THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE PLANNING...

E803THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE PLANNING ANDECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PROPOSED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICEBUILDING FOR UGANDA BUREAU OF STATISTICS (UBOS)

AND UGANDA COMPUTER SERVICES (UCS)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

SSENTOOGO AND PARTNERSArchitects and Planning Consultants

In Joint Venture With:

* Mutiso Menezes International (K)* Dudley Kasibante and Partners

Quantity Surveyors* Associated Consulting Engineers

Civil/Structural Engineers* Multi-Konsults Electrical/Mechanical Engineers

PREPARED BYSAK MAGEZIEIA SPECIALIST,P.O.BOX 1299KAMPALA

SEPTEMBER 2003

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TABLE OF CONTENTSEXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................... 41 INTRODUCTION . . ............................................ 7

1.1 Objectives of the Report ... 71.2 Prcdrec e d u r e 81.3 Consultant Pesn els onne l 81.4 The Project Descriptiono n.81.5 Project Locationon.91.6 Materials and Methods ... 9

2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL

ENVIRObjetiEsNfTheRpr .....................................................................

2.1 Landscape . ........... 102.2 Climate ...................... 102.3 Climate Outlook . ..................... 112.4 Air Pollution Potential.112.5 Wastes.112.6 Soils.1 12.6 Flora and Fauna.12

3 DESCRIPENVIRONMENT ..............................................OF THE UMA.EN IRO MEN.123.1 Population.123.2 Social Facilities:.123.3 Shopping Facilities.123.4 Health Services.123.5 Water Supply.133.6 Sanitation.13

4. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS .13

5. ANALYSIS OF IMPACTS .................................... 145.1 Impacts due to Construction Activits.. 145.1.1 Land Degradation.145.1.2 Soil Fragility.145.1.4 Access Construction.155.1.5 Relocation of Residents.155.1.6 Solid Waste.15

5.2 Impacts Due To External Factors ................................................ 155.2.1 Soil erosion: ............................................... 155.2.3 Storm water: ............................................... 16Table l: Pollution Potential at the nearby station of Entebbe.............................................. 165.2.5 Annoyance and disturbance due to noise.165.2.6 Loss of Bird Habitat.175.2.7 Sanitation.175.2.8 Hazardous Materials.175.2.9 Accidents and Fire risk.176.1 Landscape.176.2 Land Take:.186.9 Protection of Bio-Diversity.196.10 Aesthetic Value.196.11 Construction Solid Waste.206.12 Other Solid waste.206.14 Energy Conservation.217.1 Environment Management Committee.21l

8.0 CONCLUSION A S.....2..... 1

Uganda Bureau of statistics and Uganda Computer Services Building EIA Study 2

LIST OF ACRONYMS

ADT - Average Daily Traffic CountAPP - Air Pollution PotentialBH - Bore HoleEFMP II - Economic and Financial Management ProjectEIA - Environment Impact AssessmentGoU - Government of UgandaIDA - International Development AssociationKCC - Kampala City CouncilMMH - Maximum Mixing HeightMOWHC - Ministry of Works Housing and CommunicationsNWSC - National Water and Sewerage CorporationNEMA - National Environment Management StatuteNES - National Environment StatuteUBOS - Uganda Bureau of StandardsUCS - Uganda Computer ServicesVC - Ventilation CoefficientWB - World Bank


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

The Uganda Government intends to apply part of the proceeds of the IDA Credit topayments under the contract for provision of consultancy services for the design andsupervision of the construction of the Office Building Complex for the UgandaBureau of Statistics and the Uganda Computer Services. The 12,000 square metresoffice accommodation block will be built on Plot No.2/4 Apollo Kagwa Road,Kampala that is located at the upper and eastern corner between Colville Street andNile Avenue. This is a major work, which requires an Environmental Impact Study.

Objectives

The main objective of the Environmental Impact Assessment is to ensure thatnegative impacts on the physical, biological and human environment are taken intoaccount during the design, construction, and operation of the new facilities/officeblock. Positive impacts will be taken advantage of.

Procedure

The environmental impact analysis is done in accordance with the guidelines forEnvironmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Uganda (July 1997). All practitionersused have knowledge in the subject of environment with a long experience.

State of the Environment

The area surrounding the immediate vicinity of the plot particularly to the North Easthas a fairly steep slop, which can generate considerable volumes of storm water.Otherwise the plot is currently being used as a parking yard for about 75 cars. It is ahard surface (Bitumen) with no opportunity for rain to percolate into the soil.

