce system losses.

For implementation of proposed distribution network strengthening project, it is not only mandatory to comply with applicable national and state legislations/regulatory framework on environment and social issues but to carry out due diligence on such issues as per the provisions of World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) to meet the overall requirement of sustainable development.

The Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) for the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP) has been developed in adherence to GoI and State policies & laws and World Bank’s Environmental & Social Standards (ESS-10) as Effective stakeholder engagement can improve the environmental and social sustainability of projects, enhance project acceptance, and make a significant contribution to successful project design and implementation. The prime objectives of the SEP are as follows:

To establish a systematic approach to stakeholder engagement that will helpWBSEDCL identify stakeholders and build and maintain a constructive relationshipwith them, in particular project-affected parties.

To assess the level of stakeholder interest and support for the proposed project and toenable stakeholders’ views to be taken into account in project design andenvironmental and social performance.

To promote and provide means for effective and inclusive engagement with variousstakeholders.

P A G E | II


To ensure that appropriate project information on environmental and social risks andimpacts is disclosed to stakeholders in a timely, understandable, accessible andappropriate manner and format.

To provide stakeholders with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues andgrievances, and allow WBSEDCL to respond to and manage such grievances.

2.0 IDENTIFICATION & ANALYSIS OF STAKEHOLDER

Stakeholders are persons or groups who are directly or indirectly affected by a project as well as those who may have interests in a project and/or the ability to influence its outcome, either positively or negatively. The key stakeholders group of WBEDGMP includes:

Government and regulatory agencies at national and state level which define thelegal and regulatory framework within which the WBEDGMP will be executed.

Different Government Departments at State and District level whose permissionand support are required to undertake various project activities like cutting treesand digging roads to lay/upgrade the overhead and underground linesrespectively, securing land for construction of GIS and distribution poles/DTRs,distributing compensation for damage to trees and crops, structures, etc if any.

Panchayats and Municipal Corporations at the Village/City level whosepermission and support is required to undertake various activities.

Public and Private sector companies like PHED, BSNL and Reliance, etc who havetheir own underground water supply, sewerage, OFC network and other utilitiesservices.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Community-Based Organisations(CBOs) like resident welfare associations and informal groups like women’sgroup, farmer’s group which provide platform to raise the concerns of thecommunity and vulnerable groups like women, SC and ST, etc. Such stakeholdergroups also act as channel to undertake public consultations on the projectdesign, planning and implementation and provides a platform for grievanceredressal.

Commercial & residential complexes, and individual households/communitiesand other end- beneficiaries of the project.

P A G E | III


3.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

The SEP describes the timing and methods of engagement with stakeholders throughout the life cycle of

the project as agreed, distinguishing between project-affected parties and other interested parties. The

SEP sets out how communication with stakeholders would be handled throughout project preparation

and implementation.

Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) has been evolved for WBEDGMP in accordance with National and

State Policies & Laws and World Banks’s ESS 10 considering the nature and scale of the sub-project and

its potential risks and impacts. During public consultation meetings views of stakeholders on the SEP,

including on the identification of stakeholders and engagement activities has been incorporated. If

significant changes are made during public disclosure meetings to the SEP, WBSEDCL will disclose the

updated SEP.

Various methods of engagement are proposed to be used as part of the project’s interaction with the

stakeholders, to ensure that different stakeholder groups are successfully reached and are involved in

the process of consultation, decision-making and the development of impact management solutions.

Stakeholder engagement activities may vary at different stages of conceptualization, designing

and implementation of sub-project activities.

4.0 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENT

For the implementation of the ESMF including SEP, WBSEDCL has developed a Project Implementation Unit (WBSEDCL-PIU). The WBSEDCL PIU will be located at the WBSEDCL headquarters in Bidyut Bhavan, Bidhannagar, Kolkata and is headed by the Additional Chief Engineer. For the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP the WBSEDCL PIU would be additionally supported by designated Environmental Officer and Social Officer. The WBSEDCL PIU would also be responsible for driving the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP of WBEDGMP. At the field level, the Regional/Divisional offices of WBSEDCL who would be responsible for implementing the technical aspects of the WBEDGMP would also be responsible for the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP. In addition, the Contractor implementing the subprojects would also have an Environment and Social personnel to actually carry out the E&S safeguards including implementation of SEP on the ground.

P A G E | IV


5.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM

Grievance Redressal Mechanism is an integral part of the institutional arrangement in relation to social safeguard issues. A three -tier consumer grievance redressal mechanism is already in place at WBSEDCL and this will also be a channel for the affected to file the grievances. There will be two level GRM systems to redress the grievances – Sub Project Field level GRM and the Project Streering Committee which will also serve as final GRM for the affected people.

To effectively address grievances related to ESMP implementation including SEP, two GRM bodies are proposed to be established; Project Steering Committee (PSC) at the corporate level and Field level Grievance Redressal Committees (GRCs) at the sub-project sites.

The established PSC for WBEDGMP under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) of WBSEDCL, shall be used to monitor and review the progress of implementation of ESMP including SEP of each sub-project. Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) WBSEDCL, will be convener of this Committee. This Committee should meet every quarter to review the progress made in the implementation of the ESMP including SEP of each sub-project and to solve any grievances of the stakeholders. This Committee will also provide policy related direction to the GRC and the participating departments with regard to ESMF.

The field level Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) will be established at each sub-project site under the chairmanship of Divisional/Regional Manager, WBSEDCL for redressal of grievances of the stakeholders. Designated Divisional Manager of concerned region shall be the convener of this Committee. At the sub-project level, the ESMP including SEP Implementing Agency (IA) i.e. contractor will provide support to this Committee. Block/Sub-division/District level head of all participating departments will be members along with a representative of APs and local NGOs/CBOs, if any.

Complaint boxes will be placed at every sub-projects locations i.e. RM/DM office of WBSEDCL which would be collected once in two days by concerned RM/DM. Grievances received through other modes (postal, email, or over the phone), existing customer three tier GRM channels will be compiled. An e-mail and toll free phone number will be provided for receiving grievances/complaints through these methods. Toll free phone number, email, and address of PIU shall also be suitably displayed at sub-project locations. Additionally, PIU will provide support to illiterate, physically challenged and other vulnerable PAPs to record their grievances.

The stakeholders. who are not satisfied with the decision/mechanism has the freedom to move court of law at any stage for redressal of their complaint. In case it is referred to court, the above referred GRM shall cease to take cognizance of complaint.

P A G E | V


6.0 STAKEHOLDERS CONSULTATION & DISCLOSURE

The stakeholder consultation workshops was conducted at Bankura Jilla Parishad Conference Hall on 14th February, 2020 and Baruipur Municipality Conference Hall on 10th February, 2020. Detailed presentation on draft ESMF including SEP was made which was followed by discussion and suggestions by the participants. The vulnerable stakeholder were also consulted at selected load centres at Alipurduar District and Coochbehar District sub-project area during 17th to 19th June, 2020. During the interaction with vulnerable consumers and other stake holders at selected load centres of vulnerable areas the various issues raised regarding activities proposed to be undertaken under conversion of LVDS in to HVDS and its impact on their community as well as scope of their engagement during execution of sub-project. The suggestions were noted and incorporated suitably in the ESMF/SEP document.

With the outbreak and spread of COVID-19, people have been advised, or may be mandated by national or local law, to exercise social distancing, and specifically to reduce/ avoid public gatherings to prevent and reduce the risk of the virus transmission. Accordingly, alternative ways of managing consultation and stakeholder engagement may be adopted. The PIU-WBSEDCL would:

Review the COVID-19 spread situation in the sub-project area, and the restrictionsput in place by the government to contain virus spread;

If smaller meetings are permitted, conduct consultations in small-group sessions, such

as focus group meetings. If not permitted, make all reasonable efforts to conduct

meetings through online channels, including webex, zoom and skype meetings;

Employ traditional channels of communications (TV, newspaper, radio, dedicated

phone-lines, public announcements and mail) when stakeholders do not have access

to online channels or do not use them frequently. Such channels can also be highly

effective in conveying relevant information to stakeholders, and allow them to provide

their feedback and suggestions;

Employ online communication tools to design virtual workshops in situations where

large meetings and workshops are essential. The format of such workshops could

include the following steps:

o Virtual registration of participants: Participants can register online through adedicated platform.

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o Distribution of workshop materials to participants, including agenda, projectdocuments, presentations, questionnaires and discussion topics: These can bedistributed online to participants.

o Review of distributed information materials: Participants are given a scheduledduration for this, prior to scheduling a discussion on the information provided.

o Discussion, feedback collection and sharing: Participants can be organized and assigned to different topic groups, teams

or virtual “tables” provided they agree to this.

Group, team and table discussions can be organized through social mediameans, such as webex, skype or zoom, or through written feedback in the formof an electronic questionnaire or feedback forms that can be emailed back.

o Conclusion and summary: The chair of the workshop will summarize the virtualworkshop discussion, formulate conclusions and share electronically with allparticipants.

