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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
Environmental Impact Assessment Report
November 2012
i
November 2012
Environmental Impact Assessment Report
EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
COPYRIGHT © NAMPOWER, 2012. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
PROJECT NAME Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed power lines
from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
STAGE OF REPORT Environmental Impact Assessment Report
CLIENT NamPower
Enquiries: Horst Mutschler
Tel: (061) 205-2735
E-Mail:
LEAD CONSULTANT Enviro Dynamics
Enquiries: Stephanie van Zyl
Tel: (061) 223-336
E-Mail: [email protected]
DATE OF RELEASE November 2012
CONTRIBUTORS TO THE REPORT Eloise Carstens, Carla Saayman, Sheldon Husselman
Reviewer: Stephanie van Zyl
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November 2012
Environmental Impact Assessment Report
EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that I do:
(a) have knowledge of and experience in conducting assessments, including
knowledge of the Act, these regulations and guidelines that have relevance to the
proposed activity;
(b) perform the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this
results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant;
(c) comply with the Act, these regulations, guidelines and other applicable laws.
I also declare that there is, to my knowledge, no information in my possession that
reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing –
(i) any decision to be taken with respect to the application in terms of the Act and the
regulations; or
(ii) the objectivity of this report, plan or document prepared in terms of the Act and
these regulations.
Eloise Carstens
Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)
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Environmental Impact Assessment Report
EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................... iii
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES ........................................................................................ vi
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .............................................................................. ix
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................... x
1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
1.1 BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................... 1
1.2 APPOINTED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER (EAP) ....................... 2
1.3 TERMS OF REFERENCE ................................................................................................ 2
1.4 WORK PLAN FOR STUDY ............................................................................................ 3
1.5 APPROACH TO THE STUDY ........................................................................................ 4
1.6 REPORT LAYOUT ......................................................................................................... 5
2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ............................................................ 7
2.1 LOCALITY ..................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 PROJECT RATIONALE ................................................................................................. 8
2.3 PROPOSED ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................... 8
2.3.1 DISMANTLING AND REMOVAL OF EXISTING LINE ........................................ 8
2.3.2 STRUCTURAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................... 8
2.3.3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ......................................................................... 10
2.3.4 WASTE MATERIALS ........................................................................................... 8
3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK .......................................................................... 9
4 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ................................................ 14
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
4.1 CLIMATE .................................................................................................................... 14
4.2 PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY .......................................................................................... 15
4.3 FLORA AND LICHENS ............................................................................................... 18
4.4 FAUNA ....................................................................................................................... 20
4.4.1 REPTILES, MAMMALS & AMPHIBIANS .......................................................... 20
4.4.2 BIRDS .............................................................................................................. 21
4.5 ARCHAEOLOGY ....................................................................................................... 24
5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ..................................................................... 26
5.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 26
5.2 OVERVIEW OF THE ERONGO REGION ................................................................... 26
5.2.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................ 26
5.2.2 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................ 27
5.3 OVERVIEW OF WALVIS BAY .................................................................................... 28
5.3.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................ 28
5.3.2 SURROUNDING LAND USES .......................................................................... 30
5.4 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS FROM POWER LINES AND HUMAN
HEALTH ...................................................................................................................... 35
5.5 SENSITIVITIES .............................................................................................................. 38
6 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE .......................................................... 39
6.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 39
6.2 THE MEETINGS TO DATE ........................................................................................... 39
6.3 PUBLIC CONCERN ................................................................................................... 41
6.4 PUBLIC FEEDBACK .................................................................................................... 42
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
7 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................. 43
7.1 ASSESSMENT OF ALTERNATIVES .............................................................................. 43
7.2 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES ............................................................................... 43
7.3 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT .............................. 48
7.4 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ....................................................................................... 49
7.4.1 HABITAT DESTRUCTION ................................................................................. 49
7.4.2 IMPACT ON UNIQUE FLORA......................................................................... 54
7.4.3 BIRD COLLISIONS ON THE POWER LINE ...................................................... 57
7.4.4 DESTRUCTION OR DAMAGE TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES ...................... 62
7.4.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND VISUAL IMPACT ................................................. 67
7.4.6 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS FROM POWER LINES AND HUMAN
HEALTH ........................................................................................................... 72
8 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................................... 76
8.1 SYNOPSIS OF THE FIVE KEY IMPACTS ...................................................................... 76
8.2 CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................... 78
BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................................. 79
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
LIST OF TABLES AND F IGURES
Table 4-1: Sensitivities related to the climate. ................................................................. 15
Table 4-2: Sensitivities related to the physical geography............................................ 15
Table 4-3: Sensitivities relating to vegetation and lichens (adapted from
Mannheimer, 2012). ......................................................................................... 18
Table 4-4: Total number of species known or expected to occur in the study
area. Species presence in some cases is non-resident and
represented by occasional vagrants only. ................................................... 20
Table 4-5: Important habitats for birds in the project area. .......................................... 21
Table 4-6: Sensitivities related to fauna ........................................................................... 23
Table 4-7: Key sensitivities related to Archaeology in the proposed project
area. ................................................................................................................... 24
Table 5-1: EPLs in the project area ................................................................................... 34
Table 5-2: Summary of typical magnetic field levels encountered in various
environments and close to household appliances. .................................... 35
Table 5-3: Electric and magnetic field exposure guidelines set by ICNIRP (1998)
and ICNIRP (2010) versions. ............................................................................. 36
Table 5-4: Sensitivities relating to Socio-Economic Environment.................................. 38
Table 6-1: Summary of the meetings held on this project. ........................................... 40
Table 6-2: Summary of Key Issues ..................................................................................... 41
Table 7-1: Identification of key impacts during the various phases of the
project. ............................................................................................................... 46
Table 7-2: Criteria for the assessment of impacts ........................................................... 48
Table 7-3: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line
project on habitats in the area. ..................................................................... 52
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
Table 7-4: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line
project on unique vegetation in the area. ................................................... 56
Table 7-5: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line
project on birds in the area. ............................................................................ 60
Table 7-6: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line
project on Archaeology in the area. ............................................................. 65
Table 7-7: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line
project on the surrounding socio-economic environment. ....................... 69
Table 7-8: Comparison between the 2010 ICNIRP standards and the expected
exposure from the 132kV line. ......................................................................... 73
Table 7-9: Summary of the potential impacts of the electric and magnetic
fields from the power lines on human health. .............................................. 75
Figure 1-1: Existing West Coast Transmission network. ...................................................... 1
Figure 1-2: Diagrammatic summary of work plan. ............................................................ 3
Figure 2-1: Proposed powerline route between Walmund substation and Walvis
Bay substation. .................................................................................................... 7
Figure 2-2: Wooden Kamerad structures proposed for the 132kV lines. ........................ 9
Figure 2-3: Drawing of a double circuit steel structure. ................................................... 9
Figure 2-4: Main roads that will be affected during the construction process. ............ 7
Figure 4-1: Habitats intersected by the proposed power line route. ........................... 17
Figure 5-1: Various Land Uses Surrounding Proposed Power Line Route ..................... 30
Figure 5-2: Locality of the proposed power line in relation to erven in Walvis
Bay ...................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 5-3: Typical Magnetic Field Levels expected from the 132 kV Lines................. 36
Figure 5-4: Existing servitude width and distances between lines compared to
the radiation output of the line. ..................................................................... 37
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Figure 7-1: Screening process to determine key issues .................................................. 44
Figure 7-2: Sensitive habitats intersected by the proposed power line. ...................... 50
Figure 7-3: Sensitive lichen field indicated by Mannheimer (2012) as intersected
by the proposed power line route. The purple bubbles represent
areas along the line that is already damaged by uncontrolled
tracks. ................................................................................................................. 55
Figure 7-4: Yellow arrows indicate sensitive areas on the section between the
Walmund and Kuiseb substation. The area indicated just south of
the Walmund substation is considered particularly sensitive due to
previously recorded collisions in the area. .................................................... 58
Figure 7-5: The section of line between the Walvis Bay substation and the
M36/D1984 intersection. Potentially sensitive areas for collisions by
aquatic bird species such as pelicans and flamingos are indicated
by yellow arrows. .............................................................................................. 58
Figure 7-6: Location of archaeological sites close to the proposed power line
route. .................................................................................................................. 63
Figure 7-7: Detailed composition of total NamPower servitude (150m)
indicating the two proposed 132kV lines in relation to the 25m
buffer zone for radiation exposure. ................................................................ 73
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYM S
BID Background Information Document
CBD Convention on Biological Diversity
CV Curriculum Vitae
EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMA Environmental Management Act
EMP Environmental Management Plan
Erongo RED Erongo Regional Electricity Distributor
GIS Geographic Information System
I&APs Interested and Affected Parties
kV Kilovolts
KY Thousand Years
MET Ministry of Environment and Tourism
NGO Non-Governmental Organisation
NPC National Planning Commission
TOR Terms of Reference
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: CURRICULUM VITAE: ELOISE CARSTENS
APPENDIX B: VEGETATION ASSESSMENT REPORT (MANNHEIMER, 2012)
APPENDIX C: BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT REPORT (IRISH, 2012)
APPENDIX D: BIRD ASSESSMENT REPORT (SCOTT & SCOTT, 2012)
APPENDIX E: ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT REPORT (KINAHAN, 2012)
APPENDIX F: ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION ASSESSMENT REPORT (HUBBARD, 2012)
APPENDIX G: SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
APPENDIX H: GENERIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The recent upsurge of industrial development in the Erongo Region has lead to an
escalation in the demand for electricity and as a result, the Region‟s transmission
network has been subjected to increased pressure. Currently the maximum demand
for Walvis Bay is 45 MVA. However, due to planned developments (such as the
proposed extension of the harbour) Erongo RED, which is the regional electricity
distributor in the area, has recently applied to NamPower for an upgrade of Walvis
Bay‟s power supply to 80 MVA. The demand is further exacerbated by other
developments in the Erongo Region such as the construction of the Erongo Coal
Power Station and the Husab Mine. This has necessitated NamPower to consider
strengthening the West Coast network to provide for future load growth (Error! Not a
valid bookmark self-reference.).
Figure 1-1: Existing West Coast Transmission network.
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Environmental Impact Assessment Report
EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
In order to achieve this, NamPower has undertaken to increase their capacity by
constructing:
two new 132kV transmission lines from the Walvis Bay substation (replacing the
existing 66kV line up to Dune 7) to the Kuiseb substation, and
an additional 220kV transmission line between Kuiseb substation to the
Walmund substation.
In addition to servicing a wider area radius, this will also connect existing substations
in the national grid with one another via new and existing transmission routes,
thereby expanding the grid and avoiding redundancy of lines.
In line with the recently passed Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (February
2012) of the Environmental Management Act (Act No. 7 of 2007) an EIA is a national
regulatory requirement when constructing or upgrading transmission lines.
NamPower has consequently commissioned an EIA for the construction of the new
lines and the upgrading of the existing ones.
1.2 APPOINTED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER
(EAP)
Enviro Dynamics cc was appointed to carry out the Environmental Assessment on
NamPower‟s behalf. Eloise Carstens of Enviro Dynamics is the EAP who conducted
this environmental assessment. Her CV is attached as APPENDIX A.
1.3 TERMS OF REFERENCE
As per the NamPower EIA Terms of Reference, the following main tasks have to be
carried out in such a manner as to ensure that it is in line with the EIA regulations
under the Environmental Management Act of 2007:
Guidelines to minimize the negative environmental impacts of the power line
and the supporting infrastructure. Impacts shall be evaluated for the
construction and operational (including maintenance) phase.
Establish a data base so that a reasonable level of confidence can be
placed on the suitability of the route selected. If best practice standards are
used, these standards should be clearly defined and should highlight the
reasoning behind assigning certain values to the aspects identified.
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Consultation with a reasonably acceptable representative sample of the
interested and affected parties (or at least a representative sample) to ensure
that their needs and concerns are taken into account. Land owners shall be
directly contacted and all government agencies shall be informed of the
planned activities;
Interaction between project team and consultants and
Identification of guidelines to ensure compliance with relevant Namibian
Legislation and regional policies and protocols.
1.4 WORK PLAN FOR STUDY
In order to meet the requirements of the Terms of Reference for the EIA, the study
consists of four phases as indicated in the figure below. The purpose of this
document is to determine the environmental parameters that will form the focus of
the full environmental assessment to ensue in the subsequent phases.