Climate

The area has a high rainfall (1145mm per annum) and although the wind is mostlycalm to 15 knots daily wind gusts of up to 60-70 knots are possible duringthunderstorms. In the next 20 - 25 years the intensity and frequency of heavy rainand gusts is predicted to increase due to the climate change phenomena.

Air pollution

The air pollution potential in the area has been estimated to be low (ventilation co-efficient higher than 600m2 S-1 or a maximum mixing ratio less than 1.0km). Thepotential sources of air pollution in the area are dust and exhaust emissions from theKampala City Traffic.

Uganda Bureau of statstics and Uganda Computer Services Building EIA Study 4

Soils and Ground water

The general soil stratigraphy under the site consists of lateritic gravels, sandy fatclays and clayey sands. The moisture regime of the soils is generally dry ofoptimum. Ground water was encountered at a depth of 24.0 and 25.5 meters at twoboreholes in the site.

Flora and Fauna

The area is devoid of flora except for a lonely mango tree at the Centre. There are afew ornamental trees on the side with a well-kept grass compound to the North andSouth. Marabon stalks were observed in the ornamental trees within the plot and inthe surrounding areas.

Human Environment

The area is surrounded by fairly high quality hotels and office accommodation.Health services are available at the nearby Kampala City Council Clinic in addition tonumerous health facilities around the City. Concerning sanitation facilities, the areais connected to the main sewer line (for liquid effluent) which is owned by theNational Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).

Potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures

NO POTENTIAL IMPACT MITIGATION MEASURES1 Construction practice * Good Engineering practice2 Landscape damage * Access roads to blend with landscape;

* Grass embankment should not beremoved;

* Drains to be covered.3 Soil Erosion * Grass cover to be maintained

* Plant erodible surface as soon aspossible;

* Provide drainage channels4 Relocation of current users * Provide alternate parking space during

construction* Provide adequate parking facility after

construction* Should not use over 45% of the area to

allow location of all facilities on site.5 Wind control and energy * Increase tree cover

savings * Orient building in a North-Southorientation to use natural ventilation;

* Shield occupants from direct sunrays.6 Air and noise pollution * Green the neighborhood;

* Fit construction traffic with mufflersduring construction

7 Bio-diversity protection * Retain the habit for marabou stalk;* Plant more trees of various species.


8 Aesthetic value * Allow easy multiple access to thedifferent developments;

* Use the slope to accommodate parkingbelow surface level with minimumexcavation.

9 Construction waste Dispose of soil in environmentallyacceptable manner with approval of anEnvironmental Inspector

10 Liquid effluent * Connect sanitary facilities to the mainsewer;

* Waste water will go into a soak pit11 Solid waste * Provide imaginative skips for solid

waste.12 Other waste * Oils to be incinerated offsite or sold off

as fuel/furnace oil depending onamount.

* Dust will be contained with a dust netaround the upper floors of the building.

13 Accidents and fire * Provide adequate fire protection;* Carry out drills;* During construction ensure that the

Workman's Compensation Act applies.

Management and Monitoring

On completion, ensure that an Environmental Management Committee is in place orat least the person in charge familiarizes himself with environmental guidelines.

Conclusion

Negative Environmental Impacts due to this development are minimal. There is noindication that more analysis should be done. It is recommended that thedevelopment be allowed to proceed.


PROPOSED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF OFFICE BUILDING FOR UGANDA

BUREAU (UBOS) AND UGANDA COMPUTER SERVICES (UCS)

ENVIRONMENT IMPACT STUDY

1 INTRODUCTION

The Government of the Republic of Uganda (GoU) received a Credit from theInternational Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of the SecondEconomic and Financial Management Project [EFMPII]. The Governmentintends to apply part of the proceeds of the IDA Credit to payments under thecontract for provision of consultancy services for the design and supervisionof the construction of the Office Building Complex for the Uganda Bureau ofStatistics and the Uganda Computer Services. It is proposed therefore that anoffice building to house both UBOS and UCS be constructed at Plot No.2/4Apollo Kaggwa Road, Kampala located at the upper and eastern cornerbetween Colville Street and Nile Avenue. The site is located in the prestigiouscivic sector of the City Centre at the edge of the central Business District ofthe Capital City of Kampala.

