Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) · 1. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)...
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Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Project Number: 48326-001 17 October 2017 Afghanistan: Northern Flood Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Project (N-FIER) Prepared by Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation & Development (MRRD) for the Ministry of Finance and the Asian Development Bank This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.
Transcript of Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) · 1. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)...
Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)
Project Number: 48326-001 17 October 2017
Afghanistan: Northern Flood Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Project (N-FIER)
Prepared by
Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation & Development (MRRD) for the Ministry of Finance and the
Asian Development Bank
This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is a document of the borrower. The views
expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management,
or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. In preparing any country program or strategy,
financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or
geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any
judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.
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ABBREVIATIONS
ADB – Asian Development Bank
CDC – Community Development Council
DNA – Damage and Need Assessment
EARF – Environmental Assessment and Review Framework
EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment
EMMP – Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan
EMP – Environmental Management Plan
GoIRA – Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
IA – Implementing Agency
IEE – Initial Environmental Examination
MEW _Ministry of Energy and Water
MoF – Ministry of Finance
MRRD – Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development
NEPA – National Environmental Protection Agency
N-FIER – Northern Flood Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation
Project
NGO - Nongovernmental Organization
PIU – Provincial Implementation Unit
PMO – Project Management Office
REA – Rapid Environmental Assessment
RP – Regional Programs
RoW - Right of Way
SPS – Safeguard Policy Statement
ToR – Terms of Reference
UNEP – United Nations Environment Program
WHO – World Health Organization
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................................... 7
Environmental Characteristics ............................................................................................................ 7
Major Impacts and Mitigation Measures ............................................................................................. 7
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Background 9
Purpose 9
Northern Flood - Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation (N-FIER): .................................. 9
tangi tashqurghan road rehabilitation and reconstruction of RCC retaining Wall ............................... 12
Location of the project ...................................................................................................................... 12
Methodology 15
Executing Agency ............................................................................................................................. 17
POLICY, ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ................................................................... 18
Environmental Law: Official Gazette No.912, 25 January 2007 ........................................................ 18
Regulations and Guidelines for EIA .................................................................................................. 18
Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies ................................................................................... 19
Description of the Project ..................................................................................................................... 22
Type of the Project ........................................................................................................................... 22
A. Need for the project .................................................................................................. 22
Retaining Wall:22
Stone Masonry Canal ....................................................................................................................... 24
Road Rehabilitation Works: .............................................................................................................. 25
Borrow and Quarry Materials Sourcing ............................................................................................. 25
Water for Construction ...................................................................................................................... 25
Construction Camps ......................................................................................................................... 26
Construction Schedule ..................................................................................................................... 26
Description of the Environment ............................................................................................................ 27
Introduction 27
Physical Resources .......................................................................................................................... 27
Ecological Resources ....................................................................................................................... 32
Socio-Economic Environment ........................................................................................................... 34
Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ............................................................... 37
Analysis of Project Impacts ............................................................................................................... 37
ENVIRONMENTAL BUDGET ........................................................................................................... 38
Pre-Construction Phase: .................................................................................................................. 38
Construction Phase: Construction of Retaining Wall and Rehabilitation of Road .............................. 39
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Post Construction Phase (Operational Phase) .................................................................................. 43
Analysis of Alternatives ........................................................................................................................ 45
Information ........................................................................................................................................... 45
Disclosure, Consultation, and Participation .......................................................................................... 45
Introduction 45
Objectives of Public Consultation ..................................................................................................... 45
Findings of the Public Consultations ................................................................................................. 46
People’s Cooperation ....................................................................................................................... 46
Conclusion 46
Grievance Redress Mechanism ........................................................................................................... 46
Environmental Management Plan ........................................................................................................ 48
Organizational Chart for Environmental Management and Monitoring .............................................. 70
Institutional Setting and Proposed Implementation Arrangement ...................................................... 70
MRRD/PIU Responsibilities .............................................................................................................. 70
Conclusion and RecommendationS ..................................................................................................... 72
Findings: 72
Recommendations............................................................................................................................ 72
Conclusions 72
Appendix 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist .......................................................... 74
Appendix 2: Minutes of Public Consultation ......................................................................................... 80
Appendix 3. Redlist Book in Afghanistan .............................................................................................. 83
Appendix. 4 .......................................................................................................................................... 86
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) addresses the environmental safeguard concerns associated with the 401m long Tangi Tashqurghan RCC Retaining wall and road rehabilitation project, which shall be financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and to be implemented by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) under the Northern Flood-Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Program (N-FIER). The project is intended to rehabilitate the portion of existing Kabul – Mazar highway located in Tangi Tashqurghan valley of Khulm district and will also construct a 401m long RCC retaining wall which will help to re-link the provinces with northern parts and will reduce travel times and transport costs for the people traveling through and the communities living around the project area, it will therefore support inclusive economic growth.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS
2. The topography of the project area is characterized as hilly and mountainous terrain. The geological formations in the project area mainly consist of pebbles, conglomerates, sandstone, siltstones, clays and marls. Major soils in the project area are mountain light serozems, alluvial soils, and meadow-alluvial soils and are mostly saline.
3. The climate in the project area is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. The groundwater quality in the area is slightly saline. Water scarcity is a major problem for residents along the project road. Water quality data is available in some areas of the Balkhab River basin, and it reveals that the groundwater quality is good.
4. Afghanistan has not established its ambient air quality standard. There are no data available on ambient air quality for this area. Nonetheless, air pollution is not observed to constitute a major problem in the study area. No noise monitoring data is available in the project area and it is expected that noise quality will conform to international noise standards with low background noise level.
5. No vegetation or trees are expected to be uprooted by the proposed road rehabilitation and retaining wall works.
MAJOR IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
6. As the proposed project includes only widening of existing road within existing ROW without any land acquisition, impact on the physiography of the area is not significant. The design will consider the improvement of roadside drainage conditions through the improvement of cross drainage structures.
7. Loss of Productive Soil. All activities will occur within the available RoW, no adverse environmental impact is anticipated on the productive soil.
8. Contamination of Soil. There is the risk of contamination of soil from construction material and oil spills. Contractors are required to ensure proper handling materials and able to implement spills containment. Oil contaminated waste will be properly collected, stored disposed by the contractor.
9. Impacts on water resources and drainage. Deterioration of water quality may occur near the construction camp. This will be minimized by timing land clearing and earthmoving during the dry season; proper handling of materials including oil, and lubricants; prohibiting the disposal of untreated sewage; and proper erosion control near river.
10. Impact on ambient air quality. Significant amount of dust will be generated during project construction. The following mitigation measures will also be undertaken:
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Sprinkling of water on the active construction fronts and construction yard. Regular maintenance of machinery and equipment.
11. Noise. Substantial noise will be generated from the use of heavy equipment and processing of rocks and asphalt. Adequate distance separating the rock crusher and hot mix plants will be required and the sourcing of “readymade” gravel and asphalt will be promoted to avoid the establishment of these plants. Along the road the use of less noisy equipment, scheduling of noisy activities, and provision of noise barriers will be implemented by the contractor to minimize disturbance
12. Flora and fauna. The project activities will not affect the flora and fauna as no impacts are anticipated. The survey results show that neither any threatened, endangered or rare species lives nor there is any habitat of such species within and proximity of proposed project area.
13. Construction workers’ camp. As the Contractor is required to source labor from the local communities along the subproject road, the size of the construction camps will be relatively small. It is the contractual responsibility of the Contractors to maintain a hygienic camp with adequate water and electric supply; toilet facilities located away from the water bodies and wells; proper disposal of domestic refuse; temporary medical facilities; pest control; clean and adequate food; and security.
14. Impacts on social environment. Construction and operation phases of project road will have some beneficial impact on social environment. Some increase in income of local people is expected as local unskilled, semiskilled and skilled persons may gain direct or indirect employment during construction phase. Since the immigration of work force during construction phase is likely to be very small.
15. Operation phase – Impacts on soil. Increase in vehicular emissions, noise level, road crashes due to higher speed vehicular speed, and oil contaminated road surface runoff will occur during project operation phase. The impact on air quality is not expected to be significant given the low projected traffic.
16. Oil contamination will occur but expected to be in trace amounts based on the low level vehicular traffic. To control the anticipated increase in noise level the following measures will be implemented; good road surface will reduce the road-tire noise, prohibition of horns along sensitive areas, road widening will increase capacity and decrease congestion of vehicles.
17. Institutional arrangements. The Provincial Implementation Unit (PIU) established in MRRD will be responsible for monitoring environmental quality and issues arising from the works. The mitigation plan will be included in the construction contract and the Contractor will be charged with its Implementation. MRRD will monitor implementation of mitigation measures by the Contractor through the Construction Supervision.
18. Conclusions. Based on the analysis of available data, it is concluded that the project will have an overall beneficial impact after completion with respect to reducing transport cost and fuel consumption of vehicles and also improving socio-economic conditions along the length of project road. Construction of the civil works will have insignificant negative impacts on air quality, noise level, watercourses and soil during implementation, and impacts will be appropriately monitored and adequately mitigated. At present, this report has not identified any comprehensive, broad, diverse or irreversible adverse impacts caused by the proposed road rehabilitation and retaining wall project.
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INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND
19. Afghanistan is ranked the world’s second most flood-prone country, after Bhutan, on the basis of average annual number of flood-related deaths per million people1. The topography, climate, and land cover of the mountainous regions result in the mountain valleys being prone to flooding. Typically, heavy rain in the spring and early summer combined with snow and glacier melt cause flash flooding and damage to villages, roads, and farming areas close to the rivers. Flooding is exacerbated by the narrow valleys, which channel the floodwater through villages, destroying homes and livelihoods. Significant losses also result from inundation of crops and irrigation facilities, and the deposit of silt, rocks, and debris in canals and fields.
20. During April–early June 2014, heavy rains over many parts of northern Afghanistan resulted in severe flash floods, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. By 22 May 2014,125,000 people residing in 123 districts in 27 provinces had been affected. While flooding is common in most years, the 2014 northern floods were exceptionally severe and are regarded locally as a 1 in 100-year event.
PURPOSE
21. The purpose of this Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is to document a screening of the environmental consequences of the project. This IEE is structured in accordance with the requirements of ADB SPS 2009. The IEE identifies any likely significant direct and indirect environmental effects on physical, environmental, ecological, social, and cultural resources within the project’s influence area associated with the planned works during key construction and future operation. The extent, duration, severity of the impacts, and the preparation of mitigation and monitoring actions is covered by the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
22. The IEE has three basic objectives:
To determine the magnitude of potential environmental concerns and to ensure that
environmental considerations are given adequate attention when the proposed road improvements works are carried out;
To recommend environmental considerations, in the form of adverse and beneficial environmental impacts, to be taken into account for selection of road network links and improvement designs; and
To classify the type of environmental assessment required, if any.
NORTHERN FLOOD - DAMAGED INFRASTRUCTURE EMERGENCY REHABILITATION (N-FIER):
23. Northern Flood - Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Project (N-FIER) will assist the government's efforts in the rehabilitation of irrigation and road infrastructure damaged by the severe flooding affected the roads, bridges, dams, canals and irrigation structures in northern Afghanistan in the month of March to June 2014. The project was awarded and signed the agreement on
1 Report and Recommendation of the President to the Board of Directors-Proposed Grants and Administration of Grant Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan: Northern Flood Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Project
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3rd November 2014 for the period of three years. The funds are allotted from Asian Development Bank (ADB) Special Funds (SF) resources ($40 Million) & Afghanistan Infrastructure Trust Fund (AITF) $16.66 Million. It will assist the rehabilitation of selected subprojects including:
a) small-scale irrigation and rural road infrastructure in 15 worst-affected provinces based on the damage and needs assessment (DNA) undertaken by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD): MRRD as implementing agency, will manage the project process to support the rehabilitation of (i) traditional irrigation infrastructure such as canals, intakes, small dams, culverts and rehabilitate or construct new retaining walls as required to protect damaged lands from further erosion and (ii) local bridges and roads.
b) larger-scale irrigation system infrastructure in three provinces based on the DNA undertaken by the Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW): MEW, as implementing agency, will manage the project process to support the rehabilitation of formal irrigation infrastructures such as canals, spillways, weirs and intakes identified by MEW in the provinces of Balkh, Jowzjan and Samangan, as requiring repairs or reconstruction. The map below shows the worst affected provinces by the severe floods of 2014.
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Figure-1: Map showing the worst affected provinces
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TANGI TASHQURGHAN ROAD REHABILITATION AND RECONSTRUCTION OF RCC RETAINING WALL
24. The Tangi Tashqurghan area a part of Khulm district of Balkh province where the portion of Kabul – Mazar highway is passing was destructively damaged by the 2014 severe floods. The project was aim to be rehabilitated by the Ministry of Public Works as the owner of the project but due to lack of funds the project rehabilitation was delayed. The government requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the project funding. ADB, under the grant G-0412, has agreed to fund the project from their allocated funds to the Northern Flood - Damaged Infrastructure Emergency Rehabilitation Project.