Figure 1-2: Diagrammatic
summary of work plan.
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Environmental Impact Assessment Report
EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
1.5 APPROACH TO THE STUDY
Key elements of the EIA team’s approach to the study are provided below.
Phase 1 – Route evaluation and Scoping Process:
A site visit was undertaken in this phase during which the environmental consultants
and representatives of NamPower visited the proposed route. This was done to
obtain an overall impression of the area through which the proposed route is
planned. During a subsequent consultation meeting between NamPower and the
Environmental consultant the route proposed by NamPower was evaluated. It was
found that a section of the proposed route between the new substation and Kuiseb
substation crosses a sensitive outcrop. By means of GIS plotting, the proposed route
was shifted to avoid the outcrop. The deviation in the route was accepted and the
remaining assessment was based on this revision.
Phase 1 of the project also involved consultation with stakeholders and I&APs to
identify key issues that need to be considered during the study. A public and
authorities meeting was held in Walvis Bay which was attended by members of the
public and some of the Port Authorities respectively. More details in this regard are
provided in the Scoping Report and Section 6 of this report.
The entire proposed power line route was evaluated in terms of its potential impact
on the social and ecological environments. The findings are contained in the
scoping report, highlighting impacts that need to be addressed in the EMP whilst
indicating areas where further investigations are required.
Phase 2 – Detailed investigations:
Impacts of potentially high significance, but for which insufficient information was
available to complete the assessment, or for which no readily available mitigation
measures are known, were identified during the scoping phase. Specialists were
appointed to further investigate the main issues and develop the following:
A vegetation assessment (APPENDIX B);
A biodiversity assessment (APPENDIX C)
A bird assessment (APPENDIX D)
An archaeological assessment (APPENDIX E)
An electromagnetic radiation assessment (APPENDIX F)
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
Apart from the electromagnetic radiation specialist, the specialists were required to
conduct site investigations in the study area and identify key features of concern on
the transmission line. Impact assessments were carried out on the agreed upon
route so that all remaining impacts of importance could be identified and assessed.
Phase 3 – EMP Revision:
NamPower already has a generic EMP that covers general management actions
required for power lines. The consultants reviewed this EMP and compiled an
addendum that contains management actions specifically for this project.
Phase 4 - Reporting:
The final step in the EIA process is to submit the draft reports to the client and I&AP‟s
and to incorporate the comments into the final documents before submitting them
to the DEA for environmental clearance.
1.6 REPORT LAYOUT
The layout of the report has been structured as follows:
Section 1: Introduction – the present section, providing the background to
the project, the Terms of Reference and the methodology followed for this
EIA.
Section 2: Description of the Proposed Project – locality, and technical
details of the project.
Section 3: Description of the Legal Environment – all relevant requirements
from applicable laws, regulations, and international conventions.
Section 4: Description of the Receiving Biophysical Environment – a
summary of the biophysical environment that will either affect or be
potentially affected by the project activities.
Section 5: Description of the Receiving Socio-Economic Environment – a
summary of the socio-economic environment that will either affect or be
potentially affected by the project activities.
Section 6: Public Consultation and Disclosure – a summary of the
consultation process undertaken with stakeholders and I&APs, and the
issues identified during this process.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
Section 7: Impact Assessment – an assessment of the agreed upon route‟s
socio-economic and bio-physical impacts expected during construction
and operation of the route.
Section 8: Conclusions and Recommendations
The following Section provides the technical details of the project which form the
basis on which this assessment has been made.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
2 DESCRIPTION OF THE P ROPOSED PROJECT
2.1 LOCALITY
The proposed new lines will be constructed as follows (Figure 2-1):
From the Walvis Bay substation the two existing parallel running 66kV lines will
be replaced by two parallel running 132kV lines. These lines will follow the M36
road up to the intersection with the D1983 road.
At the intersection between the M36 and D1983 roads, the two 132kV lines
turn northwards, following a new servitude along the D1983 for 4km to a new
25ha substation site.
The two new 132kV lines then follow an eastern direction for 12.5 km to the
Kuiseb substation.
From the Kuiseb substation a 220kV line will be constructed to the Walmund
Substation, following the existing service corridor.
The proposed lines traverse part of the Dorob National Park as well as the Namib-
Naukluft Park.
Figure 2-1: Proposed powerline route between Walmund substation and Walvis Bay substation.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
2.2 PROJECT RATIONALE
NamPower has identified the need to supply additional electricity to Walvis Bay, due
to a number of new large scale projects being undertaken in the area.
In addition to servicing a wider area radius, this will also connect existing substations
in the national grid with one another via new and existing transmission routes,
thereby expanding the grid and avoiding redundancy of lines.
2.3 PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
2.3.1 DISMANTLING AND REMOVAL OF EXISTING LINE
The process of dismantling and removal of the existing line is anticipated to happen
in the following sequence. However, the order might change when construction
starts. The two new 132kV transmission lines will be partly constructed in the same
servitude as the existing 66kV line, thus dismantling and removal will not be executed
at the same time as the construction of the new line. In Walvis Bay, a new substation
will be built close to the existing Paratus power station. Once this substation is in
operation a new 132kV line will be constructed and the existing 66kV line up to the
Ruby substation will be removed. The wooden structures from the dismantled line will
be re-used if possible; the copper conductors and the wires will be sold as scrap
metal.
2.3.2 STRUCTURAL SPECIFICATIONS
The entire length of the proposed power lines are estimated to be approximately
45 km long (Walvis Bay to Kuiseb substation – 30 km; Kuiseb to Walmund substation -
15km).
The two 132kV transmission lines (between Walvis Bay and the Kuiseb substation) will
be constructed within the existing 150m wide servitude. It should be noted that this
150m servitude can accommodate up to four lines in the future. The two lines
proposed in this study will be supported by wooden Kamerad structures to minimise
corrosion (See Figure 2-2).
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
The 220kV line between the Kuiseb and Walmund substations, on the other hand, will
be supported by self supported, single circuit steel lattice structures (Figure 2-3).
The servitudes will be 150m wide to provide for future expansion, but only an
estimated 12m width will be cleared of obstacles to create a service road, to
provide access (during construction and maintenance) to the line throughout its
lifespan of at least 30 years. The EIA team will however assess a corridor of 300m wide
(150m on either side of the centre line of the proposed line).
Figure 2-2: Wooden Kamerad structures proposed for the 132kV lines.
Figure 2-3: Drawing of a single
circuit steel structure.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
2.3.3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
All the components for the power line construction (steel pylons, conductors, and
insulators, etc.) will be transported to site by road on low-bed trailers. The main
access roads along the line are the M36 between Walvis Bay and Solitaire and the
D1984 between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund (Figure 2-4). In Walvis Bay, Sam
Nujoma Road will provide access to the line.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
Figure 2-4: Main roads that will be affected during the construction process.
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No significant impacts associated with traffic interruption are expected on these
roads. From these main roads, materials will be transported along the line via
maintenance roads serving the existing transmission line.
Erecting the 220kV steel structures, will either be done by using a crane to place the
pre-assembled tower onto the concrete foundation or by building up the tower from
its concrete foundation section by section.
Concrete will be mixed and poured on site, thus all the concrete constituents
(crushed stone, cement, water and sand) will also have to be transported to site.
The conductors will be strung using heavy-duty mechanical winches.
As for the Kamerad structures, the pre-assembled wooden poles will be planted in
the ground. No concrete will be used to anchor the structures.
Typically construction camps for the workforce are located close to the work area
but in this case the project area is located in two national parks, the Namib Naukluft
and the Dorob Parks. Under the park rules, no person is allowed to reside within the
park boundaries. Alternative accommodation will have to be found at a suitable
site in close proximity to the work site.
2.3.4 WASTE MATERIALS
Waste generation is an obvious impact of all projects, but it is how waste is managed
that determines whether this part of the project‟s ecological footprint would be
acceptable. Apart from the construction waste, normal domestic waste such as
plastic bags, tins, bottles, paper, and packaging waste as well as hazardous waste
(e.g. oil and fuel) will also be generated.
All waste could be dumped at the municipal waste dump site in Walvis Bay. West
Coast Salvage is a recycling company specializing in the recycling of hazardous
waste such as oil. The possibility of utilizing their services should be investigated
during the study.
Diligent execution of activities such as waste management is not only required to
ensure the environmental sustainability of the project, but is also required under
various national laws. These laws and their requirements are discussed in the section
that follows.
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
The environmental assessment procedure prescribes the review of applicable and relevant legislation, which serves to inform the
project proponent of the legal requirements and permit applications to be fulfilled before operation of the proposed project
commences. The EIA team has studied the national policy and legislative framework as well as international conventions
governing the activities of this project. These applicable policies, laws and conventions, and their implications for this project are
summarised below:
LEGISLATION/GUIDELINE/
POLICY
RELEVANT PROVISIONS APPLICATION TO PROJECT CONTACT PERSON
INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATION, TREATIES, STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD)
Details the preservation of rare and endemic species.
Namibia is a signatory to this convention. Ratified by
Namibia in 1997.
Article 14 requires that EIAs are carried out for projects
that are likely to adversely affect biological diversity,
avoid or minimize such effects, and where
appropriate, allow for public participation.
The EIA should identify potential
biodiversity impacts and show whether
they can be successfully mitigated to
preserve the area‟s sensitive
biodiversity.
Preservation of biodiversity should be
addressed in the EIA
N/A
NATIONAL LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES
Environmental
Management Act (7 of
2007)
Requires that projects with significant environmental
impact are subject to an environmental assessment
process (Section 27).
Requires for adequate public participation during the
Conduct public participation as part of
the EA process as described in the act.
N/A
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
LEGISLATION/GUIDELINE/
POLICY
RELEVANT PROVISIONS APPLICATION TO PROJECT CONTACT PERSON
environmental assessment process for interested and
affected parties to voice their opinions about a
project (Section 2(b-c)).
EMA Regulations GN 28-30
(GG 4878) (February 2012)
Listed activities requiring an Environmental Clearance
Certificate (GN No 29 Annexure):
The construction of facilities for the transmission and
supply of electricity (1(b))
Conduct an EIA which covers all the
components of the project which are
listed these regulations.
N/A
Electricity Act 4 of 2007 Requires that any generation and or distribution
complies with laws relating to health, safety and
environmental standards (s 18(4)(b)
In the event that exemption from acquiring a license is
granted, the Minister may impose conditions relating
to public health safety or the protection of the
environment
Obliges NamPower to comply with all
relevant provisions of the EMA and its
regulations
N/A
Labour Act 11 of 2007 The Health and Safety regulations GN 156/1997 (GG 1617)
to this act prescribe conditions at the workplace, and inter
alia deal with the following:
Welfare and facilities at work-places, including
lighting, floor space, ventilation, sanitary and washing
facilities, usage and storage of volatile flammable
substances, fire precautions, etc.;
Appointment of a Safety Officer (s 6);
Hazardous Substances including precautionary
These regulations prescribe Health and
safety issues at the workplace, including
construction and electrical safety.
N/A
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EIA Study for the proposed power lines from Walmund Substation to Walvis Bay
LEGISLATION/GUIDELINE/
POLICY
RELEVANT PROVISIONS APPLICATION TO PROJECT CONTACT PERSON
measures related to their transport, labelling, storage,
and handling. Exposure limits, monitoring
requirements, and record keeping are also detailed
(s176-195);
Physical hazards including noise, vibration, ionizing
radiation, non-ionizing radiation, thermal
requirements, illumination, windows and ventilation;
Requirements for protective equipment (HSR s210-
217); and
First aid and emergency arrangements (HSR s228-242)
The Atomic Energy and
Radiation Protection Act,
Act 5 of 2005:
Provides for the adequate protection of the environment
and of people against the harmful effects of radiation by
controlling and regulating the production, processing,
handling, use, holding, storage, transport and disposal of
radiation sources and radioactive materials, and
controlling and regulating prescribed non-ionising
radiation sources according to the standards set out by
the ICNIRP.
Mr Axel Tibinyane
Tel: 061 203 2416/7
Email:
“Guidelines for Limiting
Exposure to Time-Varying
Electric, Magnetic, and
Electromagnetic Fields (up
to 300GHz)” (April 1998
developed by the
Provides international standards and guidelines for limiting
the adverse effects of non-ionising radiation on human
health and well-being, and, where appropriate, provides
scientifically based advice on non-ionising radiation
protection including the provision of guidelines on limiting
exposure.