In situations where online interaction is challenging, information can be disseminatedthrough digital platform (where available) like Facebook, Twitter, Whats App groups,Project web links/ websites, and traditional means of communications (TV,newspaper, radio, phone calls and mails with clear description of mechanisms forproviding feedback via mail and / or dedicated telephone lines.

In order to make the SEP preparation and implementation process transparent, salient features of SEP shall be translated in Bengali which is widely spoken and understood in the project area and disclosed on the Project Authority’s website. The documents available in the public domain will include stakeholder mapping and proposed engagement activities along with SEP summary in Bengali. Copy of all documents will be kept in PIU for ready reference. As per Access to Information Policy of the World Bank, all safeguard documents will also be disclosed and available at the World Bank’s external website.

Further to the web disclosure of the Draft SEP on Project Authority’s website, wide publicity would be given through newspaper advertisements about the disclosure and seeking public views and suggestions. Executive summary of the SEP translated in Bengali would be distributed to the stakeholders. The final SEP incorporating given comments, if any, shall be forwarded to the World Bank for its review and clearance and subsequent disclosure on the World Bank’s portal.

ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project. Stakeholder Engagement Plan

P A G E | 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) is a power distribution

licensee for almost the entire State of West Bengal, except for certain areas, which are catered

by private distribution licensees. WBSEDCL accounts for about 80% of the power supply in the

State and caters to almost 18.1 million customers (2018-19). At present grid connectivity has

been extended in every nook and corner of the State covering 99% villages and the low and

medium voltage consumer base has seen a significant increase post implementation of rural

electrification schemes. However, this has led to a steady increase in Aggregate Technical and

Commercial (AT&C) loss levels. WBSEDCL continually strives to enhance the quality of services

delivered to its customers. WBSEDCL provides quality power to a gargantuan customer base of

more than 1.95 crore across West Bengal through its service network spanning 5 Zones, 20

Regional Offices, 76 Distribution Divisions and 530 Customer Care Centers.

To achieve Power for All (PFA) objective, the Government of West Bengal (GoWB) has sought World Bank assistance to support part of their investments in High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS), 33/11 KV GIS, Underground Cabling (UG) across select districts/towns (besides modern technology and institutional capacity building) to facilitate increased availability of power, improve service delivery and reduce system losses. Further the State has planned investments in modern ICT technologies including operational technologies across the complete electricity supply and demand chain to ensure efficiency and monitor reliable supply of power.

For implementation of proposed distribution network strengthening project, it is not only mandatory to comply with applicable national and state legislations/regulatory framework on environment and social issues but to carry out due diligence on such issues as per the provisions of World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) to meet the overall requirement of sustainable development.

To accomplish this mission, it is imperative to undertake a) preparation of Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) along with Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), Gender Development Framework (GDF), Tribal Peoples Planning Framework (TPPF), Labour Management Procedure (LMP) and Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) for proposed project and b) Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) including preparation of Environment & Social Management Plan (ESMP) for each proposed sub-project. Accordingly the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) for the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP) has been developed in adherence to GoI and State policies &

laws and World Bank’s Environmental & Social Standards(ESS-10)as Effective stakeholder engagement can improve the environmental and social sustainability of projects, enhance


P A G E | 2

project acceptance, and make a significant contribution to successful project design and implementation.

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF SEP

Stakeholders are persons or groups who are directly or indirectly affected by a project, as well as those who may have interests in a project and/or the ability to influence its outcome, either positively or negatively. The prime objectives of the SEP are as follows:

To establish a systematic approach to stakeholder engagement that will helpWBSEDCL identify stakeholders and build and maintain a constructive relationshipwith them, in particular project-affected persons (PAPs).

To assess the level of stakeholder interest and support for the proposed project and toenable stakeholders’ views to be taken into account in project design andenvironmental and social performance.

To promote and provide means for effective and inclusive engagement with variousstakeholders.

To ensure that appropriate project information on environmental and social risks andimpacts is disclosed to stakeholders in a timely, understandable, accessible andappropriate manner and format.

To provide stakeholders with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues andgrievances and allow WBSEDCL to respond to and manage such grievances.


P A G E | 3

1.3 FRAMEWORK FOR STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN Stakeholder engagement is an inclusive process conducted throughout the project life cycle. It supports the development of strong, constructive and responsive relationships that are important for successful management of a project’s environmental and social risks. Stakeholder engagement is most effective when initiated at an early stage of the project development process and project decisions and the assessment, management and monitoring of the project’s environmental and social risks and impacts. The process of stakeholder engagement is presented in Figure 1.1. Accordingly, SEP for WBEDGMP has been formulated considering the following:

Stakeholder identification and analysis;

Planning of modalities for engagement with stakeholders;

Mechanism for disclosure of information;

Consultation with stakeholders;

Addressing and responding to grievances; and

Reporting to stakeholders.

FIGURE 1.1: PROCESS OF STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT


P A G E | 4

2.0 IDENTIFICATION & ANALYSIS OF STAKEHOLDERS

Stakeholders are persons or groups who are directly or indirectly affected by a project as well as those who may have interests in a project and/or the ability to influence its outcome, either positively or negatively. The key stakeholders group includes:

Government and regulatory agencies at national and state level which define thelegal and regulatory framework within which the project will operate.

Multilateral agencies such as the World Bank which fund power projects.

Power sector utilities in West Bengal i.e. WBSEDCL which is implementing the project.

Different Government Departments at State and District level whose permission andsupport are required to undertake various project activities like cutting trees anddigging roads to lay the overhead and underground lines respectively, securing landfor construction of GIS and distribution poles/DTRs, distributing compensation fordamage to trees and crops, structures, etc if any.

Panchayats and Municipal Corporations at the Village/City level whose permissionand support is required to undertake various activities. The Panchayats and MunicipalCorporations also provide a platform for the people to raise their grievances.

Public and Private sector companies like BSNL and Reliance, etc who have their ownunderground cabling network.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs)like resident welfare associations and informal groups like women’s group, farmer’sgroup which provide platform to raise the concerns of the community and vulnerablegroups like women, SC and ST, etc. Such stakeholder groups also act as channel toundertake public consultations on the project design, planning and implementationand provides a platform for grievance redressal.

Commercial and residential complexes, and communities which are the end- beneficiaries of the project and are also receptors of various intended andunintended externalities of the project like noise and water pollution, damage ofcrop/trees etc.


P A G E | 5

The various stakeholders of WBEDGMP and their prime issues/concern and expectations of are presented in Table 2.1.

TABLE 2.1: STAKEHOLDER MAPPING OF WBEDGMP

Stakeholder Role/ Responsibility/ Interest Expectations/ Issues/

Concerns

National Level

Ministry of Power (MoP)

The Ministry is primarily responsible for development of electrical energy in India. MoP lays down the legal and regulatory framework for the electrical energy sector. Note: Electricity is a concurrent subject.

• Proposed projects supportthe MoP aim to ensure 24X7power supply in the country

Multilateral Agencies The World Bank funds power projects in the State. In addition, they provide technical advisory services to the projects and prescribe environment and social safeguard policies and standards.

• Environmental& socialimpacts are minimal• Social impacts onvulnerable groups includingindigenous people areavoided, minimized ormitigated• Projects are cleared andcompleted on time

Ministry of Tribal Affairs

The Ministry is the nodal agency for overall policy, planning and coordination of the programmes for development of Scheduled Tribes (ST). The ministry notifies the tribal areas and also enacts laws like Forest Rights Act 2006 to protect the rights of the ST.

• Protection of rights oftribal / indigenous persons• Access to reliableelectricity for tribals.

National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)

NHAI was constituted by an act of Parliament and is responsible for development, maintenance and management of National Highways entrusted to it. It provides permission to dig highway or construct along the highways (within the margin as approved during highway design).

• Road surface is notdamaged due toconstruction work• Compensation for repairingroad surface when under-ground cabling crosseshighways• Minimal disruption oftrafficmovement


P A G E | 6


Concerns

Ministry of Railway The ministry is responsible for development, maintenance and management of the country’s rail network. It provides permission to dig (for UG cabling) or construct (for substations and overhead cabling) on or along the railway property including rail tracks and stations.

• Prevent disruption insignalling system• Minimal disruption of railServices.• Charges for grantingpermission for railwaycrossing.

State Level

West Bengal Electricity Regulatory Commission (WBERC)

West Bengal Electricity Regulatory Commission is a statutory body set up under the provisions of the Electricity Regulatory Commission Act, 1998 (14 of 1998). The present Commission functioning under the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003 is the same Commission constituted under the Electricity Regulatory Commission Act, 1998 with powers and functions clearly defined in the statute.

• Ensures that distributionutilities provide services(supply of electricity,fulfilling of demand, tariff,accident compensation etc.)at least at the minimumapplicable standard andnorms.• It also ensures that utilitiescomplete project activitieswithin the timelines andconsented tariffs arecharged.