25. MRRD is the responsible agency for implementation of the proposed road rehabilitation and construction of 401m long retaining wall project. The design of the proposed projects has been conducted by the Ministry of Public Works as the end user of the proposed project. MRRD will assign a contractor for the construction of the proposed project. MRRD as Executing Agency (EA) has created a Provincial Implementation Unit (PIU) within the Regional Programs (RP) and under the Norther Flood Damaged Emergency Rehabilitation Project, which is responsible for the proper implementation of the project.
LOCATION OF THE PROJECT
26. The project area is located in 36°62.879 N and 067°23.733 E in the Tangi Tashqurghan valley, a
mountainous region in the north of Afghanistan. The project area is under jurisdiction of Khulm district of Balkh province. The map below is showing the project location and the existing Kabul – Mazar highway.
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Figure-2: Location of the project area
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Figure 3: Actual Site Photo of the Project Area
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METHODOLOGY
27. The methodology used for this IEE is based on the procedures described in ADB Safeguards Policy Statement of 2009, the Government’s EIA Policy and Environmental Law. Since the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the road and retaining wall involves widening and upgrading of an existing track road, no alternative designs or alignments were considered and the IEE was carried out for the entire planned length of the road.
28. Extensive site surveys were conducted including consultations with all the stakeholders and the public. The methodology adopted included the following activities:
a) Activity 1: Kick-off Meeting. The kick-off meeting was held between the technical and engineering team of the N-FIER project including the Environmental Specialist, to brief each other ensure that team members were apprised of the project background, present status, approach and methodology to be followed and sources of secondary data/reports etc.
b) Activity 2: Collection and Review of Relevant Documents. The environmental team collected and reviewed project parameters, primary and secondary data including technical information, and design specification provided by engineering team.
c) Activity 3: Field Investigation. Site visits were undertaken to study various environmental features of the project corridor.
d) Activity 4: Public Consultation. Public consultations were conducted at an early stage of environmental assessment during the field survey to obtain the views of local people and local administrative representatives.
29. Based on collected data and information, potential adverse environmental impacts were identified and examined using ADB’s REA Checklist. Possible mitigation measures were then identified and on the basis of findings of impact appraisal comprising key elements embodied in this IEE, an Environmental Monitoring and Management Plan (EMMP) was developed. Continued discussions were undertaken with the executive agency and technical team for integrating environmental management measures into the project design.
30. The below chart shows the methodology adopted for preparation of this IEE report:
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Figure 4: Methodology diagram
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EXECUTING AGENCY
31. The EA of the proposed project is Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) and will monitor the implementation of mitigation measures by the Safeguards team along with the experts from the ADB.
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POLICY, ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
32. Legal framework of environmental and social considerations in Afghanistan is overviewed below.
ENVIRONMENTAL LAW: OFFICIAL GAZETTE NO.912, 25 JANUARY 2007
33. Environmental Law is the fundamental law on environmental consideration in Afghanistan; it stipulates basic policies and procedures of activities for environmental consideration such as environmental impact assessment, pollution control, conservation and management of water resources, protected area, biodiversity, environmental information and education. The law also defines National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) as the responsible agency on the activities for environment.
REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR EIA
34. Following three documents has been issued for EIA based on the Environmental Law:
a) Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (Official Gazette No.939, dated 10 March 2008)
b) Administrative Guidelines for the Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment (Issued by Director General of NEPA in terms of Executive Order No.1/87, dated 3 June 2008)
c) National Environmental Impact Assessment Policy (Issued by Director General of NEPA in terms of Executive Order No.1/86, dated 25 November 2007)
35. Each of the three documents describes procedure of EIA. Out of the three, document a) is legal binding and stipulates specific procedure of EIA such as screening criteria and application forms. Document b) is a guideline of the procedure: it gives supplemental explanations such as methodology of public disclosures. Document c) is overall guideline on the framework of EIA which includes explanation of the purpose and requirements of EIA and recommendation of institutional capacity development of NEPA.
36. The EIA procedure described in those documents is shown in figure 4.
37. The legal procedure of EIA starts with submitting application to NEPA by the project proponent. The purpose of the application is to screen the projects which require EIA. A screening report needs to be attached to the report to explain brief description of the project activities, site conditions, potential impacts and mitigations in IEE level. It is also required to describe results of public consultation with affected people.
38. As the screening criteria, project scales of category 1 and category 2 are defined for each type of activities. Category 1 is for activities likely to have significant adverse impacts while category 2 is for those with less adverse than category 1. According to NEPA, both of categories 1 and 2 require EIA. NEPA reviews the submitted screening report and finalize the requirement of EIA considering the results of the public disclosure after submission of the screening report. Public disclosure is conducted by the proponent under the responsibility of NEPA. In the case that NEPA decided that the activity does not require EIA, certificate for compliance is issued without EIA to approve the activity. In the case that EIA is decided to be required, the project proponent has to complete EIA and submit EIA report to NEPA. Within 45 days after the submission, NEPA reviews the report and approve the activity if it is sufficient. According to NEPA, board of experts has been established which comprises of 12 experts from Kabul University and ministries for reviewing EIA.
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Figure: 5
Source: Administrative Guidelines for the Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment (2008)
ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK SAFEGUARD POLICIES
10. The Asian Development Bank has defined its safeguard requirements in the Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS). The prime objectives of these safeguard policies are to: (i) avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, where possible; and (ii) minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible.
A. Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies 2009
11. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has three safeguard policies that seek to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse environmental impacts and social costs to third parties, or vulnerable groups as a result of development projects.
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39. ADB affirms that environmental and social sustainability is a cornerstone of economic growth and poverty reduction in Asia and the Pacific. ADB‘s Strategy 2020 therefore emphasizes assisting Developing Member Countries (DMCs) to pursue environmentally sustainable and inclusive economic growth. In addition, ADB is committed to ensuring the social and environmental sustainability of the projects it supports. In this context, the goal of the SPS is to promote the sustainability of project outcomes by protecting the environment and people from projects ‘potential adverse impacts. The objectives of ADB‘s safeguards are to: avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, where possible; minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible; and help borrowers/clients to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks.
Safeguard Requirements: Environment.
40. The objectives are to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects, and to support the integration of environmental considerations into the project decision-making process.
41. The requirements apply to all ADB-financed and/or ADB-administered sovereign and non-sovereign projects, and their components regardless of the source of financing, including investment projects funded by a loan; and/or a grant; and/or other means, such as equity and/or guarantees. Mechanisms such as Public Consultation, Identification of potential impacts, elaboration of adequate mitigation measures and impact monitoring as well as implementation of an appropriate environmental management plan remained mainly unchanged referring to the former Environmental Safeguard Policy. Special attention has been put on the Grievance Redress Mechanism, securing that the borrower/client will establish a mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of affected peoples‘ concerns, complaints, and grievances about the project‘s environmental performance. The grievance mechanism should be scaled to the risks and adverse impacts of the project. It should address affected people's concerns and complaints promptly, using an understandable and transparent process that is gender responsive, culturally appropriate, and readily accessible to all segments of the affected people at no costs and without retribution. The mechanism should not impede access to the country‘s judicial or administrative remedies. The affected people will be appropriately informed about the mechanism.
42. Guidelines provide a rational approach for determining environmental category of the Project, the need for public consultation and disclosure, environmental management planning, and resolving involuntary resettlement, indigenous people and gender issues.
B. Category of the Project as per SPS 2009
43. Considering the above mentioned policies and regulations, the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework of the project and using the prescribed ADB Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (see Appendix1), Tangi Tashqurghan Road Rehabilitation and re-construction of Retaining wall subproject was preliminary classified as environmental category “B.” This categorization was primarily based on the following considerations:
a) Subproject road is existing and rehabilitation activities are limited to the RoW, b) Anticipated impacts from road rehabilitation and construction of retaining wall are mostly
site specific and easily mitigated through proper design and good construction practices,
c) Subproject road rehabilitation and construction of retaining wall does not pass through or located within proximity of any wildlife sanctuary, national park, or any other environmentally sensitive or protected areas.
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44. All the necessary requirements mentioned above in the NEPA regulations and guidelines have been followed in the studies for the Tangi Tashqurghan Road Rehabilitation and Re-Construction of the Retaining Wall Sub Project.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
TYPE OF THE PROJECT
45. Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development intends to rehabilitate and reconstruct the Tangi Tashqurghan a section of National Highway which was severely damaged by the 2014 floods. The rehabilitation and reconstruction of the project road will be carried out under civil works contracts by a Contractor selected through National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures.
46. MRRD appointed the Trust Construction Limited as the contractor to carry out the construction works in early September 2016.
A. NEED FOR THE PROJECT
47. Between March and June of 2014, the worst flash floods in 100 years struck some of the most remote communities in northern and eastern parts of Afghanistan. The flash floods destroyed the harvests and necessary infrastructure i.e. roads, irrigation systems, bridges, etc. in those rural communities. This section of the Kabul – Mazar highway was also severely damaged.
48. In response, the Government of Afghanistan launched an emergency recovery program to rehabilitate the much-needed infrastructure in 21 worst affected provinces across the country. While for financing the project the government requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) through a proposal to support the rehabilitation of severely affected infrastructure in the said provinces. The proposal was accepted and approved respectively by ADB and has awarded with funds in October 2014 for 3 years.
RETAINING WALL:
49. The proposed RCC retaining wall which will be built alongside the road has the total length of 401 meters while the average height of the wall is planned 8 meters. The RCC retaining wall will be constructed with HYSD steel grading 60 and will consume around 372.25 Tons of steel. The amount of concrete is planned to be 11,253.61 cubic meters with the strength of 30 MPa. The Typical cross section of the proposed wall is shown in the below design:
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Figure 6: Cross Section of RCC Retaining Wall
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STONE MASONRY CANAL
50. The project also consists of a stone masonry canal system with the total length of 360 meters. This canal is proposed to be built for irrigation purpose only as water will be channeled to the nearby village
Figure 7: Irrigation and Drainage Canal Section
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ROAD REHABILITATION WORKS:
51. The project will rehabilitate 430.16 meters of asphalt road within the available RoW in Tangi Tashqurghan valley which was severely damaged by the 2014 floods. The road will be built with the 2 layers of (50+50) mm Asphalt. It will consist of bitumen prime coat and bitumen tact coat which will consume around 1029 square meter of Asphalt. The road will be built with the total length of 9 meters as the 7 meters for vehicle movement and consisting a one meter shoulder on either side of the road. The Typical Cross Section is shown in the below design.
Figure 8: Typical Cross Section of proposed road.
BORROW AND QUARRY MATERIALS SOURCING
52. Potential sources of earth for the construction of road and retaining wall must be approved by the engineers. The borrow earth, sand, and quarry materials will be sourced locally within a distance of about 25-30 Km from the road. (Guidelines for Borrow Area Management are given in the project technical specifications)
WATER FOR CONSTRUCTION
53. Water for construction of the project road will be taken from surface water sources after obtaining necessary permissions. No public water sources will be used for road construction.
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CONSTRUCTION CAMPS
54. One construction camp will be set up by the contractor at a suitable location along the project corridor which in consultation with the PIU head and engineers.
CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE
55. The road rehabilitation and construction of retaining wall is planned to be completed within 12months from the start of the construction. The below schedule shows the construction timeline of the project:
Figure 9: Construction Schedule of the project
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DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
INTRODUCTION
56. The collection of baseline information on biophysical, social and economic aspects of the project area is the most important reference for conducting Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) study. The description of environmental settings includes the characteristic of area in which the activity of the project road would occur and cover area affected by all impacts. The existing baseline line conditions has been analyzed based on primary data collection with regard to air quality, water quality, noise, soil, biodiversity and socio- economic aspects and secondary data collection from published source and various government agencies. Efforts have been made to collect the latest information both at regional as well as local level especially along the project road alignment.
57. The existing baseline data and analysis around the proposed Road rehabilitation and construction of retaining wall is presented in the following sections.
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Soils and Geology
58. The topography of the project area is categorized as hilly and mountainous terrain. The geological formations in the project area mainly consist of pebbles, conglomerates, sandstone, siltstones, clays and marls. Major soils in the project area are mountain light serozems, alluvial soils, and meadow-alluvial soils and are mostly saline.
59. While overall in the Balkh province soils in the irrigation systems are torripsamments with dunes. Torripsament soils are in the Entisol soil order (one of the twelve soil orders in the US soil taxonomy), suborder psamments. Entisols are soils defined by the absence or near absence of horizons (layers) that indicate the occurrence of soil-forming processes.
60. They are formed on surface features of recent geologic origin, on underlying material that is highly resistant to weathering, or under conditions of extreme wetness or dryness. Typical geographic settings include areas of active erosion or deposition (i.e., steep slopes or floodplains), areas of quartzite bedrock or quartz sand (i.e., major desert and dune regions), and wetlands. Entisols are commonly arable if given an adequate supply of plant nutrients and water, despite the lack of soil development as indicated by the lack of distinct horizons. Torripsamments are cool to hot Psamments of arid climates, with an aridic or torric moisture regime and a warmer than cryic temperature regime. Some Torripsamments are on stable surfaces; others on stabilized or moving dunes. Torripsamments may consist of quartz, mixed sands, volcanic glass, or gypsumand may have any color. They are generally neutral or calcareous. Vegetation is mostly xerophytic shrubs, grasses, and forbs.