Justifies the need for assessing the impact
of electromagnetic radiation from the
power line, on the nearby residents.
Mr Axel Tibinyane
Tel: 061 203 2416/7
Email:
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LEGISLATION/GUIDELINE/
POLICY
RELEVANT PROVISIONS APPLICATION TO PROJECT CONTACT PERSON
International Commission
on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP))
The Nature Conservation
Ordinance (1975) as
amended through the
Nature Conservation
Amendment Act of 1996.
Chapter 11: Game Parks, Nature Reserves, Conservancies
and Wildlife Councils.
Permits are required for entering the
Namib Naukluft and Dorob National Park
and for the removal of any indigenous
plant or tree. It also stipulates that no
damage may be done to any object of
geological, ethnological, archaeological,
historical or other scientific interest without
the appropriate permits.
Forestry Act No 27 of 2004 Provision for the protection of various plant species Some species that occur in the area are
protected under the Forestry Act.
National Heritage Act No
27 of 2004
To provide for the protection and conservation of
places and objects of heritage significance and the
registration of such places and objects
Establishes a body to govern matters relating to
places and objects of heritage significance –
National Heritage Council
Establishes a National Heritage Register
All heritage resources are to be
identified and either protected or
removed/mitigated with a permit from
the National Monuments Council,
before any development may take
place
A heritage assessment should be
undertaken as part of the EIA process.
Rev Salomon April
Tel: 061 244 375/ 385/
594
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These obligations will be considered during the EIA process, and the relevant permit requirements and rules for the National Parks
will be spelt out in the EMP. The next section outlines the key characteristics of the receiving environment, so that potential
sensitivities may be identified for further study.
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4 DESCRIPTION OF THE R ECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
The legislation highlighted in the previous section emphasizes features of the
biophysical (this Section) and social environment (Section 5) that may need specific
protection during project implementation. The collection of baseline information on
the receiving environments, coupled with the issues identified during the consultation
process ensure that enough is known about the study area to make informed
decisions with regard to planning, construction and operation of the proposed
power line.
The following two sections (i.e. 4 and 5) focus primarily on the features for which the
information was insufficient or needed further investigation at the end of the scoping
phase. The findings of the specialist investigations also form part of these sections,
specifying the sensitive areas along the route where human disturbance should be
avoided or managed. Proposed mitigation measures emanating from the
assessment of the impacts are discussed in Section 7.
4.1 CLIMATE
The climate of an area reveals much about its ecological sensitivity and resilience to
change, and greatly influences settlement patterns and population distribution.
The study area is located on the central Namib coast (Mendelsohn, Jarvis, Roberts, &
Roberston, 2009). This zone is characterised by extreme aridity, with an average of
less than 50 mm of rain per year. It is further typified by mild summers and cool
winters with average minimum and maximum temperatures ranging between 10°C
and 24°C. According to Seely & Pallet (2008) fog is a prevalent characteristic,
extending around 50 km inland over 100 days per year. Fog produces five times
more moisture than rain in the central Namib and is much more predictable.
Wind is another important environmental factor in the Walvis Bay area. According to
Stubenrauch Planning Consultants (1999) the dominant wind directions are south-
westerly and north-westerly winds. It is particularly the south-westerly winds that play
an important role in the movement of sediments in a northerly to easterly direction.
Persistent southerly to south-westerly winds, and occasional east winds, create the
physical environment by keeping sand streams moving. They also introduce,
distribute and cache (by burying) food resources in the form of windblown detritus.
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Table 4-1 shows the sensitivities associated with the climate of the project area.
Table 4-1: Sensitivities related to the climate.
ENVIRONMENTAL
FEATURE
DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Wind and dune
formation
Wind plays an important role
in the formation of sand
streams.
Obstruction can
influence the flow of
sand.
Obstruction of sand
streams. Formation of
dunes.
Impact of dune
formation under the
line.
Fog Fog and suspended salt
typical to the area.
Fog and salt
conditions causes
corrosion of the
infrastructure.
Corrosion of
infrastructure.
4.2 PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
The highly variable and harsh climate of the west coast of Namibia inevitably
contributed to the desolate landscape known as the Namib Desert. According to
Burke (2007) wind and water are the driving forces that shape landforms and
distribute soil and seed in the desert environment.
Four discrete habitats can be distinguished along the proposed power line route as
indicated in Figure 4-1 below. These habitats as well as their sensitivities and
restoration potential are discussed in
Table 4-2.
Table 4-2: Sensitivities related to the physical geography.
HABITAT DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY RESTORATION
POTENTIAL
POTENTIAL
IMPACT
ROCKY
OUTCROPS
Area with rocky
surface such as a
small hill.
Supports rich plant
and animal life
and are home to
many protected
fauna and flora.
Very difficult to
restore, if not
impossible
Habitat destruction
through building of
access roads over
ridges, or clearing
of ground and
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HABITAT DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY RESTORATION
POTENTIAL
POTENTIAL
IMPACT
building of pylons
on ridge crests.
Gravel Plains Level area with
stone cover and
underlying
gypsum. Soil
surface comprised
of a biological soil
crust.
Because of slow
ecological
processes under
desert conditions,
biological soil
crusts may take
centuries to re-
form
Environmentally
sensitive but has a
moderate
potential for
restoration.
Loss of biological
soil crusts result in
reduced
environmental
productivity, while
physical habitat is
also made
unsuitable for other
life forms.
DRAINAGE
LINES
Washes/dry rivers.
Due to
underground
aquifers they serve
as linear oases
across the desert.
Support a large
variety of plants
and animals.
Plants grow slowly
under desert
conditions, and
any that are
destroyed through
the building of
access roads or
clearing of ground
for pylons will not
be replaced
quickly, if at all.
Usually sandy and
subject to regular
natural
disturbance.
Relatively easy to
restore.
Loss of larger
plants reduces
habitat availability
and food sources
for many animals,
either directly or
through the effect
on prey species.
BARCHANOID
DUNES
Arc-shaped sand
ridges consisting of
loose, well-sorted,
very fine to
medium sand.
Highly migratory
and typically move
several meters per
year, at speeds
inversely
proportional to
their size
Substrate naturally
mobile, hence
relatively robust
with regard to
substrate
disruption.
Able to reshape
themselves and
usually require only
some initial
landscaping to
redevelop their
natural form.
No long term
impact associated
with the project.
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Figure 4-1: Habitats intersected by the proposed power line route.
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4.3 FLORA AND LICHENS
Desert vegetation is usually uniquely adapted to cope with the harsh conditions of
the desert. The Namib Desert therefore accounts for a high proportion of restricted
and endemic flora (Seely & Pallet, 2008). These plants are highly dependent on the
little moisture available for their survival and it is thus not uncommon to find that
drainage patterns greatly determine the distribution of desert vegetation.
With reference to Figure 4-1 above, the sensitivity of vegetation and lichens in the
defined habitats can be described as follow (Table 4-3). The sensitive sections along
the proposed power line are further discussed in Section 7.
Table 4-3: Sensitivities relating to vegetation and lichens (adapted from Mannheimer, 2012).
HABITAT SENSITIVE ZONE IN
PROJECT AREA
DESCRIPTION OF
VEGETATION AND
LICHENS IN HABITAT
SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL
IMPACT
Rocky
Outcrops
Rocky outcrop just
south of the section
between the new
substation and
Kuiseb substation
No rocky ridges
crossed by line.
Outcrop close to the
line contains plant
species of
conservation
concern.
Many existing
tracks cross the
outcrop.
Use of existing
tracks could further
contribute to
destruction of
sensitive
vegetation.
Gravel
Plains
From 22° 51‟
northwards on the
section between
Kuiseb substation
and Walmund
substation.
Represents the
southern part of the
lichen field of the
northern Naukluft
plateau as indicated
in Schultz (2006).
Covered in lichens
including crustose
and foliose lichens
with a distinct
biological crust
Direct damage to
biological crust
and lichens.
South of 22° 51‟
towards the Kuiseb
substation.
Undulating plain that
is largely free of
perennial vegetation
and has low lichen
prevalence. Distinct
biological crust.
Numerous tracks
criss-crossing the
area, and the
route parallel to
the D1984 is
particularly
damaged.
Proliferation of
tracks during
construction could
further contribute
to the damage of
the biological crust
and lichens.
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HABITAT SENSITIVE ZONE IN
PROJECT AREA
DESCRIPTION OF
VEGETATION AND
LICHENS IN HABITAT
SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL
IMPACT
Drainage
Lines
Two large drainage
lines crossed on the
section between
Kuiseb substation
and Walmund
substation.
Vegetation is
concentrated in the
larger washes, where
endemics such as
Zygophyllum stapffii,
Arthraerua
leubnitziae,
Hermbstaedtia
spathulifolia, Senecio
engleranus and
Heliotropium
oliveranum are quite
common.
None of these
species is of
extremely high
conservation
concern and,
because the
power line crosses
the main drainage
lines almost at right
angles, it is unlikely
that this project will
have any
appreciable
impact on any of
them.
Loss of larger plants
reduces habitat
availability and
food sources for
many animals,
either directly or
through the effect
on prey species.
Barchanoid
Dunes
Section between the
D1984/M36
intersection and the
Walvis Bay
substation.
Acanthosicyos
horridus (!nara) and
Trianthema
hereroensis occur in
mobile sands in the
vicinity of this section.
Acanthosicyos
horridus (!nara) of
known medicinal
and nutritional
value.
Existing servitude
already damaged,
and recovers
relatively easily
Removal of
Acanthosicyos
horridus (!nara)
Potential damage
to Trianthema
hereroensis
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4.4 FAUNA
4.4.1 REPTILES, MAMMALS & AMPHIBIANS
The distribution of plant life to a large extent determines the presence/absence and
composition of animal life in an environment. The scarcity of vegetation in the
Namib has resulted in only the most hardy and resilient animals occurring within the
area. Animals living in the Namib have adapted to the varying habitats that are
presented by the diverse landscape (Seely & Pallet, 2008).
As presented in Table 4-4, a total of 23 mammal species, 24 reptiles and at least 145
invertebrates are known or expected to occur in the area (Irish, 2012). While overall
biodiversity is relatively low compared to inland regions, endemism is very high,
reaching 71% in reptiles. This conforms to known trends for the Desert Biome (Irish,
2012). A complete list of these species is detailed in Irish (2012). Birds are discussed
under Subsection 4.4.2.
Table 4-4: Total number of species known or expected to occur in the study area. Species
presence in some cases is non-resident and represented by occasional vagrants only.
GROUP NUMBER OF
SPECIES
ENDEMIC
SPECIES
THREATENED
SPECIES
SPECIES WITH
LEGAL STATUS
Mammals 23 7 1 0
Reptiles 24 17 0 0
Invertebrates 145 53 0 0
Total: 192 77 1 0
Of the species represented in Table 4-4 none are restricted in distribution to the study
area. Irish (2012) further states that many vertebrates, like most bats and carnivores,
are mobile and wide-ranging, and although they will probably move through the
area from time to time, they are not necessarily resident to it. Resident species are
mostly rodents, reptiles and all invertebrates. According to Irish (2012) the lack of
invertebrates with threatened or legal status relates to the fact that none have been
formally evaluated to date, and does not reflect their true status. Informal
evaluations indicate that most Central Namib endemic invertebrates likely deserve
Threatened status.
In terms of the proposed project, it is the fauna (excluding birds) which commonly
occurs in the drainage lines and on the gravel plains habitats that are the most
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sensitive to disturbance. Irish (2012) indicates that the majority of permanent plant
life in the area is associated with drainage lines. Since these habitats are important
sources of both food and shelter for animals, disruption of these substrates will
inevitably affect the biodiversity of the area. Furthermore, the loss of biological soil
crusts on the gravel plains result in reduced environmental productivity, while the
physical habitat is also made unsuitable for other life forms. The specific areas
regarded as sensitive on this project is indicated and discussed in Section 7.
4.4.2 BIRDS
With reference to the habitats indicated in Table 4-5, Scott & Scott (2012) indicates
habitats that emerge as being particularly important and/or sensitive for birds in the
study area. These are included in Table 4-5 below and are further discussed in
Section 7:
Table 4-5: Important habitats for birds in the project area.