WBSEDCL WBSEDCL is the distribution company responsible for distributing power to end-consumers like households, industry and agricultural farms

• Planned activities likeHVDS& AB Cabling, GIS andUG Cabling under theproject will help in improvingquality of power andreducing AT&C losses.

Department of Forest, Govt of West Bengal (DoF, GoWB)

DoF, GoWB is one of the nodal departments dealing with forest conservation and its management in the State. Their permission is required for any construction activities in the forest area as well as for cutting of trees.

• Ensuring the protection offorest and wildlife habitats•Ensures that mandatorypermission under Forest(conservation) Act, 1980 isgranted before start of anyactivity in such areas.• May propose measureswhich are required forwildlife if any as well as forreduction in vegetation loss.


P A G E | 7


Concerns

Department of Revenue

Department of Revenue manages functions related to the matters of Government land, excise, commercial tax, land and property registrations, surveys and settlements, endowments and so on. The department will help in securing land for projects and will also help in deciding the compensations for land where applicable.

• Ensuring that the land requested for GIS sub- projects is for public purpose • Ensuring that there is no dispute over ownership of land allotted for sub-projects • Setting compensation as per applicable state policies and regulations. • Ensuring that allotted land is used for stated purposes

Department of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal

Department of Agriculture is responsible for State policies and programmes aimed at achieving agricultural growth.

• It provides guidance to

assess the crop yields and

rate etc.

Water Resources Department

The department caters to the irrigation needs of the state. The permission from the department is required in case the project activities can potentially damage or obstruct any water way

• Ensuring that irrigation canals/ tanks / water bodies are not damaged, polluted, or in any way affected by the construction of Distribution network or substations.

Public Works Department (PWD)

The PWD is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the State Principal Road Network including National highways (on behalf of Govt. of India), State Highways and Major District Roads and assigned buildings of various Departments under the control of State Government. It provides permission to dig highways/roads or construct along the highways/roads.

• Road surface is not damaged due to construction work • Prior permission for repairing road surface when under-ground cabling crosses state highways and other roads

• Minimal disruption of traffic movement

Implementation Level (District/ City/ Village)

District administration – District Magistrate / Tahsildars at Block Level

The district officials of the revenue department help in securing land for projects and in deciding the compensations for land where applicable. They also support regular co-ordination / consultation between implementation agency and projected affected persons for early resolution of grievances & conflict management.

• Effective utilization of land – minimum land required should be used and minimum number of people should be affected


P A G E | 8


Concerns

CCC/DM/RM Offices of WBSEDCL

• Undertake/supervise activities likeconstruction, operations and maintenance ofsubstations, poles and lines• Undertake pre-construction activities likesite selection and route alignment• First level to receive grievances from end-consumers

• Required approvalsclearances from differentdepartments are in place• Timely payment of fees• Land for substations hasbeen secured• Right of Way has beensecured• There are no disturbancesfrom communities duringconstruction• Handling objections fromshop/house owners ifdistribution lines are close totheir property• Ensuring timely completionof sub-projects bycontractors

Contractors and suppliers

Responsible for constructing GIS , UG Cabling Network and HVDS & AB Cabling in line with contract signed with utilities and supplying various equipment and other material required for construction and maintenance

• Ensuring implementationof C-ESMP including LMP etc.• Ensuring worker safetyand health• Ensuring timely completionof sub-projects

Panchayats / Gram Sabha

These are the local governance bodies at village level. Their permission is required to undertake any activity in the village including securing land. They also provide a channel to the project affected persons to raise their grievances.

• Reliable electricity supplyto village• Appropriate permissions /clearances have been taken• Land-owners have beenconsulted & appropriatecompensation paid as perRPF


P A G E | 9


Concerns

Police Department The police department is responsible for maintaining law and order in their jurisdiction. Police supports the project activities by regulating the traffic flow (especially in congested areas) during the construction and maintenance phases.

• Contractors / utilities haverequisite approvals /permissions / clearances forthe proposed work• Prior notification is givenbefore work where roadtraffic will be disrupted sothat arrangements can bemade• There are no protests /disputes related to landwherethe work is being undertaken

Municipal Corporations/Urban Development Authorities

These are the local governance bodies at city/town level. Their permission is required to undertake any activity in the town/city including securing land. They also provide a channel to the project affected persons to raise their grievances.

• Utility has requiredpermissions / clearances foruse of land and undertakingconstruction activities.

NGOs and CBOs They provide a platform to raise concerns of the community and vulnerable groups like women, SC and ST. This stakeholder group also act as channel to undertake public consultations on the project design, planning and implementation and provides a platform for grievance redressal.

• Environmental& Socialimpacts of projects are takeninto consideration.• Rights of vulnerable groupsare protected and they canparticipate in the benefitsfrom the project.• Grievances of affectedpeople are heard andappropriately handled by theutilities.

Informal groups Community groups/ women groups provide platform to inform the general public about the project activities, undertake public consultations and grievance redressal.

• The people are informed inadvance about any proposedproject Activities.• Environmental and socialimpacts of projects are takeninto consideration.• Grievances of affectedpeople are heard andappropriately handled by theutilities.


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Concerns

Commercial and Residential complexes/societies

Commercial and Residential complexes/societies are end- beneficiaries of the project and are also receptors of various intended and unintended externalities of the project like noise and water pollution, damage of crop/trees etc.

• Access to 24 X 7 powersupply at sufficient voltagelevels• Project does not causedisruptions to business andblock access to commercial /residential properties• Minimization ofdisturbances duringconstruction including noiseand air pollution as well asaccess to roads, movementof traffic etc.

Communities and families

Communities and families are the end- beneficiaries of the project and are also receptors of various intended and unintended externalities of the project like noise and water pollution, damage of crop/trees etc.

• Access to 24 X 7 powersupply at sufficient voltagelevels.• Minimization of losses /theft• Minimization ofdisturbances duringconstruction including noiseand air pollution as well asaccess to roads, movementof traffic etc.

Vulnerable groups: Minorities / Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribe

The adverse effects of the project activities, if any, are more pronounced on the vulnerable groups in the society. Therefore, it is essential to understand how the project activities specifically impact these groups in line with applicable laws/guidelines notified for their protection/safety.

• Access to reliable 24 X 7power supply• Ensuring compensation ispaid in case their land isused for construction of GISas per RPF.• Vulnerable groups areheard and theirviews/problems areadequately addressed.


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Concerns

Womens • May be affected during the construction phase of the proposed projects • End-consumer of electricity

• Access to reliable electricity supply in houses • Public and open spaces are properly lit during night time • Ensuring that compensation is paid as per RPF to women when the land is in their name • Blockage of access roads during construction phase • Ensuring safety of women during the construction phase


P A G E | 12

3.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN

The SEP describes the timing and methods of engagement with stakeholders throughout the

life cycle of the project as agreed, distinguishing between project-affected parties and other

interested parties. The SEP sets out how communication with stakeholders would be handled

throughout project preparation and implementation.

Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) has been evolved for WBEDGMP in accordance with World

Banks’s ESS 10 considering the nature and scale of the sub-project and its potential risks and

impacts. During public consultation and information disclosure meeting views of stakeholders

on the SEP, including on the identification of stakeholders and the proposals for future

engagement would be incorporated while implementation of the same. If significant changes

are made during public consultation to the SEP, WBSEDCL will disclose the updated SEP.

When the stakeholder engagement with local individuals and communities depends

substantially on community representatives, WBSEDCL would make reasonable efforts to verify

that such persons do, in fact, represent the views of such individuals and communities, and that

they are facilitating the communication process in an appropriate manner. In certain

circumstances, depending on the level of information available about the project, the SEP takes

the format of a framework approach, outlining general principles and a collaborative strategy to

identify stakeholders and plan for an engagement process.

3.1 PROCESS OF ENGAGEMENT OF STAKEHOLDER

Various methods of engagement are proposed to be used as part of the project’s interaction

with the stakeholders, to ensure that different stakeholder groups are successfully reached and

are involved in the process of consultation, decision-making and the development of impact

management solutions.

World Bank’s ESS 10 emphasize the importance of a consultation being ‘free, prior and

informed’, which implies an accessible and unconstrained process that is accompanied by the

timely provision of relevant and understandable information. In order to fulfil this requirement,

a range of consultation methods are applied that specifically focus on this approach.

Information that is communicated in advance of public consultations primarily includes an

announcement thereof in the public media – local, regional and state, as well as the distribution

of invitations and full details of the forthcoming meeting well in advance, including the agenda.

It is crucial that this information is widely available, readily accessible, clearly outlined, and

reaches all areas and segments of the target community.