61. These soils support more vegetation than other soils with an aridic moisture regime, presumably because they lose less water as runoff. Some soils on dunes support a few ephemeral plants or have a partial cover of xerophytic and ephemeral plants; shifting dunes may be devoid of plants in normal years. Most of the deposits are of late-Pleistocene or younger age.
62. On irrigated land in the area around Balkh and the area below Aqcha, unit Q34a predominates (Conglomerate and sandstone [Holocene and late Pleistocene] - Alluvium; shingly and detrital sediments, gravel, sand, more abundant than silt and clay).
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63. North of Balkh, interspersed within the Q34a zone, roughly in a semicircle, are found large patches of Q4sm (Salt marsh deposits [Holocene] - mud, silt, clay, more abundant than sand; limestone, gypsum, and salt).
64. To the north of the Q34a zone, unit Q3a predominates (same description as Q34a except without the younger Holocene contributions).
65. Further north still, towards the Amu Darya, unit Q34θ (Eolian deposits [Holocene and late Pleistocene] - Sand) is found.
66. In the Balkh river course from its entry into the lower Balkh system to its tailend past Aqcha, Unit Q4a is found (same description as Q34a except without the older Pleistocene contributions).
Temperature and Precipitation
67. The climate is arid to semiarid steppe, with temperatures falling below freezing during winter nights and rising sharply in spring. Average monthly mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures from 21 years of data indicate that daytime temperatures peak in mid-July (summer), ranging between 25-40 degrees C, with the lowest temperatures occur in Dec-Jan (ranging 0 to 10 degrees C).
68. Average annual precipitation of 190 mm y-1 at Mazar-e Sharif near the foot of the escarpment can be taken as representative of the southeastern end of the irrigated area. Rainfall decreases somewhat to the north.
69. Nearly all rainfall occurs during the Oct–May period, and is highly variable from year-to-year, month-to-month, and day-to-day. For 1968-9 and 1976- 8, the average number of rainy days per year was 55; rainfall >3 mm occurred between 5 and 45 days in a year. Annual evapo-transpiration greatly exceeds annual rainfall, by a factor of 5 to 15.
70. Most of the Balkh River flow entering the lower irrigation system originates as snowmelt in the upper high-altitude catchment. Historical direct hydrometeorological measurements for the upper catchment are unavailable. Snow-cover recession can readily be inferred from satellite imagery, but it is not directly proportional to river discharge which also requires knowledge of snow-pack depth or equivalent rainfall depth, and estimates of snowmelt percolation into local groundwater storage in screes, alluvial terraces, which is substantial. In addition, local physiographic effects have a strong influence upon microclimatic variation in mountainous areas, so to generate representative upper basin hydrometeorology data, instrumentation and analysis sufficient to cope with rain-shadow, barrier effects, snowdrift, summit exposure, exposure, and macro-aerodynamic turbulence is required.
Natural Disasters
71. Mountainous parts of northern and northeastern Afghanistan are prone to disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides.
i. Earthquake:
72. Afghanistan lies in a region with moderate to high seismic hazard. Earthquakes in the 7.0 magnitude have been experienced parts of the country. The project region in Afghanistan also experiences earthquakes frequently. The project road as per the seismic hazard map shown below falls in the category of very high magnitude earthquake zone. The region has experienced some of the major earthquakes in last few decades.
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ii. Landslides:
73. The project district of Balkh is prone to landslides due to bare hillocks and mountains. Several sizable landslides exist along the present as well as the proposed new road alignment. The main causative factors of these landslides are fragility of the geologic and geomorphic setting; climatic factors such as rains and heavy snows; and the reduction of shear parameters due to an increase of pore water pressure by saturation during spells of torrential precipitation and undercutting/toe erosion by rivers/streams. Rock falls occur along closely spaced and steeply dipping joints, while planar and wedge failures occur due to the intersection of adversely-oriented joint planes
iii. Floods:
74. The project area frequently runs in proximity of the river at locations where the center to center distance is less than 50m.Due to the nonexistence of vegetation and mountainous terrain, the possibility of flash floods in the monsoon season cannot be ruled out.
Hydrology
75. Water use in northern Afghanistan is very low at present, and a substantial increase is not expected during the next two decades. Afghanistan has used only about 2 km3 of the 9 km3 of water from the Amu Darya River it is entitled to use under treaties negotiated in 1950s. The agricultural productivity, which is the economic mainstay of the country’s population, has suffered in large part due to inadequacy of irrigation water and irrigation infrastructure.
76. Water resources management and development are critically important for Afghanistan’s entire major river basins. The Amu Darya basin, which comprises only 12 percent of the Afghan territory, supports about 25 percent of the population. Source: (FAO/WFP 2001)
77. Extensive hydro-geological studies were carried out in the downstream parts of the Balkh and Khulm river basins to explore for gas and oil in the region when the former Soviet Union was supporting the Government of Afghanistan. Unfortunately, these studies are currently not easily accessible and not used by the various organizations developing groundwater.
78. Surveys of Northern Afghanistan performed by the government in 1987-1988 estimated that 0.5 billion m3 of groundwater are withdrawn annually from some 723 springs, 276 wells, 592 shaft wells, and 15 karezes (also called qanats) (Source): Ministry of Mines and Industry 1988).
79. These surveys estimated total groundwater resources in Northern Afghanistan at 49 m/s, or 1.5 bcm/year; not the 28 m/sec—about 1 billion m3 annually—estimated in 1978. Unfortunately, the higher figures may well apply to certain areas where groundwater recharge takes place, but probably not in the downstream parts of the Balkh and Khulm river basins. In these areas surface water resources are the main source of recharge for groundwater, as precipitation in Northern parts of Afghanistan is very low (source: Rehabilitation of the Abdullah canal (Balk River) ADB Initial Environmental Examination, March 2007).
iv. Watershed Description
80. Favre and Kamal (2004)17 presents detailed analysis of watersheds in Afghanistan and provides a variety of statistics by river basin and watershed. The following is a summary of some of these data based on (Ministry of Mines and Industry, 1988).
81. The site is located within the Khulm watershed of the Northern river basin. The Northern River Basin occupies an area of 7,090,127 ha (70,901 km2), or approximately 10.98 percent of Afghanistan’s
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land area. On a continental scale, the Northern river basin, coupled with the Amu Darya and Harirod Murghab river basins, form the Afghan portion of the Aral Sea watershed.
82. However, extensive desertification in recent decades has reduced flow within the Aral Sea watershed causing significant declines in the aerial extent of the sea. The Amu Darya was once one of two major rivers feeding the Aral Sea, but due to agricultural use of the water in the former Soviet nations north of Afghanistan, it no longer reaches the Aral Sea. The situation at the Aral Sea is considered one of the world’s worst ecologic and environmental disasters, and international treaties have been developed to mitigate the loss of coverage of the sea.
83. There are four recognized river watersheds in the Northern basin: Khulm (in which the project is located), Balkhab, Sar-i-Pul (Ab-i-Safid), and Shirin Tagab. The Northern river basin is bordered to the north by the Dasht-i-Shortepa (Amu Darya Desert), a narrow dune field that runs along the northern Afghanistan border, parallel to the Amu Darya River. The Dasht-i-Shortepa is considered a non-drainage area that essentially intercepts watershed flow from the Northern river basin before it reaches the Amu Darya River by over-land pathways.
84. Within the Northern river basin, the Khulm watershed covers an area of approximately 1,023,033 ha (10,230 km2), or roughly 1.58 percent of the land in Afghanistan. The Khulm River, also referred to in various texts and maps as the Tashkorghon and Samangan River, has a rain- and snow-fed regime and the mean annual volume of river discharge is 60 million m3 (less than 1 percent of the volume for the country). Water from the Khulm watershed is either evapotranspired or absorbed into surface sediments as it is intercepted by the Dasht-i-Shortepa. Historically, the river deltas in the Northern Turkistan plain were close to the Amu Darya. But with the development of traditional irrigation schemes centuries ago, these rivers are no longer contributing to the Amu Darya and are hence considered “blind” rivers as they do not contribute to a larger water body. The rivers dry up in irrigation canals or desert sands long before reaching the Afghan border and the Amu Darya River.
Groundwater Resources
85. There are no ground water resources observed in the near locality of the project area. While two aquifers of significant productivity have been identified in the northern Balkh basin: (i) Sholgara in the south and (ii) near the Balkh as it flows along the escarpment. Mazar-i-Sharif water supplies are derived from deep wells drilled in the latter aquifer along the river. Good quality water is available only in the part of the aquifer fed Balkh River infiltration. North of the line Dawlatabad-Sheberghan-Balkh-Khulm, oil and gas exploration drilling have found both shallow and deeper aquifers to contain brackish and saline groundwater.
86. Almost all groundwater in northern Afghanistan is recharged by precipitation (rainfall and snowfall). Groundwater quality data presented in Russian maps generated in 1968 suggest that the Amo Darya also leaks into the surface and possibly contributes to groundwater recharge.
87. However, direct recharge of precipitation to lowland areas is likely to be very small, as evapotranspiration greatly exceeds precipitation. The recharge mechanism is likely to be as follows:
d) pre-Palaeogene bedrocks may be recharged more or less directly by infiltration of precipitation at high altitudes where evaporation is less than run-off for many months of the year (and where snow cover may be persistent); b) Neogene/Quaternary aquifers are likely to be recharged in foothills by rivers and streams descending from the high mountains and infiltrating into dominantly coarse-grained alluvial fans. The recharge is likely to be highest during snowmelt season. Thus groundwater recharge is highly dependent on quantities of winter snowfall;
e) further away from the mountains, some recharge to Neogene/Quaternary aquifers is likely f) to take place by infiltration of water through the bed of perennial rivers;
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g) in irrigated areas, substantial recharge is likely to occur via leakage from irrigation channels.
88. Surface water resources are the main source of recharge for groundwater as precipitation in Afghanistan is comparatively low. Nonetheless, Afghanistan has seen a boom in diesel-powered wells in the recent years of drought. As wells have become an increasingly important source of irrigation water, the water table has been observed to drop by one or three meters per year in recent years in some tube well areas. The diesel well boom could lead to unsustainable use of groundwater in the Khulm river valley, and a plan to assure their sustainability would be required. In regions where precipitation is via the distributed direct infiltration of rainfall, calculations of recharge quantities can be made relatively readily. In this situation, where groundwater recharge occurs only in particular zones (mountain foothills and river valleys) and then flows laterally throughout the aquifer complex, estimates of recharge are almost impossible in the absence of detailed river flow profiles etc.
89. Based on the Soviet groundwater maps produced in 1968, groundwater elevations in the project area was measured at approximately 300 m in the northwest portions of the site where ground elevation is 320 m (translating to an approximate depth of 20 m below ground surface), and up to 330 m in the Khulm area where ground surface elevations are 400 – 420 m (translating to depths of 70 – 90 m below the surface).
Water Quality:
90. There is no water quality data available in the project area. Water quality data is available in some areas of the Balkhab River Basin, and it reveals that the groundwater quality is excellent, showing no signs of problematic water constituents. However, there are some areas that have high concentrations of nitrate, boron, and dissolved solids and could be harmful to humans and crops. In lower reaches of river valleys, groundwater is frequently saline or brackish and not usable for either drinking or irrigation purposes.
Noise Environment:
91. No noise monitoring data is available in the project area. It is expected that noise quality will conform to international noise standards with low background noise level. Noise sensitive receptors in the project area are limited to the settlements along the road that will be affected by the rehabilitation activities.
92. The field visits also reveal that vehicular traffic, which is low in volume, is the main source of noise level. The ambient noise level seems to be within the humanly acceptable limits and is not an issue of concern.
93. During the operation phase, noise will be generated from construction machinery and vehicle movement in three ways, namely from: vehicle body parts, the tire-roadway system (also known as the rolling noise), and driver behavior, such as use of horns. Noise from the vehicle body parts includes: engine, inlet, exhaust, transmission, suspension, gearbox, cooling fan, during acceleration and chassis, etc. Vehicle condition is very important to this noise source. The rolling noise or frictional noise from the tire roadway system includes aerodynamic noise, noise from tire-road interaction, and brakes, etc. The noise level depends upon on the type and condition of tires and pavement. This is critical as most of the vehicles plying on Afghanistan’s road are imported second-hand vehicles, of old technology and in the absence of rules and enforcing agency, owners do not properly support maintenance and many vehicles are already significantly depreciated.
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Air Quality:
94. As the sub-project is located in the mountainous area and due to the remoteness and a lack of transportation facility, the quality of air in project area is found to be good and healthy especially compared to polluted urban area, since the area of the corridor is hilly and the road passing inside the valley, due to construction activities there will be discharge of dust and other emissions construction equipment and vehicles, which will affect the air quality of the project area the residents living in vicinity of project site and also pedestrian traveling along the road will be inconvenienced by the presence of dust which will be mitigated through proposed mitigation measure.