HABITAT SENSITIVE AREA IN THE PROJECT
AREA
SENSITIVITY SENSITIVE BIRD
SPECIES
Gravel
plains
Frequented by birds
such as Ludwig‟s
Bustard
Ludwig‟s bustard
Drainage
lines
Food and shelter for
birds and their prey
species
Gray‟s Lark
Flight paths Bustards and
flamingos
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HABITAT SENSITIVE AREA IN THE PROJECT
AREA
SENSITIVITY SENSITIVE BIRD
SPECIES
Barchanoid
dunes
Presence of the Walvis
Bay sewerage ponds
Adverse
environmental
conditions including
strong winds, dust and
fog
Large numbers of
wetland birds
including Great
White Pelicans,
Greater and Lesser
Flamingos
The sensitivity of the Barchanoid Dune habitat is particularly related to the presence
of the Walvis Bay Sewerage Ponds. Adverse weather conditions that form this
habitat including strong wind, dust and fog further intensify its sensitivity. In addition,
several Important Bird Areas (IBAs) are located in close proximity of the proposed
power line route, including the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Mile 4 Salt works, 30 Km
Beach: Walvis-Swakopmund including the Swakop River Mouth, and Walvis Bay. The
Walvis Bay Wetland in the south is also a coastal Ramsar Site, one of three on the
coast of Namibia. The presence of these areas so close to the Walvis Bay Sewerage
Ponds increases the risk of power line interactions in this section. The lack of large
trees for nesting increases the likelihood of birds nesting on power line structures,
while the rapid response to ephemeral vegetation cover results in a high degree of
nomadism.
A total of 293 bird species has been recorded within the study area (Scott & Scott,
2012). This represents 43% of the 676 species recorded in Namibia. Of the recorded
species, 41 (14%) are Threatened in Namibia, while 10 species (3.4%) are also
Globally Threatened. The species lists can be viewed in Scott & Scott (2012).
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According to Scott & Scott (2012) the bird species considered at risk during the
proposed project could be divided into the following main groups of birds, namely:
Large terrestrial birds: Ludwig‟s Bustard; Kori Bustard; Rüppell's Korhaan
Aquatic birds: Great White Pelican, Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Black
Stork, Hartlaub's Gull, Caspian Tern, Maccoa Duck.
Raptors: Martial Eagle, Booted Eagle, Tawny Eagle, Booted Eagle, African
Marsh-Harrier, Black Harrier, African Fish-Eagle, Lappet-faced Vulture,
Verreauxs' (Black) Eagle, Secretary bird, Peregrine falcon, Cape Eagle-Owl,
White-backed Vulture, Black-chested Snake-Eagle, Peregrine Falcon; Lanner
Falcon and Spotted Eagle-Owl.
Namib (sedentary) endemics with a restricted distribution: Gray's Lark,
Rüppell's Korhaan.
The key sensitivities related to the fauna are contained in Table 4-6 and are further
discussed in Section 7.
Table 4-6: Sensitivities related to fauna
HABITAT DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Gravel Plains Contains biological crust Sensitive biological crust
important for
environmental
productivity.
Physical disturbance of
fauna and habitat
Bird species such as
bustards and larks
frequent the area
Birds may be disturbed
while going about their
daily activities, such as
feeding and in particular
breeding
Drainage Lines Fauna rely on drainage
lines for food and shelter
Removal of natural
vegetation will result in a
change in the habitat
available to fauna. Could
impact on ability of fauna
to breed, forage and
roost in the vicinity.
Loss of biodiversity due to
loss of habitat
Birds often use drainage
lines as flight paths to
inland water sources.
Bird collisions
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HABITAT DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Barchanoid
Dunes
Presence of the Walvis
Bay sewerage ponds
Existing power lines
Rapid rate of industrial
development
Cumulative effect on bird
collisions
4.5 ARCHAEOLOGY
The survey area is characterized by undulating gravel plains with low scrub, and
widely scattered small granite outcrops. According to Kinahan (2012) these
outcrops provide temporary impoundments of water in natural rock hollows, which
provided an important resource for pre-colonial hunter-gatherer communities and
the early colonial ox-wagon transport routes across the desert. Unfortunately
uncontrolled vehicle movement in the area has already severely damaged any
potential finds. Previous studies done by Kinahan in the area, have found that while
most archaeological sites are clustered around granite outcrops in the immediate
surrounds, some widely dispersed isolated finds are also found on the gravel plains.
This trend was affirmed during Kinahan‟s 2012 study. The locations of the few isolated
sites found in proximity of the proposed route, is further discussed in Section 7. The
key sensitivities related to Archaeology in this area are contained in Table 4-7.
Table 4-7: Key sensitivities related to Archaeology in the proposed project area.
HABITAT SENSITIVE ZONE IN
PROJECT AREA
DESCRIPTION OF
SENSITIVE
ARCHAEOLOGY
SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL
IMPACT
Rocky
outcrops
No outcrops are
intersected by the
proposed power
line. Outcrop
located close to the
power line just south
of the section
between Kuiseb
substation and new
substation.
Outcrops provide
temporary
impoundments of
water in natural rock
hollows, which
provided an
important resource
for pre-colonial
hunter-gatherer
communities and the
early colonial ox-
wagon transport
routes across the
Outcrop already
damaged by
vehicle tracks.
Low risk of
destruction of
unknown sites.
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HABITAT SENSITIVE ZONE IN
PROJECT AREA
DESCRIPTION OF
SENSITIVE
ARCHAEOLOGY
SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL
IMPACT
desert.
Gravel
Plains
Section between
Kuiseb Substation
and proposed new
substation
The site of the
envisaged sub-station
lies on the margins of
the recreational area
centred on the dune
barrier.
Area has been
extensively
disturbed by
military training
exercises. Area is
heavily disturbed
and therefore of
no further
archaeological
value
Low risk of
destruction.
Drainage
Lines
Section between
Kuiseb substation
and Walmund
substation.
The route crosses a
number of extinct
and semi-extinct
drainage lines,
interspersed between
high erosion remnants
of the Namib gravel
plains.
The existing
corridor is highly
disturbed as a
result of
construction and
maintenance work
on the power-lines,
and by poorly
controlled vehicle
use.
Destruction of
known
archaeological
sites during the
course of the
project.
Barchanoid
Dunes
Section between the
D1984/M36
intersection and the
Walvis Bay
substation.
Although not directly
affected by the
proposed project,
some archaeological
sites are located in
proximity of the
proposed route.
Moderate
possibility that new
archaeological
sites will be
exposed in the
course of
construction work
Destruction of
unknown
archaeological
sites in the course
of project
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5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
5.1 INTRODUCTION
This section of the report provides an overview of the receiving socio-economic
environment in which the proposed development will take place. It forms the
baseline against which potential issues and impacts will be identified and assessed.
Consequently, only information relevant to this study is highlighted.
Since the proposed project is located within the Erongo Region, a brief overview of
the social and economic environments of this region will be provided. In addition,
key land use activities will be emphasised.
5.2 OVERVIEW OF THE ERONGO REGION
5.2.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Population and Growth
In 1991 the Erongo region had a population of 55 470. A decade later, this number
had increased to an estimated 107 663, resulting in a growth of almost 94 % during
the period 1991 to 2001 (NPC, 2001). This can partly be attributed to the inclusion of
Walvis Bay into Namibia in 1994, as well as migration to the coastal towns. Pull
factors to the region include the fishing industry, mining activities, and more recently,
the „Erongo Region uranium rush‟, resulting from the renewed interest in nuclear
energy.
According to the 2011 National Housing and Population Census Preliminary Results,
the Erongo Region has a population of 150 400 people, resulting in a 39,7 % growth
rate for the period 2001-2011. This is far higher than the projected population of
114 342 based on the 2001 census information (NPC, 2011). Of this population,
79 700 are males while the remainder of 70 700 are females (NPC, 2011). The
average household size for this region is 3.3 people (NPC, 2011).
The Erongo region comprises seven constituencies, namely Karibib, Daures, Omaruru,
Arandis, Brandberg, Walvis Bay Rural, Walvis Bay Urban and Swakopmund. The latter
two constituencies have the highest population and are the main growth centres in
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the region (NPC, 2001). This can be ascribed to the harsh climatic conditions that
limit agricultural activities and make survival in the desert almost impossible, and
water thus an important commodity. According to the 2001 Population and Housing
Census, an estimated 80% of the Erongo Region population resided in the urban
areas (ERC, 2007; Enviro Dynamics, 2009).
5.2.2 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
The economic activities of the Erongo Region revolve around its natural resources
both renewable such as fish, as well as non-renewable resources which include
minerals. Over the past few years, Namibia has experienced an unprecedented
interest its uranium deposits, resulting in the establishment of a number of uranium
mines in this region over the last few years. Rössing Uranium and Langer Heinrich
Uranium are some of the uranium mining giants currently operational in this region.
Furthermore, a number of exploration studies are being conducted to assess and
indentify new prospective sites for mining (Enviro Dynamics, 2009). One such mine
that is currently being investigated is the Husab mine.
The fishing industry is another key economic activity and forms the base of the
industrial activity in the region (SAEIA, 2010). The commercial fishing industry
contributed 7.1 % to the GDP in 2003, steadily declining to 5 % in 2009 according to a
study undertaken by Investment House Namibia (2011). Nonetheless, this industry
forms the cornerstone of Walvis Bay‟s economy.
Industrial infrastructure is provided by a railway connection that is also used by the
mines to transport ore to Walvis Bay from where it is shipped for export.
Consequently, an increase in mining activities has also contributed to the increase in
container shipments through the Port of Walvis Bay. The Erongo Region is also
connected by the national road network to the rest of the country via Okahandja,
Windhoek, and Otjiwarongo and forms part of the Trans Kalahari Highway. Thus, the
transport networks within the Erongo Region play a key role in the facilitation of trade
via Walvis Bay, supporting it as a hub for commercial trade.
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5.3 OVERVIEW OF WALVIS BAY
5.3.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Population and Growth
According to the 2011 Preliminary National Population and Housing Census results of
this harbour city has an estimated population of 61 300 people, indicating a growth
of 40.6 % since the last census was conducted in 2001. The majority of the
population, i.e. 32, 700 people, is male (NPC, 2011).
The population of Kuisebmond, one of the main neighbourhoods of Walvis Bay, has
seen an increase from 23 259 in 1997 to an estimated 33 570 in 2004. This resulted in
an estimated average annual growth rate of 5.35 % (Walvis Bay Municipality, 2004).
As the industries in this town develop, the population is expected to grow even more.
This can also partly be attributed to an influx of job seekers. A great pull factor that
contributes to the multi-ethnicity of Walvis Bay and immigration over the years is the
fishing industry and its related employment opportunities, especially at the fish
processing factories. This is reflected by the population of Walvis Bay increasing by
up to 10 000 people during the months of March to August when the fishing season
peaks, and activity at the fishing factories increases. It has also been found that
these seasonal workers do go back to their places of origin during the off-season,
resulting in backyard squatting structures being unoccupied (Enviro Dynamics, 2012).
Employment and Labour
The economic activities of Walvis Bay rest on four pillars, namely fishing, tourism,
manufacturing, and the harbour. The commercial fishing industry is the cornerstone
of Walvis Bay‟s economy; it is the biggest employer as it currently directly employs
approximately 13 000 people throughout its value chain (Kathindi, 2011). Apart from
the fishing industry, many people are also employed at the harbour terminal and salt
works (Enviro Dynamics, 2012).
The unemployment rate for Walvis Bay is estimated at 34 % (NPC, 2007). The
unemployment rate for women in both the Walvis Bay Urban and Rural Constituency
is higher than for males, with a rate of 40% for women in urban areas versus 29 % for
males, and 56 % for women in rural areas versus the 32 % for their male counterparts
(WBM, 2007).
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A number of factors contribute to this high unemployment rate. It includes a
population growth rate which is higher than the number of jobs created partly due
to an influx of job seekers, the seasonal variation of the fishing industry and when
heads of households who immigrate to Walvis Bay bring along their families (Enviro
Dynamics, 2010).
Future Development of the Town
To the north of Kuisebmond, sections of Farm 39 and Farm 46 are currently reserved
for aquaculture developments (Enviro Dynamics, 2012.).