P A G E | 13

3.2 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

Stakeholder engagement activities may vary at different stages of conceptualization, designing

and implementation of sub-project activities. The proposed activities for stakeholder

engagement in WBEDGMP are presented in Table 3.1. The stakeholder consultation and

analysis accounts following criteria to take account of local specific conditions for identification

of activities of stakeholders:

Liability: project implementation or on-going operations may result in legal, financial or

other liabilities of the proponent to a social group;

Influence: a social group may be able to substantially influence project implementation

or on-going operations;

Partnership: there are opportunities for building partnership relations between the

project developer and a given social group in the framework of the project

implementation or on-going operations;

Dependency: project implementation may significantly affect a given social group, in

particular, it may affect vital interests of its representatives if they are dependent on the

project on-going operations in economic or financial terms;

Representation: a social group may have a right to represent interests with regard to a

project or on-going operations, and this right is legitimated through legislation, custom

and and/or cultural specifics;

Expressed interest: a social group and/or individual may express interest to a project or

on-going operations, and this group is not necessarily directly affected by the planned or

current activities.


P A G E | 14

TABLE 3.1: PROPOSED STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES FOR WBEDGMP

Stage Target stakeholders Engagement

Activities Method(s) used Location/frequency Responsibilities

STA

GE

1: P

RO

JEC

T P

REP

AR

ATI

ON

(PR

OJE

CT D

ESIG

N, S

CO

PIN

G

ESM

F/R

PF/

SEP

/LM

P/T

PP

F/G

DF

DIS

CLO

SUR

E)

Project Affected People: - People residing in

project area- Vulnerable households

- ESMF,ESMP, RPF,GDF, TPPF, LMPSEP, disclosures

- Assistance ingathering officialdocuments forauthorized landuses

- Compensationrates,methodology

- Compensationpackages

- Project scope andrationale

- Project E&Sprinciples

- Grievancemechanismprocess

- Public meetings, separatemeetings for women andvulnerable

- Face-to-face meetings- Mass/social media

communication (as needed)- Disclosure of written

information: brochures,posters, flyers, websiteInformation boards or desks- In WBSEDCL regional office

- Grievance mechanism- WBSEDCL monthly

newsletter

- In Regional/DivisionalOffices for disclosure ofDrafts ESMF,ESMP, RPF,GDF, TPPF, LMP SEP atbeginning of constructionthat would affect the area

- Continuouscommunication throughmass/social media androutine interactions.

- WBSEDCL E&Steam

Other Interested Parties (External) - Representatives in

villages- Religious Leaders in

separate levels


- Identification ofland plots anduses

- Project scope,

- Face-to-face meetings- Joint public/community

meetings with PAPs

- Project launch meetingsin Regional offices.

- Quarterly meetings inaffected wards/GPs.

- Disclosure meetings inVillages GPs and DistrictOffices.

- Contractor,WBSEDCLE&Steam

-


P A G E | 15



rationale and E&S principles


Other Interested Parties (External) - Press and media- NGOs- Businesses and business

organizations- Workers' organizations- Academic institutions- National Government

Ministries- West Bengal

GovernmentDepartments

- General public, Tourists,Jobseekers


- Grievancemechanism

- Project scope,rationale and E&Sprinciples

-

- Public meetings, trainings/workshops (separate meetings specifically for women and vulnerable as needed)

- Mass/social mediacommunication

- Disclosure of writteninformation: Brochures,posters, flyers, website

- Information boards or desksin Electricity Offices

- Grievance mechanism- Notice board for

employment recruitment

- Project launch meetingsin Districts

- Meetings in affectedwards as needed

- Communication throughmass/social media (asneeded)

- Information desks withbrochures/posters inaffected villages(continuous)


-

Other Interested Parties (External) - Other Government

Departments from whichpermissions/clearancesare required;

- Other projectdevelopers, donors

- Legalcomplianceissues

- Projectinformationscope andrationale andE&S principles

- Face-to-face meetings- Invitations to

public/community meetings- Submission of required

reports

- Disclosure meetings- Reports as required


-


P A G E | 16



- Coordinationactivities

- LandProcurementprocess



Other Interested Parties (Internal) - Other WBSEDCL staff- Supervision Consultants- Supervision contractors,

sub-contractors, serviceproviders, suppliers, andtheir workers

- Projectinformation:scope andrationale andE&S principles

- TrainingESMF/ESMPrequirementsand othermanagementplans


- E&Srequirements

- Face-to-face meetings- Trainings/workshops- Invitations to

public/community meetings

As needed - Contractor,WBSEDCLE&Steam


P A G E | 17



- Feedback on consultant/ contractor reports

STA

GE

2: C

ON

STR

UCT

ION

AN

D M

OB

ILIZ

ATI

ON

AC

TIV

ITIE

s

Project Affected People - People potentially

affected by land procurement

- People residing in project area

- Vulnerable households

- Grievance mechanism

- Health and safety impacts (EMF, community)

- Employment opportunities

- Project status

- Public meetings, open houses, trainings/workshops

- Separate meetings as needed for women and vulnerable

- Individual outreach to PAPs as needed

- Disclosure of written information: brochures, posters, flyers, website Information boards in Electricity Office

- Notice board(s) at construction sites

- Grievance mechanism - WBSEDCL monthly

newsletter

- Quarterly meetings during construction period.

- Communication through mass/social media as needed

- Notice boards updated weekly

- Routine interactions - Brochures in local offices

- WBSEDCL E&S team in Assistance with Contractor

Other Interested Parties (External) - Governmental

committees for land use and compensation

- Political and religious representatives in

- Project scope, rationale and E&S principles


- Project status - World Bank

- Face-to-face meetings - Joint public/community

meetings with PAPs

As needed (monthly during construction season)

- Contractor, WBSEDCLE&S team


P A G E | 18



villages/town compensation requirements

Other Interested Parties (External) - Press and media- NGOs- Businesses and business

organizations- Workers' organizations- Academic institutions- National Government

Ministries- WB Government

Departments- General public, tourists,

jobseekers

- Projectinformation -scope andrationale and E&Sprinciples

- Project status- Health and safety

impacts- Employment

opportunities- Environmental

concerns- Grievance

mechanismprocess

- Public meetings, openhouses, trainings/workshops

- Disclosure of writteninformation: brochures,posters, flyers, website,Information boards inElectricity Offices

- Notice board(s) atconstruction sites


Same as for PAPs - Contractor,- WBSEDCLE&S

team

Other Interested Parties (Internal) - Other WBSEDCL staff- Supervision Consultants- Contractor, sub-

contractors, serviceproviders, suppliers andtheir workers

- Projectinformation:scope andrationale and E&Sprinciples

- Training onESMF/ESMPrequirements andother sub-managementplans

- Worker grievance

- Face-to-face meetings- Trainings/workshops- Invitations to

public/community meetings

Daily, as needed - Contractor,WBSEDCLE&Steam


P A G E | 19



mechanism

STA

GE

3: O

PER

ATI

ON

AN

D M

AIN

TEN

AN

CE

Project Affected People: - People residing in

project area

- Satisfaction with engagement activities and GRM

- Grievance mechanism process

- Damage claim process

- Outreach to individual PAPs - WBSEDCL website - Grievance mechanism - WBSEDCL newsletter

- Outreach as needed - Meetings in affected

areas and villages (as needed/requested)

- Monthly (newsletter)

- WBSEDCL E&S team

Other Interested Parties (External) - Press and media - NGOs - Businesses and business

organizations - Workers' organizations - Academic institutions - Local Government

Departments (WBSEDCL) - General public, Tourists

- Grievance mechanism process

- Issues of concern - Status and

compliance reports

- Grievance mechanism - WBSEDCL website - Face-to-face meetings - Submission of reports as

required

As needed - Contractor, - WBSEDCLE&S

team


P A G E | 20

4.0 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENT

During the planning and designing of sub-projects the safeguards planning would involve conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessment including additional specialised studies and application for Forest Clearance (if required). However, during the project implementation the focus of safeguards would be primarily on:

Procurement of Land for GIS (if required)

Implementation of the Environmental and Social Management Plan

The mechanism proposed to be adopted for ensuring safeguards during these processes is described in subsequent sections.

For the implementation of the ESMF including SEP, WBSEDCL has developed a Project Implementation Unit (WBSEDCL-PIU). The WBSEDCL PIU will be located at the WBSEDCL headquarters in Bidyut Bhavan, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata and is headed by the Additional Chief Engineer. For the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP the WBSEDCL PIU would be additionally supported by designated Environmental Officer and Social Officer. The WBSEDCL PIU would also be responsible for driving the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP of WBEDGMP. At the field level, the Regional/Divisional offices of WBSEDCL who would be responsible for implementing the technical aspects of the WBEDGMP would also be responsible for the implementation of the E&S safeguards along with SEP. In addition, the Contractor implementing the subprojects would also have Environment and Social personnel to actually carry out the E&S safeguards including implementation of SEP on the ground.


P A G E | 21

5.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM

3-tier grievance redressal mechanism is already in place at WBSEDCL. It would be aligned to

resolving grievance/disputes related to the environmental and social performance of the

project. The system would be used by the various stakeholders to flag off any

concerns/grievance/disputes in the project and seek redressal of the same thereby ensuring

effective participation. In order to realign with existing GRM mechanism of WBSEDCL to

address grievances related to ESMP implementation as well as issues related with SEP, two

bodies are to be established; Project Steering Committee (PSC) at the corporate level and

Grievance Redressal Committees (GRCs) at the sub-project sites. These PSC and GRCs would be

aligned with the existing grievance redressal mechanism of WBSEDCL for easy access and timely

redressal of any grievance of the stakeholders.