The purpose of this study is to carefully investigate the way the project canminimise the risk of damaging the environment and enhance the way of life ofthe office workers and the other occupants/clients of the said office block aswell as the surrounding communities.

1.1 Objectives of the Report

The purpose of this report is to describe* the physical and biological environment that may be affected;* areas of potential negative socio environmental impacts;* areas of potential positive socio environmental impacts which may be

taken advantage of;* provide mitigation measures for any identified negative impacts to both the

physical and human environment;* and evaluate the pollution potential of the area from external and internally

generated pollutants.

All this is done so that during the design, construction, and operation of thefacilities; recommendations on both the physical, biological and humanenvironment can be taken into account.


1.2 Procedure

The environmental impact analysis has been done in accordance with theGuidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Uganda (July 1997)of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) for theenvironment impact assessment. This is in compliance with section 20subsections (8) and (9) of The National Environment Statute (NES), 1995. Itfurther complies with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations(Statutory Instrument No 8, 1998). Further more, the analysis fulfils therequirements of the Environment Assessment Source Book by the WorldBank (WB). This assessment is also in line with WB's Operational Directive(OP 4.01), which outlines Bank policy and procedures for environmentalassessments of Bank lending operations and related types of environmentalanalysis. Consequently a team of approved specialists have been engaged tocarry out the various aspects of the assessment. These have included asociologist, an atmospheric impacts assessor for air pollution, bio-diversity,and a specialist in occupational safety and hygiene. All the practitioners haveknowledge in the subject of environment. A systematic approach has beenfollowed in order to assess the environmental impact.

In addition, at the design stage, all key participants (i.e. Architects, StructuralEngineers, Surveyors, Landscape personnel, etc,) met to consider theenvironmental implications on the design among others.

1.3 Consultant Personnel

The following persons participated in the assessment:

* Mr. Stephen A.K. Magezi Team Leader And Pollution PotentialAssessor

* Dr Ogaram David Health and safety aspects* Gertrude Magezi Social aspects* Kigenyi, Fred Flora and fauna

1.4 The Project Description

The Government intends to apply part of the proceeds of the IDA Credit topayments under the contract for provision of consultancy services for thedesign and supervision of the construction of the Office Building Complex forthe Uganda Bureau of Statistics and the Uganda Computer Services. It isproposed there fore that an office building to house UBOS and UCS beconstructed at Plot No.2/4 Apollo Kaggwa Road, Kampala which is located atthe upper and eastern corner between Colville Street and Nile Avenue. Thisplot has an area of 0.438 hectares. The Government decided to construct oneOffice Complex to serve as the Headquarters for both Organizations. It isproposed that such a facility will be specifically prepared for the use of IT andmodern data storage, retrieval and communication services for UBOS and tosupport the payrolls and accounting systems for UCS


The works will involve construction of office accommodation of 12,000 squaremetres with adequate parking space. The complex will be completed in twophases, where the first phase consists of a ten-floor tower, conference centreand a parking lot. The client, Government has yet to source funds for thesecond phase which phase will also consist of an additional tower. At themoment it is not known when funds for the second phase will be available. Itis anticipated, however that if it takes a long time before funds to construct thesecond phase are availed, then it may be necessary to reassess theenvironmental concerns in light of new developments at the time. This maybest be done by carrying out an environmental audit at that time. Whencompleted, the offices (first phase) will accommodate up to 300 persons. Inaddition the conference centre will accommodate up to 150 persons. Bothstructures (first and second phase) will be in a North South direction.

While the first phase will focus on the provision of the maximum space withinthe budget, phase 11 will focus on maximising of the plot potential.

The construction industry in Uganda, like that in most developing nations, islabour intensive. The labour force therefore is expected to be between 150and 200 persons especially during the peak period. There will be bothunskilled and highly skilled workers at the site. Considering that the plotcoverage will be 39%, It is expected that the remaining area will be enough toaccommodate construction equipment, construction materials, storagefacilities and facilities for about 200 workers doing construction activities.

1.5 Project Location

The project site is Plot No.2/4 Apollo Kaggwa Road, Kampala and is locatedat the upper and eastern corner between Colville Street and Nile Avenue.The site is located in the prestigious civic sector of the City Centre at the edgeof the Business District of the Capital City of Kampala.

