Initial Environmental Examination

Project Number: 51308-004 October 2020

India: Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project

Prepared by Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited, for the Asian Development Bank.

This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section on ADB’s website.

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.

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (as of 16 March 2020)

Currency Unit = Indian Rupee/s (₹) (₹)1.00 = $ 0.0139 $1.00 = (₹)71.5217

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB - Asian Development Bank ASI - Archeological Survey of AT&C - aggregate technical and commercial losses BIS - Bureau of Indian Standards BOQ - bill of quantities CAP - corrective action plan CEA - Central Electricity Authority CBCB - Central Pollution Control Board CSS - country safeguards system DSR - distribution sector roadmap EHS - environmental, health and safety EHSO - environmental, health and safety officer EMF - electromagnetic field EMP - environmental management plan GFP - grievance focal person GPS - global positioning system GRM - grievance redress mechanism H&S - health and safety IBAT - Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool ICNIRP - International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection IEE - initial environmental examination IFC - International Finance Corporation ILO - International Labour Organization IUCN - International Union for Conservation of Nature JFPR - Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction KBA - key biodiversity areas MeECL - Meghalaya Energy Corporation Ltd. MePDCL - Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. MNREDA - Meghalaya New and Renewable Development Agency MoEFCC - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Change MoP - Ministry of Power NGO - non-government organization O&M - operation and maintenance OHS - occupational health and safety PCB - polychlorinated biphenyl PCR - physical cultural resources PFM - public finance management PIC - project implementation consultant PPE - personal protective equipment PMU - project management unit PV - photovoltaic REA - rapid environmental assessment ROW - right of way UNEP - United Nations Environment Protection Agency WHO - World Health Organization

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

dB(A) - A-weighted decibel ckm - circuit km ha - hectare km - kilometer kV - kilovolt kWh - kilowatt-hour kWp - kilowatt peak LV - low voltage µg - microgram m - meter MT - metric tonnes sqm - square meter MVA - mega volt ampere

NOTES

In this report, "$" refers to US dollars unless otherwise stated.

CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 I. INTRODUCTION 1 A. Background and Rationale 1 B. Objective, Scope and Methodology of the Initial Environment Examination 3 C. Structure of the IEE 4 II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 5 A. National (India) Environmental, Health and Safety Policy Framework 5 B. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) Requirements 8 C. Applied Standards 9 D. IFC Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines 9 E. International and Regional Treaties, Agreements and Conventions 9 III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 11 A. Project Components and Locations 11 B. Nature, Size and Location of Project Facilities 16 C. Construction and Installation Work 25 D. Existing and Associated Facilities 26 E. Analysis of Alternatives 26 F. Cost and Implementation Schedule 27 G. Project Benefits 27 IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 28 A. Environmental Setting of the New Substation Sites 28 B. Environmental Setting of the New 33 kV Distribution Lines associated with new substation 58 C. Environmental Setting of JFPR Components 87 D. Physical Environment 95 E. Ecological Environment 119 F. Socio-Economic Resources 133 V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 137 A. Impacts and Mitigation Measures Due to Project Design and Pre-construction Phase of MePDCL Components 137 B. Impacts and Mitigation Measures Due to Construction Activities of MePDCL Components 145 C. Impacts and Mitigation Measures from Operation of MePDCL Components 153 D. Impacts and Mitigation Measures from JFPR Components 157 VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION 160 A. Stakeholder and Public Consultations 160 B. Ongoing Consultation 166 C. Information Disclosure 166 VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 168 VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 174 A. Impacts, Mitigation and Monitoring 174 B. Supervision, Monitoring and Reporting 241 C. Implementation Arrangement 242 D. Review of MeECL and IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA) Environmental Management Capability 247 E. Environmental Management Budget and Resources 249 IX. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 251 APPENDICES 253 Appendix 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist 253 Appendix 2: Audit Report of MePDCL Existing Substations 260 Appendix-3: National Ambient Air Quality And Noise Level Standards (MoEFCC, 2009) 304 Appendix 4: IBAT Screening Report 305 Appendix 5: List of Communities Consulted 319 Appendix 6: Photographs (consultations) 346 Appendix 7: Outline of a Semi-annual/annual Environment Monitoring Report 352

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Description of Right-of-Way of Distribution Lines in Forest Areas ...... 7 Table 2: Applicable Environmental National and State Requirements ...... 7 Table 3: Details of Project Components ...... 11 Table 4: Details of MePDCL Circles and Districts Covered ...... 13 Table 5: Proposed 33/11kV New Substations ...... 16 Table 6: Location of Proposed 33/11 kV New Sub-stations and Associated 33kV lines ...... 16 Table 7: Augmentation/upgrading of Existing 33/11 kV Substations ...... 17 Table 8: Sizing of Hybrid System in a Village ...... 18 Table 9: Sizing of Agricultural Processing Units in a Village ...... 19 Table 10: Circlewise Details of Project Facilities and Scope of 33/11 kV Substations and Associated 11kV Feeder Lines ...... 20 Table 11: Summary Environmental Features of New Substation Sites ...... 29 Table 12: Summary Environmental Features of New 33 kV Distribution Lines ...... 60 Table 13: Land Use Pattern of Meghalaya State ...... 96 Table 14: Year-wise Rainfall (mm) in Districts of Meghalaya ...... 99 Table 15: Ambient Air Quality Data ...... 112 Table 16: Noise Levels at Proposed Substations ...... 117 Table 17: Notified Forests under Meghalaya State Forests Department ...... 119 Table 18: Protected Areas in Meghalaya...... 122 Table 19: Habitat Analysis for Project Area of Influence – Meghalaya Distribution Project ...... 128 Table 20: Protected Archaeological and Historic Sites ...... 133 Table 21: ICNIRP Limit Values Concerning Electric and Magnetic Fields (50 Hz) for the Public and at Working Places ...... 155 Table 22: Summary of Stakeholder Consultations ...... 161 Table 23: Summary of Public Consultations ...... 163 Table 24: Summary of Issues Raised and Response by Project Team/IAs ...... 165 Table 25: Grievance Handling Process ...... 169 Table 26: Grievance Registration Form ...... 173 Table 27: Environmental Management Plan Matrix for Distribution System Components (MePDCL) ...... 176 Table 28: Environmental Management Plan Matrix for JFPR Component ...... 213 Table 29: Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMoP) ...... 238 Table 30: Summary of Capacity Development Training Activities ...... 248 Table 31: Summary of Estimated Costs for EMP of the Project ...... 249

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Map of MePDCL Circle Jurisdictions on Map of Meghalaya State ...... 12 Figure 2: Locations of the Project Facilities on Administrative Map of Meghalaya State ...... 14 Figure 3: Locations of the Project Facilities on Geographical Map of Meghalaya State ...... 15 Figure 4. Geographical Location of the Interventions (villages and schools) ...... 88 Figure 5. Location of the Dilma Ading Village Project Facilities ...... 89 Figure 6. Lower Jambal Village GPS Coordinates and Location ...... 91 Figure 7. Kosigre Village GPS Coordinates and Location ...... 92 Figure 8. OMED Memorial Secondary School GPS Coordinates and Location ...... 93 Figure 9. Adogkre Secondary School GPS Coordinates and Location ...... 94 Figure 10. Songsak School GPS Coordinates and Location...... 95 Figure 11: Physiography Zones of Meghalaya ...... 97 Figure 12: Landuse of the State and New Substation Locations under Project ...... 98 Figure 13: Agro-Climate Zones of Meghalaya ...... 100 Figure 14: Mean Annual Temperature in Meghalaya ...... 101 Figure 15: Mean Annual Precipitation in Meghalaya ...... 102 Figure 16: Geologic Map of Meghalaya ...... 104 Figure 17: Soil Map of Meghalaya ...... 106 Figure 18: Seismic Hazards Map of Meghalaya state...... 107 Figure 19: Surface Water Hydrology in Meghalaya ...... 110 Figure 20: Ground Water Hydrology in Meghalaya ...... 111 Figure 21: Noise Levels at Project Sites ...... 115 Figure 22: Forest Cover and Protected Areas in Meghalaya ...... 120 Figure 23: IBAT Screening Map of PAs and KBAs with Project Facilities ...... 127 Figure 24: Map showing Elephant Corridors in Meghalaya ...... 139 Figure 25: Chart View of Grievance Handling Process ...... 169 Figure 26: MePDCL Organizational Structure ...... 247

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. This initial environmental examination (IEE) including environmental management plan (EMP) for the proposed Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project has been prepared in compliance with the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), and national (India) environmental, health and safety requirements.

2. The proposed project will strengthen and modernize the power distribution network, reduce technical losses and increase the reliability of the distribution network of Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (MePDCL). To achieve this objective, the proposed Project includes: (i) construction of 23 new 33/11 kilovolts (kV) substations; (ii) upgrading and modernization of 45 33/11 kV existing substations; (iii) erection of 771 circuit km (ckm, circuit length is distinct from conductor length in that one or more conductors may be employed to create a circuit) of 33 kV and 669 ckm of 11 kV new lines; (iv) reconductoring of 496 ckm of 33 kV and 278 ckm of 11 kV existing lines; and (v) smart metering scheme for up to 75,000 consumers. The project components will be implemented in three circles of the MePDCL namely Central, West Garo and East Garo in Meghalaya State of India. The ADB will finance these components through a project loan.

3. The project also includes installation of renewable energy mini-grids with solar-battery hybrid systems, rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, and agricultural processing units in selected rural communities to improve power quality and support income generation encompassing social and gender inclusion. This component is to be supported by a grant provided by the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction (JFPR) and administered by ADB.

4. The executing agencies for the ADB loan will be the Government of Meghalaya acting through the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Ltd. (MeECL) reporting to Power Department, Government of Meghalaya. The implementing agencies for the ADB loan and JFPR will be MePDCL and Meghalaya New and Renewable Development Agency (MNREDA), both reporting to MeECL. The project will be implemented over 5 years with completion date by March 2025.

5. As per ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), the project is classified as “B” on environment requiring the preparation of an IEE. Following the requirements of ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), this IEE has been prepared covering all components of the project.

6. The project components will not encroach upon any legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas or physical cultural resources. The new 33/11 kV substations and the installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and agricultural processing units are to be located on land acquired by the government through willing-buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from communities. Upgrading of existing substations will be done within their existing premises; hence no additional land is required. The new 33/11 kV lines will mostly be aligned along the right of way (RoW) of existing rural roads although some sections may need to pass thorough agricultural or plantation areas; alignments will be determined following detailed line survey by contractors. The associated poles, conductors, and transformers have a small footprint. Reconductoring of 11 kV existing lines and installation of rooftop solar PV systems will not require any land, unless minor rerouting is needed for lines to avoid sensitive receptors.

7. The site selection for new substations has been done based on systems analysis of MePDCL’s existing network to ensure overall system stability of the network and that consumers 2 in the districts will benefit from improved delivery of electricity. The principles that have been (and will be) adopted for selection of optimum sites and route alignments for the various project components are: (i) minimize disturbance of human settlements; (ii) avoid monuments of cultural or historical importance; (iii) do not create a threat to the survival of any community with special reference to ethnic minority communities; (iv) do not affect any public utility services like water line, telephone lines, roads or community facilities like playgrounds, schools etc.; (v) do not pass through any wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, reserve forests etc.; (vi) minimize damage to existing trees/forest resources; and (vii) selection and design of new equipment to comply with national requirements as well as considering international good practice per the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines particularly with respect to avoiding the use of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) oils in the purchase of new transformers (already banned in India) and the use of all asbestos containing materials in new construction.

8. The project is unlikely to cause any significant irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented adverse environmental impacts. This is due to the following facts: (i) project components are located in semi-urban and rural areas which do not support high biodiversity values and will be away from legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas or physical cultural resources; and ii) there will be only minor civil works required for the project. Overall construction, operation and maintenance of the project facilities is likely to give rise to direct, indirect, cumulative and induced environmental impacts that are mostly minor in magnitude, site-specific, generally reversible, temporary and of short duration primarily during construction works. Potential impacts can be easily mitigated through the adoption of international good practices for environmental management as set out in the IFC EHS Guidelines including the General Guidelines and those on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution dated 30 April 2007.

9. Potential environmental impacts were identified in relation to design, location, construction, operation and maintenance of the project infrastructure and mitigation measures have been developed in respect of all potentially negative impacts identified. Potential construction impacts relate to disturbance to land and communities as project infrastructure is installed and pollution, health and safety risks to workers and the community in proximity to works if the construction activities are not well managed. Pollution, health and safety risks to workers and the community will remain during operation and maintenance works. The most significant potential environmental impact during construction is associated with old equipment, particularly transformers that leak and which may contain PCB oil depending on the date of manufacture and oil replacement. Removal, storage and disposal of phased out transformers will be done in accordance with international good practice and the Government of India’s regulations to ensure that there will be no residual significant impact associated with disposal of any old transformers that were found to contain PCBs.

10. An EMP has been prepared for the project. The EMP includes (i) corrective action for existing facilities i.e. substations; (ii) mitigation measures for potential environmental impacts during implementation, including ensuring detailed designs take into account slope stability for infrastructure on hilly terrain, structural integrity for rooftop solar on schools, high seismic risk, and climate change adaptation measures; adhering to electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and noise guideline levels; approving contractor’s pollution prevention, solid and hazardous waste management, and health and safety management plans prior to works; prohibiting PCB use in new transformers and asbestos containing materials in construction; and, community awareness raising activities on the health and safety risks of electrical equipment; (iii) an environmental monitoring program, including monitoring of health and safety incidents; and (iv) the responsible 3 entities for mitigation, monitoring, and reporting namely MeECL, MePDCL and MNREDA. Mitigation measures will be assured by a program of environmental supervision and monitoring to be conducted during the construction and operation stages. Any unanticipated impacts or requirements for corrective action during implementation will be reported by MeECL, MePDCL and MNREDA to ADB.

11. Project stakeholders and local communities were consulted during preparation of the IEE and invited to express any environmental and social concerns they had regarding the project. In total 23 consultation meetings involving 345 participants (212 male and 133 female) were held for the project loan components. In addition, three consultation meetings were conducted for JFPR funded components. No significant environmental and social concerns were raised, and all stakeholders consulted strongly support the project and are looking forward to the benefits of improved electricity services. The IEE will be made available to public and will be disclosed to a wider audience locally (with executive summary translated into local language) and via the ADB website. The consultation process will be continued during project implementation to ensure that stakeholders are fully engaged in the project and have the opportunity to participate in its development and implementation.

12. This IEE including EMP are considered sufficient to meet the environmental assessment requirements of ADB for the project. However, following selection of final 33/11 kV line alignments and 11 kV existing lines to be reconducted, and, in case of any unanticipated scope or design change occurring during project implementation, this IEE and EMP will be updated and cleared by ADB.

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Background and Rationale

1. Meghalaya is a state in Northeastern India with a population of approximately 3 million which shares its border on the north and east with and on the south and west with . The capital of Meghalaya is . Meghalaya has some of the densest primary forests in the country and therefore constitutes one of the most important ecotourism circuits in India. The natural resources, policy incentives and infrastructure in the state favor investments in tourism, hydroelectric power, manufacturing and mining sectors.

2. Under the Meghalaya Power Sector Reform Scheme 2010, the state government on 31 March 2010 unbundled Meghalaya State Electricity Board (MeSEB) into four separate companies along with its physical assets, properties, liabilities, obligations, and their respective manpower. These companies are: (i) Meghalaya Power Generation Corporation Ltd (MePGCL); (ii) Meghalaya Power Transmission Corporation Ltd (MePTCL); (iii) Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (MePDCL); and (iv) Meghalaya Energy Corporation Ltd (MeECL), a holding company. Currently state power generation, transmission and distribution in the state is managed by these four companies. Meghalaya New and Renewable Development Agency (MNREDA) is a separate state nodal entity (for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of India) which is responsible to formulate and implement demonstration, experimental, promotional and extension projects and programmes that are related to new and renewable energy in the state.