95. Although the air quality problems created by road traffic are a nuisance but not a very critical issue along the proposed road section, mainly because the traffic volumes are relatively small. However, to minimize dust nuisance and to control unnecessary dust from road section during road rehabilitation and construction the Contractor will regularly execute the below points:
a) Spray water on exposed surfaces during dry periods and minimize on site storage. b) Spray water on exposed surface during dry periods especially near people’s
congregation, near to the village vicinity, etc. c) Cover all dust generating loads carried in open trucks.
ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES
i. Protected Areas
96. GOA has officially stated its commitment to creating fourteen provisional/potential protected areas. There are none in the component study area.
97. In Afghanistan, fourteen areas are served as protected area, that includes one national park (Band-e-Amir), three waterfowl sanctuaries (Ab-i-Estada, Dasht-i-Nawar and Kol-i-Hashmat Khan) and two wildlife reserves (Ajar Valley and Big Pamir). However, only two of them have been gazetted, and those legal designations did not survive the ensuring 30-year conflict. Status of the fourteen areas is listed below2.
a) Band-e-Amir: designated a National Park by the Afghan Tourist Organization in 1973 but never gazetted. Declared a Provisional Protected Area on April 22, 2009 by a NEPA Executive Order. This designation is valid for 3 years.
b) Ab-i-Estada: Ab-i-Estada was posted as a National Waterfowl and Flamingo Sanctuary in late 1974 by the Directorate of Wildlife and National Parks in the Ministry of Agriculture. The Head of State approved its status as a waterfowl sanctuary on December 20, 1977 (Order no. 707) based on petition no. 1765 dated June 6, 1977. There have been no recent activities.
c) Dasht-i-Nawar: Dasht-i-Nawar was declared as a National Flamingo and Waterfowl Sanctuary by the Directorate of Wildlife and National Parks in 1974 (FAO 1978). This designation was approved by the Head of State on December 20, 1977 vide Order No. 707 on the basis of Petition no. 1765 dated June 6, 1977 (IUCN 1993). There have been no recent activities.
d) Kol-i-Hashmat Khan: Kol-i-Hashmat Khan has never received legal status as a protected area, although it has long been protected by Afghan rulers. The lake proper is currently
Wildlife Conservation Society, Afghanistan (2009): National Protected Area System Plan of Afghanistan.
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administered and managed by the Department of Forests and Range, Ministry of Agriculture. There have been no recent activities.
e) Ajar Valley: gazetted as a Wildlife Reserve in June 1977 but this legal designation has lapsed. WCS is currently assisting the Government and local communities to establish a protected area committee.
f) Big Pamir: The Pamir-i-Buzurg was gazetted as a Wildlife Reserve in 1978 but this legal designation has lapsed. Recently, the Wakhan Pamir Association (WPA) established preliminary boundaries and began drafting a preliminary management plan.
g) Teggermansu (Little Pamir): Communities have begun to formulate a protected area plan. h) Wakhjir Valley (Little Pamir): Communities have begun to formulate a protected area
plan. i) Hamun-i-Puzak: no recent activities. j) Imam Sahib: no recent activities. k) Darqad: no recent activities. l) Registan Desert: no recent activities. m) Nuristan: no recent activities. n) Northwest Afghanistan Game Reserve: no recent activities.
98. Out of the above protected areas no one is located within or in with near proximity of the proposed project area.
ii. Wild Life
99. Existing information about wildlife is quite limited in Afghanistan. In this study, ecological information about mammals and bird species listed in IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) Red List and the protected species listed prepared by Afghanistan Wildlife Executive Committee was reviewed.
100. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) or World Conservation Society (WCS) has categorized some of the wildlife species of Afghanistan as globally threatened. These include 15 mammals, 20 birds, 5 reptiles and 2 fresh water fish species. These are listed in Table of Appendix 3.
101. The results show that neither any threatened, endangered or rare species lives nor there is any habitat of such species within and proximity of proposed project area.
iii. Flora
102. The vegetation in Afghanistan is directly related to the amount of precipitation. Trees are only found in a few areas as a consequence of massive deforestation which has taken place in recent decades. There is also no continuous plant cover area of relatively dense vegetation, being only rarely present in the vicinity of water deposits. Apart from these small localized patches, the country is dominated by steppe and semi-deserts with steppe vegetation. The natural vegetation mainly consists of grasses and trees that dry out in summer and some sparse shrubs. Overgrazing combined with an increasing population and corresponding demands for fuel wood in recent decades have resulted in extensive declinein these woodlands. In cultivated districts the major trees seen are mulberry, willow, poplar, ash and occasionally the plane. Vineyards and orchards grow near the towns. The project road passes through the barren area. As such, there is no forest area within the Project Influence Area (PIA).
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SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
Administrative division - Provincial Governance
103. The Provincial Development Committee (PDC) in Balkh province was formed in January 2006 and is responsible for overseeing the progress made on implementation of the Provincial Development Plan. The PDC involves all government line departments and other key stakeholder groups involved in development activities throughout the province. It also has a number of working groups devoted to different sectors, each of which should be chaired by the director of the core responsible line department.
104. Balkh also has a number of other bodies which play an active role in development planning at the local level. There are District Development Assemblies (DDA) active in 14 districts in the province, involving 293 men and 388 women members. Each DDA has its own District Development Plan. There are also 676 Community Development Councils (CDCs) in the province which are active in development planning at the community and village level. Table 1 below shows the number of CDCs active in each district.
Table 1. Balk Province Community Development Councils active in each District
Number of CDCs by District
District Number of CDCs
Nahri Shahi 35
Zari 58
Shortepa 25
Dawlat Abad 62
Chahar Bolak 83
Chimtal 81
Sholgara 60
Chahar Kint 59
Dihdadi 36
Kaldar 21
Khulm 73
Kishindih 83
Total 676
Source: MRRD, National Solidarity Program (NSP)
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Geography/ Topography
105. The project area is located is under the jurisdiction of the Khulm district of Balk province.
106. Balkh Province in the North of Afghanistan offers great potential for the agriculture sector. The main border crossing point located 30km north of the provincial capital, Mazar-e-Sharif, and the main access road to Uzbekistan links the province to a vibrant trade with the Central Asian countries.
107. The capital city of the province is Mazar-e-Sharif, one of the biggest commercial and financial centers of Afghanistan. Mazar-e-Sharif is also an attractive historical site. The province covers an area of 16,840 km2. Nearly half of the province is mountainous or semi mountainous terrain (48.7%) while half of the area (50.2%) is made up of flat land, as illustrated in Table 2 below.
Table 2. Topographic profile of Balkh Province.
Topography
Flat Mountainous Semi Mountainous Semi Flat Not Reported TOTAL
50.2% 42.0% 6.7% 9% 3% 100.0%
Source: CSO/UNFPA Socio Economic and Demographic Profile
Population and Demographics
108. The total population of Balkh Province is 1,123,948 people. There are 119,378 households in the province, with an average of 7 members per household. The province is divided into 15 districts, with the provincial capital of Mazar-e-Sharif hosting approximately 375,181 inhabitants. Table 3 below shows population distribution by district.
Table 3. Population distribution in Balkh Province by District
District Number of males Number of females Total population
Mazar-i-Sharif
190,626 184,555 375,181
Dehdadi 33,860 32,149 66,009
Nahr Shahi 19,805 18,986 38,791
Marmal 4,804 4,706 9,510
Khulam 25,093 24,114 49,207
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Kaldar 9,141 8,791 17,932
Shortepe 15,551 14,763 30,314
Dawlat Abad
40,529 39,109 79,638
Balkh 48,868 48,187 97,055
Charbolak 35,304 34,671 69,975
Chemtal 41,107 40,204 81,311
Sholgara 43,576 41,693 85,269
Charkent 16,615 15,691 32,306
Keshendeh 25,020 24,063 49,083
Zari 21,426 20,941 42,367
Total 571,325 552,623 1,123,948
Source: CSO/UNFPA Socio Economic and Demographic Profile
109. Around 66% of the population of Balkh lives in rural districts while 34% lives in urban areas. Around 51 % of the population is male and 49% is female. The major ethnic groups living in Balkh province are Tajiks and Pashtuns followed by Uzbek, Hazaras, Turkman, Arab and Baluch. Dari is spoken by about 50% of the population and 58% of the villages. The second most frequent language is Pashtu, spoken by the majorities in 266 villages representing 27% of the population, followed by Turkmani (11.9%) and Uzbeki (10.7%).
110. Balkh province also has a population of Kuchis or nomads whose numbers vary in different seasons. In winter 52,929 individuals, or 2.2% of the overall Kuchi population, stay in Balkh living in 80 communities. Half of these are short-range partially migratory, another third are long-range partially migratory, and 18% are settled. Overall, for long and short range migratory categories, less than half of the community migrates. In the winter both groups stay mostly in one area and don’t move around during the season. In the summer season, some 120 long range migratory Kuchi households come from Saripul province to Balkh province. The Kuchi population in the summer is 59,776 in individuals
Land use
111. Land cover within the irrigation system is predominately irrigated fields, cropped once per year or in years when water is available on a (quasi) rotational basis, as shown in a thematic interpretation of remote imagery with very limited ground data. This interpretation identifies as permanent marshland several patches fanning out to the north, northeast, and northwest of Balkh; and as seasonal marshland areas northeast of the irrigation system past Mingajik and Mordyan. Other features include small areas of rock outcrop or bare soil in Charbolac district; and compact orchard areas near Mazar, Balkh town, Didhadi district town, and northeast of Chimtal district town. Beyond the limits of the irrigated oasis are sand-covered areas, and, further to the north near the Amu Darya, sand dunes.
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ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
112. Since the Project is considered environment category B in accordance with ADB Safeguard policy statement 2009, significant negative environmental impacts are not anticipated. A comprehensive screening for environmental impacts was made through a review of the scope of proposed rehabilitation works against the existing environmental conditions of the road corridor. A screening checklist was developed to help identify aspects that do not require further attention.
ANALYSIS OF PROJECT IMPACTS
113. An analysis of the impacts of all the construction activities on various environmental, social, institutional and economic factors is provided in below Table Scores ranging from -5 to 0 to 5 were given to the presumed level of impact for each construction activities and an average is calculated. A positive number indicates a positive impact and a negative number, a negative impact, and zero indicates no impact.
114. The criteria for awarding scores are described below:
Score Level of Impact
5 Permanent positive impact
4 Major long term positive impacts
3 Significant positive impacts
2 Short term positive impacts
1 Minimal positive impacts
0 No impact
-1 Minimal negative impacts
-2 Significant reversible short term impacts
-3 Significant irreversible impacts
-4 Major long term reversible impacts
-5 Permanent negative impact
Table. 4 Impact Analysis
No. Parameters Level of impact Direction of impact
1 Selection of project area Major long term positive impacts
+ ve
2 Land Acquisition and Resettlement No impact + ve
3 Design of retaining wall and irrigation canal Significant positive impacts + ve
4 Change in topography Significant positive impacts + ve
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ENVIRONMENTAL BUDGET
115. It is expected that the construction period will be about one year. The cost estimated has been calculated on the basis of unit rates, construction period, and number of units, although these may change. The details of the cost have been provided in Appendix 4. Potential environmental and social impacts of the subproject and recommended mitigation measures are detailed bellow:
PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE:
Environmental Problem due to Project Location:
Activities: Selection of project area:
Impact: Affect historical/cultural monuments/valued lands. Interference with other utilities, traffic etc. if not properly selected.
Mitigation: Archaeological and historical landmarks are far from the project area so no mitigation measures are required.
No historical or cultural valued land exists in the project area.
Activities: The development will cause blockage to existing roads and utility service.
Impact: Any water, sewer and gas supply line does not exist in the project area
Mitigation: No special mitigation measures are required.
Activities: Land Acquisition and Resettlement
5 Traffic congestion Significant reversible short term impacts
- ve
6 Borrow and Quarry area Minimal negative impacts - ve
7 Storage of construction materials Minimal negative impacts - ve
8 Solid Wastes Minimal negative impacts - ve
9 Waste Water Disposal Minimal negative impacts - ve
10 Flora No impact +ve
11 Fauna No impact + ve
12 Air Pollution Minimal negative impacts - ve
13 Erosion No impact + ve
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Impact: Loss of employment opportunity in agriculture may create social inequalities.
Mitigation: Proper compensation should be made.
• The Project work will not cause any land acquisition or resettlement, so no impacts are expected.
Activities: Design of irrigation canal
Impact: Inadequate Design of canals may cause of water distribution accurately.
Mitigation: Adequate design with provision of water distribution plan for irrigation should be provided.
CONSTRUCTION PHASE: CONSTRUCTION OF RETAINING WALL AND REHABILITATION OF ROAD
Activities: Reconstruction works on the road, and building the retaining wall.
Impacts: Traffic congestion
Mitigation measure: Contractors will be required to:
(i) prepare a traffic plan and provide traffic management personnel to direct the flow of traffic,
(ii) closely coordinate with local authorities for any closure of roads or rerouting of vehicular traffic, if required,
(iii) ensure access in areas to be closed temporarily by provision of temporary bypass road,
(iv) provide signs to direct motorists and pedestrians to access areas,
and (v) consider the schedules of local activities with heavy presence of people in the timing of construction activities.
Activities: Transport movement.
Impact: Excessive dust and sound and increase in transport movement.