With respect to the current port facilities, the container terminal is reaching its full
capacity; hence NamPort has embarked on a project to expand its current
container terminal. In addition, the port also plans to expand the harbour towards
the north of the town. According to the Walvis Bay Structure Plan (reviewed in 2008),
the area east of Dune 7, i.e. east of the harbour city, has been zoned as heavy
industry for future developments. Plans for expanding and upgrading the airport are
also currently underway. It should be noted that the Walvis Bay Structure Plan is
currently being reviewed and will be updated later during 2012.
Electricity
In 2005 the Erongo Regional Electricity Distributor (RED) took over the responsibility for
the distribution and maintenance of the electricity network in the Erongo Region.
Municipalities and town councils in the region are shareholders in the company.
Due to the influx of workers and a booming industrial sector, there is an increased
demand for electricity. A new coal fired power station is being planned by
NamPower in an attempt to meet this increased demand. An EIA is currently being
undertaken for the construction of this plant at Arandis.
The existing electricity demand for Walvis Bay is 45 megawatts (Fourie, 2012). In the
light of new developments in the area and the associated increased demand for
electricity, ErongoRED has requested 80 megawatts from NamPower (Fourie, 2012).
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5.3.2 SURROUNDING LAND USES
A number of different land uses surround the proposed power line route, ranging
from land used for residential and industrial purposes to conservation and tourism.
These land uses are shown in Figure 5-1.
Figure 5-1: Various Land Uses Surrounding Proposed Power Line Route
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Residential and light industry areas
The proposed power line route will pass two residential areas, namely Kuisebmond
and Narraville. It should be noted, as shown in both Figure 5-2, that the power line
will follow the existing power line route.
Housing in Walvis Bay is generally under pressure. This is further aggravated by the
need to find a balance between the demand for industrial erven versus erven for
residential purposes (Enviro Dynamics, 2012.).
Kuisebmond is a lower income residential area where the majority of migrant
labourers reside. It is located to the north of Sam Nuyoma Road (see Figure 5-2). In
2004 it had a population of 36 000 people which is expected to have increased to 40
000 by 2008. The majority of these people are employed in the fishing industry as
unskilled workers (WBM, 2004). The preliminary results of a study conducted on shack
Figure 5-2: Locality of the proposed power line in relation to erven in Walvis Bay
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dwellers in Walvis Bay, have found that 24,000 people are living backyard shacks
(Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia, 2012).
During a survey conducted by the Walvis Bay Municipality in 2004, 44.3 % of houses in
Kuisebmond were classified as temporary. Furthermore, it was found that an
average of 1.95 households live on one plot and that „backyard squatting‟ is
common. Thus, secondary households reside in temporary housing structures.
Houses are overcrowded with approximately 5.5 people per house (WBM, 2004).
The erven to the south of Sam Nuyoma Road has a mixed land use of either
residential, businesses or light industry. During the public meeting, one of the
attendees also indicated that their activities include the packaging of food, thus it is
light industry factory which employs a number of people.
Another residential area that is located next to the proposed power line routes is
Narraville, a former „coloured‟ township. IT is located to the east of the B2 road
between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. In addition to being a residential area, there
is also a light industrial zone. In 2004 an estimated 20% of the population of Walvis
Bay lived in this area. Low cost housing projects and various self-help groups are
common in Narraville (WBM, 2009). This residential area is planned to expand in a
north-easterly direction.
Tourism
Nature-based tourism, cultural heritage and historical sites play a key role in tourism
activities in Namibia and along its coast (MET, 2010). Today, a range of activities are
provided by a number of tourism activity operators, contributing to job creation as
well as the development of Walvis Bay. Tourism in the Central Namib revolves around
adventure tourism such as quad biking, business tourism, consumptive tourism such
as fishing and eco-tourism (SAIEA, 2010).
With respect to the project locality, the proposed route will run pass Dune 7, where
adventure tourism activities takes place, which includes quad biking, sand boarding
and hydroball dune rides.
Airport
The Walvis Bay Airport is approximately 15 km to the east of the town, and links this
coastal town to Windhoek and cities beyond Namibia‟s borders. According to the
website of the Namibian Airports Company, plans for upgrading and expanding the
airport are currently underway. This includes upgrading the building, expanding the
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runway and taxi-way as well as the implementation of world class landing
technology. All of this will contribute to establishing this airport as Namibia‟s second
international airport (NAC).
Namib Naufluft Park and Dorob Park
Almost one third of the Erongo Region consists of state protected areas. This can be
attributed to the uniqueness and ecological sensitivity of the Namib Desert. These
conservation areas in the Erongo Region consist of four national parks, namely, the
Dorob National Park, the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, the Walvis Bay Nature Reserve
and Dunes, and the Namib-Naukluft Park (NNP) (Mendelsohn et al, 2002).
The Dorob National Park, formerly known as the West Coast Recreational Area, is the
latest proclaimed park in the Erongo Region. The difference between the Namib-
Naukluft Park and the Dorob National Park is that the latter is a park proclaimed in an
area with existing developments, while the former is in a more pristine area.
M63 Road Users
The M63 road from Walvis Bay to the Sossusvlei passing the airport is frequented by a
number of users, some of which are presented below:
Travellers en-route to the airport;
Tourists visiting Dune 7;
Tourists travelling to Volgelfeder, Sossusvlei and also Windhoek via the
Gamsberg Pass;
Trucks from the marble quarries; and
Cyclists. The annual Desert Dash cycling competition sees hundreds of cyclists
on this road.
Walvis Bay Birds Paradise
Another bird watching spot has been established in 2011 on the outskirts of Walvis
Bay at its sewage works, namely Walvis Bay Bird Paradise. This community based
project is supported by NACOMA, the Walvis Bay Municipality, Erongo Regional
Council, the Coastal Environment Trust of Namibia and Ministry of Environment and
Tourism. This project currently employs one local Namibian, but it is expected that as
the project officially starts in August 2012, more local people knowledgeable about
the area will be employed (K. Naibab, 2012: Bird Paradise, pers. comm.). Once fully
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operational, it is expected that 3,600 people will visit the Walvis Bay Bird Paradise in a
year (K. Naibab, 2012: Bird Paradise, pers. comm.).
Walvis Bay Bird Paradise currently offers guided birding walks while providing
information on the bird species and flora in the area, even though they are not yet
fully operational. Future plans include the establishing a facility where local
entrepreneurs can showcase their arts and crafts, and visitors can enjoy refreshments
(Namibian, 2011). The target market includes tourists, school groups and students,
bird lovers and nature-photographers awarding them the opportunity to view birds
such as the Cape Teal and Black Winged Stilt in their natural environments.
Existing Exclusive Prospecting Licenses (EPLs)
A number of exploration studies are being conducted in the Erongo Region to assess
and identify new prospective sites for mining (Enviro Dynamics, 2009). Figure 5-1
indicates the locality of the EPLs over which the proposed power line route will go.
Table 5-1 presents information on the EPLs in the project area, including what mineral
or material it has been issued for, as well as the name of the EPL holder and when it
expires. It should be noted that in this case, only EPL 3624 has already been
approved, while the approval of the others is still pending. No prospecting activities
are allowed on those EPLs which have not yet been issued.
Table 5-1: EPLs in the project area
EPL NUMBER NAME/ EPL HOLDER WHAT IT HAS BEEN ISSUED
FOR
EXPIRY DATE
3669 Nova Energy (Namibia) (Pty) Ltd Base and rare metals and
Nuclear fuel minerals
Granted
21/11/2011 --
20/11/2013
3780 Petunia Investments Three (Pty)
Ltd
Nuclear fuel minerals Granted
30/08/2010-
29/08/2012
4582 Tower Investment (Pty) Ltd Base and rare metals,
Industrial minerals and
Precious metals
Granted
29/08/2011 -
28/08/2014
Upon the approval of an EPL, it goes through many phases, from being dormant to a
land surface survey. This is usually followed by drilling which leads to knowledge of
the localities of the existing ore bodies on the EPL. Active EPLs in the area permits
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geological mapping and geochemical sampling in the licence area which involves
drilling and the use of gamma probes.
5.4 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS FROM POWER LINES AND
HUMAN HEALTH
According Hubbard (2012) electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are always created, in
varying levels, with the generation and use of electricity and at the frequency of the
electrical power system Table 5-2.
Table 5-2: Summary of typical magnetic field levels encountered in various environments and close
to household appliances.
DESCRIPTION MAGNETIC FIELD (µT)
Directly below 400kV power line at ground level. 40
25m from centre line of 400kV power line. 8
Directly below 132kV power line at ground level. 7
25m from centre line of 132kV power line. 0.5
Vacuum cleaner, electric drill. 2 – 20
Food mixer. 0.6 – 10
Hair dryer. 0.01 – 7
Dish washer. 0.6 – 3
Washing machine. 0.15 – 3
Fluorescent lamp. 0.15 – 0.5
Ambient field inside homes. 0.01 – 0.2
Any biological effects that may occur from exposure to microwave frequencies will
be as a result of heating of biological tissue. Safety precautions, for this frequency
range, are thus based on limiting field levels that may cause a rise in tissue
temperature.
Guidelines for electric and magnetic field exposure are set by the International
Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP 1998) and (ICNIRP 2010).
This organisation is linked to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and receives
worldwide support.
According to Hubbard (2012) the ICNIRP standards for electromagnetic field
exposure associated with power lines can be summarized as follows:
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Table 5-3: Electric and magnetic field exposure guidelines set by ICNIRP (1998) and ICNIRP (2010)
versions.
REFERENCE
LEVEL:
ELECTRIC FIELD (KV/M) MAGNETIC FIELD (µT)
ICNIRP 1998 ICNIRP 2010 ICNIRP 1998 ICNIRP 2010
Occupational 10 10 500 1000
General Public 5 5 100 200
Based on the parameters for the proposed 132 kV lines Hubbard (2012) concluded
that the highest magnetic field exposure can be expected at the conductors. From
here it show an exponential decrease with distance Figure 5-3. At a distance of 25m
from the source, the radiation levels are expected to be less than 0.5 µT .
Hubbard (2012) states that many studies have been conducted on the topic of
electric and magnetic fields and possible health effects over the last two decades.
Some of these studies, from a scientific perspective, have been of a higher quality
and have been designed and executed in more credible ways than others.
According to Hubbard (2012) when addressing consensus and conclusions drawn
Figure 5-3: Typical Magnetic Field Levels expected from the 132 kV Lines.
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from the research, it makes sense to reflect on critical, scientific reviews of published
research rather than to address and reflect on individual and isolated studies. Based
on the studies reviewed Hubbard (2012) concludes that no conclusive and
consistent evidence shows that exposure to residential electric and magnetic fields
produce cancer, adverse neurobehavioral effects, or reproductive and
developmental effects.
When one considers the existing and proposed servitudes and the facts presented
by Hubbard (2012), the following can be concluded (as depicted in Figure 5-4):
At 25m distance from the source the expected magnetic exposure is 0.5 µT
which is 99.95% below the prescribed ICNIRP guidelines (2010).
With distance the exposure decreases exponentially, tending towards zero.
Evidence does not support any causal relationship between exposure to
electromagnetic fields and cancer (e.g. Leukemia), impacts on reproductive
health and adverse neurobehavioral effects, or developmental effects.
The absence of evidence on health effects is generally not considered to
mean evidence of the absence of health impacts and has resulted in some
scientists advocating caution (precautionary principle) and finding ways to
avoid or reduce exposure.
Figure 5-4: Existing servitude width and distances between lines compared to the radiation output of the line.
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5.5 SENSITIVITIES
The following socio-economic sensitivities are likely to result from the proposed
project (Table 5-4):
Table 5-4: Sensitivities relating to Socio-Economic Environment
ENVIRONMENTAL
FEATURE
DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Socio-economic
environment
Number of planned future
developments in the
area.
High demand for
electricity.
Meeting increased
electricity demand
(positive impact)
Kuisebmund residential
area
Power line through a high
density residential area
Potential
electromagnetic
radiation from power
line
Dorob and Namib
Naukluft park
Power line running
through a conservation
area
Reduction in the
conservation value of
the national parks.
Rooikop airport is located
close to the power line
The approach to the
runway should be cleared
of any obstacles.
Should the power line
be located too close
to the airport, it can
result in collisions of
aircraft with the power
line, thus posing a
safety risk.