3. In March 2017, MePDCL signed an agreement with Ministry of Power (MOP), Government of India and Government of Meghalaya to reduce their aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses from 34.76% in fiscal year (FY) 2015 to 15% in FY2020. Measures being taken are (i) feeder metering for both rural and urban areas; (ii) distribution transformer metering and strengthening of sub-transmission and distribution networks in rural areas; (iii) feeder segregation and replacement of defective meters; (iv) energy audit of 33/11 kV substations and their outgoing feeders, 132/33 kV substations and their outgoing feeders; and (v) improvement in billing efficiency through on-line payment mechanism, tie-up with common service centers for collection of revenues and improving payment avenues. The implementation progress of these identified measures is slow due to lack of enough funds. The proposed project will help MePDCL to achieve AT&C targets by implementing some of the identified measures such as metering, distribution network strengthening and improve billing efficiency.

4. While addressing issues in the distribution sector, there is an opportunity for a rural energy supply intervention to provide electricity access and support income generation encompassing social and gender inclusion. The rural development and poverty reduction aspects of the project will be further strengthened by implementing targeted interventions in communities by providing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, energy-based livelihood measures and skill training for poor rural communities to enable them to access reliable electricity services and livelihood opportunities.

5. The proposed project will strengthen the state’s rural distribution network, reduce AT&C losses, improve the power quality and reduce the outages in East , West Garo Hills and Central Circles of the state. The proposed investments will improve the access to electricity and quality of power in the poor and backward rural areas. This will enable a conducive atmosphere for local economic activities and may help attract industries, thereby improving job creation in rural areas which will boost the state’s economy. 2

6. The project will be aligned with the following impact: government’s target of power-cut free state and better performance of electricity distribution business in Meghalaya. The project will result in the following outcome: reliability and quality of power supply for distribution consumers in Meghalaya improved. The project will have the following four outputs:

• Output 1: Distribution network in Central, East Garo Hills and West Garo Hills strengthened and modernized. This will include (i) 33/11 kV substations: construction of 23 new substations and renovation and modernization of 45 units of 33/11 kV substations with transformer capacity upgradation including control room equipment and protection systems; (ii) installation of auto reclosers and fault passage indicators at 11 kV and 33 kV lines; (iii) 33 kV, 11 kV and low tension distribution line upgradation; (iv) distribution transformers upgradation in high load growth areas; and (v) renovation of rural distribution network to support community mini-grid generation. • Output 2: System for meter reading, billing and collection improved. Existing outdated electromechanical meters will be replaced with smart meters targeting approximately 175,000 consumers (about 29% of distribution consumers) and the existing meter testing laboratory will be upgraded. A smart metering scheme with online meter reading and billing with auto disconnection and reconnection of services will also be implemented in the capital city of Meghalaya for up to 75,000 consumers. This project will also be used for evaluation of technical and commercial feasibility for extension of full-fledged smart metering across the state in future. • Output 3: Capacity of executing agency to plan and implement distribution sector projects developed. This will include support for (i) preparation of Distribution Sector Roadmap (DSR) to plan the adequacy and effectiveness of the existing distribution system for meeting future system demands and service standards, and determine the developments needed in respective years; (ii) preparation of financial roadmap to separate financial and HR functions of MePDCL from MeECL; and (iii) implementation support to effectively monitor the project and ensure its technical, procurement and safeguard compliances as required. The DSR will help MePDCL identify the immediate, medium-term and long-term investments, strategies and policies for systematic development of the distribution sector for its modernization, improved financial performance, and make distribution business viable in the long run. The DSR and implementation support is also aimed at developing the capacity of MePDCL for systematic planning, design and management of distribution networks. • Output 4: Capacity and awareness of selected rural communities to use mini grid power efficiently and for livelihood developed. Renewable energy mini grids will be installed to improve power quality and support income generation encompassing social and gender inclusion, and develop activities providing employment for rural community especially women using indigenously available resources. This component is to be supported by a grant to be provided by the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction (JFPR).

7. The proposed project will strengthen and modernize the power distribution network, reduce technical losses and increase the reliability of the distribution network of MePDCL. To achieve this objective, the proposed project will include: (i) construction of 23 new 33/11 kV substations, (ii) upgrading and modernization of 45 33/11 kV existing substations; (iii) erection of 771 circuit km1 (ckm) of 33 kV and 669 ckm of 11 kV new lines; (iv) reconductoring of 496 ckm of 33 kV and 278 ckm of 11 kV existing lines; and (v) smart metering scheme for up to 75,000 consumers. The project components will be implemented in three circles of the MePDCL namely Central, West

1 Circuit length is distinct from conductor length in that one or more conductors may be employed to create a circuit. 3

Garo and East Garo in Meghalaya State of India. The proposed JFPR grant will finance (i) the installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and installation of agricultural processing units in three separate villages; and (ii) rooftop solar PV systems in three schools.

8. The executing agencies for the ADB loan will be the Government of Meghalaya acting through the MeECL reporting to Power Department, Government of Meghalaya. The implementing agencies for the ADB loan and JFPR will be MePDCL and MNREDA, both reporting to MeECL. The project will be implemented over 5 years with completion date by March 2025. The project is estimated to cost $168 million.

B. Objective, Scope and Methodology of the Initial Environment Examination

9. Objective and Scope of Initial Environment Examination (IEE). This IEE report documents the environmental assessment of the proposed project and identifies the potential adverse environmental impacts and risks to be considered in the detailed design and pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance phases. The IEE addresses, as far as required, the environmental management, health and safety requirements of India as well as those of the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009).

10. The objectives of the IEE are to:

(i) identify any legislative and approval requirements under which project activities must occur; (ii) assess the existing environmental conditions and receptors in the project area of influence including the identification of environmentally sensitive areas such as national protected areas network; (iii) assess the direct, indirect, cumulative, and induced environmental impacts of the project on and risks to physical, biological, socioeconomic, and physical cultural resources; and (iv) set out in an environmental management plan (EMP) the mitigation and monitoring measures that will guide environmental management during detailed design and pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance.

11. The environmental studies have been confined to the project area of influence as defined in ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). The corridor of potential impact was taken as a 500 meter (m) radius around the proposed substations and 50m along the proposed distribution line alignments (existing rights of way [ROW] for 33 kV and 11 kV distribution lines are 15 m and 7 m). However, the potential impact zone is considered up to 5 kilometer (km) radius of substations and distribution line alignments in respect of indirect impacts on environmentally sensitive areas such as national protected areas networks. Assessment is carried out for various environment components including terrestrial and aquatic ecology, soil, water, air, noise, socio- economic aspects including occupational and community health and safety, and physical cultural resources.

12. Methodology of the IEE. The IEE report has been prepared by a TA consultant supported by ADB, between April to December 2019, to fulfill ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements on behalf of the executing and implementing agencies. The IEE also considers the environmental, health and safety requirements of India. The assessment was carried out using reconnaissance surveys, field visits, consultation with stakeholders and village representatives, review of existing secondary data, collection of primary data to fill any gaps, identification of 4 potential adverse environmental impacts, and identification of mitigation and monitoring measures to address them.

13. The stepwise activities carried out include: • review of legal requirements; • review of technical project details; • reconnaissance surveys for identification of key issues, data requirements and consultations with MePDCL and MNREDA; • primary and secondary data collection; • consultations with stakeholders and villagers; and • identification of impacts and mitigation measures.

14. The IEE is based on preliminary locations earmarked for the 23 new substation sites and indicative routing alignments for about 312km of 33 kV distribution line alignments connecting the 23 new substations with existing substations; it should be noted that the indicative routing alignments assessed by the TA consultant may alter following the completion of detailed route surveys during the detailed design process by up to 200 m. For other new 33/11kV lines, route alignments will not be determined until after detailed route surveys during detailed design. Therefore, following selection of final 33/11 kV line alignments and 11 kV existing lines to be reconducted, this IEE and EMP will be updated and cleared by ADB. The IEE and EMP will also be updated and revised, if necessary, if there are any unanticipated impacts including a scope or design change. Any changes to the IEE and EMP will be subject to ADB clearance and disclosure.

C. Structure of the IEE

15. In compliance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements, this IEE has been structured and consists of eight sections: (i) Introduction; (ii) Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework; (iii) Description of the Project; (iv) Description of the Environment; (v) Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures; (vi) Consultations, Participation, and Information Disclosure; (vii) Environmental Management Plan including a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) for existing facilities (substations); and (viii) Conclusion and Recommendation. The executive summary is also provided in the beginning of the report. The report is supported by eight annexes which include the rapid environmental assessment (REA) checklist, photolog of field conditions and consultations, details on stakeholder consultations, Indian environmental standards, template format of environmental monitoring report, and, the environmental audit report of existing facilities with CAP for 45no. substations.

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II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

16. India has a well-defined institutional and legislative environmental, health and safety framework. The legislation covers all components of environment viz. air, water, soil, terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna, natural resources, and sensitive habitats. India is also signatory to various international conventions and protocols. The environmental legislations in India are framed to protect valued environmental components and comply with its commitment to the international community under conventions and protocols. ADB has also defined its environmental and social safeguard policies in the Safeguard Policy Statement (2009).

17. This chapter is about the applicability of laws and regulations, conventions, protocols, and ADB safeguards to the project. This section summaries the following:

• National (India) Environmental, Health and Safety Legislation, Regulations, and Legal Administrative Framework; • ADB safeguard policies and categorization of the project; and • Summary of international treaties and applicability to the project.

A. National (India) Environmental, Health and Safety Policy Framework

18. The legal framework of the country consists of several acts, notifications, rules and regulations to protect environment and wildlife. In 1976, the 42nd Constitutional Amendment created Article 48A and 51A, placing an obligation on every citizen of the country to attempt to conserve the environment. The national legislations are broadly divided under following categories:

• Environmental Protection; • Forests Conservation; and • Wild Life Protection.

19. The umbrella legislation under each of above categories is highlighted below:

• The Environment (Protection) Act 1986 was enacted with the objective of providing for the protection and improvement of the environment. It empowers the central government to establish authorities charged with the mandate of preventing environmental pollution in all its forms and to tackle specific environmental problems that are peculiar to different parts of the country. Various rules are framed under this Act for grant of environmental clearance for any development project, resources conservation and waste management. • The Forest Conservation Act 1980 was enacted to help conserve the country's forests. It strictly restricts and regulates the de-reservation of forests or use of forest land for non-forest purposes without the prior approval of Central Government. To this end the Act lays down the pre-requisites for the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. • Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 amended 2003 was enacted with the objective of effectively protecting the wildlife of the country and to control poaching, smuggling and illegal trade in wildlife and its derivatives. It defines rules for the protection of wildlife and ecologically important protected areas.

20. State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) together with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) form the regulatory and administrative core of the project for pollution control. Other Ministries/Statutory Bodies/Departments are responsible for ensuring environmental compliance 6 and granting various clearances includes state ministry/department of environment, regional offices of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and state forests/wildlife departments. The administrative framework defines the roles and responsibility of various ministries and government departments at central level and state level.

21. The environmental impact assessment requirement in India is based on the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 (amended 2009). Schedule 1 of the EIA Notification list out the activities requires prior environmental clearance. Power distribution projects and solar PV mini-grid projects are not included in the Schedule 1 of this notification due to the non-polluting nature of its activities. Therefore, no national environmental clearance is required for this project.

22. For establishment of temporary workshops, construction camps, hot-mix , opening of quarries and construction work, it is required to comply with provisions of various acts i.e. The Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 (Amended 1988) and Rules 1981 (Amended 2003); The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (Amended 1993); The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1972 (Amended 1988) and Rules 1974; The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (Amended 1987) and Rules 1982; The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 (Amended 2002); Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans-boundary Movement) Rules 2008 (Amended 2009); and the Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Order, 2016 (S.O. 1327(E).

23. The other major acts and rules which are relevant to the project activities are the Electricity Act (1910) and its Amendments (2004) and (2007) ; the Electricity Rule (1956) and its Amendments (2000); the Indian Telegraphic Act (1885) and its Amendments (2003); Land Acquisition Act, 1894 and Amendments thereafter; and the Indian Factories Act (1984) and its Amendments.

24. Some of the policies of high relevance are the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy (2007), and the National Environment Policy (2006).

25. Clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980. The following requirements are particularly important and need special attention in order to avoid any delays for a project. Forest clearances under the Forest Conservation Act 1980 will be necessary in the event that distribution lines pass through forest areas, if any:

(i) As per the Forest Conservation Rules (1981, amended 2003) a forestry clearance from Department of Forests is required for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose. Processing of the forestry clearance entails two stages: stage I and stage II. Among other requirements, stage I clearance requires the applicant to make payments for compensation of forest land that will be acquired and trees that will be cut under the project. Accordingly, timely allocation of budget for this purpose by the applicant is necessary to expedite the clearance process. (ii) Cutting of trees in non-forest land require a tree cutting permit from the local forest department. All trees cut under a project must be compensated by compensatory afforestation as required by the Forest Department.

26. The Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 provides guidance on the right of way (ROW) and tree cutting. Where routing of distribution lines through the forest areas cannot be avoided, these should be aligned in such a way that it involves the least number of trees being cut. The maximum width of ROW for distribution lines on forest land is given in Table 1. Below each conductor, a 7 width clearance of 3 meters (m) would be permitted for the movement of tension stringing equipment. The trees on such strips would have to be felled but after stringing work is completed, the natural vegetation will be allowed to regenerate. Felling/pollarding/pruning of trees will be done with the permission of the local forest officer whenever necessary to maintain the electrical clearance. One outer strip of 2m shall be left free of encroachments to permit maintenance of the power line.

Table 1: Description of Right-of-Way Distribution Lines in Forest Areas Voltage (kV) ROW (meter) 11 7 33 15 Source: IS 5613 and MoEFCC Guidelines

27. There are many rules and regulations framed by the Government of India for the protection of workers. Most of these legislations will be applicable to MePDCL and MNREDA and contractors in charge of construction. The executing and implementing agencies will ensure compliance to these social legislations through contractual obligations and regular checks and penalties. These legislations include the Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996; Child Labour (prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986; Minimum Wages Act, 1948; Workmen Compensation Act, 1923; Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972; Employee State Insurance Act; Employees P.F. and Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952; Maternity Benefit Act, 1951; Payment of Wages Act, 1936; Equal Remuneration Act, 1979; Inter-State Migrant Workmen’s (Regulation of Employment & Conditions of Service) Act, 1979; Equal Remuneration Act, 1979 etc.

28. A review is undertaken for all the environmental regulation and social policy which might be applicable to the proposed project. These legislations with applicability to this project are summarized below in Table 2.

Table 2: Applicable Environmental National and State Requirements S. Permissions/ Acts/Rules/ Concerned Agency Responsibility/ No. Clearances and Notifications/ Status as on 31 relevance to the Guidelines Dec 2019 Project 1. Forest Clearance Forest Conservation State Forest Department Per the EMP for project Act, 1980. project components that components will are located in not involve forest area, if any forest land and since works in so forest forest areas are clearance excluded. should not be required under the project. 2. Permission for Forest Conservation District Forest MePDCL / felling of trees for Act, 1980. Office/State Forest MNREDA to be project Meghalaya Department/autonomous obtained during components Preservation of district council for trees detailed design requiring Trees Act, 1976. felling in forest areas and cutting/felling of District Authorities in non- trees forest areas. 8

S. Permissions/ Acts/Rules/ Concerned Agency Responsibility/ No. Clearances and Notifications/ Status as on 31 relevance to the Guidelines Dec 2019 Project 3. Authorization for Hazardous Waste Meghalaya State Pollution MePDCL, disposal of (Management and Control Board. MNREDA and hazardous waste, Handling) Rules Contractor / to especially for 1989 be obtained pre- handling and construction disposal of phased out equipment/ transformers. 4. Permit for The Building and District Labour Contractor employing labor/ Other Construction Commissioner engaged by workers for Workers (Regulation MePDCL/ construction work of Employment and MNREDA, to be Conditions of obtained pre- Service) Act, 1996 construction 5. Permission for use Environment Respective Municipal Contractor of water for (Protection) Act, Office of project region. engaged by construction and 1986 MePDCL/ drinking purpose for MNREDA, to be workers during obtained pre- construction work. construction

B. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) Requirements

29. ADB has defined its safeguard requirements under its Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). The prime objectives of the safeguard policy 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. This policy requires assessment, mitigation and commitment towards environmental and social protection including occupational and community health and safety. The extent of assessment depends on the category of the project. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) classifies a project depending on following three categories.