Mitigations: Traffic movement will increase significantly.
• • Ensure safe driving by project related vehicles.
• Ensure provide of signals and manned gates at crossing point of roads.
• Maintain access roads and watering to reduce dust.
• Equipment meeting environmental standard in respect of sound should be used in the sound producing vehicles and materials
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Activities: Waste Water Disposal from different instruments of the camp site is required .
Impact: Wastewater may pollute soil and water.
Mitigations: Wastewater will be first settled in a sediment tank and properly treatment before discharge to the surrounding areas. Solid waste from construction works contains no toxic or hazardous material. No mitigation measures are required.
• Human generated solid wastes will be provided controlled through Motivation.
• Organize proper collection and transportation of all solid waste to the proper dumping site.
• Garbage bins must be provided in the camps and regularly emptied and the garbage disposed off in a hygienic manner to the satisfaction of relevant norms.
• Install proper solid waste disposal system in the construction camp.
• On completion of the works, all such temporary structures shall be cleared away, all rubbish burnt, excreta tank and other disposal pits or trenches filled in and effectively sealed off and the outline site left clean and tidy, at the Contractor’s expense, to the entire satisfaction of the engineer.
Activities: Borrow and Quarry area
Impact: Borrow and quarry area leads to environmental and land degradation due to absence of natural flushing.
Mitigation:
• Quarry and crushing units will have adequate dust suppression measures like water sprinkling in work area and along approach road to quarry site; and
• Regular monitoring of the quarries by the engineers to ensure compliance to the environmental management and monitoring measures. Within all identified borrow areas, the actual extent of area zones to be excavated will be demarcated with signboards and the operational area will be access controlled; Quarry and Borrow pits will be recovered with rejected construction wastes and will be given a vegetative cover. If this is not possible, then excavation slopes will be filled in such a way that it looks more or less like the original ground surface.
Activities: Smoking near ignitable material locations,
Impact: Fire hazards from smoking or sparking
Mitigations: Signboards depicting “smoking and sparking will not be allowed within and near to the project inflammable material will be put up at appropriate places.
Activities: Storage of materials, chemicals, fuels, and equipment
Impact: May result in water and soil pollution if spilled out and pilferage, loss and damage
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Mitigations: Significant volumes of chemicals will not be used. Whatever will be used strict chemical and solid waste handling and storage practices will be followed.
• Prevent discharge of fuel, lubricants, chemicals wastes etc. into surface water.
• Prevents leaks and spills to soil of fuel, etc. from tanks, drums, trucks, during loading/unloading and fueling.
• Implement strict chemical and solid waste handling and storage practices to prevent accidental spillage.
All equipment will be properly stored either in yard or warehouse. Vigilance to be continued to ensure proper storage.
Activities: Construction workers related Impact
Impacts: Unhygienic and littered environment around the camp.
• Exposure to hazards: Transmission of diseases among workers waterborne diseases to workers.
Mitigations: • The local workers should be oriented to hygienic disposal of solid waste.
• Workers should be awarded of hazardous materials and proper handling methods,
• Setup warning signs, label and signals at appropriate locations,
• Should be provided helmets, safety shoes and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workers in accordance with relevant accident prevention and work safety procedures.
• Should be provided regular health inspections and vaccination among workers, as appropriate.
• Restrict land control access to camps and work sites.
• Pure drinking water facilities should be provided for which no epidemic ever broke out in the construction area.
• Should be maintained close liaison with local leaders and civil authorities for fire, police hospital and other services.
Activities: Labor camp related impact.
Impact: There will be labor camp in the project area for the construction works. However, there will be local labors that will attend works in the morning & leave project site in the evening. contractor will provide temporary shed at the project site. Some labors of the contractor will stay in the night during construction period. As such, there may be outbreak of epidemic diseases at project site.
Mitigation: During the epidemic diseases, necessary measure will be taken up. Temporary latrines and urinals will be provided at project site during construction period. Human wastes may be disposed of through temporary latrines & urinals.
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Activities: Reconstruction works on the road, and building the retaining wall.
Impacts: Potential rock falls and landslides during construction
Mitigation: The contractor will be required to implement a road safety plan
Incorporated in his proposed construction methodology and schedule to avoid rockfall. Safety measures will be implemented including: (i) warning signs to alert people of hazards around the construction sites, (ii) barricades, and (iii) night lamps for open excavations, (iv) lighting system to illuminate nighttime operations, and (v) provision of traffic management staff to direct the flow of traffic.
Activities: impact on domestic animals:
Impact: a. Impact due to construction activities. The construction activities may interfere day to day activities like eating, drinking of the domestic animals. As many locations are used by these animals for drinking along the existing irrigation canal,
b. The construction work will last for few months, as a result of which there will be noise due to construction, machinery and other construction activities which may change the breeding cycle of animals.
Mitigation: domestic animals will change their drinking place and also breeding activities automatically and will find new access to do so. No mitigation measures are required
Activities: Inadequate periodic environments monitoring
Impact: Damages can be very severe to both ecology and economy
Mitigation: Proper monitoring should be ensured specially on the rehabilitation of road and retaining wall.
Activities: O&M staff/skills less than acceptable resulting in variety of adverse effects
Impact: Unnecessary environmental losses of various types,
Mitigations:
• O&M staff/skills should be well qualified, trained and efficient.
• Environment awareness training should be provided.
Activities: Employment aspects
Impact: Employment scopes in the area is nil
Mitigation: The project will create scope for employment Local people would be employed as priority basis. No mitigation measures are required.
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POST CONSTRUCTION PHASE (OPERATIONAL PHASE)
Activities: change in hydrological regime
Impact: The canals route area will be inundated during the project operation period
Mitigations: Condition of the area will be improved by construction of retaining wall, construction of irrigation canal and the canal excavation will enhance the hydrological regime of the area.
Activities: Change in topography
Impact: Topography of the area will be changed due to the construction retaining wall and rehabilitation of existing road.
Mitigations: positive impact, mitigation measure is not possible.
Activities: Erosion of river and canals.
Impact: River bank erosion may be happened that will cause further damage to the road .
Mitigations: River and Canals erosion measures should be taken
• Special consideration should be given on slopes of the canal and local solutions should be considered to mitigate the erosion problem of the slope of the canal.
• Ensure adequate supervision and monitoring
• Various types of trees can be planted along the banks of the river for protection of erosion.
Activities: Flora and Fauna
Impact: Habitat affected.
Mitigations: There is no activity, which will affect existing flora and fauna. Plantation activities will rather improve the habitat for birds.
Activities: Effect on poverty
Impact: Poverty situation of the project area will enhance due to better economic condition of the family.
Mitigation: Positive impact no mitigation required.
Activities: Effect on Women status
Impact: Women status in the project area will be improved due to better economic condition of families.
Mitigation: Positive impact. No mitigation required.
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Activities: Incomplete post-use clearance of camp.
Impact: Incomplete post-use clearance and re-instrument of base camp and other temporary work sites, leading to loss of land productivity or additional costs for landowner’s to reinstate land.
Mitigation: Contractor to clear the construction sites properly so that the site becomes as clear as before.
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ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
116. The “No Project” option alternative addresses the likely consequences of not undertaking the proposed action. In this case, failure to reconstruct the sections of the Tangi Tashqurghan Road would result in continued impediments to travel and transport of people, manufactured goods, persistent road safety problems, and a substantial constraint to future improvements in the economy of Afghanistan. On the other hand, improving the corridor sections may result in increased noise and air pollution, roadside litter, human trafficking, transmission of diseases, etc. However, adverse impacts can be avoided or mitigated by careful planning and implementation of an EMP. Besides, a grievance redress mechanism will be in place to resolve complains about environmental performance of the project. Since the construction of the road involves widening and upgrading of an existing track road, no significant alternatives were considered. Accordingly, it has been determined that the “No Action Alternative” is not a reasonable course of action.
INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION
INTRODUCTION
117. Public consultation as a means of integration of local people’s concerns into the Environmental Assessment process is a statutory requirement of ADB Safeguard Policy Statement of 2009 for Initial Environmental Examination (IEE).
118. Therefore, the environmental team of MRRD undertook an initial public consultation meeting in the project area. Feedback from the consultation process will be included in the report for its importance to the project implementing authority.
OBJECTIVES OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION
119. The broader objective of public consultation is to inform local inhabitants/stakeholders to make them aware of the project and to gather their opinion/suggestions about the proposed development program as well as to incorporate their suggestions during project planning and implementation stage.
120. The specific objectives of public consultation are to:
a) Create awareness of stakeholders (local people and Shuras/CDCs) and provide them general information of the project as a part of the project awareness campaign;
b) Facilitate the local community (people) to participate in the project planning; c) Learn from the Assess project impacts both positive and negative in nature; d) Know people’s suggestions from the local community (people) for solution of problems /
constraints of the project; e) Explore local community’s ideas on mitigation / minimization of negative impacts; f) Collect additional information and ideas of the project from the local community. g) community (people) and share with them their perception of the project;
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121. As part of the IEE Report, an initial public consultation was organized and conducted on 8th September 2015 at district governor office of Khulm district of Balkh province.
122. Participants of public consultation meeting were Khulm district officials, local leaders, local elected representatives of Shuras/CDC and farmers from Khan Aqa Mirza Khairi Gul village, Ama Quli village, Mullah Quli village, Pushte Rubat village, Mirza Qasim village, Samad Bai village Mirza Shams village, Tangi Mullah Saadi and Guzar-e- Teli awal village respectively.
123. The Safeguard team along with the PIU head served as the facilitators, conducted and recorded the opinions of the stakeholders and described the proposed project activities to the participants, maps of the proposed project were shown and other related issues were discussed. The facilitators explained all the relevant points and issues to enable the participants to comprehend the proposed project properly and to respond, accordingly. The MRRD team paid the utmost care in recording opinions and views of the participants relevant to the IEE Report, although occasionally, the participants raised other developmental or social issues (outside the scope of the project).
FINDINGS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
124. Several issues were raised by the people in the public consultation meetings. Details are presented below. The participants in general welcomed the project and expected that the project will contribute to the national economy in many ways. As understood from gathered information that temporary employment opportunity during the construction period would be availed by the local people. Scope of recruiting some local people for construction and subsequent operation and maintenance is treated to be an employment opportunity. The people also look forward to participate indirectly in various economic activities and support activities associated with the project the people of the area did not find any pollution hazard from such construction activities. Only matter that they notice is dust during construction equipment frequently be moving which they do not treat to be a significant pollution. Most of the people as interviewed are not aware of any pollution hazard and also do not feel that the project would be a source of any hazard to them.
PEOPLE’S COOPERATION
125. In general, the local people's response to rehabilitation of the road and construction of the retaining wall is positive. The retaining wall will provide reinforcement to the existing road to avoid from the severe flooding. The participants of the meetings demanded as soon as possible they want to look the implementation of the project.
CONCLUSION
126. Finally, it may be concluded that all the participants of the meetings opined favorably (100%) for rehabilitation of road and reconstruction of the retaining wall and its associate works.
127. The minutes of the said meeting is attached as appendix to this report.
GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM
128. The project will not cause any land acquisition or resettlement, therefore the grievances are not anticipated. However, the project will create a Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) within district level to address any minor complain or grievance within appropriate time frame.
129. Formation of GRC is important for addressing the grievance of communities residing nearby the project area during the implementation of project. The GRC will be established at the Khulm district level immediately after approval of IEE with the primary objective of providing a mechanism to mediate conflict and resolve grievances.
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130. Grievances related to the implementation of the project, particularly regarding the environmental management plan will be acknowledged, evaluated, and responded to the complainant with corrective action proposed. The outcome shall also form part of six monthly compliances report to ADB. Complaints maybe lodged verbally directly to the contractor or PIU at the site level. To the extent possible efforts will be made by the contractor or PIU to address these complaints immediately on site. Only those complaints that cannot be addressed immediately at the site level will be submitted to the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC). Necessary assistance for completing the complaint form or lodging a written complaint will be made to illiterate complainants by the respective receiver of the complaint. Grievance Redress Committee (GRCs) should be established at the MRRD/PIU level to assure accessibility for communities. The GRCs are expected to resolve the grievances of the eligible persons within a stipulated time. The decision of the GRCs is binding, unless vacated by the court of law. The GRC will be constituted at MRRD/PIU level.
131. The GRC will comprise of district government with representatives from MRRD/PIU, CDCs and contractor etc. The specific functions of the GRC will be as following:
a) Book-in the complaints from complainant on problems arising out of project implementation and environmental management plan to settle the complaints by arbitration “Record the grievances of the complainants, categorize and prioritize the grievances that needs to be resolved by the Committee and solve them.
b) Inform PMU of serious cases within a suitable time frame. c) Report to the aggrieved parties about the development regarding their grievance and
decision of PIU.
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ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
132. The Environmental Management Plan is used for specific environment friendly action plans. The EMP will be carried out during the implementation and operation and maintenance phases of the project. It will mitigate the negative impacts to an acceptable level and make the project environmentally sound.
133. The implementation of the EMP shall be monitored to ensure overall potential environmental and safety impacts are readily avoidable and can be easily mitigated by adopting good engineering practices. Environmental monitoring and supervision shall be integrated into the project management and reporting system.