The site, covering an area of 0.438 hectares (4,380m2), is bounded by theexisting Headquarters Building of the Ministry of Finance, Planning andEconomic Development to the East, by Colville Street to the West, NileAvenue to the North and by a vacant Plot along Apollo Kaggwa Road to theSouth which is being developed as the Headquarters for the Ministry ofForeign Affairs.

The plot is directly accessed from Colville Street using the existing gate.Consequently there will be no new access road constructed for the proposedbuilding.

1.6 Materials and Methods

Several approaches were used to access the necessary information:

1.6.1 Site ExaminationsUganda Bureau of statistics and Uganda Computer Services Building EIA Study 9

The whole area of the proposed project Plot No.2/4 Apollo Kaggwa Road, wasexamined by a walk-through tour with a view to assessing the values thatwould be affected and to estimate the potential extent of damage in the eventof development activities. Consultations and interviews with the engineers andarchitects were done. In addition, external environmental factors likely toaffect the developments within and occupation of the said officeaccommodation were analysed.

1.6.4 Physical And Biological Environment

The team assessed the lack of bio-diversity in the area and from existing data,worked out the air pollution potential, and climatic impacts particularly in thelight of climatic change and Global warming impacts.

1.6.5 Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review regarding environmental assessments,guidelines and air pollution was done.

2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Landscape

As has been mentioned above, this site, covering an area of 0.438 hectare(4,380m2), is bounded by the existing Headquarters Building of the Ministry ofFinance, Planning and Economic Development to the East, by Colville Streetto the West, Nile Avenue to the North and by a vacant Plot along ApolloKaggwa Road to the South which is being developed as the Headquarters forthe Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The road frontage and upper part of the site adjoining Nile Avenue is verysteep, covered mostly with grass. The lower part to the south has beenlevelled and is presently used as a parking lot for the Ministry of Finance,Planning and Economic Development accommodating approximately 75 cars.Surface drainage is fairly good all round. The topographical map shows anexisting storm water drainage as well as sewerage mains. Otherwise thecurrent surface is a hard one (mostly bitumen) with a gentle (mild) slopeallowing for unimpeded drainage during the rain.

The area surrounding the immediate vicinity of the proposed buildingparticularly to North East has a fairly steep slope varying approximatelybetween 1:10 and 1:20. This may be responsible for a considerable volume ofstorm water. Fortunately there is already adequate drainage to accommodatethat storm water from external sources.

2.2 Climate


The area receives a fairly high bi-modal rainfall (March-April -May andSeptember-October-November) with an average of 1145 mm per annum(using the 1984 - 1998 data set). During this period the maximum rainfallrecorded in the 24 hour period in a near by rainfall station at Entebbe was100.5mm. The dominant wind regime throughout the year is southerly duringthe mornings, which become northerly in the afternoons and evenings.During thunderstorms, the wind gusts can reach a maximum of 60 - 70 knotsalthough on average the wind is between calm to 15 knots. The mean dailytemperature range is 16 - 27oC.

2.3 Climate Outlook

Global circulation models indicate that the Lake Victoria basin includingKampala region may experience a temperature increase of up to 2oC in thenext 20-25 years due to global warming. The extreme events are predicted toincrease both in frequency and severity. Consequently maximum wind gustsin excess of 65 knots will be more frequent. The rainfall intensity in the 24-hour period is also expected to increase. This is an area where the averagerainfall is expected to increase due to climate change.

2.4 Air Pollution Potential

The potential sources of air pollution in the area is dust and exhaustemissions due to Kampala city traffic. The pollution potential for Kampala islow but Kampala city does have the highest Average Daily Traffic (ADT) countin Uganda (see 1991 motor vehicle census), hence air pollution

2.5 Wastes

Currently there was no evidence of discarded waste on the site. Outside thesite a Kampala City Council (KCC) skip was observed. The transientcommunity uses this skip to deposit waste. The current practice there fore iscommendable

2.6 Soils

The Central materials Laboratory of the Ministry of Works, Housing andCommunications (MOWHC) carried out detailed soil investigations. Fromthese investigations, it was possible to establish the type of su-soil that will beencountered at different levels. It was found that the general soil stratigraphyunder the site consists of the following: -

* The soil profile comprises lateritic gravels, sandy fat clays and clayeysands. These are a result of weathering and laterization in-situ rocks.