• Category A: A proposed project is classified as category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area larger than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. An environmental impact assessment is required. • Category B: A proposed project is classified as category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts are less adverse than those of category A projects. These impacts are site-specific, none or very few of them are irreversible, and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for category A projects. An initial environmental examination is required. • Category C: A proposed project is classified as category C if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. No environmental assessment is required although environmental implications need to be reviewed.

30. Categorization of Project. The project has been evaluated considering the outcome of the ADB rapid environmental assessment (REA) checklist (Appendix 1). The magnitude of potential 9 impacts and the presence of environmentally sensitive areas near to substations and along the proposed alignment of new 33 kV/11 kV lines have been critically analyzed (iBAT tool used to screen) to determine likely significance.

31. The project is unlikely to cause any significant irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented adverse environmental impacts. This is due to the following facts: (i) project components are located in semi-urban and rural areas which do not support high biodiversity values and will be away from legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas or physical cultural resources; and (ii) there will be only minor civil works required for the project. Impacts are mostly site-specific with substations mostly being installed or upgraded close to villages and distribution lines generally being installed or upgraded along existing road alignments.

32. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) sets out the requirements for environmental safeguard that applies to all ADB-financed projects. Under ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), the project is classified as “B” on environment requiring the preparation of an IEE. Accordingly, this IEE has been prepared covering all components of the project.

C. Applied Standards

33. The project will follow national as well as international good practices related to environment, health and safety including those set out in the IFC EHS General Guidelines (April 30, 2007) and the guidelines on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution (April 30, 2007).

D. IFC Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines

34. Section 4 on Construction and Decommissioning of the IFC EHS General Guidelines (April 30, 2007) will be applicable for this project. In addition, the IFC EHS Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and Distribution (April 30, 2007) also needs to be considered while designing the substations and distribution line components and undertaking the environmental assessment. It requires consideration of terrestrial and aquatic habitat alteration, electric and magnetic fields, hazardous materials, occupational health and safety and community health and safety. The project is required to comply with these guidelines regarding assessment of potential impacts and management measures, performance indicators and monitoring guidelines. MePDCL and MNREDA shall follow the IFC EHS Guidelines for this project and shall also ensure that all appointed contractors and their subcontractors follow them.

E. International and Regional Treaties, Agreements and Conventions

35. India is a party and signatory to several international and regional environmental treaties, agreements and conventions, to which the MoEFCC is the national focal point. A screening was carried out of these treaties regarding its applicability to this project. Key international/regional conventions and declarations agreements that India is signatory to and relevant for the project are provided below: • Convention Relative to the Preservation of Fauna and Flora in the Natural State (1933) • International Protection Convention (1951) • Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, Especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar, 1971) – ensure potential impacts on Ramsar designated sites avoided 10

• Convention concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Paris, 1972) – ensure potential impacts on world cultural and natural heritage designated sites avoided • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Washington, 1973) – no direct relevance, but seek to avoid poaching by construction workers • Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, 1979) – ensure potential impacts on any mitigatory species supported by the project area of influence assessed and managed • Convention on the Prior Informed (Consent) Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade (PIC or Rotterdam, 1990) • United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (Rio De Janeiro, 1992) • Convention on Biological Diversity (Rio De Janeiro, 1992) • Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (Kyoto, 1997) - to achieve stabilization of greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the atmosphere at a level low enough to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system, SF6 is a GHG used in gas insulated switchgear. • Stockholm Convention of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) (1972) - ensures the environmentally sound management and the disposal of POPs including PCBs. India has started using PCB free equipment, but existing equipment contaminated and cross contaminated with PCBs are also present in significant quantity. The convention gives governments until 2025 to phase out "in–place equipment" such as electrical transformers containing PCBs, as long as the equipment is maintained in a way that prevents leaks. It grants them another three years to destroy the recovered PCBs. The recovered PCBs must be treated and eliminated by 2028. • Basel Convention - this convention came into force on 5 May 1992 and aims to reduce the amount of waste produced by signatories and regulates the international traffic in hazardous wastes including PCBs and asbestos which may be present in existing facilities. • International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and protocol ratified by India (India has ratified 47 ILO conventions and 1 ILO protocol) relate to the core labor standards. • ILO Asbestos Congestion, 1986 (Convention No. C 162) – yes to be ratified by India but will be applied to project as measure to avoid use of asbestos in substations. This convention applies to all activities involving exposure of workers to asbestos in the course of work.

36. The interventions proposed under the project shall be implemented in compliance with applicable international and regional conventions and declarations (particularly those related to PCBs as listed above) to which India is a party.

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III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

A. Project Components and Locations

37. Project Components. The proposed project will strengthen the state’s rural distribution network, reduce AT&C losses, improve the power quality and reduce the outages in East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills and Central Circles of the state. The proposed investments will also improve the access to electricity and quality of power in poor and backward rural areas. For this the project will support (i) construction of 33/11 kV new substations and upgrading/modernization of 33/11 kV existing substations; (ii) new construction and reconductoring of medium voltage (33 kV and 11 kV) distribution lines; (iii) installation of new smart meters; and (iv) installation of solar PV– battery hybrid systems, rooftop solar PV systems, and agricultural processing units. The planned activities under each component are detailed in Table 3.

Table 3: Details of Project Components Component Unit Qty. Substation Component (MePDCL) New 33/11 kV Substations Nos. 23 Augmentation / Upgrading of 33/11 kV Existing Substations Nos. 45

Medium Voltage (33kV and 11kV) Distribution Line Component (MePDCL) 33kV New Lines ckm 7712 33kV Reconductoring ckm 496 11kV New Lines ckm 669 11kV Reconductoring ckm 278

Smart Metering Component (MePDCL) Smart meters with all accessories Nos. 180,000

JFPR Component (MNREDA) Installation of rooftop solar PV systems Nos. 03 Establishment of solar PV battery hybrid system and agricultural – Nos. 03 processing units

38. Locations of Project Components. The MePDCL project facilities are located in three electrical circles (regions) of MePDCL, namely, Central (covering the West and East Khasi Hills), West Garo Hills, and East Garo Hills in Meghalaya State of India. The JFPR grant component are also located in same circles covering North Garo Hills District (two schools and two villages), (one village), and (one school). Figure 1 (Table 4) shows the jurisdiction of each MePDCL circle and the districts covered by them.

2 The IEE is based on assessment of provisional routings for about 312km of 33 kV distribution line alignments connecting the 23 new substations with existing substations; it should be noted that these alignments may alter following the completion of detailed route surveys during the detailed design process by up to 200 m. For other new 33/11kV lines, alignments will be determined following detailed route surveys by contractors. Therefore, following selection of final 33/11 kV line alignments and 11 kV existing lines to be reconducted, this IEE and EMP will be updated and cleared by ADB. 12

Figure 1: Map of MePDCL Circle Jurisdictions on Map of Meghalaya State

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Table 4: Details of MePDCL Circles and Districts Covered

Circle Districts Covered West Garo Circle West Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills East Garo Circle South Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, North Garo Hills Central Circle West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, East Khasi Hills Western Circle Ri-Bhoi Shillong Circle Shillong (part of East Khasi Hills) Eastern Circle East Jaintia Hills, West Jaintia Hills

39. The locations of the project facilities are shown on the administrative map and geographical map (google-earth) of the Meghalaya state as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

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Figure 2: Locations of the Project Facilities on Administrative Map of Meghalaya State

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Figure 3: Locations of the Project Facilities on Geographical Map of Meghalaya State

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B. Nature, Size and Location of Project Facilities

40. The scope of each component of the project is described in following sections. These components of the project will be implemented under various contract packages. The components of the project to be covered are mentioned in section below.

41. Details of 33/11 kV new substations. The project will construct 23 new 33/11 kV substations (air insulated) in three circles of MePDCL. A typical 33/11 kV substation involves installation of 2.5/10 MVA transformers, installation of 33kV bays, a control room, and installation of associated 33/11 kV feeders. The detailed design of each new substation will consider climate adaptation measures as needed, such as, provision of retaining walls, an adequately sized drainage system, and raising the height of transformer platforms at least 2m above the highest flood level. The work will be done in new locations identified by MePDCL. A 33/11 kV substation installation requires a land plot of about 2500 square meters (about 50m x 50m). Table 5 present circle wise details of the new substations. Details of individual substations are provided in Table 6.

Table 5: Proposed 33/11kV New Substations Name of Circle Central West Garo East Garo Total Capacity / facility Unit Quantity 2x2.5 MVA MVA 10 3 8 2x10 MVA MVA 1 - - 23 2x5MVA - 1 - Total 11 4 8 33kV Bays Nos. 16 7 16 39 11kV Feeders Nos. 72 24 48 144

Table 6: Location of Proposed 33/11 kV New Sub-stations and Associated 33kV Lines Approximate Capacity Sl No Location Name Circle associated 33kV Line (MVA) length (km) 1 Pongtung Central 2x2.5 20 2 Tyrsad Central 2x2.5 0.1 3 Dongkingding Central 2x2.5 30 4 Shallang Central 2x2.5 40 5 Wahkaji Central 2x2.5 20 6 Nonghyllam Central 2x2.5 20 7 New Shillong Township Central 2x10 3 8 Maweit(Mawnai) Central 2x2.5 25 9 Myriaw Central 2x2.5 18 10 Mawshabuit Central 2x2.5 0.5 11 Lawbah Central 2x2.5 20 12 Dagalapal East Garo Hills 2x2.5 25 13 Rongjeng East Garo Hills 2x2.5 0.05 14 Sibbari East Garo Hills 2x2.5 0.5 15 Jengjal East Garo Hills 2x2.5 3 17

Approximate Capacity Sl No Location Name Circle associated 33kV Line (MVA) length (km) 16 Pedaldoba East Garo Hills 2x2.5 18 17 Mangsang East Garo Hills 2x2.5 10 18 Samgong East Garo Hills 2x2.5 2 19 Cheringre East Garo Hills 2x2.5 13 20 Ampati West Garo Hills 2x5 15 21 Zikzak West Garo Hills 2x2.5 25 22 Babadam West Garo Hills 2x2.5 1.5 23 Damalgre West Garo Hills 2x2.5 2 311.35 km (total)

42. Upgrading/Modernizing of 33/11 kV Existing Substations: The project will upgrade/modernize the capacities of 45no. 33/11 kV existing substations in three circles of MePDCL. Upgrading work involves increasing the capacity of transformers by installation of new (or replacement of existing) 2.5 MVA transformers, installation of 33 kV bays, construction of new (17 nos.) and renovation of existing (17 nos.) control rooms, and installation of associated 33/11 kV feeders. All work will be done within the premises of the existing substations. Table 7 presents circle wise details of the upgrading work. Individual substation wise details are provided in Table 10.

Table 7: Upgrading of existing 33/11 kV substations Name of Circle Central West Garo East Garo Total Capacity/Facility Unit Quantity 1x1.6 to 1x2.5; 1x1.6+1x2.5 to 2x5; 1x1.6+1x2.5 to 2x2.5; MVA 21 14 10 45 2x5 to 2x10; 1x10 to 2x10. 33kV Bays Nos. 31 31 17 79 11kV Feeders Nos. 76 53 42 171 Control Room (new construction) Nos. 09 03 04 17* Control Room (rehabilitation of 04 09 03 17* existing room) Nos. * Details of these substations are provided in Table 10

43. Medium Voltage (33kV and 11kV) Distribution Lines: The project will involve erection of 771 circuit kilometer (ckm) of 33 kV and 669 ckm of 11 kV new lines; and reconductoring of 496 ckm of 33kV and 278 ckm of 11 kV existing lines. The 33 kV new lines will connect new/upgraded substations from existing substations, whereas 11kV new lines will be erected to connect new villages. As set out in Table 6 a total of 23 33kV lines (about 312 km length subject to detailed route surveys) will connect the 23 new substations with existing substations. The distribution line requires erection of poles (erection of 9.5 m galvanized S.T. poles), cables and other accessories. The new 33 kV and 11 kV lines will be mostly aligned along the ROW of existing rural roads although some sections may need to pass thorough agricultural or plantation areas; alignments will be determined following detailed line survey by contractors. Reconducting will be done by replacing old conductors on existing lines and poles, unless minor rerouting is needed for lines to avoid sensitive receptors; replacement of existing 11kV distribution transformers is not included 18 in the scope of reconductoring but existing transformers may be disturbed in the process of undertaking works. All lines will be erected in the three aforementioned circles of Meghalaya state.

44. Smart Metering Component: The project will replace outdated electromechanical meters (targeting approximately 175,000 consumers) with 180,000 new smart meters (171,430 units of single-phase smart meters and 8,570 units of three phase smart meters) with all accessories. A smart metering scheme with online meter reading and billing with auto disconnection and reconnection of services will also be implemented in the capital city of Meghalaya for up to 75,000 consumers (this may potentially go up to 105,000 consumers (100% coverage) depending on procurement costs. This project component will also be used to evaluate the technical and commercial feasibility for extension of full-fledged smart metering across the entire state in future.

45. JFPR Component: The project includes installation of solar PV-battery hybrid systems and installation of agricultural processing units in three separate villages, as well as rooftop solar PV systems in three schools. The agricultural processing units will have cold storage units and modern machines for secondary processing of agricultural products. The villages/schools involved are: • Solar PV-battery hybrid system and agriculture processing unit in Dilma Ading Village, Lower Jambal Village and Kosigre Village. • Rooftop solar PV system in OMED Memorial Secondary School, Adogkre Secondary School, and United Songsak Secondary School.

46. The four villages are under the jurisdiction of North Garo Hills district (Dilma Ading, Lower Jambal, OMED school, and Adokgiri), one in West Garo Hills district (Kosigre) and one in East Garo Hills district (Songsak).

47. Installation of solar PV-battery hybrid systems (mini-grids) will benefit the three villages as Dima Ading is not currently connected to the MePDCL grid at all, whereas the other two villages (Lower Jambal village and Kosigre village) are connected to the existing MePDCL grid but supply is only provided for 3-4 hours a day. The solar PV-battery hybrid systems can assist in ensuring the villages which support about 135 households have sustainable and reliable power supply for operation of the agricultural processing units.

48. Land area totaling 3,031 square meters will be required for the solar PV hybrid battery systems and agricultural processing units. Dilma Ading solar PV hybrid battery system and agricultural processing unit will require 418 square meters of land. Lower Jambal Hybrid solar PV hybrid battery system and agricultural processing unit will require 800 square meters of land. Kosigre solar PV hybrid battery system and agricultural processing unit will require 1,813 square meters of land. The sizing of the solar PV-battery hybrid systems in a village and the sizing of agricultural processing units in a village are as following Tables 8 and 9.