134. The MRRD/PIU will be involved in auditing project performance and will receive copies of monitoring reports. The ministry may also request an increase in frequency of monitoring and that appropriate actions are taken for environmental mitigation as they deem necessary.
Table.4: Environmental Management Plan
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
A CONTRACTOR´S CAMP SITE
A.1 Contractor´s camp site selection
Acceptability to public/owner.
The Contractor will produce an agreement with the land owner(s) for establishing work camps, stock yards & workshop etc.
Camp site
At selection stage for camp sites
Covered under the contract
Contractor MRRD/PIU
49
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
A.2 Site clearing, preparation and rehabilitation.
Loss of vegetation and assets on the selected land, and dissatisfaction on rehabilitation measures after completion of project
All efforts should be made to minimize the removal of existing vegetation
Photographic record of vegetation before clearing the site Contractor will provide plan for removal & rehabilitation of site upon completion
At prospective camp site
At prospective camp site At prospective camp site
While establishing camp sites
While establishing camp sites While establishing camp site
Covered under General Items Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
A.3 Sanitation and waste water disposal at camp site
Health risks to work force and public if not properly managed.
The Contractor will provide a proper Waste Management Plan. The sewage system for such camps will be properly designed (pit latrines or, as required, septic tanks) to receive all sanitary wastewaters Lined wash areas will be constructed if required
Camp sites and washing areas Camp sites and washing lines
At time of establishing camp sites At time of establishing camp sites Throughout construction period
Covered under the contract Covered under the contract Covered under the contract
Contractor Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD PIU/MRRD
50
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
within the camp site or at site approved by the Engineer, for the receipt of washed waters from construction machinery.
A.4 Generation and burning of solid wastes at or near camp site
Air pollution associated with burning of used lubricants and garbage etc.
Disallow establishment for workers camps, including waste dump sites, in near proximity of any inhabited areas. Incorporate technical design features for refuse collection containers at sites that would minimize burning impacts. Devise plan for safe handling, storage and disposal of harmful materials.
Camp Site
During construction
During construction During construction
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
PIU/MRRD
B. CONSTRUCTION WORKS
B.1 Workers health, safety and hygienic conditions
Health risks if unsafe and/or unfavorable work conditions are provided.
Layout plan for camp site, to be approved by the Engineer indicating safety measures taken by the Contractor, e.g. fire fighting equipment, safe storage of hazardous material, first aid, security, fencing, and contingency measures in case of accidents:
Residential and construction areas
_
At start of construction Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost Covered under the contract
Contractor Contractor
51
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Obligatory insurance against accidents Contractor’s staff and work laborers. Protection devices (ear muffs) will be provided to the workers operating in the vicinity of high noise generating machines. Provision of adequate sanitation, washing, cooking and dormitory facilities including light up to satisfaction approved by the Engineer. Workers to provide evidence of inoculations and undergo health checks Workers to have access to Medical facilities/nurse
Construction areas Residential and construction areas Contractors Site offices Jalalabad
Throughout construction period Throughout construction period On start of employment Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
B.2 Camp site security
Security hazards and related conflicts
Proper storage and fencing/locking of storage rooms containing hazardous material. Employment of guard for storage rooms.
Construction camps
Construction camps Construction
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period Throughout
Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost Contractor’s
Contractor Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD PIU/MRRD
52
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Provision of adequate security against sabotage and attack by AGEs or others
camps construction period
cost
B.3 Wages and work regulations
Inequities in wages, under payment
The Contractors will agree to pre-defined minimum wages. Sub-Contractors have to adhere to the same wage principles. Child labour will be strictly ruled out. Contractor has to respect local festivals and religious customs that would temporarily interfere with work performance.
Construction sites
Construction sites Residential and construction sites -
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost “ “
Contractor Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
B.4 Storage, handling, and transport of hazardous construction materials
Work safety and human health risks
Provision of protective cloths and equipment for laborers handling hazardous materials, e.g. helmets, adequate footwear for concrete works, protective goggles, gloves etc. Ensure use of protective
Construction sites
Construction sites
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
53
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
clothing and use of equipment during work activities
B.5 Generation of construction waste material
Contamination of soil from construction wastes and quarry materials
All spoils will be disposed of properly and the site will be restored back to its original conditions before handing over to the owner.
Waste material dumping sites
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
PIU/MRRD
B.6 Movement of vehicles in the construction site and along the haulage routes
Soil compaction and damage to private agricultural properties and utilities
Construction vehicles, machinery and equipment will move, or be stationed in the designated places in RoW, to avoid unnecessary compaction of adjoining private agricultural lands. Damages will be instantly repaired and/or compensated as Contractor’s obligation Water and soil quality will be monitored as envisaged in the Environmental Monitoring Plan
Throughout Project Corridor Throughout project area At specified locations
During construction
During construction During construction
Covered under the Contract Contractor’s cost Monitoring budget of Environmental management Plan
Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
B.7 Movement, maintenance and fuelling of construction vehicles
Contamination of soil and groundwater from fuel and lubricants
Construction vehicles and equipment will be properly maintained and refueled in such way that oil/diesel spillage does not contaminate the soil and water.
Throughout the project corridor At all work sites
During construction
During construction
Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor
PIU/MRRD
54
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Fuel storage and refueling sites will be kept away from the canal and water courses. Oil and grease traps will be provided at fueling locations, to prevent contamination of water. Used oil and other waste shall be collected, stored and disposed off safely to minimize the contamination of water bodies.
Fueling locations Entire project area
During construction During construction
Contractor’s cost Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor
B.8 Construction works
Soil Erosion
loss of vegetation and habitat Air and noise pollution due to dust emissions and construction machinery
Clearance of vegetative cover will be restricted to the work area l and un-necessary felling of trees and other vegetation will be avoided at all costs. The dust emissions shall be controlled by sprinkling of water in work sites and access roads. Where appropriate plant and
At all sites where high embankments are required, e.g. near bridges
Entire length of channel Entire project area
During construction
During construction During construction
Contractor’s cost Engineering Cost Contractor’s cost
Contractor Contractor Contractor
55
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
machinery will be fitted with noise abatement equipment
B.9 Procurement of construction materials from quarries.
Soil erosion, change of hydraulic patterns and landscape degradation following unauthorized use of quarries.
Procure material from quarries approved by the Engineer.
Quarries During construction
Covered under engineering cost
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
B.10 Temporary flow diversion channels and land lease agreement.
Land disputes, soil erosion, loss of potential crop land, loss of vegetation
and landscape degradation.
The Contractor must obtain any necessary permits in writing for diversion channels from the land owner(s). Contractor will submit a detailed plan for diversion channels including land area and rehabilitation plan for approval from MRRD/PIU. The Contractor has to prepare a bio-physical inventory of the site, including complete photographic documentation, and present it to the CSC for verification. This documentation will be used as criteria for the rehabilitation obligations agreed in the plan.
All diversion channels in entire project area
All diversion channels in entire project area All diversion channels in entire project area
During construction
Before starting diversion works During and after completion of excavation
Covered under engineering cost Covered under engineering cost Covered under engineering cost
Contractor Contractor Contractor
MRRD/PIU
C. WATER
56
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
C.1 Use of water for construction and consumption
Conflict with local water demand
The Contractor will make arrangements for water required for construction in such a way that the water availability and supply to nearby communities remain unaffected.
Throughout Project corridor
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
C.2 Spillage
of liquid wastes
such as lubricants, fuel, chemicals and other waste material.
Risk of polluting surface and groundwater from liquid waste spillage, drainage and run-off from construction sites
Ensure that fuels, oils, and other hazardous substances are handled and stored according to standard safety practices such as secondary containment. Fuel tanks should be labelled according to contained hazardous substances.
Ensure spills are avoided during fuel and oil transfer operations. Appropriate arrangements, such as concrete base or drip pans, should be used to avoid spills.
Throughout corridor
Throughout project area
During construction
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
D. AIR POLLUTION CONTROL
D.1 Vehicular movement and
Emission from construction vehicles
.All vehicles, equipment and machinery used for
Throughout throughout construction
Contractor’s Contractor
57
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
running of equipment and machinery
and machinery, cause public health risks, nuisance and other impacts on the bio-physical environment
construction will be regularly maintained to ensure the compliance with standards.
High speed, reckless or otherwise irresponsible driving on site access roads will not be countenanced
project area
Throughout project area
period
Throughout construction period
cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
D.2 Transportation of materials, and other construction activities that create dust and emissions.
Dust emissions during transportation and construction activities that cause health risks to operators; impacts on the bio-physical environment.
Vehicles delivering loose and fine materials like sand and fine aggregates shall be covered to reduce felling on roads.
.
High speed, reckless or otherwise irresponsible driving on site access roads will not be countenanced
Throughout project area
Throughout project area
During construction
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
E. NOISE CONTROL
E.1 Running of construction machinery and equipment.
If noise from vehicles, compaction rollers, concrete mixer and other
The plants and equipment used for construction will strictly conform to noise standards.
Throughout project area
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
58
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
construction equipments etc. exceeds 85dB, it is harmful for the receptors.
Vehicles and equipment used will be fitted, as applicable, with silencers and properly maintained.
Near villages/ settlements activities will be restricted to be carried out between 6 a.m and 6 p.m.
In accordance with the Environmental Monitoring Plan noise measurements will be carried out at locations and schedule specified by the Engineer to ensure the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
Workshop
Throughout project area
As per specified in Environment Monitoring Plan
During construction
During construction
During construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
EMP budget
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
MRRD/PIU
F. FAUNA AND FLORA
F.1 Access to sensitive areas and fragile ecosystem
Poaching of wildlife, collecting wild plants, disturbance of ecosystem
The use of local trees as fire wood for cooking and execution of works will be prohibited
No open fires will be
Throughout the project corridor
Throughout the project corridor
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
59
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
allowed.
Restoration of vegetated areas damaged if any.
Strict instructions from the Contractor to work staff (particularly the cooks) with respect to hunting local wildlife
Throughout the project corridor
Throughout the project corridor
period
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
-
Contractor’s cost
-
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
G. ROAD SAFETY AND COMMUNITY LIFE
G.1 Risks associated with Vehicular movement at construction sites and access/
service roads
Accident risks, particularly inflicting local communities who are not familiar with presence of heavy equipment
Timely public notification on planned construction works.
Close consultation with local communities to identify optimal solutions for any diversions to maintain community integrity & social links
Provision of proper safety signage, particularly near
Throughout project area particularly near the settlements and sensitive locations (schools, health centers, etc if any).
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
60
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
villages and canal bank side settlements and at sensitive/accident-prone spots.
Setting up speed limits (not more than 50 Km in working areas).
Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
G.2 Risks associated with construction activities
Accident and health risks
Ensure safety code for work staff is observed, ensuring the provision and wearing of safety equipment required for specific works, e.g. helmets, dust masks, ear muffs, safety goggles, etc.
At every construction site, a readily available and updated first aid unit including an adequate supply of dressing materials and a staff with basic medical knowledge will be provided.
Elaboration of a contingency planning in case of major accidents
At all project work sites.
At all project work sites.
At all project work sites.
At all project work sites.
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
-
Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
MRRD/PIU
61
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Instruct supervisors to strictly enforce the keeping non-working persons, particularly children, out of work sites
Adequate signage, construction to manage traffic at construction sites, haulage and access roads.
Road safety education will be divulged to drivers operating construction vehicles.
At all project work sites.
All project work sites.
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
Contractor’s cost
Contractor’s cost
Contractor
Contractor
H. SOCIAL BALANCE AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
H.1Cultural differences between Contractor and locals
Community’s resistance to Contractor’s attitude and outside labor.
Cultural clashes with outside labor.
Timely and full public consultation and announcement of mobilizing equipment
Establishment of formal links with affected communities
Entire project area
Entire project area
Entire project area
Throughout construction period
construction period
construction
-
-
Contractor
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
62
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Where possible provide equal employment opportunity to the local community
Plan for social grievance redress mechanisms including the community elders.
Entire project area
period
construction period
-
-
Contractor
Contractor
H. 2 Conflicts arising due to the
mix of local & migratory job seekers
Social disturbance because of
dissatisfaction with employing outsiders
Provide equal employment opportunity to local community (unskilled) labor for construction works.
Entire project area
Construction period
-
-
Contractor
MRRD/PIU
H. 3 Use of local resources and products
Competition for natural resources.
Water supply and sanitation facilities required for labour forces will not exacerbate the existing shortages and environmental hazards.
Entire project area
Throughout construction period
-
Contractor
63
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
Contractors should primarily seek their own sources of water at a fair distance from local user’s wells.
Ensure labor forces do not exploit adjacent canal side plantation as well as agricultural crops and farms plantation.
Entire project area
Canal and road side plantation, agriculture fields.
Throughout construction period
Throughout construction period
-
-
Contractor
Engineer
MRRD/PIU
I. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES
I.1 Encountering archaeological sites during earth works
Impacts on historically important sites and damage to fossils, arte-facts, tombs, structure etc, as defined in 1975 Antiques Act
In case of detecting any archaeological artefact, structure, tomb etc. the Contractor must immediately halt all works at the site and brief the Engineer and PIU about the site within the shortest time possible. Upon receiving information from the Contractor, the Engineer shall notify the Employer and Archaeological Department in within one working day.