2.5 Ground Water and soil moisture

The following was found: -Uganda Bureau of statistics and Uganda Computer Services Building EIA Study 11

* The ground water table was encountered at depth of 24.40m and25.15m in BH No.1 and BH No.2 respectively.

* The moisture regime of the soils is generally dry of optimum. The in-situ moistures are below the plastic limit and hence the moistureregime of the soils can be classified as generally dry of the optimum.In addition, moistures, which are below the plastic limit, suggest pre-consolidation of the in-situ soils.

2.6 Flora and Fauna

The area is devoid of flora and fauna. It is mostly a hard bituminised surface.There are a few ornamental trees on the side and nice well-kept grasscompound to the North and to the South. In the centre there exists a lonelymango tree, which is likely to be affected by the development.

The surrounding environment has a number of fairly large ornamental treesmost of which are exotic species. These are used as accommodation for thecommon Marabou stalk, which is prevalent in Kampala. Marabou stalk werealso observed in the ornamental trees within the site. Marabou stalk are usefulto Kampala's environment since they remove uncollected pieces of organicwaste (particularly food stuffs). Also a few flowering plants were observed.

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE HUMAN ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Population

Although Kampala city has the highest population density in Uganda, theproposed development is within the low-density upper class zone of the civicsector (Business District). It is generally office accommodation with noresidences. At night the area is virtually deserted with the highest mobilepopulation encountered during working hours.

3.2 Social Facilities:

The area is surrounded by fairly high quality hotels mostly to the North, andthere is an adequate number of eating places in the vicinity to meet the needsof the current population.

3.3 Shopping Facilities

There are no shopping facilities in the immediate neighbourhood of theproposed development. However there exist adequate shopping facilitieswithin a half Kilometre of the site.

3.4 Health Services


There are health services with professionals such as nurses, medicaltechnologists, clinical officers, and physicians within and close by the Project.These are located within the Kampala City Council clinic about 150 metresaway. The major referral hospital at Mulago is nearby and so are a number ofgood health facilities within the city.

3.5 Water Supply

There is running piped water of good quality available in all the project area ofinfluence supplied by the National Water and Sewerage Cooperation(NWSC).

3.6 Sanitation

For the whole of the central business district the service is connected to themain National Water and Sewerage Cooperation main sewer line. This isadequate.

4. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS

It is necessary to establish the legal framework within which the developmentenvisaged in this project operates in order to ensure that the development isin compliance with the operating laws. This section examines the operatinglegal provisions relevant to the subject.

Chapter Three, Section 245 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic ofUganda stipulates that Parliament shall by law provide measures intended toprotect and preserve the environment from abuse, pollution and degradation.

A variety of legislation covering the subject exists. Specific attention is drawnto the The National Environment Statute No 4, 1995. According to this:

* Every developer of a project dealing in the processing and manufacturingindustry whose activities include chemical works and mineral processing;waste disposal including major atmospheric emissions; offensive odours;sewage disposal; and any development which is out of the character of thesurrounding will be required to undergo an Environmental ImpactAssessment (EIA) procedure before such a project can be executed.(Sections 20-23). There are guidelines for carrying out the impactassessment and persons certified by the Authority must do theassessment. The assessment must be submitted to the Authority or a lineagency for approval.

* Every person has the duty to manage any waste generated by hisactivities or the activities of those persons working under his direction insuch a manner that he does not cause ill health to the person or damagethe environment (Section 53).


* No person shall dispose of any waste whether generated within or outsideUganda except in accordance with this statute and as may be prescribed(refer to Part VI of the Statute: Establishment of EnvironmentalStandards).

Further more, it is the requirement of the WB (OP 4.01) as a lending institutionthat an EIA is carried out during project preparation, before appraisal andshould be closely linked to the feasibility study in the area of influence of theproject. It is the borrower's responsibility to carry out the EIA and ensure thatenvironmental considerations are given adequate weight in project selection,siting and design decisions. Both the Bank's OP 4.01 and Uganda's NationalEnvironment Statute (1995) do require that an EIA undergoes publicdisclosure. This will be done both by the WB's Task Manager and by theNational Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in Uganda before acertificate of approval can be issued.

5. ANALYSIS OF IMPACTS

5.1 Impacts due to Construction Activities

The first phase for construction (phase 1) may require a labour force of about200 persons. Construction activities as well as the number of personnel arelikely to introduce impacts. Considering that the plot coverage will be 39% ofthe total plot area, it is expected that the remaining area will be enough toaccommodate construction equipment, construction materials, storagefacilities and facilities for about 200 workers doing construction activities.There will be no need to locate facilities offsite.