Table 8: Requirements for Hybrid System in a Village PV Panels 70-kilowatt peak (kWp) (about 280 PV panels) Battery PV inverter Grid forming inverter Energy management system (includes hardware and software)

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Table 9: Requirements for Agricultural Processing Units in a Village Items Quantity Cold storage machine chamber, machinery, electrification 1 unit (10-12 tons) Grinding machine 1 unit, 2 kW Drying and processing machine of turmeric 1 unit, 2 kW Pineapple, orange juicer machine 1 unit, 2 kW

49. The intervention in schools under the proposed grant will include installation of rooftop solar PV systems (12 kW in Adogkre Secondary School, 14 kW OMED Memorial Secondary School and 8 kW United Songsak Secondary School) to provide reliable power to facilities for day to day learning activities such as lights, fans, computers, projectors, and water suppliers. There are between 175-285 students attending each of these schools. A reliable power supply will ensure that the learning activities of students remain unaffected by frequent power cuts from the grid.

50. The installation of JFPR components will be done by a contractor who will also be responsible for operation for the first two years. The contractor will provide trainings to the village on operation and maintenance of the systems. 20

Table 10: Circle-wise Details of Project Facilities and Scope of 33/11 kV Substations and Associated 11kV Feeder Lines 1. Central Circle

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division New 2 x 10 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 CC-SS - 01 33/11kV New Shillong Shillong East Khasi Hills Mawrynkneng Substation nos. 11 kV feeders New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 CC-SS - 03 33/11kV MAWSHABUIT MAWSHABUIT Shillong West Area 6 Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 04 33/11 kV Lawbah Lawbah East Khasi Hills Mawsynram Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 CC-SS - 05 33/11 kV Tyrsad Tyrsad East Khasi Hills Mawsynram Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 06 33/11 kV Nonghyllan Nonghyllan East Khasi Hills Mawsynram Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 07 33/11kV Pongtung Pongtung East Khasi Hills Pynursla Substation nos. 11 kV feeders 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1nos. 33 kV Augmentation CC-SS - 08 33/11 kV Ichamati Ichamati East Khasi Hills Sohra bay + 4 x 11 kV feeders, existing control room / Upgrading upgraded 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformer + 4nos. 33kV Augmentation CC-SS - 09 33/11 kV Welloi Welloi East Khasi Hills Sohra bays + bus coupler + 4 x 11 kV feeders + new / Upgrading control room (switching substation) Augmentation 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2nos. 33kV CC-SS -10 33/11 kV Jonksa Jonksa East Khasi Hills Mawrynkneng / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 3nos. 33kV Augmentation CC-SS - 11 33/11 kV Mawsynram Mawsynram East Khasi Hills Mawsynram bays + bus coupler + 6 x 11 kV feeders + existing / Upgrading control room upgraded 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2nos. Augmentation CC-SS - 12 33/11 kV Sohiong Sohiong East Khasi Hills Sohiong 33 kV bays + 6 x 11kV feeders + existing control / Upgrading room upgraded Augmentation 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2nos. 33 kV bays CC-SS - 13 33/11 kV Jaklon Jaklon East Khasi Hills Pynursla / Upgrading + 6 x 11kV feeders + new control room 21

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division 1 x 10 MVA to 2 x 10 MVA transformers + 1 x 33kV Augmentation CC-SS -14 33/11 kV Sohra Sohra East Khasi Hills Sohra incomer + 6 x 11 kV feeders + existing control room / Upgrading upgraded Executive CC-SS - 15-1 132/33 Mawphlang Mawphlang Engineer, Shillong Area V Upgrading New 33kV bay West CC-SS - 15-2 33/11 KV Ranikor Ranikor East Khasi Hills Mawsynram Upgrading New 33kV bay Executive CC-SS - 15-3 33/11 KV Airforce Air force base Engineer, Shillong Area V Upgrading New 33kV bay West Executive CC-SS - 15-4 33/11 KV Happy Valley Happy Valley Engineer, Shillong Area-VI Upgrading New 33kV bay West New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 01 33/11kV Shallang Shallang West Khasi Hills Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 02 33/11kV Dongkingdieng Dongkingdieng West Khasi Hills Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 03 33/11kV Myriaw Myriaw West Khasi Hills Mairang Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 04 33/11kV Wahkaji Wahkaji West Khasi Hills Mawkyrwat Substation nos. 11 kV feeders New 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 CC-SS - 05 33/11kV Maweit Maweit West Khasi Hills Nongstoin Substation nos. 11 kV feeders Augmentation 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1nos. 33kV bay + CC-SS - 06 33/11 kV RAMBRAI RAMBRAI West Khasi Hills Nongstoin / Upgrading 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformer + switchyard CC-SS - 07 33/11 kV Nongksen Nongksen West Khasi Hills Nongstoin / Upgrading structure + earth mat + switchyard lighting Augmentation 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV CC-SS - 08 33/11 kV Nongkhlaw Nongkhlaw West Khasi Hills Mairang / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 3nos. 33kV CC-SS - 09 33/11 KVMawsaw Mawsaw West Khasi Hills Mawkyrwat / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 3nos. 33kV CC-SS - 10 33/11 kV Riangdo Riangdo West Khasi Hills Nongstoin / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2nos. 33kV CC-SS - 11 33/11 kV Kynshi Kynshi West Khasi Hills Mairang / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room 22

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division Augmentation 2 x 2.5 MVA (existing) transformers + 3nos. 33kV CC-SS - 12 33/11 kV Mawkyrwat Mawkyrwat West Khasi Hills Mawkyrwat / Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation 2 x 2.5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2nos. 11kV CC-SS - 13 33/11 kV Mawasawa Mawasawa West Khasi Hills Mairang / Upgrading bays + existing control room upgraded Augmentation 2 x 5 MVA to 2 x 10 MVA transformers, no addition CC-SS - 14 33/11 kV Nongstoin Nongstoin West Khasi Hills Nongstoin / Upgrading of 33kV or 11 kV bays or control room CC-SS - 15 132/33 Nongpyndeng Nongpyndeng West Khasi Hills Nongstoin Upgrading New 33kV bay

B. East Garo Circle

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 EGC - 01 33/11 kV Dagalapal Dagalapal East Garo Hiils DD Mendipathar New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 EGC - 02 33/11 kV Pedaldoba Pedaldoba East Garo Hiils DD Bajengdoba New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 EGC - 03 33/11 kV Mangsang Mangsang East Garo Hiils DD Nangalbibra New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 EGC - 04 33/11 kV Samgong Samgong East Garo Hiils DD New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 EGC - 05 33/11 kV Cherangre Cherangre East Garo Hiils DD Williamnagar New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 3 nos. 33kV bays + 6 EGC - 06 33/11 kV Jengjal Jengjal East Garo Hiils DD Bajengdoba New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders

2 x 2.5 MVA transformers +3 nos. 33kV bays + 6 EGC - 07 33/11 kV Rongjeng Rongjeng East Garo Hiils DD Nangalbibra New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 3 nos. 33kV bays + 6 EGC - 08 33/11 kV Sibbari Sibbari East Garo Hiils DD Baghmara New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV Augmentation / EGC - 09 33/11 kV Songsak Songsak East Garo Hiils DD Williamnagar bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control room Upgrading + 4-unit barrack 23

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division

Augmentation / 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 3.15 MVA transformers + 1 x 33 kV EGC - 10 33/11 kV Samanda Samanda East Garo Hiils DD Williamnagar Upgrading bay + 6 x 11kV bays at existing control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV Augmentation / EGC - 11 33/11 kV Kharkuta Kharkuta East Garo Hiils DD Mendipather bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room + 4- Upgrading unit barrack 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 3 Augmentation / EGC - 12 33/11 kV Bajengdoba-I (old) Bajengdoba East Garo Hiils DD Bajengdoba x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control Upgrading room + 4-unit barrack 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV Augmentation / EGC - 13 33/11 kV Chokpot Chokpot East Garo Hiils DD Baghmara bays +6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room + 4- Upgrading unit barrack 1 x 3.15+1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2 x Augmentation / EGC - 14 33/11 kV Mendipathar(Old) Mendipathar East Garo Hiils DD Mendipather 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control Upgrading room 1 x 2.5 +1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 3 x Augmentation / EGC - 15 33/11 kV Dainadubi Dainadubi East Garo Hiils DD Mendipather 33 kV bays + 6 X 11kV bays + new control room Upgrading + 4-unit barrack EGC - 16 - 1 33/11 KV Williamnagar Williamnagar East Garo Hiils DD Williamnagar Upgrading New 33 kV bay EGC - 16 - 2 33/11KV Jaksongram Jaksongram East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading New 33 kV bay

EGC - 16 - 3 33/11 KV Resubelpara East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading New 33 kV bay

C. West Garo Circle

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 WGC - 01 33/11kV Babadam Babadam WGHDD Garobadha New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 1 nos. 33kV bay + 6 nos. WGC - 02 33/11kV Damalgre Damalgre WGHDD Garobadha New Substation 11 kV feeders 2x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 WGC - 03 33/11 kV Zikzak Zikzak WGHDD Mahendraganj New Substation nos. 11 kV feeders 33/11kV New 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 nos. WGC - 04 Chengkompara (New Chengkompara WGHDD Ampati New Substation 11 kV feeders Ampati) 24

Subproject MePDCL Sub- Substation Name Site Location MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference division Augmentation / 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV bays + WGC - 05 33/11 kV Selsella Selsella WGHDD Selsella Upgrading 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation / 1 x 1.6 +1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x WGC - 06 33/11 kV Ampati Ampati WGHDD Ampati Upgrading 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room Augmentation / 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV WGC - 07 33/11 kV Daddengre Daddengre WGHDD Phulbari Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new control room 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 4 x 33kV Augmentation / WGC - 08 33/11 kV Baromile Baromile TDD Dalu bays and bus coupler + 4 x 11 kV feeders at Upgrading existing control room Upgrading existing 1 x 2.5 MVA substation with 1 WGC - 09 33/11 kV Purkhasia Purkhasia TDD Dalu Upgrading x 33kV bay at existing control room Upgrading existing 2 x 2.5 MVA substation with 1 WGC - 10 33/11 kV Dalu Dalu TDD Dalu Upgrading x 33kV bay at existing control room Augmentation / 1 x 3.15 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV WGC - 11 33/11 kV Haldiyaganj Haldiyaganj WGHDD Phulbari Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control room Upgrading existing 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 5 MVA substation WGC - 12 33/11 kV Phulbari Phulbari WGHDD Phulbari Upgrading with 3 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control room Tura Profit Augmentation / 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x 33kV WGC - 13 33/11 kV Paharinagar Paharinagar TDD Centre Upgrading bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control room 1 x 1.6 + 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 5 x 33 Augmentation / WGC - 14 33/11 kV Gongglangre Gongglangre WGHDD Garobadha kV bays and bus coupler + 6 x 11kV feeders at Upgrading existing control room with extension Upgrading existing 1 x 5 MVA substation with 2 x WGC - 15 33/11 kV Mahendraganj Mahendraganj WGHDD Mahendraganj Upgrading 33kV bay + 6x 11kV bays at existing control room Tura Profit Upgrading existing 2 x 5 MVA substation with 3 x WGC - 16 33/11 kV Dakopre Dakopre TDD Upgrading Centre 33 kV bays at existing control room WGC - 17 132/33 kV Chiringpara Chiringpara Upgrading 2 nos. new 33 kV bays* *Chiringpara 132/33kV substation is counted as two existing substations for the purpose of the project description, thus whilst there are 45 existing substations involved in the project, there are only 44 physical existing substation sites involved

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C. Construction and Installation Work

51. Under the project, there are 23 new 33/11 kV substations to be installed with modern equipment and technology. The construction work for these 23 substations will be on land area identified at proposed locations and which will be owned by MePDCL acquired through willing- buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from communities. The proposed 33/11 kV new substations shall be constructed with completely new equipment including earthworks, foundations with concrete, installation of steel structures, substation gantries, transformers, and firefighting arrangements, construction of a control room with staff welfare and sanitation and fencing. Use of PCBs and all asbestos containing materials will be prohibited. The location details and surrounding environmental features of all substations and associated 33kV distribution lines from existing substations are provided in Section IV: Description of the Environment. Any temporary labor camps will be setup, access roads established, earthworks undertaken, and equipment transported to the project construction site. The design of the new substations will be in accordance with national3 requirements and international good practice4 with regard to technical and environmental, health and safety performance standards as set out in the IFC EHS Guidelines.

52. Works for upgrading and modernizing of the existing substations will be limited within the boundary of the existing substation area and will be similar in nature to the works at new substations albeit limited in scope. Following repair and maintenance of existing substation components, the retired equipment will be dismantled removed and disposed of. This will largely involve manual work supported by a mobile crane and trucks for transportation of old transformers, switchgear, lines and other waste lines to authorized third party vendor. Metal components will be delivered to recycling depots and non-recyclable waste disposed of by licensed contractors at registered landfills. The handling, transport, storage and disposal of old transformers by third party vendor will be subject to approval from State Pollution Control Board.

53. New and existing distribution line works will involve staging and transportation of equipment, installation of poles for new lines, unrolling of cables, and installation. The new distribution line work will start with detailed route surveys to identify and locate poles and transformers along the route alignment adhering to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) electricity rules and EHS Guidelines on Transmission and Distribution e.g. installation above or adjacent to residential properties or other locations intended for highly frequent human occupancy (e.g. schools or offices) will be avoided. This will be followed by surveys to ascertain the need to clear the ROW that may have vegetation to be trimmed etc. Most of the existing distribution lines are mounted over concrete or tubular steel poles and in some cases wooden poles. For reconductoring new poles will only be needed if during surveys it is found old ones are unsuitable or minor rerouting is needed to avoid sensitive receptors. Unsuitable poles will be removed and either reused or disposed of by MePDCL. Existing poles will be removed completely from the ground, they will not be cut off at the ground level, and unused pits backfilled and compacted.

54. Temporary labor camps will be setup and equipment (distribution poles, lines and transformers) will be transported to the project construction site and temporary traffic diversions put in place. Digging of any foundation pits is done manually using auguring tools, concrete mixture for foundation is cast, and poles are unloaded for erection which is done using chain and pulley blocks. Then the pin insulators are mounted and stringing of new wires is done with

3 The Central Electricity Authority (Technical Standards for Construction of Electrical Plants and Electrical Lines) Regulations, 2010. 4 As per International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. 26 correct sag to maintain prescribed ROW. Finally, for new lines the transformers are installed on single, double or four pole structures or ground mounted, for which earth works are required. The construction works for new distribution lines will involve minimal excavation and soil removal, to install new poles and any ground level transformers; new transformers and switchgear will however usually be pole mounted. There will be limited use of powered mechanical equipment other than cranes and trucks for equipment transportation. Much of the work will involve manual erection of equipment. The size of construction crew depends upon site conditions, the volume of works and techniques. Typically, a crew of 15 to 20 people will be employed, around 2-3 weeks of work will then be needed for the construction of a 1 km section of 33kV or 11 kV line.

55. The JFPR components shall be constructed with completely new equipment including earthworks, foundations with concrete, installation of PV panels etc. Any temporary labor camps will be setup, earthworks undertaken, and equipment transported to the project construction site.

D. Existing and Associated Facilities

56. The project involves upgrading and modernizing work within existing facilities i.e. substations. The substation work proposed under project includes augmentation and upgrading of 45 33/11kV substations which are classified as existing facilities as per ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). An environmental audit of these substations (existing facilities) has been undertaken. The audit report is provided in Appendix 2. There are no associated facilities connected to the project.

57. These 45 existing substations are connected to existing 132/33kV substations to provide their source of power. In turn, these 132/33kV substations are connected via 132kV transmission lines and other substations to the interstate, regional and national grids as well as power generation facilities in Meghalaya. The power transfer through the 132/33kV substations to the 45 33/11kV substations may technically therefore be sourced from any state. However, based on the state’s annual power consumption, purchase and sale data, it is noted that approximately 80% of the state’s energy demand is met from hydropower with the remaining 20% from thermal power. It is expected that in Central circle power demand is met by 100% hydropower generation whereas in East Garo Hills and West Garo Hills circles power demand is estimated to be met by about 85% hydropower generation. Therefore, the sources of power to the existing substations should mostly be from hydropower generation.