Throughout entire project area, including borrow sites
- Throughout entire project area, including borrow sites
throughout construction period
- - -
Contractor Contractor Contractor
MRRD/PIU
64
Activities and Actions
Environmental Issue/ Component
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Approximate Location Timeframe Mitigation Budget
Institutional Responsibility
Implementation Supervision/ Monitoring
In the event of such finding, the Contractor has the duty to secure the site against any intrusion until the archaeological expert will decide on further action.
(ii) Monitoring:
Table.5: Environmental Monitoring Plan
Sr.#
Environmental issues
Monitoring Location
Monitoring Parameters / Activities
Frequency of measurement / Duration
Responsibility
Resource requirement
Action Triggering indicators
Documentation
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
1. Surface water quality
Construction Site
Water sampling and analysis as per WHO standards
Once prior to, during and after rehabilitation
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Env. Budget Complete record
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2. Ambient air quality
Construction Site Labour camp Diversion areas.
Visual observations for dust and smoke emissions
Intermittently Contractor MRRD/PIU
Complete record of significant emissions.
3. Physical At camp site.
Provisions of impervious liners in place for fuel, lubricants storage area and drains with oil entrapment provision. Impervious flooring in fuel storage and refueling areas. Treatment facilities for the contaminated run off. Septic tank & soak pits of adequate
During site preparation During site preparation Project duration During site preparation During site preparation
Contractor’s liability. Contractor’s liability. Contractor’s liability. Contractor’s liability Contractor’s liability.
Complete record of waste seepage. Complete record of waste seepage. Compliance Compliance Compliance
66
size and presence of bunds around the pit. Suitable covering of soak pits to arrest fly and rodent nuisance.
4. Emission of dust, smoke and potential air pollutants from the construction machinery.
Construction site. Camp site. Access roads.
Dust, smoke, gases etc.
Throughout the construction period
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Visual judgment
Complete record of significant emissions.
5. Visual check for vegetation loss
Construction site. Campsite. Access roads.
Type and number of tree species uprooted.
At the beginning of construction activities.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Inventory of animals and photographic records maintained.
Records of observations maintained.
6. Visual check for wildlife loss
Construction site. Campsite. Access roads. Borrow area
Type and number of animal species killed/pouched
Throughout the construction period
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Inventory of animals and photographic records maintained.
Records of observations maintained
7. Noise Construction site. Camp site. Access roads. Communities within 500 m of construction
For background noise levels (using noise meters)
Once a week throughout the construction period and when required.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Noise meter. Record of measured values.
67
site.
8. Soil erosion Construction site. Camp site. Access roads.
Visual observations for sheet or rill/gully erosion.
During routine monitoring of entire project activities especially after rain storms.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Photographic records.
Photographic record before and after restoration.
9. Local resources utilization
Project area.
Quantity of fuel wood used.
Daily during construction phase.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Data record. Complete record of fuel consumption and earth excavated from borrow areas.
10. Solid Waste Generation
At camp site. At construction site.
Waste segregation in to recyclable, compostable and combust able etc.
Daily during construction phase.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Best management practices.
Record maintained.
11. Wastewater Generation
Camp site Construction site.
Waste water generation rate, Integrity and maintenance of the septic tanks and soaking pits.
To be determined through water management techniques.
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Availability of treatment facilities.
Record maintained.
12. Oil wastes /spills
Oil storage area. Vehicle washing lines. Any other spill area.
Facilities to control the accidental oil spill such as availability of shovels,
Daily during construction phase
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Best management practices.
Record maintained.
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sands and native soil at camp sites and well site. Presence of oil drip pans in potential oil leakage areas etc.
13. Socio-Economics Project area Local people recruited for all manual labor and other jobs for which local skills are available.
During construction period
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Labor recruitment activities.
Complete record of employed persons.
14 Health Project area Provision of better health facilities to the staff
During construction period
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Proper heath facilities provided.
Treatment record.
15 Road safety plan; warning signs, barricades, and night lamps for open excavations, lighting system for Nighttime operations
Entire Project area
traffic plans verification; visual inspection of sites
Daily Contractor Contractor’s liability
Complete record
16 Health and safety plan; first aid station; PPE,
Entire road length
Visual inspection of
Daily Contractor Contractor’s liability
Complete record
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sanitation facilities
sites
17. Grievances of the local communities
Settlements in the project influence area.
Complaints / conflicts with the local communities.
Throughout the construction period
Contractor MRRD/PIU
Monitoring register.
Complaining persons.
Community complaints management registers.
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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING
Program Director(Regional Programs)
Construction Supervisor Consultant
Safeguard Specialist
PIU-Balkh
Deputy Program Director
Contractor
Environmental Officer-Contractor
Figure 10: Organization Chart for EMMP
INSTITUTIONAL SETTING AND PROPOSED IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENT
135. The Executing Agency for the project will be MRRD through PIU of N-FIER Project which has been equipped with adequate capacity to implement the project.
136. The Safeguard Specialist will be responsible for ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguards of project works. This project has only one officer to cover both social and environmental safeguards. To support this specialist the Deputy Director will appoint the PIU head as the social and environmental safeguards focal person. While the Safeguard specialist will be responsible for providing recommendations to “the engineer” for approving activities specific to environmental safeguards. Environmental awareness and EMP implementation training will be held for PIU staff and contractors. The detailed responsibilities of MRRD/ PIU, Contractor, and ADB are provided as below:
MRRD/PIU RESPONSIBILITIES
a) Ensure that Project complies with ADB's SPS 2009 and GoIRA’s laws and regulations; b) Ensure that the project complies with all environment safeguard requirements as given
in this EARF; c) Prepare IEE reports including EMP as may be required; d) Prepare the Rapid Environmental Assessment screening checklist and forward this
checklist to ADB for evaluation and confirmation of the project category; e) Based on the confirmation of the environmental categorization of the subprojects,
prepare TORs to conduct IEE studies including preparation of EMP and Environmental
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Monitoring Plan in accordance with the environmental policy principles and safeguard requirements under the ADB SPS 2009
f) Ensure that the preparation of environmental studies will be completed with meaningful consultations with affected people and other concerned stakeholders, including civil society throughout the project preparation stages as required by the ADB SPS 2009
g) Undertake initial review of the IEE and EMP reports to ensure its compliance with the Government’s and ADB’s requirement;
h) Review the budgetary needs for complying with the Government’s and ADB’s requirements on environment safeguards
i) Obtain necessary consents or permissions (e.g. environment permission) from relevant Government Agencies to minimize risks to the environment and mitigate environmental impacts associated. Also, ensure that all necessary regulatory clearances will be obtained prior to commencing any civil work of the subproject;
j) Submit to ADB the final IEE including EMP reports with consent letter for disclosure of the report on the ADB website;
k) Ensure that the EMP which includes required mitigation measures and monitoring requirements forms part of bidding document after seeking concurrence from ADB.
l) Ensure that contractors have access to the IEE report including EMP of the subprojects; m) Organize training and awareness programs on implementation of environment n) safeguards for relevant staff of MRRD/PIU and contractor o) Ensure that contractors understand their responsibilities to mitigate environmental
problems associated with their construction activities p) Ensure and Monitor that the EMP including Environmental Monitoring Plan will be
properly implemented; q) In case of unanticipated environmental impacts during project implementation stage
arrange to prepare and implement an updated EMP to account for such impacts after seeking concurrence from ADB. The updating shall be carried out after due consultation with the stake holders;
r) In case during project implementation a subproject needs to be realigned, review the environmental classification and revise accordingly, and identify whether supplementary IEE study is required. If it is required, prepare the TOR for undertaking supplementary IEE and hire an environment consultant to carry out the study;
s) Ensure that construction workers work under safe and healthy working environment in accordance with the World Bank EHS guidelines relating to occupational health and safety;
t) Ensure effective implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism to address concerns and complaints, promptly, using understandable and transparent process that is gender responsive, culturally appropriate, and readily accessible to all segments of the affected people;
u) Submit semi-annual monitoring reports for sub-project on the implementation of EMP to ADB for disclosure on the ADB website.
v) Ensure proper implementation of corrective action plan if identified in the monitoring report; and
w) Disclose information as defined in the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF).
a. Contractor’s Responsibilities
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a) Ensure that adequate budget provisions are made for implementing all mitigation measures specified in the EMP;
b) Participate in training and awareness programs on implementation of environment safeguards;
c) Identify further needs for conduction of on the job or subject specific training during project implementation by the MRRD/PIU;
d) Obtain necessary environmental permission etc. from relevant agencies as specified by EARF for project road works, quarries, hot-mix plant etc. prior to commencement of civil works contracts;
e) Implement all mitigation measures as given in the EMP in the contract documents; f) Ensure that all workers, site agents, including site supervisors and management
participate in training sessions organized by the PIU, MRRD; g) Ensure compliance with environmental statutory requirements and contractual
obligations; h) Respond promptly to grievances raised by the local community or any stakeholder and
implement environmental corrective actions or additional environmental mitigation measures as necessary;
i) Based on the results of EMP monitoring, cooperate with the PIU to implement environmental corrective actions and corrective action plans, as necessary.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
FINDINGS:
137. The IEE of the proposed road rehabilitation and retaining wall of Tangi Tashqurghan project has been carried out addressing potential environmental aspects in term of both of project design and environmental setting. This is the appropriate level of assessment for the present stage of project development. The key areas of environmental sensitivity have been identified. A monitoring process has been defined to ensure that environmental sensitivities are adequately addressed at all stages of project development.
RECOMMENDATIONS
138. Finally, it may be concluded that the proposed construction of the retaining wall of Tangi Tashqurghan can be implemented safely and in an environmentally friendly manner. Therefore, it is recommended that the project may be cleared to proceed with works.
CONCLUSIONS
139. The retaining wall can be built in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner, if the identified mitigation measures and environmental management plans are adopted and implemented. The retaining wall will help the existing road to avoid the erosion of road and its embankments from the future likely flooding. Furthermore, the wall will help to protect the associated facilities of the Kabul- Mazar highway and will eventually provide transportation facilities for the community living near the project area. Moreover, this project will re-link the south and central parts with northern region of Afghanistan, and, in doing so, will increase trade, transportation and communication with northern provinces and will benefit the national economy of Afghanistan. Other benefits in the locality of the project will be significant in terms of employment opportunities during the construction phase as well as operation phase.
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140. Notwithstanding the above, the major issue is the need to minimize disturbance to the local population in the areas of development. Effort will be undertaken to promptly implement the mitigation measure to ensure the project sound and environmentally friendly.
141. The proposed retaining wall will have no adverse impact on the environment as well as the ecosystem.
142. The proposed project activities have no significant long term or residual adverse environmental impact. Short-term impacts are also insignificant and mitigation measures are well within the normal practices of construction no further EIA is required for the proposed Tangi Tashqurghan retaining wall and road rehabilitation project.
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APPENDIX 1: RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (REA) CHECKLIST
Instructions:
(i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to the Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES), for endorsement by Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer.
(ii) This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and participation; and (d) gender checklists.
(iii) Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify potential impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.
Country/Project Title:
Sector Division:
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks
A. PROJECT SITING IS THE PROJECT AREA
ADJACENT TO OR WITHIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS?
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
X No archaeologically protected monument or cultural heritage site is located within the road or in proximity to proposed project area
PROTECTED AREA X No protected area is located close to road and nearby of project area
WETLAND X No protected or classified wet land is
located close to the project area
MANGROVE
X Project road is not located in Coastal areas.
ESTUARINE
X No Estuarine is located in the Project area.
BUFFER ZONE OF PROTECTED AREA
X No such area is located in the Project vicinity.
SPECIAL AREA FOR PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY
X No such area is located in the Project vicinity.
Tangi Tashqurghan Road Rehabilitation and Construction of 401m Long RCC Retaining Wall Subproject
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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks
B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACTS WILL THE PROJECT CAUSE…
Encroachment on historical/cultural areas; disfiguration of landscape by road embankments, cuts, fills, and quarries?
X The topography of project road is hilly and mountainous.
There is no encroachment of historical Places.
no change in landscape is expected.
Opening of new Quarries is not envisaged. Only operational and licensed quarry will be used for road construction.
Earth material will be sourced from pre identified areas and with the consent of landowner. All borrow areas will be suitably rehabilitated.
Encroachment on precious ecology (e.g. sensitive or protected areas)?
X There is no National Parks, Wild Life Sanctuaries or any other similar eco-sensitive areas in and around the project area.
Alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways crossed by roads, resulting in increased sediment in streams affected by increased soil erosion at construction site?
X The proposed project will not cause the alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways.
The temporary soil stockpiles will be designed so that runoff will not induce sedimentation of waterways. Silt fencing during construction will be provided.
deterioration of surface water quality due to silt runoff and sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and chemicals used in construction?
X Adequate sanitary facilities including soak pits treatment facilities will be provided at construction camps, which will be set-up away from water bodies. No harmful ingredients are likely to be used in the construction activities. Surface water quality is not impacted due to construction measures like embankment slop stabilization.
increased local air pollution due to rock crushing, cutting and filling works, and chemicals from asphalt processing?