In compliance with the World Bank’s ESS-10, a project-specific mechanism is being set up to

handle complaints and issues, and this will be in addition to the normal town and village-level

processes that are available to citizens. Dedicated communication materials (specifically, a GRM

brochure or pamphlet) will be developed to help various stakeholder specially local residents

become familiar with the grievance redress channels and procedures. Locked

suggestion/complaint boxes will be posted in strategic location covering cross section of project

area and at contractor offices and camps, and WBSEDCL will maintain a grievance register in

order to capture and track grievances from submission to resolution and communication with

complainants. WBSEDCL’s website will include clear information on how feedback, questions,

comments, concerns and grievances can be submitted by any stakeholder. It will also provide

information on the way grievances will be handled, both in terms of process and deadlines.

5.1 PROJECT STEERING COMMITEE

The established PSC for WBEDGMP under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Engineer

(Distribution) of WBSEDCL, shall be used to monitor and review the progress of implementation

of ESMP of each sub-project. Adl Chief Engineer (Distribution) WBSEDCL, will be convener of

this Committee. This Committee should meet every quarter to review the progress made in the

implementation of the ESMP of each sub-project and to solve any grievances of the

stakeholders. This Committee will also provide policy related direction to the Grievance

Redressal Cell and the participating departments with regard to ESMF and SEP.


P A G E | 22

5.2 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL COMMITTEE

The Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) will be established at each sub-project site under the

chairmanship of Divisional/Regional Manager, WBSEDCL for redressal of grievances of the

various stakeholder. Sub-station In-Charge shall be the convener of this Committee. At the sub-

project level, the ESMP Implementing Agency (IA) i.e. contractor will provide support to this

Committee. Block/Sub-division/District level head of all participating departments will be

members along with a representative of various prime stakeholders and local NGOs/CBOs, if

any. The proposed grievance redressal mechanism for WBEDGMP is presented in Table 5.1.

It is proposed that the stakeholder may first register the grievances with the IA. The sample

grievance form for registering the grievance by stakeholder is presented in Table 5.2. After

receipt of grievance, the IA should take them to the Committee to take up the matter during

the next immediate meeting and initiate measures for redressal. No grievance can be kept

pending for more than a month which means the Committee has to meet every month.

Implementation of the redressal rests with the PIU. In case the aggrieved party is not satisfied

with the proposed redressal measures, it can take approach the PSC. If the aggrieved party is

not satisfied with the decision of PSC, it can approach the court of law.

TABLE 5.1: GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM FOR WBEDGMP

Agency Level Time Period for

Redressal of Grievance

Issues likely to Emerge

Responsibility

Grievance Redressal Committee

Sub-Project

Maximum of one month

Air & NoisePollution duringconstructionactivities

Debris/wastedumping

Encroachment

LivelihoodAssistance

Damage &Compensation

Access to CPRs

Temporarydisruption oftraffic & utilityservices

Stakeholder & community Representative, Village/Nagar Panchayat, DM/RM as Chairperson and Substation In-Charge as Convener

Project Steering Committee

Corporate Maximum of three months

Head PIU, Adl CE(Dist), WBSEDCL, as Chairman, Member (Env & Social Issues), PIU-WBSEDCL as Convener


P A G E | 23

TABLE 5.2: A SAMPLE GRIEVANCE FORM TO REGISTER GRIVANCE OF STAKEHOLDERS

Grievance Form

Grievance reference number (to be completed by WBSEDCL):

Contact details (may be submitted anonymously)

Name (s):

Address:

Telephone:

Email:

How would you prefer to be contacted (check one)

By mail/post:

☐

By phone:

☐

By email

☐

Preferred language ☐ Bengali ☐ Hindi ☐ English

Provide details of your grievance. Please describe the problem, who it happened to, when and where it happened, how many times, etc. Describe in as much detail as possible.

What is your suggested resolution for the grievance, if you have one? Is there something you would like WBSEDCL or another party/person to do to solve the problem?

How have you submitted this form to the project?

Website

☐

email

☐

By hand

☐

In person

☐

By telephone

☐

Other (specify)

☐

Who filled out this form (If not the person named above)?

Name and contact details:

Signature

Name of WBSEDCL person assigned responsibility

Resolved or referred to GRC1? ☐Resolved ☐ Referred If referred, date:

Resolved referred to GRC2? ☐Resolved ☐Referred If referred, date:

Completion

Final resolution (briefly describe)

Short description Accepted? (Y/N)

Acknowledgement signature

1st proposed solution

2nd proposed solution

3rd proposed solution


P A G E | 24

5.3 COURT OF LAW

The stakeholders who are not satisfied with the mechanism given above has option to avail

general legal environment consisting of court of law to address their grievance.

5.4 GRM BUDGET

All costs involved in resolving the complaints/grievances (meetings, consultations,

communication and reporting/information dissemination) will be borne by the WBSEDCL; costs

related to escalation of grievances to Court of Law would also be met by WBSEDCL

mailto:[email protected]


P A G E | 25


P A G E | 26

6.0 CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE

Through the process of consultation and disclosures, WBSEDCL would envisage to build

participation of stakeholders at each stage of project planning and implementation. WBSEDCL

would be responsible not only for ensuring participation of the community in the consultation

process but to make it effective ensure integration of the feedback received from stakeholder

into the project plans where it deems fit.

6.1 CONSULTATION MECHANISM

As discussed in earlier sections a consultation framework has been prepared to ensure

involvement of stakeholders at each stage of project planning and implementation. To ensure

community participation at different stages of the project the Consultation framework for

WBEDGMP has been presented in Table 3.1

The stakeholder consultation workshops were conducted at Bankura Jilla Parishad Conference

Hall on 14th February, 2020 and Baruipur Municipality Conference Hall on 10th February, 2020.

Detailed presentation on draft ESMF including SEP was made which was followed by discussion

and suggestions by the participants. The suggestions were noted and incorporated suitably in

the ESMF/SEP document. The detail of stakeholder consultation workshop including list of

participants and Minutes of the Meeting, etc are presented in Appendix 1.

The vulnerable stakeholder were also consulted at selected load centres i.e Totapara aribal area and Buxa 28 tribal basti at Alipurduar District and Rashikbill tribal area at Coochbehar District sub-project area during 17th to 19th June, 2020. During the interaction with vulnerable consumers and other stake holders at selected load centres of vulnerable areas the various issues raised regarding activities proposed to be undertaken under conversion of LVDS in to HVDS and its impact on their community as well as scope of their engagement during execution of sub-project. The suggestions were noted and incorporated suitably in the ESMF/SEP document. The detail of vulnerable stakeholder consultation including list of participants and Minutes of the Meeting, etc are presented in Appendix 2.

With the outbreak and spread of COVID-19, people have been advised, or may be mandated by national or local law, to exercise social distancing, and specifically to reduce/ avoid public gatherings to prevent and reduce the risk of the virus transmission. Accordingly, alternative ways of managing consultation and stakeholder engagement may be adopted (after checking that these are in accordance with the local applicable laws and policies).The PIU-WBSEDCL would:

Review the COVID-19 spread situation in the sub-project area, and the restrictions


P A G E | 27

put in place by the government to contain virus spread;

Review the draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), particularly the approach, methods and forms of engagement proposed, and assess the associated potential risks of virus transmission in conducting various engagement activities;

Ensure that all PIU members articulate and express their understandings on social behavior and good hygiene practices, and that any stakeholder engagement events be preceded with the procedure of articulating such hygienic practices.

Avoid public gatherings (taking into account national/state restrictions), including public hearings, workshops and community meetings, and minimize direct interaction between project agencies and beneficiaries / affected people;

If smaller meetings are permitted, conduct consultations in small-group sessions, such

as focus group meetings. If not permitted, make all reasonable efforts to conduct

meetings through online channels, including webex, zoom and skype meetings;

Diversify means of communication and rely more on social media and online channels. Where possible and appropriate, create dedicated online platforms and chat groups appropriate for the purpose, based on the type and category of stakeholders;

Employ traditional channels of communications (TV, newspaper, radio, dedicated phone-lines, public announcements and mail) when stakeholders do not have access to online channels or do not use them frequently. Such channels can also be highly effective in conveying relevant information to stakeholders, and allow them to provide their feedback and suggestions;

Employ online communication tools to design virtual workshops in situations where large meetings and workshops are essential, given the preparatory stage of the project. Webex, Skype, and in low ICT capacity situations, audio meetings, can be effective tools to design virtual workshops. The format of such workshops could include the following steps:

o Virtual registration of participants: Participants can register online through a dedicated platform.

o Distribution of workshop materials to participants, including agenda, project documents, presentations, questionnaires and discussion topics: These can be distributed online to participants.

o Review of distributed information materials: Participants are given a scheduled duration for this, prior to scheduling a discussion on the information provided.

o Discussion, feedback collection and sharing:


P A G E | 28

Participants can be organized and assigned to different topic groups, teams orvirtual “tables” provided they agree to this.