E. Analysis of Alternatives

58. Alternatives analysis included consideration of the no project alternative. The no project alternative would have no direct negative environmental impacts since no construction works would be involved. However, it will result in further deterioration of the financial state of MePDCL caused by high AT&C losses from the distribution network (32.65%, 2017 data) as well as aged distribution assets and subsidized tariffs for poor and agricultural consumers. Indirectly this could increase demand for wood and other non-renewable fuels due to poor supply of electricity to meet the power demands of the population. The project will strengthen the state’s rural distribution network, reduce AT&C losses, improve the power quality and reduce outages in the East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills and Central circles of the state. Therefore, the with project alternative was preferred over the no project alternative.

59. Location alternatives were analyzed by MePDCL as part of their selection of provisional sites for the new substations. The principles that have been (and will be) adopted for selection of optimum sites and route alignments for the various project components are: (i) minimize 27 disturbance of human settlements; (ii) avoid monuments of cultural or historical importance; (iii) do not create a threat to the survival of any community with special reference to ethnic minority communities; (iv) do not affect any public utility services like water line, telephone lines, roads or community facilities like playgrounds, schools etc.; (v) do not pass through any wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, reserve forests etc.; and (vi) minimize damage to existing trees/forest resources.

60. The principle that has (and will be) adopted for the selection and design of new equipment is to comply with national requirements as well as considering international good practice per the IFC EHS Guidelines particularly with respect to avoiding the use of PCB oils in purchase of transformers (already banned in India) and the use of all asbestos containing materials in new construction.

F. Cost and Implementation Schedule

61. The total cost estimate for project is $168.0 million. ADB will provide $132.9 million through its ordinary capital resources (OCR) facility and the Government of Meghalaya/MePDCL will provide $33.1 million for contingencies, land acquisition and project management expenses using counterpart funds. JFPR grant will provide $2.0 million. The project will be implemented progressively over 5 years with completion date by March 2025.

G. Project Benefits

62. The successful implementation of the project will involve the rehabilitation, augmentation and the expansion of the State power distribution system and will improve reliability of supply to residential and commercial customers in the state. A reliable electricity supply will lead to social and economic benefits and improved conditions for schools, hospitals, and other social services. Improved efficiency of the power distribution network will help in meeting the peak demand and will contribute significantly to the reduction in power losses. Furthermore, the project will have a positive impact on the environment due to reduced demand for wood and other non-renewable fuels due to constant and stable supply of electricity.

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IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

63. In order to establish the baseline settings of the project areas, field surveys and investigations have been carried out at project sites (new substations locations and alignment of distribution lines) and in the project area of influence. The environmental studies and surveys have been confined to the project area of influence as defined in ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). The corridor of potential impact was taken as a 500m radius around the substations and 50m along the distribution line alignments (existing ROW for 33kV and 11kV distribution lines is 15m and 7m respectively). However, the potential impact zone is considered up to 5 km radius of substations and distribution line alignments in respect of indirect impacts on environmentally sensitive areas such as national protected areas networks. Assessment is carried out on various environment components including terrestrial and aquatic ecology, soil, water, air, noise, socio-economic aspects including occupational and community health and safety, and physical cultural resources.

64. In this chapter, the environmental setting of the project facilities (new substations and new distribution lines) are discussed first followed by the description of the environment (physical, ecological and socio-economic) in the project area of influence and regional setting. As the project activities are spread all over the state, the general environmental setting of the state is presented.

A. Environmental Setting of the New Substation Sites

65. As part of the environmental assessment, field visits were undertaken to the proposed locations of the 23 new 33/11 kV substations. The objectives of the site surveys are to identify the typical physical, biological and socio-economic conditions in and around the proposed sites of 33/11 kV substations. The field surveys along with consultations were undertaken in the months of May – June 2019.

66. Key environmental features (along with site conditions) of the surveyed 23 new substation sites are summarized in Table 11 and discussed in subsequent paragraphs 29

Table 11: Summary Environmental Features of New Substation Sites Cultural S. Substation Village / Land Land use Trees & Reserve Habitat Protected Sensitive Access Terrain Water body and Habitation No. Name Circle ownership type Vegetation Forest Type areas receptor religious

Lawbah/ East Uncultivated Narrow fresh Lawbah Approx. 10 No Khasi Hills land with Hilly water seasonal village, south 1 Lawbah Yes Community nos. trees of reserve Modified Nil No Nil Lawbah/ East shrubs and terrain stream to east at direction 2km Diengang forest Khasi Hills vegetation 100m distance

Playground to north at 10m Mawsbiut Uncultivated Shrubs and Mawshbuit / No Wah Umkhen, distance, village to north land with Hilly grasses, 2 Mawshbuit East Khasi Yes Community reserve Modified seasonal stream Nil No residential and east at shrubs and terrain approx. 20 Hills forest 700m to south house at 10m distance of vegetation nos. trees distance to the 20m east Community Uncultivated 15 nos. Church, Nonghyllam / Hill and No Seasonal Nongkhyllam land comes with shrubs Diengkyon school and 3 Nonghyllam South West Yes rolling reserve Modified stream about Nil No village to west under village and (hard wood) playground to Khasi Hills terrain forest 500m at 600m chief vegetation trees west at 500m

Yes, may Private school Mawlum Uncultivated No Small freshwater Lyngiong Mawlum need Hilly 8 nos. small and 4 Tyrsad / West Community with thin reserve Modified stream to north, Nil No village to north Tyrsad resurfacing terrain trees playground to Khasi Hills vegetation forest at 150m at 600m for 50m. north at 200m

School, Dongki- Yes, village playground ingding village Patharlynden / road may Uncultivated No and public Patharlynde Community Hilly Shrubs and to the south 5 West Khasi need with reserve Modified Nil Nil No health center n land terrain grasses west at Hills resurfacing vegetation forest to south west distance of for 50m. at distance of 800m 900m Church in north- east Uncultivated Hill and No Myriaw village Myriaw / West Small pine direction 6 Myriaw Yes Private land with rolling reserve Modified Nil Nil Nil to north-west Khasi Hills Hills trees-10 nos. at 900m vegetation terrain forest at 500m

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Cultural S. Substation Village / Land Land use Trees & Reserve Habitat Protected Sensitive Access Terrain Water body and Habitation No. Name Circle ownership type Vegetation Forest Type areas receptor religious Community Songsak / Uncultivated No Shallang to (Songsak Hilly Banana/ 7 Shallang West Khasi Yes with reserve Modified Nil Nil No Nil north-west at Dorangre terrain bamboo plants Hills vegetation forest 1km Mahari) No reserve forest, Mawiong Nongsba / Uncultivated Hilly Dengan trees reserve Nongsba to 8 Maweit West Khasi Yes Private land with thick Modified Nil Nil No Nil terrain 40-50 nos. forest area south at 800m Hills vegetation – in southwest direction at 5km Yes, unpaved Wahkaji Wahkaji / Uncultivated Hill and No road. village to 9 Wahkaji South West Clan with shrubs rolling Shrubs reserve Modified Nil Nil No Nil Needs north-east at Khasi Hills and grasses terrain forest resurfacing 600m for 200m. No reserve forest, Yes, Pongtung Cherapunj unpaved village at Nongshyrngan i- Small pond at road. Uncultivated Hilly 2km distance, 10 Pongtung / East Khasi Private land No Mawsynra Modified about 150m Nil No Nil Needs with no trees terrain restaurant at Hills m distance. resurfacing 200m reserved for 200m. distance. forest boundary at 500m No Health and reserve medical Mawdiang Mawdiang forest, institute at New Community Uncultivated Hilly Pine tree-38, diang village 11 diang / East Yes Itshyrwat Modified Nil Nil No 500m, state Shillong land Dorbar with trees terrain Diengang-2 at 1 km Khasi Hills reserved new assembly distance forest at building under 1.5 km construction at 31

Cultural S. Substation Village / Land Land use Trees & Reserve Habitat Protected Sensitive Access Terrain Water body and Habitation No. Name Circle ownership type Vegetation Forest Type areas receptor religious 100m offset, and the homeguard office and forensic department office at 200m. Guesthouses at 300m. No reserve forest, Government Rongjen Paddy - main Rongjen Rongjen Dambo Rongit stream, office and staff 12 Songma / East Yes Private land Cultivation Plain and only crop, Modified Nil No village at Songma Rongjeng 500m distance quarters at Garo Hills no trees 500m distance reserved 20m distance forest at 1.5 km

Jack fruit-5, No Bettelnut-5, reserve Simsan Teak-8, forest, Proposed sub- seasonal stream Village with Hill and Peepal-2, Rongreng station land is Mangsang / Homestead 500m to south residential 13 Mangsang Yes Private land rolling Banana-10, giri Modified Nil No in the village, East Garo Hills plantation and Ronga river building at terrain Mousambi-5, reserve one resident is at distance of 2 20m Bulasari-5, forest at near the land km to the east Gambhar-5, 1.5 km Plums-5 distance

Mature trees - 50 nos. (Neem, Sal, No. About Plantation Teak, Jack 100 m Airport area at and shrubs Plain fruit and No Damlung river to Jengjal / West access 800m. 14 Jengjal Private land (private and mango) and reserve Modified east direction at Nil No Nil Garo Hills road Habitation at 1 community rolling shrubs forest 50m distance constructio km. forest) n required.

15 Pedaldoba Community Plain Maize field Modified Nil No Nil 32

Cultural S. Substation Village / Land Land use Trees & Reserve Habitat Protected Sensitive Access Terrain Water body and Habitation No. Name Circle ownership type Vegetation Forest Type areas receptor religious No. About 200 m Pedaldoba / No Pedaldoba access Agriculture Seasonal West Garo reserve village at 3 km road (maize) stream at 50m Hills forest distance constructio n required. Teek big-4, Small-10, Plantation No Sibbari / South Bettelnut big- Nitai river at Village health Sibbari village 16 Sibbari Yes Private land (private Plain reserve Modified Nil No Garo Hills 8, small-10, 100m center at 30m at 100m forest) forest bamboo-1, other tree-4 No. About A secondary 50 m Plantation No school at Dagal Apal / access Hill and Rubber Dagal village 17 Dagal Apal Community (private reserve Modified Nil Nil No 250m, police East Garo Hills road rolling Plantation at 500m forest) forest camp at constructio 400m. n required. Educational institutes No including a No. About reserve school, ITI, 150 m Chinatik and Uncultivated Hill and Shrubs and forest, polytechnic, Samgong / access Rongchasam Samgong 18 Samgong Government with shrubs rolling Grasses, no reserve Modified Nil No police training East Garo Hills road seasonal village at 2 km and grasses terrain big trees forest at 5 centre, Loylaw constructio streams at 30m km college and n required. distance nursing training centre within 300m Cherangri village at Yes. Plain 500m, few Resurfacin Plantation and No houses are Cherangri / g for about Teak (Sal) Seasonal water Playground at 19 Cherangri Private land (private rolling reserve Modified Nil No present at East Garo Hills 200 m trees-100 nos. stream at 100m 20m distance forest) terrain forest 20m distance length

required.

20 Government Modified Nil Nil No 33

Cultural S. Substation Village / Land Land use Trees & Reserve Habitat Protected Sensitive Access Terrain Water body and Habitation No. Name Circle ownership type Vegetation Forest Type areas receptor religious No. About 200 m Government Chengkompara Uncultivated No Chengompara Chengkomp access Hill and Bamboos, office building / South West with shrubs reserve village at ara road rolling Bettelnut at 100m Garo Hills and bamboo forest 500m constructio distance n required. School, Zikzak / South Uncultivated No Rongki river to church and Hill and Site within the 21 Zikzak West Garo Yes Government with grown Teek-10 reserve Modified west at 500m Nil No settlement rolling village Hills trees forest distance areas within 20 m No Maize crops, reserve Damalgri / Government Agriculture only bamboos- forest, Lake at 100m Millem village 22 Damalgri South West Yes Private land Plain Modified Nil No office building (maize) 10 and small reserve distance. at 1 km Garo Hills at 200m teak-5 forest at 1 km

Teek-70, Kemargre / Uncultivated (small-30 & No Hill and Kemragre 23 Kemargre West Garo Yes Private land having fully medium-40), reserve Modified Nil Nil No Nil rolling village at 2km Hills grown trees Churi-10, forest other-10

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67. Substation No. 1 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Lawbah. The location for the proposed 33/11 kV substation of 5 MVA capacity is at Lawbah in Mawsynram block of East Khasi Hills district. The proposed area of 50 x 50 meters is located on Mawsynram-Lawbah road. The location for new substation is uncultivated land on hilly terrain with vegetation growth. There are approx. 10 nos. of small size tree along with shrubs and grasses at the site. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the east, where there is a narrow fresh water seasonal stream at about 100 m. The nearest habitation is Lawbah village to the south at a distance of 2 km. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at Lawbah map-Lawbah

Proposed Substation Location at Lawbah 35

68. Substation No. 2 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Mawsbuit. The location for the proposed 33/11 kV substation of 5 MVA capacity is at Mawsbuit in Mawsyngkheng block of East Khasi Hills district. Out of total area of 1600 square meters a plot of 50 x 50 meters is proposed for the new substation. The land belongs to the village community and is uncultivated land, hilly terrain with vegetation growth, mainly pine trees. There are approx. 20 nos. of small to medium size trees along with shrubs and grasses that would need to be cleared. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the south leading to a seasonal stream called Wah Umkhen 700m to the south. The nearest habitation is Mawsbiut village to the north and east at a distance of 20m. There is playground to the north at a distance of 10m and one residential house to the east, adjacent to the area proposed for the new substation. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at map-Mawsbuit Mawsbuit

Proposed substation site Playground near the proposed substation

69. Substation No. 3 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Nongkhyllam. The new 33/11 kV substation is proposed at Nongkhyllam, in Ranikor block of South West Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is located on the Ranikor– Nongkhyllam village road. The land belongs to the village community and is uncultivated land of hilly and rolling terrain with vegetation growth, mainly hard wood (Diengkyon) trees. There are approx. 15 nos. of small to medium size trees along with shrubs and grasses that would need to be cleared. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the south draining storm water to a seasonal stream about 500m from site. The nearest habitation is Nongkhyllam village to the west at a distance of 600m. There is a church, school and playground to the west at a distance of 500m from the location of the new substation. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural 36 resources within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Landuse of proposed substation at Location of proposed substation on Google Nongkhyllam map-Nongkhyllam

Church building approx. 500m from School building and playground approx. 500m proposed site for new substation at from proposed site for new substation at Nongkhyllam Nongkhyllam

70. Substation No. 4 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Mawlum Trysad. New 33/11 kV substation of 5 MVA capacity is proposed at Mawlum Trysad, in Mawphlang block of East Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is located on (SH-4) Mawsynram-Shillong road. The land belongs to the village community and is uncultivated land of hilly terrain with thinly grown shrubs and no trees. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the south-and drains storm water to nearby stream at 150m downstream across agriculture fields. The nearest habitation is Lyngiong village to the north at a distance of 600m. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. 37

Landuse of proposed substation at Location of proposed substation on Google Mawlum Trysad map-Mawlum Trysad

Tapping point for feeder line for proposed SH-4 road next to location of proposed at Substation Mawlum Trysad (approx. substation at Mawlum Trysad 100m distance)

71. Substation No. 5 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Patharlynden (Dongki-ingding). The proposed 33/11 kV substation of 5 MVA capacity is to be installed at Dongki-ingding village of East Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is located on the village road. The land area belongs to the village community and is uncultivated land having hilly terrain with thinly grown shrubs and no trees. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards south direction draining storm water to nearby agriculture fields. The nearest habitation is Dongki-ingding village to the south west at a distance of 800m. The is a school, playground and public health center to the south west at a distance of 900m from location of the new substation. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. 38