5.1.1 Land Degradation

Currently there is no vegetation over most of the area. A few ornamental treescould be affected by the development. There is a lonely mango tree at thecentre of the site, which will be destroyed.

Removal of the few trees will expose the general compound to increasedwind, noise, dust, and smoke pollution resulting from traffic along the roadsoutside the development.

5.1.2 Soil Fragility

In the project, it is intended that the following will be done: - massiveexcavation to prepare site for basement and underground parking; andproviding of a access road for both vehicular and human traffic. Fortunatelysoil tests have shown that the soil is stable which may not trigger off massive


erosion. Care will have to be taken to keep storm water from the offsite awayto avoid destabilising the soil.

5.1.3 Land Take

There will be no need for compensation because all the land in the areabelongs to the client. The Issue of land take therefore does not arise.

5.1.4 Access Construction

The plot is directly accessed from Colville Street using the existing gate.Consequently there will be no new access road constructed for the proposedbuilding. This same driveway will be required to provide access to thebasement and parking areas. This may require the removal of the last bits ofthe remaining bio-diversity, cufting embankments, and paving the surfaceincluding the construction of a drainage system. There is some limitedpotential therefore, that erosion may increase especially during theconstruction phase

5.1.5 Relocation of Residents

The site is currently used as a park for the vehicles belonging to the personnelworking at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning headquarters.During construction these will have to be relocated to some place. Afterconstruction adequate measures to ensure parking will have to be taken intoaccount. This will impact on the people who are currently using these parkingfacilities.

5.1.6 Solid Waste

The excavation will produce huge amounts of soil, which will requiredepositing safely.

5.2 Impacts Due To External Factors

Because the development is at the centre of a busy place, there is highpotential for the external factors to impact on the environment within andaround the new building.

5.2.1 Soil erosion:

Because of the steep slope particularly to the North East of the building thereis a slight potential for soil erosion.

5.2.2 Wind damage:

Wind gusts in excess of 65 knots were reported in the nearby station atEntebbe. This is predicted to intensify within the next 20 to 25 years due to


the effects of climate change. As a result of this, the potential for wind relateddamage is strong on this hill. Removal of more trees due to constructionactivities could further expose the environment to more wind related damage.Old ornamental trees could also pause a danger to property in case of highwinds.

5.2.3 Storm water:

Maximum rain intensity of the order of 100 mm per 24 hours has beenreported. The trend is predicted to continue. The potential for storm waterdamage and drainage related impacts are high. In particular storm water canalso impact on communities down stream of the project area.

5.2.4 Air Pollution Potential (APP)

There was no data to calculate the Air Pollution Potential (APP) for Kampala.Consequently data from a nearby station (Entebbe) was used to calculate theAPP. Air Pollution Potential (APP) of an area may be defined as the ability orinability of its atmosphere to disperse or dilute pollutants that may be emittedinto it. The APP was evaluated by estimating the ventilation co-efficient (VC)as well as the maximum mixing height through out the seasons. This isshown in table 1 below:

Table I: Pollution Potential at the nearby station of Entebbe

Month October January April JulyVentilation Coefficients 1.4 1.1 1.6 1.4X 104 M2 S-1Maximum mixing 0.5 0.9 0.5 0.6height in km

Source: Adapted from S.A.K. Magezi, 1985

At a nearby station in Entebbe, the lowest APP is exhibited in April andOctober while January is the month of highest pollution potential. In all cases,the pollution potential is low (VC higher than 600M2 S-1 or maximum mixingheight (MMH) < 1.0 km) although occasionally, on specific days, the potentialcan be high. Considering that shade temperatures have been used tocalculate the pollution potential, it may be reasonable to expect a lower valuewith direct radiation temperatures to which pollutants are exposed.

The main source of the air pollution is the emissions and dust from the citytraffic and in a few cases from some distant industries.

5.2.5 Annoyance and disturbance due to noise

The main external source here is the Kampala city traffic. There was no noisemeasurement, but it is expected that this may increase in the future. This can


bring annoyance and lack of concentration to occupants of the proposedbuilding.

5.2.6 Loss of Bird Habitat

Marabou stalks now reside in some of the ornamental trees in the compound.If destroyed, this will tantamount to loss of habitat for these birds, which arenow adapted to live in the town.