Group, team and table discussions can be organized through social media means,such as webex, skype or zoom, or through written feedback in the form of anelectronic questionnaire or feedback forms that can be emailed back.

o Conclusion and summary: The chair of the workshop will summarize the virtualworkshop discussion, formulate conclusions and share electronically with allparticipants.

In situations where online interaction is challenging, information can be disseminatedthrough digital platform (where available) like Facebook, Twitter, Whats App groups,Project web links/ websites, and traditional means of communications (TV,newspaper, radio, phone calls and mails with clear description of mechanisms forproviding feedback via mail and / or dedicated telephone lines.

6.2 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE MECHANISM

The information disclosure would provide citizen centric information on the policies and the

details of sub-projects along with its implementation process of WBEDGMP. It would be carried

out in accordance to the provision of the Right to Information Act 2005 and World Bank Policies

on Information Disclosure (ESS-10). The WBEDGMP Information Disclosure Procedure would

ensure that information concerning the WBEDGMP’s activities is made available to the public in

the absence of a compelling reason for confidentiality.

The type and timing of the disclosure, channels to be used, frequency and duration of

disclosure in WBEDGMP are presented in Table 6.1.

TABLE 6.1: SUMMARY OF INFORMATION DISCLOSURE PLAN

Project Phase Documents to be Disclosed Frequency and

Duration of

Disclosure

Channels of Disclosure

Project Planning ESMF Disclosure including

RPF, TTPF, GDF, LMP and

SEP

Once it is approved by WBSEDCL Board after that it will remain disclose for the entire life of the

project

Website of WBSEDCL

& World Bank and

Information leaflet to

be provided during

consultation meetings


P A G E | 29

ESIA and ESMP for Subprojects including RP, TDP, GDP, LMP and SEP

Once it is formally accepted by WBSEDCL after that it will remain disclose for the entire life of

the project

Website of WBSEDCL

& World Bank and

DM/RM offices of

WBSEDCL

Tendering Grievance Redresses Process Once it is formally

accepted and

institutionalised

WBSEDCL PIU,

CCC/DM/RM Offices,

Contractors Office,

Local GPs/Municipal

Office/Zilla Parishad

Implementation Information regarding

work plan, Dos & Don’t,

Monitoring Schedule, etc

Once at the start of the

project and as and

when demanded by

Stakeholders

WBSEDCL PIU,

CCC/DM/RM Offices,

Contractors Office,

Local

GPs/Municipal/Zilla

Parishad Office

ESMP and

RP/TDP/GDP/LMP/SEP

Implementation Report

At regular intervals Extracts put up at

WBSEDCL PIU, CCC/DM/RM Offices and full report available on

WBSEDCL Website

Operation Information of Hazardous

Waste Generation and

Disposal

Continuously for the

entire life of

WBEDGMP

WBSEDCL website and respective facilities

6.3 FEEDBACK MECHANISM

The feedback of the stakeholders would be captured through the CCC/Division/Regional offices

of WBSEDCL and conveyed to WBSEDCL PIU for necessary action. The feedback mechanism as

discussed in the Grievance Redresses Mechanism would be used.

APPENDIX 1

Detail of Stakeholder Consultation

Workshops at Selected

District/Town for Formulation of

ESMF including SEP

West Bengal State Etec{ricity Dlshdbution Company Limitd(A Govt. of West Bengal Enterprise)Division Office, Bishnupur Division

Adminishative Building, Kurchibon, Bishnupur, Bankrna-722122

]rtvlrATloNYou are cordially invited to attend the Public Consultation Meeting conducted by WBSEDCLon L4th Februory, 2O2O at 2:00 pm at Conference Hall, Zilla Parishad , Bankura, WestBengal on Environmental & Social lmpacts and Mitigation Measures (ESIA-ESMP) during theimplementation of proposed sub-project for conversion of existing LVDS to HVDS andlnstallation of GIS at Bankura District under West Bengal Electricity Distribution GridModernization Project (WBEDGMP), a World Bank aided project of WBSEDCL, Governmentof West Bengal.

f-€Q/', l 1v?+^*

DE & Divisional MbnbgerBishnupur Division

WBSEDCL

Registered Address: Vidyut Bhavan: Block-Dd Sector-Il, Bidhannagar, Kolkata-91:Corporate Identity Number: U40109WB2007SGC1 13475

ffiWffiTffiTT-THE BANK

ffiWOHLN

WEST BENGAL STATE ELECTRICITV PTSTNTBU

PUBLIC COI{SULTATIOTI UEETIilG O]I

ErIVIBoNlIEItr*,L e, soct*.L ulP*.cT ̂ *ssussilEt{T .*ttD llitrAffxllnlrrPIJhIV fOR II{STJIIIJhTION Of tn/DS e., ets.*T B.*NKU8A DIST*ICT

UNDEB UlnEOeilp u/rru Woru.o B.*I[K ASSIST*IICE

14tn Februrarlr 2a20, conference Hall, zilla parishadBankura, West Bengal

Programme $chedule

l, RM Bankura, WBSEOCLo Address By Sabhadipati, Zilla parishad Bankura

Brief Overview of Bankura HVDS & GIS Sub-Project under WBEDGMp ritf, runOAssistance of world Bank By shri sG Dutta, Head plu-wBEDGMp & Adl cE(Distr ibution), WBSEDCLEnvironmental and Social lssues and Mitigation Measures for Conu.rrion of EffiLVDS to HVDS & Installation of GIS at Bankura District By prof (Dr) K M Agrawal,Project Director, IISWBM

r Address By sDo/BDo, BankrJra/Bishnupur/ Khatra subdivision/alocksr Address By Sabhapati Bankura/Bishnupur/ Khatra

L and Other Util ity Service proviOersViews and Suggestions of Public/shop owners and other Stakeholders on possibleEnvironmental and Social lmpact of the pro

o closing Remark & Vote of Thanks by DM Bankura, wBSEDCL

Minutes of Meeting of Public Consultation Meeting

Held on 14th February, 2020 at Zilla Parishad, Bankura

The public consultation for formulation of Environmental & Social Management Framework

(ESMF) as well as Environmental & Socail Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental

Management Plan (ESMP) for HVDS and GISs Sub-project of Bankura District regarding West

Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP) of WBSEDCL with

fund assistance of World Bank was held in the office of Bankura Zilla Parishad on 14th February,

2020. The project consists of installation of two new Gas Insulated Substations (GIS) in

Radhanagar Gram Panchayet and Ratanpur Gram Panchayet of Bankura district, installation of

HVDS with LT AB cable and load shifting (alteration/rearrangement of transformers). The

project is proposed to be funded by World Bank and the estimated cost is approximately INR

100 crore.

The program was started with introductory speech given by Mr. Tirtha Mal, Divisional Manager

of WBSEDCL, Bishnupur Division. He mentioned the brief description of the projectand

highlighted the importance of that project in the rural area of Bankura District. He admitted the

safety issues which may arise during the commissioning of that project work as the Bankura

district has a vast forest area and have elephant corridor through which elephant oftenly move

from Dalma Range. Accordingly Mr. Mal emphasized the need of safety of elephant and other

wild animals is a prime concerned issue as directed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and

Climate Change, Govt. of India. For the purpose more 11kV AB cable may be considered as

Bankura district has various elephant crossing areas which may be subjected to the Right of Way

(RoW) of few HT and LT distribution system.

The technical work description of the project was described by the Mr. Parthapratim Naskar,

S.E(E), DPD, WBSEDCL. Mr. Naskar introduced main schemes of this electricity distribution

grid modernization project of Bankura District i.e. firstly, installations of two numbers of GIS;

secondly, installations of more numbers of 25 kVA transformers and a few of 63 kVA

transformers instead of 100 kVA transformers; and thirdly, most HT line will pass through load

centre. He addressed the problems of the existing electricity distribution system of Bankura

District such as up-down of distribution voltage, low voltage due to long length of distribution

line and long time of maintenance in rural area due to long distance from the substations.

Therefore the proposed project need to be implemented on priority basis to overcome these

problems of Bankura District. He also mentioned that in new project 100 kVA transformers are

going to be avoided because there is less scope of maintaining of strong voltage profile in case of

100 kVA transformer.

Dr. Krishna M. Agrawal, Project Co-ordinator, IISWBM gave a brief presentation about the

likely Environmental & Social Impact along with mitigative measures for minimizing the

potential risks and impact of proposed project. He highlighted the need of incorporation of

environmental and social issues in proposed project activities as per World Bank’s recent

Environmental & Social Standards (ESS 1 to 10). He emphasized the mechanism of assessment

of environmental & social risks and impact followed as per the World Bank’s guidelines and

norms. He mentioned that the proposed project activities would not require any additional land

except for setting up of GIS at Radhanaga and Ratanpur therefore no RoW issues are involved.