Landuse of proposed substation at Location of proposed substation on Google Patharlynden (Dongki-ingding) map- Patharlynden (Dongki-ingding)

Location for proposed substation at Market area in Dongki-ingding village more Dongki-ingding village than 700m away from proposed substation and feeder alignment

72. Substation No. 6 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Myriaw. New 33/11 kV substation of 5 MVA capacity is proposed at Myriaw village of West Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is located on major district road (MDR) road approx. 500m from Myriaw habitation. The land is uncultivated having hilly and rolling terrain with thinly grown shrubs and about 10 nos. of pines tree which would need to be cleared for substation construction. The land area is owned by the village community. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the south and drains storm water to nearby agriculture fields. The nearest habitation is to the north-west at a distance of 500m. The is a church to the north-east at a distance of 900m from the location of new substation. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. 39

Land use of proposed substation at Myriaw Location of proposed substation on Google map- Myriaw

Agriculture fields around the location for Village Myriaw habitation area approx. 800m proposed substation at Myriaw from proposed substation

73. Substation No. 7 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Shallang. The proposed 33/11 kV substation is at Shallang village of West Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is located near village road at a distance of approx. 200m. The land is uncultivated having hilly terrain with thinly grown shrubs and 3-4 nos. wild banana plants. The land area is owned by the village community. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the north draining storm water to nearby agriculture fields. The nearest habitation and market area are to the north-west at a distance of 1km. There is a coal processing unit in the vicinity of the proposed location at distance of 1.5km to the north-east. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Land use and location of proposed Location of proposed substation on Google substation at Shallang map- Shallang

Nearest habitation visible from proposed Discussion with local community at location for substation proposed substation location at Shallang

74. Substation No. 8 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Nongsba (Maweit). New 33/11 kV substation is proposed at Nongsba village in Nongstion block of West Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is on Nongpayndeng-Maweit village road at 800m distance from village habitation. The land is uncultivated having hilly terrain with thick vegetation and 40-50 number large size trees of hard wood. The area is private land and is owned by an individual. The natural slope of the land area is slightly towards the south draining storm water to nearby agriculture fields. Mawiong reserve forest area is located to the south west at a distance of 5km from the proposed location. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Proposed substation location at Nongsba Location of proposed substation on Google (Maweit) map-Nongsba (Maweit)

Village road along the proposed substation Landuse of proposed substation location at location at Nongsba (Maweit) Nongsba (Maweit)

75. Substation No. 9 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Wahkaji. New 33/11 kV substation is proposed at Wahkaji village in Ranikor block of South-West Khasi hills district. The area of 50 x 50 m is near to an unpaved road for agriculture fields. The land is uncultivated having hilly and rolling terrain with thin vegetation of shrubs and grasses. The land area belongs to the village community. The nearest habitation and market area is to the north-east at a distance of 600m. There are no sensitive receptors in the surrounding area of the site. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas or physical cultural resources within the vicinity of the project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. 42

Land use and location of proposed Location of proposed substation on Google substation at Wahkaji map-Wahkaji

Surrounding land use near proposed Local community and team at location of substation location at Wahkaji proposed substation at Wahkaji

76. Substation No. 10 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Pongtung: The proposed substation is located on private-owned land in Pongtung village (2km from village) of Pynsursla Block of East Khasi Hill District. The substation is proposed on uncultivated open land without trees. A small pond is present on one side and a hill on the other side, about 150 m from the proposed site. The substation is at a distance of 200m from the NH-206 road with a rural approach road present. The proposed Pongtung substation is not located in the protected areas notified by the national legislation. The nearest reserved forest boundary of Cherapunji- Mawsynram is at a distance of 0.5km from the selected location. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Pongtung Proposed substation site

Location of proposed Substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at Pongtung map-Pongtung

Pond near the proposed substation site Approach road to the substation site

77. Substation No. 11 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at New Shillong (Mawdiangdiang): The proposed substation is located in Mawdiangdiang village of East Khasi Hill District. The substation is proposed on community land having 40 mature pine and diengang trees. Government offices are present in the vicinity of the proposed site. This includes the State New Assembly Building under construction at 100m offset, and the Homeguard Office and Forensic Department Office at 200m. A 63 kV transformer and an operational sewer drain are present at the proposed site. “North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences” is present at 500m distance from the proposed site. In addition to this, there are few guesthouses also present in the vicinity (300m) of the site. The proposed substation is located on the Shillong Bypass road and thus an approach road is not required, however the bypass road has high traffic volume. Mawdiangdiang substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation, “Itshyrwat Reserved Forest” is at a distance of 1.5 km from proposed substation site. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site, except the local common fox.

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Mawdiangdiang Proposed Substation site

Location of proposed substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at New map-New Shillong (Mawdiangdiang) Shillong (Mawdiangdiang)

Proposed substation site location

78. Substation No. 12 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Rongjen Songma (Rongjeng): The proposed substation is located in private agricultural land in Dambo Rongjeng block of East Garo Hill district. Rongit stream is present at 0.5 km distance from the substation site. Proposed substation is not directly located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. The nearest forest area Dambo Rongjeng reserved forest (under state forest department) is at 1.5 km 45 distance from the proposed site. No industries are located in the vicinity. However, government office and staff quarters are situated at 20m distance from the proposed site. No cutting of trees is required for construction of substation at this location. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on reports during consultation with local villagers, no threatened wild animal species were found/seen in and around the proposed site. Local people informed that common species such as monkeys, deer and wild pig were sighted in the Rongjeng reserved forest which is 1.5km distant.

Rongjeng Proposed substation site

Location of proposed substation on Google Location of tapping point map- Rongjen Songma (Rongjeng)

Landuse of proposed substation at Rongjen Songma (Rongjeng) 46

79. Substation No. 13 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Mangsang. The proposed substation is located on 2 bihga (1.25 acres) of private-owned land in Dambo Rongjeng Block of East Garo Hill District. The proposed substation site has about 32 mature grown trees of Peepal, Banyan, Banana, Teak, Jackfruit, Beetel-nut, mausambee, Bulasari and Gambhar mixed with shrubs. The nearest village dwelling is at a distance of 20m from the proposed substation location. Mangsang sub-station is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There is a reserve forest at a distance of 1.5 km from the selected location. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. A seasonal water stream is present at 0.5 km to the south and Ronga river at distance of 2 km to the east of the project location.

Mangsang Proposed substation site

Location of proposed substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at map-Mangsang Mangsang 47

Location of proposed substation

80. Substation No. 14 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Jengjal: The proposed substation is located on private-owned land at 100m distance from the NH-217 road. There is no access road to the proposed sub-station location. The land use of the area is private community forest. In the east lies, the Damlung river at 50m distance. The proposed site is at a distance of 800 m from the southern periphery of Jengjal airport. The habitation is at distance of 1 km from the site. Approx. 50 mature trees of Neem, Sal, Teak, Jack fruit and mango are present at the site location. Jengjal substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Location of proposed substation on Google Landuse of proposed substation at Jengjal map-Jengjal

Land use and location of proposed substation

81. Substation No. 15 - Proposed 33/11 kV Substation at Pedaldoba: The proposed substation is located on community land in Pedaldoba village of Bajengdoba sub-division. There is no vehicular access road to the proposed site. The land use of the area is agricultural land and maize crop was cultivated during survey. Surrounding area is teak plantation with shrubs. A seasonal stream is running at 50m distance from the proposed substation location. There is no notified protected areas near to Pedaldoba substation location. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Pedaldoba Proposed sub- station site

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at map- Pedaldoba Pedaldoba

Location of proposed substation

82. Substation No. 16 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Sibbari: The proposed substation is located on private land in Sibbari village of Baghmara block of South Garo Hill. The substation site is 180m from the NH-217 road and 10m from the Chockpot-Sibbari village road. There is no access road to the proposed substation location. The land use of the area is private forest. 37 small and mature trees of teak, beetlenut, bomboo and jackfruit in addition to shrubs are present at the location. Nitai river is present at 100m distance and the village health center at 30m distance from the site. Sibbari new sub-station is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on 50 site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Sibbari Proposed

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at Sibbari map- Sibbari

Health center near the proposed substation River near the proposed substation

83. Substation No. 17 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Dagal Apal: The proposed substation is located on community land in Dagal Apal village of Mendipathar block of North Garo Hill. The sub-station is proposed on a rubber plantation area with hilly terrain. The site is 15m from the Mendi - Songsak road with no vehicular access road. The proposed substation site is located at 400m from a Police camp and 250m from a secondary school. The proposed substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical- cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. There is no waterbody present around the proposed location. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Dagal proposed sub- station site

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at Dagal map- Dagal Apal Apal

Police training center near the proposed substation site location

84. Substation No. 18 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Samgong: The proposed substation is located on open uncultivated government land in Samgong village of Williamnagar sub-division of East Garo Hill. The site is 150m from the Jail-Samgong village road with no vehicular access road. The land use of the area is uncultivated land with Boldak and Bamboo tree plantation surrounding the proposed site. There are educational institutes including a school, industrial training institute, polytechnic, police training center, Loylaw college and nursing training center within 300m from this site. Two seasonal streams, Chinatik and Rongchasam at 30m are present to the east and west of the proposed sub-station location. Proposed sub-station is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. The proposed site is over 5 km distant away from Rongrenggre reserved forest (nearest reserved area). There are no historical- 52 cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. There is no waterbody present around the proposed location. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Samgong proposed sub-station site

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at Samgong map-Samgong

Educational institutes near the proposed substation site

85. Substation No. 19 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Cherangri: The proposed substation is located on a private land in Cherangri village of Williamnagar sub-division of East Garo Hill. Teak plantation with 100 teak trees each 20m tall, are present at the site. The site is 200m from the village surfaced road with access road. Habitation is present at 20m from the proposed sub-station location. The land use of the selected location is private forest plantation 53 in addition to shrubs. Trees include teak, sal, eucalyptus and bamboo. The village playground is 20m away from the proposed site and a stream is at a distance of 100m from the site. The proposed substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at map-Cherangri Cherangri

Location of proposed substation

86. Substation No. 20 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Chengkompara: The proposed substation is located on 1.08ha of government land at Chengkompara in the locality of Ampati 54 sub-division of West Garo Hill. The substation is proposed on a hill with uncultivated land having government offices to the south at 100m distance. Open uncultivated land with shrubs and bamboo trees is present to the north and west of the proposed site. Land use to the east is agricultural land with paddy crop cultivation. No river/water body is present near the proposed site location. The proposed sub-station is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed Substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at map-Chengkompara Chengkompara

Location of proposed substation 55

87. Substation No. 21 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Zikzak: The proposed substation is located on government land in Zikzak block of Ampati subdivision of West Garo Hill. The substation is proposed on a hill having mature trees of Teak (approx. 10 nos.), along with Betelnut and Bohera in addition to shrubs. The proposed site is adjacent to school, church and settlement areas within a 20m distance to the southern side of the proposed sub-station. Rongki river is present at 500m distance west of the proposed location. The proposed sub-station is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at Zikzak map-Zikzak 56

School near the proposed substation site

88. Substation No. 22 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Damalgre (Mellim): The proposed substation is located on a private land in Millem village of Rerapara block of West Garo Hill district. The sub-station is proposed on agricultural land having maize cultivation. There is an access surfaced road available to the new substation location. The land use of surrounding area is mostly barren land with trees and shrubs. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Bamboo and Jackfruit are the common trees. Government offices are present at 200m distance from this site. A lake is present at 100m distance from the proposed substation location. The proposed substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation however, reserve forests are present at 1 km distance. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site; common wild pig are sighted in agriculture fields.

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Location of proposed substation on Approach road to the proposed substation site Google map-Damalgre (Mellim) and government office building under construction

Location and land use of proposed substation at Damalgre (Mellim)

89. Substation No. 23 - Proposed 33/11kV Substation at Babadam (Kemragre): The proposed substation is located on private land in Kemragre village of Babadam subdivision of West Garo Hill. The sub-station is proposed on land having 90 trees with shrubs. Trees at site include Teak, Churi and Banyan. An access surfaced road is available to the new sub-station location. The land use of surrounding area is agricultural land with trees and shrubs. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Bamboo and Jackfruit are the common trees found in the surrounding area mixed with shrubs. The proposed substation is not located in the protected areas defined by the legislation. There are no historical-cultural and religious heritage objects nearby. Based on site 58 observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Location of proposed substation on Google Land use of proposed substation at Babadam map-Babadam (Kemragre) (Kemragre)

Location of proposed substation

B. Environmental Setting of the New 33 kV Distribution Lines associated with new substation

90. As part of the environmental assessment, field visits were undertaken along the alignments of the 33 kV new distribution lines associated with 23 new 33/11 kV substations. The objectives of the site surveys are to identify the typical physical, biological and socio-economic 59 conditions along the alignment of the proposed 33 kV distribution lines. The field surveys along with consultations were undertaken in the months of May – June 2019.

91. Key environmental features (along with site conditions) of the surveyed 23 new 33 kV distribution lines are summarized in Table 12 and discussed in the subsequent paragraphs. 60

Table 12: Summary Environmental Features of New 33 kV Distribution Lines Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious 1 No reserve Weikynmei Wahparhti, Mainly pine, forest and Laitsohum, jackfruits, Alignment is Agriculture Modifi (only Mawdet, Lawbah 20 Phlangmawsr Yes Hilly bamboo and Nil Nil avoiding habitation and plantation ed community seasonal pat, Janiaw, hard wood areas by 50-100m and streams Lawbah trees private) crossed 2 No reserve No, forest Wah mostly Alignment is 10m Mainly pine Modifi (only Umkhen Mawshbuit 0.5 Mawshbuit commun Plantation Hilly Nil Nil away from habitation trees ed community stream ity forest areas and crossed area private) 3 Alignment is away Mawlum Mawlum Agriculture Mainly pine Modifi No reserve 0.1 Yes Hilly Nil Nil Nil from habitation Tyrsad Tyrsad and plantation trees ed forest areas approx. 200m 4 No reserve Mainly hard forest Alignment proposed Rilang, Nonghylla Agriculture wood trees Modifi (only Kynshi river with gap of minimum 20 Rajaju, Yes Hilly Nil Nil m and plantation mixed with ed community crossed 100m away from Nonghyllam and shrubs and habitation areas private) 5 Nowiong Mainly teak No reserve Nongkhlaw, trees mixed forest Kulsi river, Alignment proposed Dongkingd Nawlumkhri, Agriculture with bamboo Modifi (only seasonal with gap of minimum 30 Yes Hilly Nil Nil ing Umniangriang and plantation and shrubs ed community streams 200m away from , Donki-ing- and patches and crossed habitation areas Ding of teak trees private) 6 Kynshi Mawria, No reserve Mainly pine Pemadan, forest Alignment is away trees mixed Kynshi Umdum, Agriculture Modifi (only from habitation Myriaw 18 Yes Hilly with hard stream Nil Nil Mawlum and plantation ed community areas with minimum wood tree crossed Mawjakhsew, and gap of 100m and shrubs Ramsiej, private) Mayriaw 61

Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious 7 Mawlaidong, Umdein, Mawkhap, No reserve Various Pormawlai, Mainly pine forest seasonal Alignment proposed Thawkhong, Agriculture, trees mixed Modifi (only streams with gap of minimum Shallang 40 Riangju, Yes residential Hilly Nil Nil with bamboo ed community only no 100m away from Nongshram and plantation and shrubs and major river habitation areas Adeng, private) crossed Darangre B, Rangjambi, Shallang 8 There is one school building and Nongphndeng No reserve playground near Mainly , Pathar forest Rising (approximately 10m) jackfruit Mawei Mawlok, Agriculture Modifi (only stream to the alignment. 25 Yes Hilly trees mixed Nil Nil (Nongsba) Mawriat, and plantation ed community crossed 3 Alignment is with bamboo Wahtyngdoh, and times proposed with gap of and shrubs Nongsba private) minimum 100m away from habitation areas. 9 Domshrah, Diwian No reserve Wajyrhap, Rangblang, Mainly forest Waumdoml Alignment proposed Pyndenkseh, Agriculture jackfruit Modifi (only ung and Wa with gap of minimum Wahkaji 20 Langtor, Yes Hilly Nil Nil and plantation trees mixed ed community Shohstap 100m away from Demnar, with shrubs and streams habitation areas Umsan, private) crossed Laitjynrai, Wahkhaji

10 No reserve A narrow There is a school at Mainly pine Pynursla, forest freshwater 10m and four trees mixed Siathakon, Agriculture Modifi (only stream runs villages. Alignment Pongtung 20 Yes Hilly with hard Nil Nil Modanlynlad and plantation ed community parallel to is away from wood trees and Pongtung and the habitation areas with and shrubs private) alignment minimum 100m (on valley 62

Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious side) near the village. 11 A church, and, playground, and No reserve Built- market area are in New forest Seasonal Mawdiangdian up/plantation/ Mainly pine Modifi Maudiangdiang. Shillong 3 Yes Hilly (only stream Nil Nil g uncultivated trees ed Alignment is away Township community crossed land from habitation forests) areas by 100 to 150m 12 No reserve Alignment is Small Mainly pine forest proposed with gap of Agriculture Modifi seasonal Rongjong 0.05 Rongjong Yes Hilly trees and (only Nil Nil minimum 100m and plantation ed stream runs betel nut private away from habitation parallel plantation) areas 13 A market and a Mainly No reserve school in Mangsang Jambalgittim, jackfruit, forest village. Alignment is Agriculture/pla Three local Miktongjenggit teak trees Modifi (only proposed with gap of Mangsang 10 Yes ntation/built- Hilly streams Nil Nil tim, mixed with ed community minimum 100m up crossed Mangsang bamboo and forests in away from habitation shrubs patches) school and market areas 14 Sal, teak, One school and bamboo, No reserve habitation. betelnut, forest Damlung Alignment is Plantation/agri Modifi Jengjal 3 Jengjal Yes Hilly jack fruit, (only river Nil Nil proposed with gap of culture/builtup ed mango and private crossed minimum 150m pear on the plantation) away from habitation hill and school areas 15 Revenue office; Eoringpita, No reserve Uncultivated, school and a college Aneaga, Mainly pine forest 4 local agriculture Modifi under construction Pedaldoba 18 Bolronj, Yes Hilly trees and (only seasonal Nil Nil and builtup ed are present within Nayapara, betel nut community streams land 20m from tapping Pedaldoba forests) point. 63

Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious 16 Mainly pine No reserve Alignment is and teak forest proposed with gap of Agriculture trees mixed Modifi Sibbari 0.5 Sibbari Yes Hilly (only Nil Nil Nil minimum 150m and plantation with betel ed private away from habitation nut and plantation) areas bamboo 17 School and habitation Dandakol, No reserve boundaries (100 m). Rongkaminchi Mainly teak forest Agriculture, alongside the army , Tahapa trees mixed Modifi (only Dagal 25 Yes plantation and Hilly Nil Nil Nil camp, police camp, Agithchak, jackfruit and ed community uncultivated school and church in Kantolgre, betel nut and Dagal village along Dagal Apal private) the Mendi-Songsak road. 18 Government offices, a nurse training No reserve institute, and a Mostly Mainly hard forest Crosses school along the uncultivated, wood trees Modifi (only two Samgong 2 Samgong Yes Hilly Nil Nil alignment. some mixed with ed community seasonal Alignment is plantation shrubs and streams proposed with gap of private) minimum 20m away from these areas 19 Mainly teak Simsang No reserve Alignment is tress mixed river and Rongjongri, Residential/co forest proposed with gap of with Modifi Rongongiri Cheringre 13 Asiragri, Yes mmercial/unc Hilly (only Nil Nil minimum 50m away bamboos ed and Apha Cherangri ultivated community from habitation and jackfruit streams forests) areas trees crossed 20 Mainly pine The proposed and teak No reserve alignment will cross Ghasura, Agricultural/ trees mixed forest Many over a secondary Betasing, Modifi Ampati 15 Yes residential/unc Hilly with betel (only seasonal Nil Nil school in Chengkompar ed ultivated nut and community streams Chengkompara a bamboo. forests) village. It will run The major near the church, crops of the educational 64

Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious region are institutes, hospital, paddy and stadium, stream, a maize. river and market area. In final design of the feeder alignment adjustment will be done to avoid school and other structures near the proposed alignment. 21 The proposed alignment will cross over a secondary school in Chengkompara village. It will run near the church, Mainly teak, No reserve Ghasura, educational cashew, forest Betasing, Agricultural/un Many institutes, hospital, Banyan, Modifi (only Zikzak 25 Chengkompar Yes cultivated/resi Hilly seasonal Nil Nil stadium, stream, a jackfruit and ed community a, Matkolgre, dential streams river and market betelnut and Zikzak area. In final design trees private) of the feeder alignment adjustment will be done to avoid school and other structures near the proposed alignment. 22 Secondary school No reserve (100m) and church forest in Rerapara village. Agriculture/ Mainly teak Modifi (only Alignment is Damalgre 2 Damalgre Yes uncultivated/b Hilly trees mixed Nil Nil Nil ed community proposed with gap of uilt up with bamboo and minimum 50m away private) from habitation areas 65

Cultural S. Feeder Length Village under Alignment Trees and Habitat Reserve Major water Protected Land use Terrain and Sensitive receptor No. Name (km) alignment along road Vegetation Type Forest body areas religious 23 The proposed alignment will pass along a girls’ hostel Mainly teak, at 100m and church No reserve Agriculture cashew, at 50m. It will also forest and Banyan, Modifi run near the Kemragre 1.5 Kemragre Yes Hilly (only Nil Nil Nil plantation, jackfruit and ed government offices. private some built up betelnut All these structures plantation) trees will be avoided in final design by adjustment of locations on poles.

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92. Feeder No. 1 - Lawbah Feeder (33 kV Line) of 20 km: The proposed line is located in East Khasi Hills District. It starts from the 33kV existing substation at Mawsynram village and terminates at proposed 33/11 kV substation at Lawbah having an approximate length of 20 km. The line alignment passes through rural area with hilly terrain and land use is mostly community and private forests with patches of agriculture fields. The village is connected with (Mawsynram – Lawbah) rural road and the proposed alignment follows the road alignment. The forests in the project area of influence are mostly community and private forest. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas under the alignment route of proposed line. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. There are no sensitive receptors (including schools, houses etc.) along the alignment route of the line in the project influence area. The alignment transverses the land area of 5 villages. The alignment crosses two perennial river/water body named Weikynmei and Mawdet and several seasonal streams. The construction of the line requires cutting and trimming of some trees in the community forest with permission from the community and private owner.

Landuse along the proposed feeder Vegetation type under proposed feeder alignment alignment

Proposed feeder stream crossing location Proposed feeder along the road and forest

93. Feeder No. 2 - Mawsbuit Feeder (33 kV Line) of 0.5 km: It starts from 33 kV existing line at junction of rural road in happy valley locality and terminates at the proposed 33/11 kV substation at Mawbuit village covering a length of 0.5 km. The alignment passes through a rural area with hilly terrain and land use is mostly pine forest. The pine forest belongs to private and community landowners. The proposed alignment for the line follows the village road alignment. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no 67 threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. The alignment will cross a seasonal stream called Wah Umkhen near the starting point. Adequate road right of way is available for the line and the proposed 33 kV line will be constructed within village road right of way. Cutting and trimming of trees will be required for construction of this line. Prior permission will be required from concerned community and individuals for tree cutting and trimming.

Landuse near tapping point for proposed Feeder alignment following track from feeder alignment Mawsbuit to tapping point

Ongoing stone mining from river below the Graveyard next to playground and access proposed site road for proposed location for substation at Mawsbuit

94. Feeder No. 3 - Mawlum Tyrsad Feeder (33 kV Line): The existing line 33kV line is located near the site of the new 33/11 kV substation in Trysad locality. The tapping point on the existing 33 kV line is proposed at a distance of 100m in open land free of trees and vegetation and follows the existing 33 kV line. There is mainly open land use in between the tapping point and proposed substation. No reserve forest area is located along the proposed alignment. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Landuse near tapping point for proposed Existing 33 KV feeder alignment and feeder alignment vegetation

Seasonal Stream at foot of the hill and Government school building in Mawlum private school (200m) near the location of Trysad village approx. 1.5 km from proposed proposed at Substation location of substation

95. Feeder No. 4 - Nongkhyllam Feeder (33 kV Line) of 20 km: The proposed 33 kV line starts from the existing substation at Ranikor and ends at the proposed 33/11 kV substation at Nongkhyllam of Ranikor block in South West Khasi hills district having an approximate length of 20 km. The alignment passes through a rural area with hilly terrain and land use is hard wood community forest and patches of agriculture fields in between. The proposed alignment for the line follows the SH-4 road up to a distance of 10 km and then 10 km along the Ranikor– Nongkhyllam village road alignment. The alignment will cross Kynshi river approximately 4km from the starting point. The route alignment of line will be passing through 3 nos. village land. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. The right of way is available for the line and the proposed 33 kV line will be constructed within right of way of the SH-4 and village road alignment. Permission from the community for cutting and trimming of trees will be required for construction of this line. There are no sensitive receptors along the alignment.

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Terrain and landuse along proposed feeder Alignment along existing road and road alignment (Kynshi River crossing view) side vegetation

Ranikor river crossing location of proposed Hill Crossing location of proposed feeder feeder alignment alignment

96. Feeder No. 5 - Dongki-ingding Feeder (33 kV Line) of 30 km: The new 33 kV line is proposed to start from the existing substation at Nongkhlaw and terminates at the proposed 33/11 kV substation at Dongki-ingding in East Khasi hills district having an approximate length of 30 km. The alignment passes through a rural area with hilly terrain and land use is pines, bamboo mixed forest and agriculture fields in patches along the SH-3 road. The forest under the alignment is community and private forest area. The proposed alignment for the line follows the SH-3 road throughout the length. The alignment crosses a number of seasonal streams and Kulsi river midway along the alignment. The route alignment will be passing through 6 nos. village land. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. The right of way is available for the line and the proposed 33 kV line will be constructed within right of way of the SH-3 road. There are 8-10 numbers of four peg towers proposed for line to be erected on the steep slope of hills. The installation of these tower will require cutting and trimming of trees; with permission of concerned village community for community forest area. There are no sensitive receptors along the alignment.

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Terrain and landuse along proposed feeder Existing feeder line along road and alignment (road alignment) vegetation under line

Proposed feeder through market area along Stream crossing location of proposed the SH-03 feeder alignment

97. Feeder No. 6 - Myriaw Feeder (33 kV Line) of 18 km: The proposed 33 kV line starts from the existing substation at Kynshi and ends at the proposed 33/11 kV substation at Myriaw village of Mawthadraishan block in West Khasi hills district having an approximate length of 18 km. The alignment passes through 8 village’s land having hilly terrain and mostly land use of pine forest, bamboos and mixed hard wood forest along with patches of agriculture field in between. The forest under the proposed alignment route is owned by community and private landowners. There is no forest department land. The proposed alignment will cross Kynshi stream and NH-106 road near the starting point. The line route follows the major district road alignment. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. The right of way is available for the line and the proposed 33 kV line will be constructed within the right of way of the MDR alignment. Cutting and trimming of trees will be required for construction of this line. There are no sensitive receptors along the alignment.

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Proposed feeder hill crossing location Existing feeder line along transverse agriculture fields

Existing line along the road selected for the Terrain under the feeder alignment from feeder alignment from Kynshi to Myriaw Kynshi to Myriaw

98. Feeder No. 7 - Shallang Feeder (33 kV Line) of 40 km: The new 33 kV line is proposed to start from the existing substation at Riangdo and ends at the proposed 33/11 kV substation at Shallang in West Khasi hills district having an approximate length of 40 km. The alignment passes through rural area with hilly and rolling terrain and land use is pines, bamboo mixed forest and agriculture fields (jhoom cultivation) in patches along the NH-127B road. The proposed alignment for line follows National Highway route throughout the length. The alignment will cross a number of seasonal streams at various locations. The route alignment of line will be passing through 11 nos. village’s land. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. The right of way is available for the line and the proposed 33 kV line will be constructed within mainly right of way of the National Highway. There are no sensitive receptors along the alignment.

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Vegetation and terrain type along proposed Existing feeder line along road and feeder alignment landuse along road

National Highway 127B route for feeder Terrain along National Highway 127B for alignment from Riangdo– Shallang feeder alignment from Riangdo– Shallang

99. Feeder No. 8 - Mawei (Nongsba) Feeder (33 kV Line) of 25 km: The proposed line is located in West Khasi Hill district. It originates from the proposed 33/11kV substation at Nongpayndeng village and terminates at Nongsba village covering a length of 25 km. The village is accessible by existing Nongpayndeng-Maweit road and there is an existing 11 kV network passing through Nongsba village. The alignment route is along the existing road and installation will be within right of way of road. The line alignment crosses Rising stream at three locations and passes land of 6 villages. There are community forests area under the alignment mainly pines forest, bamboo mixed with hard wood trees. Small patches of agriculture field are also transversed by the proposed line. There is one school building and playground near (approximately 10m) to the alignment line. This can be avoided by pole location arrangement during installation. Cutting and trimming of trees will be required for construction of this line and permission will be taken from community and private owner. There are no protected or biodiversity conservations area within vicinity of project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Vegetation and terrain type along proposed Existing transmission line and underneath feeder alignment vegetation

Seasonal stream parallel to feeder alignment Roadside coal stock yards and existing from Nongpayndeng– Nongsba line along the road

100. Feeder No. 9 - Wahkaji Feeder (33 kV Line) of 20 km: The proposed line is located in South-West Khasi Hill district. It originates from the existing 33/11kV substation at Mawsaw village and terminates at Wahkaji village covering a length of 20 km. The village is accessible by the existing Phlangdilon road and there is an existing 11 kV network for power supply to village. The alignment route is along the existing road and installation is within the right of way of road. The line alignment crosses Wajyrhap, Waumdomlung and Wa Shohstap stream and passes land of 6 villages. There are community forests area under the line alignment mainly bamboo mixed with hard wood trees, open barren land and small patches of agriculture fields. Cutting and trimming of trees will be required for construction of this line. There are no protected or biodiversity conservations area within vicinity of project area. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Vegetation and terrain type along proposed Existing feeder line alignment feeder alignment

Terrain and vegetation along the feeder Mawsaw existing 33kv substation alignment from Mawsaw – Wahkaji Line

101. Feeder No. 10 - Pongtung Feeder (33 kV Line) of 20 km: The proposed line is located in Pynsursla Block of East Khasi Hill District. The proposed line starts from the 33/11kV existing sub-station, having 1x5 MVA capacity, at Jaklon village and terminates at Pongtung village. Total length of the line is 20 km. The alignment passes through a rural area with hilly terrain and land use is agricultural/community forests/built-up. The proposed alignment mostly follows the existing 11 kV lines, which mostly run along the NH-206 road alignment. The alignment also passes through forests (secondary growth) however there are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. Along the alignment there is a school and four villages. As per division engineer of MePDCL, the gap will be provided between feeder line alignment and school building with adjustment of pole position in final design. A narrow freshwater stream runs parallel to the alignment (on valley side) near the village. For the proposed project line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required along the alignment. Commonly observed trees include Dnkhor, Dingsing, Dingan and Betelnut.