Presence of the M63, Birds
Paradise and other areas
with high tourism
potential.
High tourism potential. Visual impact
A number of EPLs are
registered in the project
area.
The proposed power line
route passes over
registered exploration
areas.
Conflict with existing
EPLs
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6 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DIS CLOSURE
6.1 INTRODUCTION
Public Participation forms an important component of an Environmental Impact
Assessment as it provides potential interested and affected parties (I&APs) with a
platform whereby they can raise any issues or concerns relevant to the proposed
project. In addition, it also warrants them with an opportunity to comment on all the
documents produced.
The consultation process followed during this project included consultation meetings
in Walvis Bay with the relevant authorities and the public. Thereafter a scoping
report containing the issues identified during the scoping process was circulated to
registered I&APs. For those that do not have internet access, copies of the report
were sent to the Kuisebmund Community Centre, the Regional Council and the
Walvis Bay Urban and Rural Constituency office. The availability of the report at
these locations was then announced over the radio.
More details on the public participation process and its findings can be viewed in the
Scoping Report for this project.
6.2 THE MEETINGS TO DATE
The meetings were conducted in Walvis Bay with the public and authorities
respectively. An overview of these meetings is provided in Table 6-1 below.
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Table 6-1: Summary of the meetings held on this project.
OBJECTIVES THE MEETINGS MAIN ISSUES RAISED METHODOLOGY
AUTHORITIES AT REGIONAL LEVEL
To engage with relevant authorities
that have jurisdiction over the area
in order to solicit their ideas and
concerns about the project.
This was expected to assist the
consultant in defining the
parameters for the study in terms of
issues to explore in the full EIA
phase.
The meeting was held on 5 July
2012 in Walvis Bay.
Only one representative from
NamPort attended the meeting.
The questions raised were more for
clarification purposes such as locality,
rationale for this project, etc.
Telephonic conversations as well
as through emails and faxes.
Invitations were e-mailed to
those earmarked to attend the
meeting.
PUBLIC MEETING AT LOCAL LEVEL
To create a platform whereby the
concerns of individuals, groups or
local communities could be
conveyed and the parameters for
the study can be developed.
To facilitate transparency with the
public which aid in building good
rapport, while identifying potential
challenges along with possible
solutions.
Held on 5 July 2012, also in Walvis
Bay.
22 people attended the meeting
including representatives from
NamPort, Walvis Bay Municipality,
Ministry of Education, business
community and members from
the Public.
The main concerns raised
included the effect of radiation
on the surrounding communities,
and the locality of the power
station, substation and existing
servitudes in Walvis Bay.
Also, the issue of bird collisions
and the impact of this project on
electricity prices were mentioned.
Advertised in the newspaper.
Some I&APs were invited via e-
mail. Letters were hand delivered
to the community members living
along the proposed route in
Walvis Bay which included an
invitation to this public meeting.
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6.3 PUBLIC CONCERN
From the consultation meetings and comments submitted to Enviro Dynamics in
writing, a number of key issues came to light. Although not all of the issues may fall
within the scope of this study, it is clear that these issues should be considered at a
strategic level for the area. The key issues identified are listed below in Table 6-2Error!
Reference source not found..
Table 6-2: Summary of Key Issues
THEME ISSUE
CONTROLLED
ACCESS
Access roads should be identified and be the only ones used.
BIRDS The collision of birds with the power lines should be assessed.
Consider impacts on Bird Paradise.
VEGETATION It should be considered to relocate any affected vegetation with the help of
the Namib Botanical gardens.
Consider the impacts on the green valley.
HEALTH AND
SAFETY
The impact of radiation on the surrounding land use owners and residents
should be assessed.
The locality of the existing power station, substation and servitudes where
questioned, mainly due to the impacts on surrounding land users.
ECONOMICS This project can cause electricity prices to rise.
Job creation
LAND USE AND
STRATEGIC
PLANNING
It is anticipated that the harbour will develop to the north of Walvis Bay.
ARCHAEOLOGY The ancient oyster beds near Dune 7 should be considered.
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6.4 PUBLIC FEEDBACK
The Draft Environmental Scoping Report has been circulated to all I&APs for their
comment, allowing for a two week commentary period from the 29th of August 2012
to the 13th of September 2012. In addition, the report as well as an executive
summary was sent to the Kuisebmund Community Centre, the Regional Council‟s
office and the Walvis Bay Urban and Rural Constituency where those without access
to the internet could review the report. With the assistance of the Constituency
office, the community was informed about the availability of the report for their
perusal, via the local radio station. The comments received on this report have been
collated into a Comments and Responses Trail which includes statements of how the
comments were considered and incorporated into the final Report.
The same process will be followed for the Environmental Impact Assessment Report,
i.e. it will also be made available for public review with a two weeks commentary
period. All comments received will also be collated into a Comments and
Responses Trial, before the final report is submitted to the DEA.
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7 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
7.1 ASSESSMENT OF ALTERNATIVES
The proposed route between the Walmund and Walvis Bay substation was
evaluated during a consultation meeting between NamPower and the
Environmental Consultant. A section of the route was moved to avoid a sensitive
outcrop.
The largest part of the route follows existing servitudes. This is in line with the Uranium
Rush Strategic Environmental Assessment (SAIEA, 2010) which recommends that all
development infrastructure be limited where possible to one corridor. In Walvis Bay
the existing power line servitude passes between a residential and industrial area.
Alternative locations were considered in Walvis Bay but due to limited space
(especially in the corridor to the Parathus power station) the existing servitude was
found to be the best alternative.
Since the new route now avoids the sensitive marble outcrop and follows an existing
servitude for the remainder of the route, which has already been disturbed, this route
was accepted by all as the preferred route. The impacts further discussed in this
section are all based on the preferred route.
7.2 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES
During the scoping phase of this project a screening process was applied whereby
all potentially significant sensitivities were pooled together from the baseline
conditions, legal requirements as well as the concerns raised by I&APs. The process
explained in Error! Reference source not found. was then followed to filter through the
arious potential impacts. Two groups of issues were identified:
Column A & C: Issues that could be addressed in the specific EMP i.e.
challenges for which mitigation and management measures could already
be identified at the scoping stage of the project (See APPENDIX F), and issues
that does not fall within the scope of this study.
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Column B: Issues that needed further specialist investigation i.e. challenges for
which adequate information was unavailable to propose mitigation measures
or make an assessment of the extent of the potential impact.
Based on the screening process, five areas were identified for which data was
unavailable in the scoping phase to conclusively determine the impact or identify
workable mitigation options. Specialists were therefore tasked to further investigate
each of these areas:
Loss of sensitive vegetation (Coleen Mannheimer)
Loss of endemic fauna (John Irish)
Collision of birds with the power lines (Mike & Ann Scott)
Loss of archaeological sites (John Kinahan)
Socio-economic and visual impact (In-house study by Enviro Dynamics)
Civil Aviation – potential location of the power line route alternatives in the
approach zones of the Arandis Airport. This issue is addressed under
Section 3 as the preferred alternative does not encroach onto the
approach zone of the airport.
Does the issue fall within the scope of the project and the
responsibility of NamPower?
A B C
Figure 7-1: Screening process to determine key issues
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The findings from these investigations are summarized in Error! Reference source not
ound.Table 7-1 and form the focus of the rest of this Section.
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Table 7-1: Identification of key impacts during the various phases of the project.
SPECIALIST
STUDY
POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE DECOMMISSIONING
Habitat
destruction
Substrate disruption of gravel plain soils
by construction vehicles and
earthmoving equipment (habitat loss on
gravel plains)
Habitat loss in drainage lines
Substrate disruption of gravel plain soils
due to maintenance vehicles.
Substrate disruption of gravel plain soils
by decommissioning vehicles
Vegetation Damage to vegetation due to vehicle
activity, construction of pylons and
construction laydown.
Damage to vegetation due to vehicle
activity.
Disturbance or destruction of sensitive
vegetation
Birds Disturbance from road construction and
traffic and habitat destruction
Collisions on power line and stay wires Disturbance from traffic and noise
Archaeology Disturbance or destruction of existing
archaeological sites
Destruction or damage to new
archaeological sites exposed during
construction work.
Disturbance or destruction of existing
archaeological sites
Disturbance or destruction of existing or
new archaeological sites
Socio-
Economic and
Visual impact
Conflict with existing land uses,
specifically EPLs
Visual impact
Reduction in the conservation value of
the national parks.
Conflict with existing land uses,
specifically EPLs
Meeting increased electricity demand
(positive impact)
Visual impact
Reduction in the availability of electricity
in the Erongo Region
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SPECIALIST
STUDY
POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE DECOMMISSIONING
Should the power line be located too
close to the airport, it can result in
collisions of aircraft with the power line,
thus posing a safety risk.
Potential electromagnetic radiation from
power line
Reduction in the conservation value of
the national parks.
Should the power line be located too
close to the airport, it can result in
collisions of aircraft with the power line,
thus posing a safety risk.
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7.3 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Each of the identified impacts listed above were assessed to determine the true
significance of the proposed project on the environment. The criteria used to
describe the significance of the impact on the particular environmental component
(i.e. vegetation, biodiversity, birds, archaeology and socio-economic environment)
are contained in the Table 7-2 below:
Table 7-2: Criteria for the assessment of impacts
DESCRIPTION
Nature Reviews the type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the relevant
component of the environment and includes “what will be affected and how?”.
Extent Geographic area. Indicates whether the impact will be within a limited area (on
site where construction is to take place); local (limited to within 15 km of the area);
regional (limited to ~100 km radius); national (limited to the coastline of Namibia);
or international (extending beyond Namibia‟s boarders).
Duration Whether the impact will be temporary (during construction only), short term (1-5
years), medium term (5-10 years), long term (longer than 10 years, but will cease
after operation) or permanent.
Intensity Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or innocuous and
whether or not it exceeds set standards, and is described as none (no impact); low
(where natural/ social environmental functions and processes are negligibly
affected); medium (where the environment continues to function but in a
noticeably modified manner); or high (where environmental functions and
processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease and/or
exceed legal standards/requirements).
Probability Considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and is described as uncertain,
improbable (low likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), highly probable (most
likely) or definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures).
Significance Significance is given before and after mitigation. Low if the impact will not have an
influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in the
project design, Medium if the impact could have an influence on the environment
which will require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation (the
route can be used, but with deviations or mitigation) High where it could have a
“no-go” implication regardless of any possible mitigation (an alternative route
should be used).
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DESCRIPTION
Status of the impact A statement of whether the impact is positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or
neutral. Indicate in each case who is likely to benefit and who is likely to bear the
costs of each impact.
Degree of Confidence
in Predictions
Is based on the availability of specialist knowledge and other information.
7.4 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS
7.4.1 HABITAT DESTRUCTION
Description
The power line route intersects three habitats, namely the gravel plains, drainage
lines and Barchanoid dunes (Figure 7-2). According to Irish (2012) the gravel plains
are particularly sensitive due to their long recovery period (if recovery happens at
all). Fauna and flora, being directly dependent on the habitat for food and shelter,
will be indirectly affected if it is damaged or destroyed.
Gravel plains: According to Irish (2012) the gravel plains habitat is highly sensitive to
disturbance and a single vehicle track is enough to cause irreparable damage. This
is due to the long recovery period of the soil and there is no evidence that suggests
that the habitat has the ability to self-heal: tracks dating from the 19th century
remain visible today and biological soil crusts have not regenerated in them.
On this particular project, the movement of vehicles and earthmoving machinery
during construction could cause long-term, possibly permanent damage to substrate
integrity (Irish, 2012). It is very likely that biological soil crusts will be completely
destroyed; rendering the substrate unsuitable for the regeneration of soil crusts,
assuming the latter is even possible. The result is permanent habitat loss and
degradation of environmental integrity and habitat potential.
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Figure 7-2: Sensitive habitats intersected by the proposed power line.
Tubas River
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Drainage lines: According to Irish (2012) drainage lines are fairly robust with respect
to short term disturbance. Displaced animals are likely to return after construction
due to the food and shelter the habitat provides. Although plants will eventually re-
grow, the slow growth rates and unpredictable desert rainfall ensure that self-healing
will take a very long time (Irish, 2012).
Drainage lines in the area are generally small, and the main potential impact is to
the Tubas River. Movement of vehicles and earthmoving machinery can destroy
permanent vegetation in watercourses and deprive the habitat of sources of food
and shelter, decreasing its potential.