The land for both the GIS have been already identified and procurement process as per West

Bengal Land Procurement Policy has been initiated. He informed that local people as well as

concerned GPs have ensured for full support to procure land and start construction activities as

early as possible. Dr Agrawal also mentioned that as such there would not be any adverse

environmental impact however during construction period insignificant air and noise pollution

may be generated which would be taken care by adopting mitigative measures like sprinkling of

water etc. However as the project area have significant forest cover including elephant corridor

and also tribal population in certain stretches of the Bankura district adequate measures would be

adopted during implementation of the project to minimize the negative impacts if any.

Hon’ble Sabhadhipati of Bankura Zilla Parishad Shri Mrityunjay Murmu, praised the initiative

taken by WBSEDCL for improving the power quality and reliability in the Bankura District and

also welcomed the proposed project being funded by World Bank. He highlighted about the

major problems of rural people of Bankura District specially the Radhanagar Gram Panchayet

and Ratanpur Gram Panchayet and requested WBSEDCL to start implementation of GIS in these

two identified areas for the purpose. He assured to extent his full co-operation and support

required for implementation of project and also advised concerned Gram Panchayet pradhan

present during the meeting to cooperate at local level for execution of project. The same tune

was heard on the voice of Mr. Sibaji Banerjee, Karmadhakya of Bankura Zilla Parishad. Besides

addressing the technical problem, Mr. banerjee addressed billing problem issues also. Another

issues like electricity requirement of agricultural area and problems of jungalmahal area due to

HT and LT line were also addressed. All the Karmadhakyas and other representatives of

Bankura Zilla Parishad also welcomed the project and assured to provide all kind of assistance to

implement the proposed project. All the local people are very excited about the project as they

are the prime beneficiaries of the proposed project. Meeting ended with the thanks to chair and

all present.

ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSASSM$NT OF WBEDGMP(woRf,D BAFIK PRoJEcr)

PT]BLIC CONSTJLTATIONDate: r Zl Zl 2)D1)1Nameoftdio*n'

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ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF WBEDGMP(woRf,D BANK i,nopct)

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W,est Bengat $tate Electlicidy, Dktribution Company Limited(A Governml'e,nt oy #est Bengat &nterpriie)

Regional O,ffice,'.,5suth ?4 ParganascIN - U40109W8?0075GC1 13473

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You are cordially invited to attend the Public Consultation Meeting conducted byWBSEDCL on LOth February, 2A2O at 3.30 pm.at Conference Hall, Baruipur MunicipalityOffice, Baruipur, 24 Parganas (South), West Bengal on Environmental & Social lmpactsand Mitigation Measures (ESIA-ESMP) during the implementation of proposed sub-project for conversion of existing overhead electrical network to underground cabte atBaruipur town under West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project(WBEDGMP), a World Bank aided project of WBSEDC| Government of West Bengal.

South 24 Parganas Region

WBS.FDCL

Adlalnistrattve Butldltag [Ii Floor], Kulpl Ro*d; Near Padmapuln$, Safiitpur, Ilulkata * ?OOt44Telephone: 033-24?30340 /24230342 Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

0allik)

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WEST BENGAL STATE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY LIMITED

PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING ON

ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BARUIPUR TOWN UG CABLING NETWORK PROJECT UNDER WORLD BANK ASSISTANCE

10th Februrary, 2020, Conference Hall, Baruipur Municipality Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal

Programme Schedule

Welcome Address By Shri Anup Kr Mallik, RM Baruipur, WBSEDCL

Address By Shri Shakti Roy Chowdhury, Chairman, Baruipur Municipality

Brief Overview of Baruipur U/G Cabling Sub-Project under WBEDGMP with FundAssistance of World Bank By Shri Amitav Kayal, CE (Distribution), WBSEDCL

Environmental and Social Issues and Mitigation Measures for Conversion of ExistingO/H Electricity Distribution Network to U/G Cabling Network at Baruipur Town AreaBy Prof (Dr) K M Agrawal, Project Director, IISWBM

Address By SDO, Baruipur Subdivision

Address By Shri Gautam Das, Vice-Chairman, Baruipur Municipality

Views and Suggestions of Hon’ble Councillors of Baruipur Municipality

Views and Suggestions of PWD/BSNL and Other Utility Service Providers

Views and Suggestions of Public/Shop Owners and Other Stakeholders on PossibleEnvironmental and Social Impact of the Proposed Project

Closing Remark & Vote of Thanks by Shri S Ghorai, DM Baruipur, WBSEDCL

PROCEEDING OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING FOR ESIA & ESMP STUDY FOR UG CABLING NETWORK OF BARUIPUR TOWN HELD ON 10th FEBRUARY, 2020 AT CONFERENCE HALL OF BARUIPUR MUNICIPALITY

Public Consultation Workshop on Environmental & Social Impact Assessment of proposed sub-project for conversion of existing overhead electrical network to underground cable at Baruipur town area under WBEDGMP, A World Bank aided project of WBSEDCL, Government of West Bengal was conducted on 10th February, 2020 at the Conference Hall of Baruipur Municipality.

The public consultation held in presence of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Councilors of Baruipur Municipality, Representatives of PWD, BSNL and other Utility Service providers as well as other invited representatives from local administrative authorities with general public and other stakeholders. The Workshop was attended by around 40 people. The list of participants attended the Workshop is appended.

The meeting was presided over by Shri Shakti Roy Chowdhury, Chairman, Baruipur Municipality. The Consultation Workshop started with the initiation of presentation about the proposed project by Shri Anup Kumar Mallik, Regional Manager Baruipur, WBSEDCL. He stated the scope of work under proposed sub-project of UG Cabling work of Baruipur town area under WBEDGMP which includes conversion of existing OH 33/11 kv HT feeders in to UG as well as OH LT lines into UG/AB cable. He also appraise the present status of proposed project and reported that the draft DPR along with ESIA & ESMP study reports have been already prepared based on initial field survey and available secondary data by RECPDL and IISWBM as per guidelines of World Bank.

During the presentation Shri Anup Kr Mallik, RM Baruipur and Shri S Ghorai, DM Baruipur, WBSEDCL stated the need and necessity bound with laying electric lines underground. They cited modern applicable procedures for conversion of OH electricity distribution system into UG cabling network in sub urban areas within the State, where such methods have been successfully installed and working e.g. Salt Lake, Rajarhat, and Eco-space Tech City Action Areas, Digha-Shankarpur Area, etc. With such pragmatic examples they asserted that the same or similar pattern of work will be initiated in the entire surveyed Baruipur region with little or very miniscule impact to Common Public Property and associated environmental factors.

In relation to the same, Shri S Ghosh Dastidar, Associate Adviser, RECPDCL stated that excavation of trenches will be carried out up to 500 meters stretch and that, entire trenching work will be dealt with first and the reconstructive works too will follow on first hand as well. Besides, all necessary safety measures, commuting measures (in case of works on roads/streets and other public commuting areas) will be looked after and taken care of immensely and without any negligence.

Shri Mallik further added his comments towards the required statutory Environmental & Social Impact Assessment and formulation of Environmental and Social Management

Plan for the proposed sub-project as per the National & State Regulations as well as World Bank requirement. Subsequently, he introduced Dr. K. M. Agrawal, Project Director of IISWBM which facilitated WBSEDCL for undertaking ESIA & formulation of ESMP. Shri Mallik praised and applauded the efforts planned and executed by IISWBM for executing ESIA & ESMP study for the proposed sub-project.

Dr Agrawal started his proceedings with a vivid pictorial power-point presentation about Environment and Social Impact Assessment and Environmental (ESIA) & Social Management Plan (ESMP) for UG Cabling Network for Baruipur town area sub-project under WBEDGMP funded by World Bank. Its core intent was to provide life safety to inhabitants of the areas, to prevent ecological and environmental damage from electrical high tension and low tension lines with social, economic and aesthetical up gradation of the area, life and livelihood at large. Accordingly, Dr. Agrawal presented the salient features of ESIA study and highlighted the proposed ESMP including RPF, LMP, GDF, SEP and TPPF for minimising the negative environmental & social impact likely to be caused during construction as well as operation phase of sub-project.

The people from the locality and invitees from local administrative strata resonated affirmation towards initiating the project and sounded that they would usher in maximum possible support as far as the implementation and execution of making the project a success is concerned starting from Hon’ble Chairman, Vice-chairman, Councilors of Baripur Municipality, Representative of SDO, PWD, BSNL, Shop Owners, etc.

Many people involved and present in the Public Consultation shared their comments amongst them a few had put their words across with some recommendations which have been documented as under: Some valid questions rose during the Public Consultation which includes:

How long this entire project may take?

Whether the project will cover beyond Baruipur Municipality area especially inadjacent panchyat area?