5.2.7 Sanitation

There will be an increase in the sewerage disposal requirements on accountof increased population both during and after construction. Fortunately thereare adequate sewarege facilities to handle the sanitation need.

5.2.8 Hazardous Materials

There are no hazardous materials envisaged, except refrigerants for any airconditioning installed. It will be strongly recommended that any refrigerants forair conditioners and other equipments be ozone friendly.

5.2.9 Accidents and Fire risk

There is always the potential for accidents and fire as a hazard. Theseaccidents cannot always be avoided. They should, however, be consideredwhen designing and constructing the building.

6. MITIGATION MEASURES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

For all construction works it is essential to practice normal good engineeringpractice so as to minimise damage to the environment and reduce adverseimpacts to the communities living/working in the building as well as to thoseworking/living in the neighbouring areas.

6.1 Landscape

- The landscaping designer should take into account the steep slopesespecially on the North Eastern side of the building. The grass embankmentshould not be removed.

- Existing ornamental trees should be rehabilitated and wounds treated. Theyare all to be identified properly and a plaque in Bronze or other permanentmaterial be placed at their base (be tagged preferably in bronze). Treespecies (spp.) should also be marked.


- Architectural design of the access roads should blend with the landscape andwhere possible human traffic should be separated from vehicular traffic.

- All drains should be well covered.

6.2 Land Take:

- All the land within the expanded inner fence belongs to the client. As aresult there will be no need for direct compensation.

6.3 Soil Erosion due to Access Construction

- It is recommended that standard good engineering practice be applied to stopsoil erosion during the construction phase.

- The design of the access road should be such that it uses the same existinggate to limit excavation. This will be possible because the plot is directlyaccessed from Colville Street making most feasible to use the existing gate.

- The access road shoulders should be paved as well as the drainage orotherwise covered.

- Off the drainage, the grass cover should be maintained (i.e. full reclamationof all removed grass which is currently in existence).

- There must be rapid full reclamation of all removed grass;- Protect susceptible surfaces with mulch or fabric - then plant erodible surfaces

as soon as possible;- Provide drainage works where needed to reduce the risk of increased erosion

and land slides;

6.4 Relocation Of Residents

- During construction, alternate parking space for those vehicles currently usingthe space must be found.

- After wards adequate parking within the complex must be found toaccommodate those vehicles in addition to those due to the increase in theworking population.

- The client will undertake to do this ensuring that during the relocation, affectedpersons will be handled in accordance with the law.

6.5 Wind and Soil Erosion due to Destruction of Trees

- Wind gusts can be in excess of 65 knots and in the next 10-20 years thefrequency and strength of these gusts is predicted to increase.

- As much as possible existing trees should be left while more should beplanted in consultation with the landscape designer. Old and sicklyornamental trees should be treated or replaced.

6.6 Storm Water


- The intensity of rain in Kampala can be quite high and is forecast to increase.It is recommended that storm water be directed into the current drainagesystem of Kampala City council.

6.7 Air Pollution Due to exhaust emissions and Dust off the Highway

- Since the pollution potential for the area is low, it is recommended thatgreening the city may contribute towards cleaning of the air.

6.8 Noise

- During construction it is recommended that construction traffic be fifted withappropriate mufflers to reduce the noise. Construction workers should besensitised to reduce noise for the benefit of the working communities in thenear by offices.

6.9 Protection of Bio-Diversity

- The area was devoid of bio-diversity. Nevertheless the few ornamental treesshould remain to ensure that the Marabou stalk do not loose their habitat.

6.10 Aesthetic Value

The overall design concept (ref. Ssentoogo and Partners) must be kept in mindwhile preserving the aesthetic value. The following is recommended and shouldbe handled in collaboration with the landscape expert: -

a. The location of the site at the junction between Nile Avenue and ColvilleStreet provides an appropriate end to the development along Nile Avenuewith a vertical development.

b. The site has frontage to both Nile Avenue and Colville Street. The frontagewould thus facilitate easy multiple accesses to the different developments.

c. The terrain of the land coupled with the frontage would allow easy vehicularaccess from Colville Street to the lowest level of the site and basementparking. Further, vehicular access would be separated from pedestrianaccess quite easily.

d. The operations of the two proposed user organizations, UBoS and UCSinvolve the use of a lot of vehicles that will require large parking space.However, the restricted size of the site would inevitably necessitate theprovision of basements for parking purposes. Given the sloppy nature of thesite, parking below the ground level can be achieved with minimumexcavations. It should also be noted that the site, as it currently exists, ispartially excavated for use as a parking lot.

e. A number of developments have been proposed, some of which are under


construction, adjacent to the site between the site and Apollo Kaggwa Road.This is a constraint to design in that future developments could easilyovershadow the proposed development on the site as viewed from ApolloKaggwa Road. The orientation of the building should, therefore, be such thatthe building remains prominent and seen from all major directions.