Barchanoid dunes: The barchanoid dunes close to Walvis Bay are mobile and due
to the typical strong winds of the area, they quickly re-establish themselves. The
sensitivity of this habitat is low and it is therefore not expected that the proposed
project will have a significant impact on it.
Mitigation
A single track should be pegged out that should be used during construction.
Include contractual penalty clauses for contractors that stray from the
established track.
Have single track crossings at drainage lines.
Damage to the gravel plains should be rehabilitated.
Summary
The impact of the proposed project on biodiversity can be summarized as presented
in Table 7-3 below.
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Table 7-3: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on habitats in the area.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION (INCLUDING MAINTENANCE) DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
IMPACT OF POWER LINE ON GRAVEL PLAINS HABITAT
Extent Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific
Duration Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent
Intensity High High High High High High
Probability Definite Definite Definite Definite Definite Definite
Status Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative
Degree of
confidence in
predictions
High High High High High High
Significance High
Due to the
permanence of the
impact.
High
Should the extent of
the impact be
limited to one area,
it does not have a
“no go” implication.
Mitigation can
merely reduce the
scope of the impact
High
Residual impact
remaining from
construction
None
Should they stay on
the existing tracks
and no additional
tracks be made.
High
Residual impact
remaining from
construction
None
Should they stay on
the existing tracks
and no additional
tracks be made.
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CONSTRUCTION OPERATION (INCLUDING MAINTENANCE) DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
but not the severity,
hence significance
remains high.
IMPACT OF POWER LINE ON DRAINAGE LINES HABITAT
Extent Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific Site-specific
Duration Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Long-term due to
slow regrowth
Intensity High High High High High High
Probability Definite Definite Definite Definite Definite Definite
Status Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative
Degree of
confidence in
predictions
High High High High High High
Significance High
Due to long term
effects and slow
regrowth. Does not
have a “no go”
implication.
Low Low (Should they
stay on the road
used in the
construction phase)
Low Low (Should they
stay on the road
used in the
construction phase)
Low
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7.4.2 IMPACT ON UNIQUE FLORA
Description
According to Mannheimer (2012) a number of protected and endemic species
occur in the project area including Zygophyllum stapffii, Arthraerua leubnitziae,
Hermbstaedtia spathulifolia, Senecio engleranus, Heliotropium oliveranum,
Acanthosicyos horridus, Trianthema hereroensis and a number of lichens. Many of
these species are concentrated in the drainage lines.
Despite the relatively high level of endemism of the area, Mannheimer (2012) states
that the overall impact of the project on vegetation could be low if sufficient care is
taken to prevent unnecessary collateral damage. This is due to several factors:
The project is linear and narrow, greatly reducing the extent of impact on any
one habitat.
There are existing servitudes over much of the route, and there are already a
number of well-defined tracks that can be used to access the new section of
the route.
There are a number of previously damaged areas that can be used as
laydown sites.
There are no marble or rocky ridges that need be directly affected to any
extent.
The areas of highest impact, i.e. the construction sites for each pylon, are
small and widely spaced. Only the servitude road is continuous.
However, the fact that the central Namib Desert receives such low rainfall means
that any damage done is usually long-term, with recovery of the perennial
vegetation and especially that of lichens and the biological or physical crust that
retards soil erosion in the desert, being very slow.
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The northern section of the line between the Kuiseb and Walmund substation crosses
over the lichen field of the northern Naukluft Plateau as described by Schultz (2006).
This area is more or less covered with crustose and foliose lichens (Figure 7-3). Track
control in this section will be crucial for conserving the lichen field. In addition, the
following mitigation measures are proposed for the service route:
Mitigation
Laydown areas should be minimised in size and number, and should be sited
in previously damaged areas as far as possible (see EMP for specific
coordinates). These should also be clearly indicated.
Particular care should be taken to control damage in the sensitive zones as
indicated Figure 7-3. Accidental damage should be rehabilitated at the end
of construction.
Summary
The impact of the proposed project on unique flora (due to vehicle activity,
construction of pylons and construction laydown) can be summarized as presented
in Table 7-4 below:
Kuiseb Substation
Walmund Substation
Section of the
proposed power
line that
traverses the
lichen field
Figure 7-3: Sensitive lichen field indicated by Mannheimer (2012) as intersected by the proposed
power line route. The purple bubbles represent areas along the line that is already
damaged by uncontrolled tracks.
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Table 7-4: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on unique vegetation in the area.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION (INCLUDING
MAINTENANCE)
DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER
MITIGATION
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER
MITIGATION
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER
MITIGATION
PHYSICAL DESTRUCTION OF VEGETATION, INCLUDING SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN
Extent Site specific Site specific Site specific Site specific Site specific Site specific
Duration Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent Permanent
Intensity Low None Low None Low None
Probability Improbable Improbable Improbable Improbable Improbable Improbable
Status Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative
Degree of confidence in
predictions
High High High High High High
Significance Low None Low None Low None
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7.4.3 BIRD COLLISIONS ON THE POWER LINE
Description
The proposed study area has a relatively high conservation status and biodiversity
value, which is reflected in the 293 bird species that have been recorded in the
overall study area (Scott & Scott, 2012).
Scott & Scott (2012) indicate two sensitive areas along the proposed routes for birds:
Drainage lines on the section between Kuiseb and Walmund substations:
Drainage lines provide food and shelter for birds and their prey species, and
serve as flight paths for groups such as bustards, flamingos and raptors.
Typically, sections where the power line crosses drainage lines are considered
as potentially sensitive for birds but due to the high number of drainage lines
crossed, it is difficult to anticipate which areas are more sensitive in terms of
potential bird collisions (Figure 7-4). Collisions have previously been recorded
in the area around the Walmund substation. According to Scott & Scott
(2012) three collisions (including one flamingo and two bustard collisions) have
been recorded in a 5km radius around the Walmund substation.
The section between the Walvis Bay substation and the D1984/M36
intersection: Several Important Bird Areas (IBAs) (including the Namib-Naukluft
National Park, Mile 4 Salt works, 30 Km Beach: Walvis-Swakopmund including
the Swakop River Mouth, and Walvis Bay wetland) are located close to the
route. The Walvis Bay Sewerage Ponds so close to the IBAs increase the risk of
bird/power line interactions and therefore makes it a sensitive area
(Figure 7-5). This is also exacerbated by the adverse weather conditions that
form this habitat including strong wind, dust and fog.
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The following mitigation measures are prescribed on the proposed line to reduce the
risk of collisions:
Walmund Substation
Kuiseb Substation
Walmund substation
Kuiseb
substation
Drainage lines
Walvis Bay
sewage ponds
Figure 7-5: The section of line between the Walvis Bay substation and the
M36/D1984 intersection. Potentially sensitive areas for
collisions by aquatic bird species such as pelicans and
flamingos are indicated by yellow arrows.
Figure 7-4: Yellow arrows indicate sensitive areas on the section
between the Walmund and Kuiseb substation. The area
indicated just south of the Walmund substation is considered
particularly sensitive due to previously recorded collisions in
the area.
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Mitigation
Using a combination of double loop bird flight diverters (BFDs) and "flight
diverter flags” the new line should be marked at the following locations:
o Walmund Substation to Kuiseb Substation: mark the areas where the
line intersects three main drainage lines, as indicated (for at least five
spans each, centred at GPS points 22 46 49S 14 43 57E; 22 50 14S 14 43
39E; and 22 53 59S 14 43 30E). This area has already been confirmed as
"sensitive" in terms of bustard collisions.
o Section of line running north of the Walvis Bay sewage ponds (between
GPS points 22 57 37S 14 31 30E and 22 58 29S 14 33 36E).
Assuming span lengths to be 350m: space three flight diverter flags, with
double loop BFDs at intervals of 20m between them.
Monitoring of this marked section will help to provide more scientific
confirmation of collision data (rates, sites and associated weather conditions)
and thereby increase the future predictability of such occurrences as a basis
for marking. Should collisions still take place after mitigation, the marking
methods would need to be reassessed.
For the rest of the line, stringent and regular monitoring is recommended,
especially of the sections of the line that cross drainage lines/seeps/ridges.
Should collisions start to occur regularly in any one area on the line, the
relevant section(s) should be fitted with the above measures.
Summary
The impact of the proposed project on bird species can be summarized as
presented in Table 7-5 below.
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Table 7-5: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on birds in the area.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
BIRD COLLISIONS WITH POWER LINE
Extent Site specific
At the facility during
operation
Site specific
At the facility during
operation
Duration Permanent
> 20 years (life of
line)
Permanent
> 20 years (life of
line)
Intensity Medium to High Medium to High
Probability Probable Probable
Status Negative Negative
Degree of
confidence in
predictions
High (incident
reports and personal
observations)
High (incident
reports and
personal
observations)
Significance Medium to High
Medium
If impact is “high” it
could be reduced
to “medium” by
fitting sensitive
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CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
areas (e.g.
drainage lines) with
double loop bird
flight diverters and
"flag flight diverters".
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7.4.4 DESTRUCTION OR DAMAGE TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES
Description
According to Kinahan (2012) the potentially sensitive archaeological sites in the area
are all associated with outcrops which provide temporary impoundments of water in
natural rock hollows. These areas provided important resources for pre-colonial
hunter-gatherer communities and the early colonial ox-wagon transport routes
across the desert. Since the power line does not intersect any outcrops Kinahan
(2012) summarizes the various sections as follows (Figure 7-6):
Walmund to Kuiseb substation: A number of minor granite outcrops and
dolerite dykes occur in the near vicinity of the route, but not within the corridor
itself. The existing servitude is highly disturbed as a result of construction and
maintenance work on the power lines, and by poorly controlled vehicle use.
This section is of very low archaeological significance and is not considered to
be sensitive. The proposed route does not affect any archaeological sites.
Kuiseb substation to envisaged substation north of Dune 7: Although there is
no existing power-line corridor on this section, the area has been extensively
disturbed by military training exercises. Parts of the area that might have held
archaeological significance, e.g. rocky outcrops, are heavily disturbed and
are therefore of no further archaeological value. This section has no
archaeological remains.
Envisaged substation to Walvis Bay substation: The area has been examined
in some detail and found to be of no archaeological significance.
The occurrence of sites close to the power line however provides evidence of
human activity in the area and their presence is a reliable indicator of a possible
occupation site. Kinahan (2012) therefore states that there is a moderate possibility
that new archaeological sites will be exposed in the course of construction work.
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Figure 7-6: Location of archaeological sites close to the proposed power line route.
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Mitigation
Chance Finds procedure: Areas of proposed development activity are
subject to heritage survey and assessment at the planning stage. These
surveys are based on surface indications alone, and it is therefore possible
that sites or items of heritage significance will be found in the course of
development work. The procedure for chance finds is set out in the EMP.
Summary
The impact of the proposed project on archaeology can be summarized as
presented in Table 7-6 below.
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Table 7-6: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on Archaeology in the area.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
DISTURBANCE OR DESTRUCTION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES
Extent Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Site specific
May have a
cumulative effect
on the archaeology
of the area as a
whole.
Duration Archaeological sites
cannot be repaired
or rehabilitated. All
negative impacts
must be considered
Permanent.
Temporary
Construction period
Temporary
Slight risk during
operation.
Temporary
Slight risk during
decommissioning.
Intensity High
Direct impacts on
small
archaeological sites
generally result in
either total
destruction or site
High
Direct impacts on
small
archaeological sites
generally result in
either total
destruction or site
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CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
disturbance such
that the value of
the site is greatly
diminished.
disturbance such
that the value of
the site is greatly
diminished.
Probability Improbable Improbable
Status Negative Negative
Degree of
confidence in
predictions
High High
Significance Medium to Low
Depending on the
specific site
concerned
Low
If the indicated sites
can be avoided
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7.4.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND VISUAL IMPACT
Description
A number of development plans are underway for the Erongo region, including the
establishment of new mines. In addition, NamPort is also planning the expansion of
the harbour. Furthermore, the population of Walvis Bay has grown by 40, 6 % over
the period of 2001 to 2011. All of these new developments, and potential further
population increase, further increases the demand for electricity. Consequently,
ErongoRED who is responsible for distributing electricity in Walvis Bay has requested
an increase from 45 megawatts to 80 megawatts from NamPower. This proposed
power line, will assist NamPower to service a wider area radius, as these power lines
will also connect the existing substations with one another via new routes.