X Localized air pollution level is likely to increase for short duration during Construction period due to construction vehicle movement and asphalt processing. The asphalt mixing plant (hot mix plant) will be located away from habitat areas with adequately high stack for effective dispersion of likely emissions. Dust separation measures like spraying of water on unpaved vehicle movement areas are proposed to minimize the dust generation.
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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks
risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational health and safety due to physical, chemical, biological, and radiological hazards during project construction and operation during project construction and operation?
X Workers may get exposed to dust and noise during construction activities. However, the exposure levels are likely to be short and insignificant workers will be provided requisite
PPEs to minimize such exposure and associated harmful occupational health effects. Traffic on the road is expected to be low and
as such, no occupational health hazard is anticipated during operation phase.
Noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil works?
X No blasting is involved. No significant noise generation is expected during construction activities except normal construction equipment
Operational noise. These noise levels will be impulsive in nature and its impact will be confined within few meters of either side of the road.
Provision of no horn zone will be made wherever noise level is likely to increase beyond the prescribed ambient noise levels.
Dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people?
X The project road will be rehabilitated within existing RoW.
The proposed project is not causing any resettlement or relocation.
dislocation and compulsory resettlement of people living in right-of-way?
X No displacement of people is involved in the proposed project.
disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups?
X No such impact is anticipated.
other social concerns relating to inconveniences in living conditions in the project areas that may trigger cases of upper respiratory problems and stress?
X No such social concern is expected.
Concern may arise during construction stage due to increase in ambient air pollution level, which is expected to be localized and
Temporary in nature. This aspect will be effectively controlled with the proposed dust Suppression and other mitigation measures.
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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks
hazardous driving conditions where construction interferes with pre-existing roads?
X Hazardous driving condition may arise around bridge or culvert construction areas.
To minimized the impact suitable traffic management plan will be designed and implement by the contractor to prevent any hazardous driving condition in above situations.
poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in construction camps and work sites, and possible transmission of communicable diseases (such as STI's and HIV/AIDS) from workers to local populations?
X Proper provisions for sanitation (sewage treatment), health care (drinking water supply and periodic health check-ups) and solid waste
disposal through composting facilities will be made at each construction camp.
Awareness will be created amongst the workers about hygiene and health protection.
creation of temporary breeding habitats for diseases such as those transmitted by mosquitoes and rodents?
X
No such condition is anticipated
accident risks associated with increased vehicular traffic, leading to accidental spills of toxic materials?
X Adequate safety measures will be adopted to avoid accidents during construction an operation stages.
increased noise and air pollution resulting from traffic volume?
X Increase in noise and air pollution is expected during construction phase but is likely to be confined within few meters of either side of the road. Adequate mitigation measures will be adopted to minimize the same.
During operation phase, vehicular traffic will be the main source of air and noise pollution. improved road conditions will reduce the noise and air pollution impact.
increased risk of water pollution from oil, grease and fuel spills, and other materials from vehicles using the road?
X This possibility is minimal but cannot be ruled out. Controlled construction activities and proper drainage system will reduce this possibility.
Adequate mitigation measures to be taken to minimize the risk of oil spills.
social conflicts if workers from other regions or countries are hired?
X Most of the workers will be hired locally.
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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks
large population influx during project construction and operation that causes increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)?
X Most of the workers will be hired locally. One Construction camp is proposed for the project works.
This is unlikely to cause any significant burden on social infrastructure and services.
risks to community health and safety due to the transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction and operation?
X The construction material aggregate from approved quarries, borrow, earth, bitumen) will be sourced from nearby and approved sources.
No explosive or chemicals are likely to be used. Bitumen waste, if any generated during Construction will either recycled or disposed of in controlled manner.
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community safety risks due to both accidental and natural causes, especially where the structural elements or components of the project are accessible to members of the affected community or where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning.
X No such impacts are anticipated. Adequate awareness will be created amongst people and workers through information disclosure, safety
signage and public consultation about safety aspects.
Note: Hazards are potentially damaging physical events
Climate Change and Disaster Risk Questions
The following questions are not for environmental categorization. They are included in this checklist to help identify potential climate and disaster risks.
Yes
No REMARKS
Is the Project area subject to hazards such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, tropical cyclone winds, storm surges, tsunami or volcanic eruptions and climate changes (see Appendix I)
X Project sites are to flooding. Some areas can be affected by earthquake or landslide and slippery mountain etc according comment of survey team.
Could changes in temperature, precipitation, or extreme events patterns over the Project lifespan affect technical or financial sustainability (eg., increased erosion or landslides could increase maintenance costs, permafrost melting or increased soil moisture content could affect sub0-grade).
X Subprojects will generally be more robust than the infrastructure repaired or replaced. Therefore situation improved compared to pre-flood condition
Are there any demographic or socio-economic aspects of the Project area that are already vulnerable (eg., high incidence of marginalized populations, rural-urban migrants, illegal settlements, ethnic minorities, women or children)?
X Not available in this area like this issue.
Could the Project potentially increase the climate or disaster vulnerability of the surrounding area (e.g., by encouraging settlement in areas that will be more affected by floods in the future, or encouraging settlement in earthquake zones)?
X The project will increase climate resilience and decrease vulnerability in project areas
Based on all the above assessment the project is categorized as ‘B’
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APPENDIX 2: MINUTES OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Public Consultation and Information Disclosure Meeting on 401m Long Tangi Tashqurghan RCC Retaining Wall and Road Rehabilitation Project
Venue: District Governor Office – Khulm District- Balkh Date & Time: 8th September 2015-10:30 AM– 11:30 AM
1. Opening and Presentations:
The Public Consultation and Participation within the framework of “meaningful consultation” as required by ADB’s SPS 2009, MRRD team started a series of consultation during project planning stage and aims to continue it during the construction phase. MRRD carried out an initial public consultation and information disclosure on 8th September 2015 at around 10:30 AM at the district governor office of the Khulm district of Balkh Province with several Stakeholders’ CDC representative and concerned individuals from the nearby villages of the project.
In his opening remarks the district governor welcomed the participants and encouraged them to participate actively in the meeting. He added that Tangi Tashqurghan is the only corridor connecting the central and southern parts of Afghanistan with the North Region. He explained the significance of this proposed project and added that the project will not only help the local people but the entire region. He urged the MRRD team to take speedy action to start the project and complete before the winter season arrive. The district governor stated that the people face many problems in transportation due to traffic congestion in Tangi area. The district governor expressed his support for the proposed project and hope that it will bring more benefits to the local people and entire region.
This was followed by MRRD- N-FIER project provincial manager who discussed the purpose of the meeting and presented the details of the proposed works of the construction of Tangi Tashqurghan Retaining wall and road rehabilitation project. He added that MRRD as implementing agency and under the grant from Asian Development Bank (ADB) will construct 401m RCC Concrete retaining wall alongside the existing road which was severely affected by the last year floods. He encouraged the Participants to take part actively in the implementation of the stated project. He also requested the participant’s views and comments about the project works.
The MRRD Safeguard Specialist asked the participants if they have any specific environmental concerns regarding the project such as the disturbance, noise, air pollution and inconveniences during the construction period. The participants raised no issue about specific environmental concerns. He reiterated that the purpose of conducting the initial public consultation is part of the project' requirements in compliance to ADB's Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) and the need to appropriately inform the community about the facts of the planned project. The process of consultation will continue during the implementation stage of the project.
List of Participants:
Name Designation Contact No.
Eng. Mohammad Usman Safeguard and M & E Specialist -MRRD 0700247387
Jamshed Ahmadzai Safeguard Specialist - MRRD 0786119333
Mohammd Haroon M & E Specialist - MRRD 0787566884
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Mohammad Arif Azami Provincial Manager - MRRD 0780880820-0705593265
Sayed Abrar Hashimi District Governor – Khulm District- Balkh 0799270454
Fazal Ahmad Land Manager – Khulm District 0729852485
Amir Mohammad Villager 0792626260
Sayed Amanullah Member of District Council- Khan Aqa Mirza Khairi Gul village
0796120556
Tahir Representative of Amma Halqi village 0798562464
Eidi Bai Representative of Mulla Quli village 0706467515
Ghulam Dawood Member of CDC- Pushte Rubat village
Abdul Masih Member of CDC – Mirza Qasim village
Abdul Hameed Member of CDC – Mullah Quli village 0790551100
Timor Shah Head of CDC – Samad bai village 077438398
Mohammad Zahir Representative of Mirza Shams village 0772324583
Zahir Head of CDC – Mulla Saadi Tangi village 0797495327
Ahmad Head of CDC – Telli Awal village 0773855720
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APPENDIX 3. REDLIST BOOK IN AFGHANISTAN
Table 1: Red List in Afghanistan
Sr.No. Local Name English Name Scientific Name Remarks
Mammals
Palang-e-Barfi Snow Leopard Unicia unicia Threatened
Boz-e-Kohi Wild Goat Capra aegagrus Threatened
Moshkhurma Markhor Capra falconeri Threatened
Gosfand Marcopolo Sheep Ovis ammonpolii Threatened
Gosfand-e-Wahshi Urial Ovis orientalis Threatened
Khers-e- Siah Asiatic Black Bear Ursus thiberanus Threatened
Buz-e-Kohi Ibex Capra ibex Threatened
Gorgg Wolf Canis lupus Endangered/ Threatened
Rubah-e- Surkh Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Endangered/ Threatened
Shaghaal Jackal Canis aureus Endangered/ Threatened
Qaraqol Caracal Caracal caracal Endangered/ Threatened
Gurbah-e-Wahshi Manul or Palla’s Cat
Otocolubus manul Endangered/ Threatened
Darendagan-ekhatdaar
Stiped Hyena Hyena hyena Endangered/ Threatened
Shaadi (Maimoon) Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta Endangered/ Threatened
Khers-e-Naswari Brown Bear Ursus arctos Endangered/ Threatened
Birds
Nehang-e-saiberyaee
Siberian Crane Grus leugogeranus Critically endangered
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Murghabi-e- Kala Safid
White Headed Duck
Oxyura leucocephala Threatened
Murghabi-e-Marmari Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris
Threatened
Oqaab-e-Pallas Palla’s Sea Eagle Halieaeetus lecorpyus
Threatened
Oqaab-e-Khaldaar Greater Spotted Eagle
Aquilla clanga Threatened
Oqaab-e- Shaenshaahi
Imperial Eagle Aquilla heliaca Threatened
Baad Khorak Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Threatened
Parenda-e-Kochak Corncrake Crex crex Threatened
Kanari Saairah Sociable Lapwing Vanellus gregaria Threatened
Kabootar-e-Sahrayee
Pale Baked Pigeon
Columba hodgsonii Threatened
Murgh-e-Kplangi Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber
Endangered/ Threatened
Hubara Houbara bustard Chalmydotis undulata
Endangered/ Threatened
Zardcha Meinerzhagen’s Snow Finch
Montifrigila theresae Endemic
Kabootar-e-Chasm zard
Yellow Eyed Pigeon
Columba eversmanni Rare
Chakawak Plain willow warbler
Phylloscopus negletus
Rare/Restricted
Bodanah Brook’s willow warbler
Phylloscopus subviridis
Rare/Restricted
Qurchah Variable Wheatear Oenanthe picata Rare/Restricted
Gunjeshk-e-Khanagi Dead Sea Sparrow
Passer moabiticus Rare/Restricted
Kargas Laashkhor Breeding Lammergeir
Gypaetus barbatus Rare
Laashkhor-e-Siah Black Vulture Aegypius monachus Rare
Reptiles
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Source: IUCN-WCS-Afghanistan
Sosmaar Geckos Asiocolotes levitoni Restricted
Sosmaar Geckos Cyrtopodion Voraginous
Cyrtopodion Voraginous
Restricted
Sosmaar-e-Darendah
Lacertid Lizard Eremias afghanistanica
Restricted
Sosmaar-e-Darendah
Lacertid Lizard Eremias aria Restricted
Marmolak Sosmaar Salamander Batrachuperus mustersi
Risk
Fishes
Mahee Snow Trout Schizothorax Endemic/restricted
Maaheian-e-zerdariaee
Loaches Noemachilus Endemic/restricted
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APPENDIX. 4
Environmental Budget
No. Item Description Quantity Unit Rate US$ Amount
US$
A Dust Suppression
A.1 Water sprinkling for dust suppression at construction zone. The frequency and period of water shall be as per the need to effectively suppress dust and as shall be instructed by the Engineer.
400m M 100 5000
B Environmental Training
B.1 Necessary environmental trainings for total 5 days for about 30 participants
Lump sum 1000
C Environmental Officer
C.1 A qualified Environmental Officer having enough experience,
C.2 Remuneration 12 Month 1000 12000
C.3 Travelling (air fare) 6 RT 300 1800
C.4 Transportation at site 210 day 10 2100
C.5 Per-diem (including boarding and lodging)
210 day 30 6300
D Monitoring
D.1 Monitoring of Air, Water and Noise at Construction Camp-(if deemed necessary)
3 No. 500 1500
Total 29700