Can the project be executed in close co-ordination with PWD and Traffic Departmentbesides Baruipur Municipality for minimum disruptions in utility services and traffic, etcl?

Public View and Proposed Recommendations:

Support from the Public Representatives and Other Stakeholders:

Chairman Baruipur Municipality, Shri Shakti Roy Chowdhury; Vice-Chairman Baruipur Municipality, Shri Gautam Das; Shri Sudarsan Dutta, Jr. Engg, Baruipur Subdivision, Shri Sumon De and Shri Susanta Guha, TT, BSNL Shri Shirshendu Chakraborti, Executive Member, Baruipur Babshayee Samity have spoken in support of the project and assured of their full cooperation during the project work proceedings. All Hon’ble Councillors of Baruipur Municipality too sounded their support to this upcoming project of underground cabling network.

Recommendations by Stakeholders include:

Hon’ble Chairman, Baruipur Municipality while attending the Public Consultationrecommended that all the adequate budget provision should be there to ensuretimely restoration of any damage private as well as public property includingCPRs viz, road, drainage, foothpath, etc.

Hon’ble Vice-chairman, Baruipur Municipality while attending the PublicConsultation recommended that all the civil works once initiated should becompleted and negligence during work should be mitigated as far as possibleand practicable and such efforts are to be effectively maintained and followed bycontractors undertaking the excavation and laying works and the overall safety ofthe zone should be monitored at all aspects.

Executive Member of Baruipur Babshayee Samity stated that a local monitoringcommittee comprising of members from various associated/affectedestablishments be set up which will participate on a cooperative role to allowlocal public rapport and support the safety and that the restoration measures bythe contracting bodies during and after the project to ascertain successful projectcompletion measures.

Furthermore, it has been asserted by those present in the Public Consultationthat all the works should be completed at least within stipulated time and that thereconstructive works which are supposed to be provided from the projectundertakers end should be comprehensively provided to the affected as far aspracticable.

Overall negligence by contractors engaging manual works should be properlydealt with by the concerned department as in here WBSEDCL so that nountoward incidents related to risk to life occurs.

In the concluding speech, everyone spoke their affirmation, accepted the upcoming challenges and reverberated for the fulfillment of the same as the locals asserted that they are eagerly waiting for the commencement of the project.

Stakeholder Consultation Workshop at Bankura Zilla Parishad for Formulation of

ESMF including SEP of WBEDGMP

Stakeholder Consultation Workshop at Baruipur Municipality Office for Formulation

of ESMF including SEP of WBEDGMP

APPENDIX 2

Detail of Vulnerable Stakeholder Consultation

at Selected Districts Sub-project Area for

Formulation of ESMF including SEP

Detail of Vulnerable People Consultations for Formulation of ESMF-SEP and

ESIA Study for HVDS &GIS Sub-project of Alipurduar District under WBEDGMP

The vulnerable people consultations for formulation of ESMF-SEP and Environmental & Social

Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental Management Plan (ESMP) for HVDS and GISs Sub-

project of Alipurduar District under West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization

Project (WBEDGMP) of WBSEDCL with fund assistance of World Bank was undertaken at

selected load centers where vulnerable people concentrations are significant. Accordingly

under Alipurduar sub-project area stake holder consultation meeting involving vulnerable

people were conducted at Totopara Tribal Area under Totopara-Ballalguri GP of Madharihat –

Birpara Block and a Buxa 28 Basti Tribal Area under Rajabhatkhawa GP of Kalchini Block on 18th

and 19th June, 2020. During the interaction with vulnerable consumers and other stake holders

at selected load centres of vulnerable areas the various issues raised regarding activities

proposed to be undertaken under conversion of LVDS in to HVDS and its impact on their

community as well as scope of their engagement during execution of sub-project.

Vulnerable Stakeholder Consultations at Totopara Tribal Area under Totopara-

Ballalguri GP of Madharihat – Birpara Block

Vulnerable Stakeholder Consultations at Buxa 28 Basti Tribal Area under Rajabhatkhawa

GP of Kalchini Block

The overall summary of issues raised during the implementation of proposed sub-project and

suggestions made to resolve those issues and minimize their negative impact if any are

presented in subsequent section:

Some Problems with LVDS which we have configured during interactions with the consumers

Majority of the consumers have electricity connections at their domestic premises.

The duration of usage varies for various purposes of connections like for houses 24 hours,for shops 6 to 8 hours and for irrigation purposes it is used seasonally.

With LVDS connections there are lot of interruptions / fluctuations in voltage. There are many challenges with the electricity supply especially in the evening time, the

voltage gets low at which fan runs hardly and LEDs do not glow at its full capacity.

Due to overloading the fuse of the transformer fails frequently. The fuse cannot be

replaced during the time power is supplied as the line needs to be shut down leading to

loss of business as well as lot of discomfort to connected consumers.

As there are many electric connections from one transformer in LVDS, the voltage is low. If

everyone is using their heavy electrical gadgets then voltage would fall even more,

especially at the tail end. As the transformer is common to all it is difficult to monitor

the load on it.

If the transformer fails, then everyone who has a connection to the transformer suffer as

they would all lose power for as long as it took to fix the transformer.

As it is a common transformer it is difficult to prevent overloading of the transformer; no

matter how high the capacity of the transformer is the people will overload it. Theft is

also more in LVDS.

With collective transformers, it is also difficult to force someone to cut / trim their trees if

they are coming in way of the lines. This affects everyone.

In case of power failure, the villagers register the complaint at WBSEDCL help line number or contact directly visiting the concerned CCC and they solves the issue within due period of time.

Benefits of HVDS about which the consumers have been informed As in HVDS every load center would have their own independent transformer there

would be no problem of overloading and voltage is better. Consumer would feel more responsible for the transformer and there would be

no overloading.

If there is a problem with the transformer the consumer can directly approach WBSEDCL

without needing to coordinate with any others.

If there is a fault in the transformer only that load center consumers are affected and not

everyone. This was not possible earlier as everyone would be without power.

Disadvantages of HVDS

No disadvantages with HVDS, most of the consumers were keen to have HVDS implemented as soon as possible

Consumers have no problem with poles/ DTR being put on their land or in

maintaining clearance for the 11kv lines

Detail of Vulnerable People Consultations for Formulation of ESMF-SEP and

ESIA Study for HVDS &GIS Sub-project of Coochbehar District under WBEDGMP

The vulnerable people consultations for formulation of ESMF-SEP and Environmental & Social

Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental Management Plan (ESMP) for HVDS and GISs Sub-

project of Coochbehar District under West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization

Project (WBEDGMP) of WBSEDCL with fund assistance of World Bank was undertaken at

selected load center where vulnerable people concentration is significant. Accordingly under

Coochbehar sub-project area stake holder consultation meeting involving vulnerable people

were conducted at Rashikbill Tribal Area under Mahishkuchi-1 GP of Tufanganj-2 Bolock on 17th

June, 2020. During the interaction with vulnerable consumers and other stake holders at

selected load centre of vulnerable areas the various issues raised regarding activities proposed

to be undertaken under conversion of LVDS in to HVDS and its impact on their community as

well as scope of their engagement during execution of sub-project.

Vulnerable Stakeholder Consultations at Rashikbill Tribal Area Under Mahishkuchi-1 GP of

Tufanganj-2 Block

The summary of issues raised during the implementation of proposed sub-project and

suggestions made to resolve those issues and minimize their negative impact if any are

presented in subsequent section:

Some Problems with LVDS which we have configured during interactions with the consumers

Majority of the consumers have electricity connections at their domestic premises.

The duration of usage varies for various purposes of connections like for houses 24 hours, for shops 6 to 8 hours and for irrigation purposes it is used seasonally.

With LVDS connections there are lot of interruptions / fluctuations in voltage. There are many challenges with the electricity supply especially in the evening time, the

voltage gets low at which fan runs hardly and LEDs do not glow at its full capacity.

As it is a common transformer it is difficult to prevent overloading of the transformer; no

matter how high the capacity of the transformer is the people will overload it. Theft is

also more in LVDS.

With collective transformers, it is also difficult to force someone to cut / trim their trees if

they are coming in way of the lines. This affects everyone.

In case of power failure, the villagers register the complaint at WBSEDCL help line number or contact directly visiting the concerned CCC and they solves the issue within due period of time.

Benefits of HVDS about which the consumers have been informed As in HVDS every load center would have their own independent transformer there

would be no problem of overloading and voltage is better. Consumer would feel more responsible for the transformer and there would be

no overloading.

If there is a problem with the transformer the consumer can directly approach WBSEDCL

without needing to coordinate with any others.

If there is a fault in the transformer only that load center consumers are affected and not

everyone. This was not possible earlier as everyone would be without power.

Disadvantages of HVDS

No disadvantages with HVDS, most of the consumers were keen to have HVDSimplemented as soon as possible

Consumers have no problem with poles/ DTR being put on their land or in

maintaining clearance for the 11kv lines

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