Nature-based tourism, cultural heritage and historical sites play a key role in tourism
activities in Namibia and along its coast (MET, 2010). The line route will traverse both
the Dorob Park and NNP. Sections of the power line will also run along the D1984.
Any change in visual amenities can impact the sense of place of this area. It should
however be noted that the area is not pristine in the sense that there is a road,
railway and telephone lines already passing by Dune 7. The adventure based
tourism activities itself, is expected not be limited or impacted on by the new power
line.
The Walvis Bay Bird Paradise is a community-based initiative located next to the
sewage treatment works and proposed processing plant site. It offers guided birding
walks while providing information on the bird species and flora in the area. The
number of visitors to Walvis Bay Bird Paradise is currently unknown, but once fully
operational, it is expected that 3, 600 people should visit it annually. The activities of
Walvis Bay Birds Paradise are thus dependent on bird life, making them vulnerable to
changes in bird stocks. Should the power line be the cause of bird collisions and
fatalities, the economic activities of this venture, as a form of livelihood for its
employees, can be adversely impacted.
A number of exploration studies are being conducted in the Erongo Region to assess
and identify new prospective sites for mining. The proposed power line route will
directly cross over three EPLs in the area. These EPLs either allow for the exploration
of dimension stone or base and rare metals, industrial minerals, precious metals and
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semiprecious stones. The three affected EPLs have been contacted during the EIA
process to indicate areas of potential concern. They all stated that the construction
of the power line will not affect any of their mayor deposits and they consequently
provided their consent for the construction to continue.
Mitigation/Enhancement
NamPower is required to adhere to the NNP and Dorob National Parks‟ park
rules.
The mitigation measures prescribed by Scott & Scott (2012) to limit bird –
power line interactions close to Birds Paradise should be adhered to.
NamPower and the EPL holder has to continue to communicate.
The construction contract should stipulate that the EPL holder should be
informed about the intended construction period and the approximate
number of people and vehicles that will enter the EPL.
Summary
The information from this assessment is summarized in the Table 7-7 below.
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Table 7-7: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on the surrounding socio-economic environment.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
MEETING INCREASED DEMAND
Extent Regional Regional
Duration Long Term Long Term
Intensity Moderate Effect Moderate Effect
Probability Definite Definite
Status Positive Positive
Degree of confidence
in predictions
High High
Significance High High
TOURISM AND INTEGRITY OF THE NATIONAL PARKS
Extent Regional Regional Regional Regional
Duration Long Term Long Term Long Term Long Term
Intensity Moderate Effect Moderate Effect Moderate Effect Moderate Effect
Probability Definite Definite Definite Definite
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CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
Status Negative Negative Negative Negative
Degree of confidence
in predictions
High High High High
Significance Medium - Low Low Medium - Low Low
LAND USE CONFLICT WITH EPLs
Extent Local Local Local Local Local Local
Duration Long Term Long Term Long Term Long Term Long Term Long Term
Intensity Minor Effect Minor Effect Minor Effect Minor Effect Minor Effect Minor Effect
Probability Probable Probable Probable Probable Probable Probable
Status Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive
Degree of confidence
in predictions
High High High High High High
Significance High Low High Low Low Low
VISUAL IMPACT
Extent Regional Regional Local Local
Duration Long Term Long Term Long Term Long Term
Intensity Moderate Effect Moderate Effect Moderate Effect Moderate Effect
Probability Definite Definite Highly Probable Highly Probable
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CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
Status Negative Negative Negative Negative
Degree of confidence
in predictions
High High High High
Significance Medium - Low Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium-Low
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7.4.6 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS FROM POWER LINES AND HUMAN HEALTH
Description
According to Hubbard (2012) thousands of studies have been published on the topic
over the last three to four decades. In his report Hubbard (2012) provides a summary
of available literature. He also calculated the electric and magnetic field levels
using the ICNIRP standards to predict radiation propagation near the 132kV lines
(Figure 7-7). In short, the findings of the specialist study concluded the following:
Overhead power lines generate electric and magnetic fields. Electric fields
are linked to the voltage of the power line and remain relatively stable while
the line is energized. Magnetic fields are linked to the current flowing on the
line. Magnetic field levels in the vicinity of a power line typically show daily
and seasonal variation patterns. Both electric and magnetic fields decrease
with an increase in distance from the line.
No evidence of a causal relationship between magnetic field exposure and
childhood leukemia exist. The absence of evidence on health effects is
generally not considered to mean evidence of the absence of health impacts
and has resulted in some scientists advocating caution (precautionary
principle) and finding ways to avoid or reduce exposure.
Studies on the behaviour, reproduction, health, meat production, milk
production and navigation have found minimal or no effects of EMF on
animals.
Past studies have found no significant effect of EMF on plant growth, crop
production and seed germination. No recent studies of plants growing near
transmission lines have been conducted.
The guidelines for electric and magnetic field exposure set by the
International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)
receives world-wide support. ICNIRP standards are drawn up based on all
research done on the topic of non-ionising radiation, specifically the effect it
may have on human health and includes the precautionary principle.
Calculations of electric and magnetic field levels that will be created by the
proposed power lines have shown that areas where members of the public
may be exposed (at the servitude boundary and further away from the line)
are well within the ICNIRP guidelines (Table 7-8).
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Table 7-8: Comparison between the 2010 ICNIRP standards and the expected exposure from the
132kV line.
BASIC RESTRICTIONS ICNIRP (2010) MAGNETIC OUTPUTS EXPECTED FROM 132KV LINE
ICNIRP GUIDELINES DISTANCE PROPOSED PROJECT
Occupational 100 µT Directly below
132kV line
7 µT
General Public 20 µT 25m from
132kV line*
0.5 µT
*The distance from the proposed 132 kV power line to the nearest occupational area will be approximately 60m. It should also be
noted that electromagnetic radiation decreases exponentially with distance from the source. The expected radiation at the nearest
occupational area is therefore expected to be less than 0.5 µT.
Figure 7-7: Detailed composition of total NamPower servitude (150m) indicating the two proposed 132kV lines in relation to the 25m buffer zone for radiation exposure.
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Mitigation
Based on the specialist findings it is evident that the electromagnetic radiation
from the two proposed 132kV lines will not exceed the ICNIRP (2010)
standards. It is therefore concluded that if NamPower stays within the
proposed distances from residences/businesses no mitigation measures are
required to reduce the electromagnetic radiation.
Should NamPower in future require additional lines within the servitude, an EIA,
focussing specifically on a comprehensive radiation assessment and public
consultation process, should be undertaken.
In addition, should NamPower foresee the need to increase the load on the
proposed lines thus increasing the electromagnetic radiation output, a
radiation assessment should be undertaken to assess the potential impact of
this on the neighbouring residents.
Summary
The impact of the electric and magnetic fields from the power lines on human health
is discussed in Table 7-9 below.
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Table 7-9: Summary of the potential impacts of the electric and magnetic fields from the power lines on human health.
CONSTRUCTION OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING
BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION BEFORE
MITIGATION
AFTER MITIGATION
IMPACTS OF THE ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS FROM THE POWER LINES ON HUMAN HEALTH
Extent Site specific Site specific
Duration Permanent Permanent
Intensity Low Low
Probability Improbable Improbable
Status Negative Negative
Degree of
confidence in
predictions
High High
Significance Low Low
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8 CONCLUSIONS AND RECO MMENDATIONS
8.1 SYNOPSIS OF THE FIVE KEY IMPACTS
The five key ecological and social impacts related to the proposed construction and
operation of a new transmission line from the Walvis Bay substation to the Walmund
substation can be summarised as follows:
Habitat destruction: Many potential impacts are associated with habitat
destruction during the construction phase. The permanent damage to the
substrate renders this impact significance to be high. Should the contractor
however succeed in restricting the extent of the impact (e.g. by enforcing
responsible off-road use and preventing unnecessary track proliferation), it
does not have a „no go‟ implication for the project (Irish, 2012). Further
mitigation measures are prescribed in the EMP.
Impact on unique flora: A number of endemic and near endemic plant
species, of which many are of restricted distribution or habitat occur in the
project area. These species are extremely vulnerable to disturbance and due
to the slow recovery rate of the desert environment; damage may often be
regarded as permanent. It is particularly the lichen field between Walmund
and Kuiseb substation that is of concern which could be destroyed by
uncontrolled vehicle tracks during all three phases of the project. However,
according to Mannheimer (2012) no fatal flaws were identified during the
course of the vegetation study and with careful mitigation, damage to
sensitive vegetation will be very limited due to the linear nature of the facility
the proposed project poses. More details on the proposed mitigation
measures are provided in the EMP.
Impact on bird species: The proposed project area has a relatively high
biodiversity and 293 bird species have been recorded in the area. The main
impact associated with the construction and operation of the power line in
this area is related to potential collisions. According to Scott & Scott (2012)
two potentially sensitive areas occur along the proposed line, namely the
drainage lines between Walmund and Kuiseb substation (including a site just
south of the Walmund substation where collisions have been recorded) and
the section close to the Walvis Bay sewerage ponds. The latter is particularly
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sensitive due to its close proximity to other Important Bird Areas because a
great deal of bird movement is expected between these sites. For this reason,
it is recommended that the two mentioned sections be marked with a
combination of double loop bird flight diverters (BFDs) and "flight diverter
flags”. More details regarding the monitoring method and the frequency
thereof are provided in the EMP.
Destruction or damage to archaeological sites: Based on Kinahan‟s (2012)
assessment no archaeological sites stand to be directly affected. Although
high in density in the surrounding areas, these sites are generally of low
significance. A “chance find” procedure is set out in EMP for use in the
construction phase, to cater for the discovery of new sites.
Socio-economic and visual impact: The construction of the proposed power
line will supply in the increased demand currently experienced in the Erongo
Region. This represents a positive impact of the project.
o The proposed power line passes through an area that has a high
tourism potential. Apart from the activities associated with Dune 7 and
Birds Paradise, the power line will also traverse the Namib Naukluft and
Dorob Parks. The new power lines will affect the sense of place of this
area. The area is however not pristine due to the presence of various
roads, a railway and telephone lines that already passes by Dune 7.
None of the adventure based tourism activities will be limited or
impacted on by the new power line.
o The proposed power line route will directly affect three EPLs in the area.
Following communications with the EPL holders it was concluded that
the proposed power line does not threaten any of the mayor ore
bodies of the EPLs. More details are contained in the communication
plan in the EMP.
o Potential impacts of the electric and magnetic fields from the power
lines on human health: According to Hubbard (2012) thousands of
studies have been done on the effect of power lines on human health.
During his study Hubbard found that the proposed 132kV lines are well
within the 2010 ICNIRP standards, which is already based on the
precautionary principle. Should NamPower stay within the
recommended servitude distances from public/occupational areas, no
mitigation measures are required to reduce the impact of the
proposed project on public health.
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8.2 CONCLUSION
NamPower will be able to reduce most of the unwanted impacts of this project to
acceptable levels if they implement the proposed remedial measures. The
expected harm to the gravel plains is unavoidable because of its low resilience to
change. Should the contractor succeed in limiting the extent of the service road
and pylon sites, the impact (although still of high significance) will not result in a
situation where NamPower cannot continue with the project.
As for the potential collision of birds, the specialists have identified areas on the
proposed line that should be marked with BFDs and “Flight Diverter Flags”. The
effectiveness of these markings should be closely monitored and so should the areas
not marked so that additional problem areas may be identified.
Although this study found the electromagnetic radiation output from the proposed
project to be within ICNIRP (2012) standards, two recommendations apply:
Should NamPower in future require additional lines within the servitude, an EIA,
focussing specifically on a comprehensive radiation assessment and public
consultation process, should be undertaken.
In addition, should NamPower foresee the need to increase the load on the
proposed lines thus increasing the electromagnetic radiation output, a
radiation assessment should be undertaken to assess the potential impact of
this on the neighbouring residents. This needs to be communicated to the
public.
It is important that the measures in NamPower‟s generic EMP and the specific EMP
compiled by this Consultant are implemented and monitored otherwise the impacts
identified will remain unacceptable.
It is therefore recommended that the project receive Environmental Clearance,
provided that the generic EMP and the specific EMP be implemented.
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