6.11 Construction Solid Waste

The main waste is the soil excavated from the site. This soil must be disposedoff in a safe environment. The proper disposal of the excavated soil will beapproved by a NEMA gazetted Environmental Inspector. Under nocircumstances should the soil be deposited in a wetland. The designers haveproposed the disposal site to be at the Namugongo construction area. AtNamugongo Martyrs shrine, 15km from the site, there is a huge landscapingjob, which has been proposed. The building committee of the martyrs shrinehave approached the architect of the proposed building to request for soil fortheir proposed landscaping. The soil will therefore be disposed of at this site.

6.12 Other Solid waste

Sanitary facilities will be connected to the main sewer for the National Waterand Sewerage Cooperation. Skips for other office waste must be provided inthe design.

6.13 Other WastesThe other wastes are liquid wastes such as oils and construction water waste.It is recommended that good practice be developed to minimise used waterwaste. Alternately a soak pit for the water be constructed during the period ofconstruction. Under no circumstances will the construction wastewater beallowed into the main sewer as it may have the potential to clog the sewer andlead to environmental hazards.

It is not envisaged that there will be a lot of waste oils. However it ismandatory that any oil spills must be contained in a separate container andwill not be allowed to drain in the storm water drainage. The oils will either beincinerated off site or if in adequate amounts will be sold off as furnace / fueloil for industrial use.

Concerning dust, a protective dust-net/jacket will be enclosed around theupper floors of the building to stop dust and sand droplets from impacting thesurrounding area.

6.14 Accidents and fire risk

The following measures are recommended: -

* Adequate fire protection and fire exits in case of emergence;* Anti fire doors between vulnerable areas such as canteens


* Sensitisation and fire drills for the community working in the area.* During construction, ensure that the Workman's Compensation Act

applies

6.14 Energy Conservation

This study recommends the North South orientation of the building.Such an orientation will reduce direct solar radiation into the buildingand hence the requirement for cooling (Air conditioning). This is animportant and environment friendly energy saving measure.

7 MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING

In order to maintain a conducive environment, there is need to put inplace a proper team for the management of the environment.

7.1 Environment Management Committee

During construction, the relevant Environmental Liaison Unit is the onewith the Ministry of Works Housing and Communications (MWHC).MWHC is responsible for construction of all Government buildings.There will be an onsite Environmental Management Committeecomposed of the contractor, the Environmental officer from the MWHC,the Works supervisor and a representative of the client. The committeewill report to the supervising Engineer/Architect who will implementtheir recommendations on behalf of the client. On completion of thebuilding, a reconstituted Environmental Management Committee willensure that the property is managed in accordance with theenvironmental law. The person in charge will familiarise himself/herselfwith the environmental guidelines.

8.0 CONCLUSION

As can be seen, the negative environmental impacts due to thedevelopment of the UBOS and UCS headquarters are minimal. Thereis no indication that more environmental analysis should be done. It isrecommended that the development be allowed to proceed. Secondly,since it is not known when funds to start the second phase will besourced (see section 1.4 second Para.) it will be reasonable to reassess the environmental concerns in light of new developments atthat time. One recommended way to do this is by carrying out anenvironmental audit followed by an assessment as the situationwarrants at the time.


Signed ................... Date 15/08/03S A K MageziEIA Team Leader


REFERENCES

1 The Environment StatuteLaws of Uganda 1995.

2 Environmental Assessment Source BookWorld Bank Technical Papers #139&140WB, 1991

3. Urban Air Pollution Potentials with Emphasis on TropicsUniversity of ReadingMagezi, SAK, 1985

4 Environmental Assessment Source BookWorld Bank Technical Papers #139&140WB, 1991

5 Transport Policies And Planning Project (UGA/90/018).Ministry of works, transport and communications,G., 1993.


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