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Vegetation and terrain type along proposed Proposed alignment of feeder along feeder alignment existing road

Proposed alignment of feeder along Proposed alignment of feeder incoming to habitation the proposed substation site

Feeder No. 11 - New Shillong Township Feeder (33 kV Line) of 3 km: The proposed line is located in New Shillong Township of East Khasi Hill District. The proposed line starts from the 132/33kV existing grid sub-station at Indian Intitutite of Management (IIM) Shillong Campus and terminates at Maudiangdiang village. Total length of the line is 3 km. The new 33 kV line will replace the existing 11 kV line currently present between IIM Shillong grid substation and Maudiangdiang village, which mostly runs along the road alignment. The alignment passes through the semi-urban area of Shillong with hilly terrain and land use is built-up/uncultivated land. The alignment also passes through community forests (secondary growth) however there are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

102. The alignment runs parallel to the boundaries of information technology (IT) park, IIM Shillong, a church, and, playground, and crosses the market area in Maudiangdiang and a seasonal stream in Umsawli village and runs through pine forest (not protected) along the road alignment. For the proposed project line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required along the alignment. Common observed trees in the area include Pine, Bamboo and Dingan.

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Existing feeder line along road and land use Road alignment terrain and vegetation type

Pine tree plantation along the road Proposed alignment of feeder incoming from 132/33 kV existing grid substation

103. Feeder No. 12 - Rongjeng Feeder (33 kV Line) of 0.5 km: The proposed line is located in Dambo Rongjeng block of East Garo Hill district. Total length of the line is 500m and it passes through the private agricultural land having paddy crop. The land use of surrounding area is agricultural and residential. A small seasonal stream runs parallel to the proposed 33 kV distribution line. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. 77

Land use and terrain along the proposed feeder Vegetation type along the road and under alignment proposed feeder alignment

104. Feeder No. 13 - Mangsang Feeder (33 kV Line) of 10 km: The proposed line is located in Dambo Rongjeng block of East Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from a 33kV existing line (coming from 132/33 kV Nangalbibra grid sub-station) in Rongjeng village and terminates at Mangsang village proposed sub-station site. Total length of the line is 10 km. The proposed line will mostly follow the road alignment. It crosses three local streams throughout its length. The land use along the alignment is mostly mix type of agriculture/uncultivated/built-up. It mostly runs along the hills and community forests in patches in a rolling terrain. The alignment passes through forests in patches (secondary growth), however there are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required. Trees along the alignment include Teak, Dingan, Beetel-nut, Jackfruit, Banana and Bamboo in addition to other local forest trees. It crosses a market and a school in Mangsang village.

Existing unpaved road for alignment of Vegetation type along proposed feeder proposed feeder line alignment 78

Proposed feeder line through agricultural Proposed feeder line along the habitation field area

105. Feeder No. 14 - Jengjal Feeder (33 kV Line) of 3 km: The proposed line is located in Jengjal block of East Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from the 33/11 kV existing sub- station located at Jengjal and terminates at the proposed substation site at Jengjal. Total length of the line is 3 km. The proposed line will run parallel to Damlung river and NH-217 road to the proposed sub-station site. The land use along the alignment is mostly forest/hill/agriculture/builtup. The alignment will pass through the paddy field initially then runs parallel along the NH-217 road. Hills are present on both sides along the road. The trees include Sal, Teak, Bamboo, Betelnut, Jack fruit, mango and pear on the hill. The alignment will also pass near a school and habitation, however in final design of feeder alignment gap will be maintained between alignment and sensitive structures. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within the project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required.

Land use and terrain under proposed Existing road and available ROW for feeder alignment feeder alignment 79

River running parallel to proposed feeder School along the proposed feeder alignment for few kilometers alignment

106. Feeder No. 15 - Pedaldoba Feeder (33 kV Line) of 18 km: The proposed line is located in Bajengdoba sub-division of East Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from the 33/11 kV existing sub-station at Bajengdoba and terminates at the proposed substation site at Pedaldoba. Total length of the line is 18 km. Revenue office; school and a college under construction are present within 100m from this tapping point. The proposed line will mostly run parallel to existing village road along the Meghalaya-Assam border, however it will also cross hills, streams, habitation and agriculture land in patches. The land use of the region is mainly uncultivated, agriculture and built up land. The major crops include paddy and maize. The alignment will pass along the school and habitation boundaries (20m). There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within the project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the community forests present along the road. The common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs are Betelnut, Jackfruit, Banana, Bamboo, Teak, Peepal. The alignment will cross 4 local seasonal streams. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required.

Land use and terrain under proposed feeder Unpaved road and vegetation type under alignment proposed feeder alignment 80

Proposed location of outgoing feeder from Proposed 33 kV feeder through local forests existing substation

107. Feeder No. 16 - Sibbari Feeder (33 kV Line) of 0.5 km: The proposed line is located in Baghmara block of South Garo Hill district. Total length of the line is 500m and it passes through the private agricultural land having paddy crop. The land use of the area is agricultural. Betelnut, Bamboo, Neem, Mango and Jackfruit plantation is present near the alignment. Cutting/trimming of trees may be required for construction of the 33 kV new distribution line, prior permission for tree cutting and trimming will be taken from concerned community. Nitai river is at 100m offset from proposed line. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Existing feeder line along road and Land use Terrain and vegetation along the proposed feeder alignment 81

Tapping point for proposed 33 kV feeder Proposed feeder running parallel to existing village road

108. Feeder No. 17 - Dagal Apal Feeder (33 kV Line) of 25 km: The proposed line is located in Mendipathar sub-division of North Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from a 33/11 kV existing line at Mendipathar and terminates at the proposed sub-station site at Dagal. Total length of the line is 25 km. The land use of the region is mostly agricultural/community forest and built up. The proposed line will follow the existing Mendi-Songsak road alignment and run parallel to existing 11 kV line from Mendipathar to Dagal and run mostly in agricultural field with paddy cultivation. It will also cross hills, containing community forest and habitation in patches. Permission will be taken from the Forest Department for cutting of trees in the community forest area along the alignment. The major crops of the region are paddy and maize. The alignment will pass along the school and habitation boundaries are at about 100 m. The distribution line will run alongside the army camp, police camp, school and church in Dagal village along the Mendi-Songsak road. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within the project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the community forests present along the roads. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Banyan, Bamboo, Rubber and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required from forest department and concerned village community.

Proposed Feeder alignment along the road Proposed feeder line through agricultural field 82

Proposed feeder line through village Proposed feeder line through local forestry reserved forest

109. Feeder No. 18 - Samgong Feeder (33 kV Line) of 2 km: The proposed line is located in Willaimnagar subdivision of East Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from a 33/11 kV existing line at Dobetkolgre village and terminates at the proposed sub-station site at Samgong village. Total length of the line is 2 km. The land use of the region is residential, institutional and uncultivated land. The proposed line will follow the existing Jail-Samgong village road alignment from the tapping point. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Banyan, Bamboo, Rubber and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. It will cross two streams. There are government offices, a nurse training institute, and a school along the alignment. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the community plantation along the road. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required.

Terrain and vegetation along the proposed Available ROW along the road for Feeder alignment proposed feeder alignment 83

Proposed feeder line along the training centre Proposed feeder line passing along the School

110. Feeder No. 19 - Chirengre (Willaimnagar) Feeder (33 kV Line) of 13 km: The proposed line is located in Willaimnagar sub-division of East Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from the 33/11 kV existing sub-station at Williamnagar sub-division and terminates at the proposed sub-station site in Chirengre village. Total length of the line is 13 km. The land use of the region is residential/commercial/uncultivated. The proposed line will follow the existing 11 kV line and will transverse community forest, village habitations along the road, paddy field and uncultivated lands. The proposed alignment will cross Simsang river and two other seasonal streams (Rongongiri and Apha streams). Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Sal, Bamboo, Rubber and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. The major crops of the region are paddy and maize. There are four villages along the alignment between Williamnagar and Chirengre. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the trees planted along the road. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, permission for cutting and trimming of trees may be required from village community.

Vegetation type along the proposed feeder Simsang river crossing by proposed feeder alignment alignment

111. Feeder No. 20 - Ampati Feeder (33 kV Line) of 15 km: The proposed line is located in Ampati subdivision of South-west Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from the 132/33 kV existing grid sub-station at Chengkompara village of Ampati subdivision and terminates at the proposed sub-station site in Ampati. Total length of the line is 15 km. The land use of the region is agricultural/residential/uncultivated. The proposed line will follow the existing 33 kV line and run parallel Garobadha-Ampati road. The land use along the alignment is mostly agricultural 84 land with paddy crop followed by community forests and habitations in patches. In final design of the feeder alignment adjustment will be done to avoid school and other structures near the proposed alignment. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Sal, Bamboo, Rubber and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. There are ten villages along the alignment between Chengkompara and Ampati. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the community forest in Betasing village. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, prior permission for cutting and trimming of trees will be obtained.

Proposed feeder line passing along the Proposed feeder line through village school building reserved forest

Proposed feeder line through agricultural Proposed feeder line crossing Seasonal field stream

112. Feeder No. 21 - Zikzak Feeder (33 kV Line) of 25 km: The proposed line is located in Ampati subdivision of South-west Garo Hill district. The proposed line starts from 132/33 kV existing grid sub-station at Chirangpara village of Ampati subdivision and terminates at the proposed sub-station at Zikzak. Total length of the line is 25 km. The line alignment will be same as that of Cherengpara – Ampati new distribution line alignment. After Ampati, the alignment will run along the SH-12 road until Zikzak.

113. The landuse of the region is agricultural/uncultivated/residential. The proposed line will follow the existing 33 kV line and run along Garobadha-Ampati road until Ampati and will then run along the SH-12 road thereafter. The land use of the along the alignment is mostly 85 agricultural land with paddy crop followed by community forests and habitations in patches. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Sal, Bamboo, Rubber and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. The major crops of the region are paddy and maize. The alignment will cross a primary health clinic and hill in Zikzak village. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. However, the alignment will cross the community forest at multiple locations in patches. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, permission for cutting and trimming of trees will be obtained from the village community.

Terrain along the proposed Feeder alignment Available ROW along the road for proposed feeder alignment

Proposed feeder hill crossing location Vegetation along the proposed feeder route

114. Feeder No. 22 - Damalgre (Mellim) Feeder (33 kV Line) of 2 km: The proposed line is located in Rerapara block of West Garo Hill. The proposed line starts from a 33 kV existing line at Damalgre market area and terminates at the proposed sub-station at Mellim. Total length of the line is 2 km. The land use of the region is agricultural/uncultivated. The proposed line will run along the Millem-Dorambokgre road. The land use along the alignment is mostly agricultural land with paddy crop followed by community forests over hill. The proposed alignment will pass along a secondary school (100m) and church in Rerapara village. It will also run near the government offices. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Bamboo and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. The major crops of the region are paddy and maize. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within the project area of influence. However, the alignment will run along the community forest at multiple locations in patches. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required. Tree 86 cutting and trimming permission will be taken from concerned village community for trees under the feeder line alignment. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Land use and terrain along the feeder line Available ROW along the road for proposed feeder alignment alignment

115. Feeder No. 23 - Kemragre (Babadam) Feeder (33 kV Line) of 1.5 km: The proposed line is located in Babadam subdivision of West Garo Hill. The proposed line starts from 33 kV existing line at Babadam and terminates at the proposed sub-station at Kemragre. Total length of the line is 1.5 km. The land use of the alignment is mostly plantation and agricultural land. The major crops of the region are maize and paddy. Teak, Betelnut, Banana, Bamboo and Jackfruit are the common trees found along the alignment in-addition to shrubs. The proposed line will run along the Kemragre village road. It also crosses the existing 11kV distribution line and 132 kV transmission line. The proposed alignment will pass along a girls’ hostel at 100m and church at 50m. It will also run near the government offices. All these structures will be avoided in final design by adjustment of locations on poles. There are no protected or biodiversity conservation areas (provincial or national) within project area of influence. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site. For the proposed line, cutting and trimming of trees may be required.

Land use and terrain along the road for Available ROW along the road for proposed alignment of proposed feeder line feeder alignment 87

Proposed feeder line along the girl’s hostel Tapping point for proposed feeder line

C. Environmental Setting of JFPR Components

116. As part of the environmental assessment, field visits were undertaken to the proposed locations of the three solar PV – battery hybrid system/agricultural units and three schools identified for the rooftop solar-PV installations. The objectives of the site surveys are to identify the typical physical, biological and socio-economic conditions in and around the proposed sites. The field surveys along with consultations were undertaken in the month of February 2020.

117. A general overview of the geographical location of the 3 villages and 3 schools are shown in Figure 4. 88

Figure 4. Geographical location of the interventions (villages and schools)

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118. Key environmental features (along with site conditions) of the surveyed sites are discussed in subsequent paragraphs.

C.1 Subproject V.1 Dilma Ading: Hybrid (Solar PV + Battery) Mini-grid, agricultural processing unit

119. The proposed site is located in Dilma Ading village in Khar Khutta Block of North Garo Hills district in Meghalaya state. The terrain of the proposed site is hilly and undulating. Figure 5 show the location of the proposed PV and cold-storage site. The GPS coordinates for this location are 25º51’03’’ N 91º00’35’’ E. The proposed land for project installation is in possession of the village head (Nokma). The total land area available for this is 418 square meters. The community has agreed to donate this land voluntarily. The proposed site is open land without any settlement and is free from all encumbrances. There are no trees and also the land is shadow free. A primary school is located near the identified site. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Figure 5. Location of the Dilma Ading Village Project Facilities

Households

Primary School PV and Cold-storage site

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Dilma Ading village, view of the primary school (left), dense vegetation in HH area

Proposed PV & Cold-storage location

C.2 Subproject V.2 Lower Jambal Hybrid (Solar PV + Battery) Mini-grid, agricultural processing unit

120. The proposed site is located in Lower Jambal village in Khar Khutta Block of North Garo Hills district in Meghalaya state. The terrain of the proposed site is hilly and undulating. Figure 6 show the location of the proposed PV and cold-storage site. The GPS coordinates for this location are 25º50’14’’N 91º50’28’’E. The proposed land for project installation is in possession of the village head (Nokma). The total land area available for the project is 800 square meters. The community has agreed to donate this land voluntarily. The proposed site is open land without any settlement and is free from all encumbrances. However, the site has about 15 jack fruit trees, 4 small mango trees, a few wild trees and lots of bushes. Since the identified area is large, the site for the installation of Solar PV- battery hybrid system can be chosen in the southern side which supports fewer trees. It is anticipated that 3 jack fruit trees will be cut to make it shadow free. Near to the community land, there is a functional sub-centre community place. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

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Figure 6. Lower Jambal Village GPS Coordinates and location

Household

PV site

View of some households in Lower Jambal

C.3 Subproject V.3: Kosigre Hybrid (Solar PV + Battery) Mini-grid, Cold Storage-cum-processing unit

121. The proposed site is located in Kosigre village in Dadenggre Block of West Garo Hills district in Meghalaya state. The terrain of the proposed site is hilly and undulating. Figure 7 show the location of the proposed PV and cold-storage site. The GPS coordinates for this location are 25º42’16’’N 91º14’35’’E. The proposed land for project installation is in possession of the village head (Nokma). The total land area available for this installation is 1813 square meters. The community has agreed to donate this land voluntarily. The proposed site is open land without any settlement and is free from all encumbrances. The land is located in the center of the village. The land is uncultivated open land. A small channel passes along the identified land through 92 which rainwater passes. There are about 20 areca nut trees, 3 jack fruit trees, 2 mango trees, and 1 tamarind tree exists on the identified land. Since the identified area is very big, the site for the installation of Solar PV- battery hybrid system can be chosen where a very smaller number of trees would be cut. It is anticipated that 4 betel nut trees, and 1 jack fruit tree will be cut to make it shadow free. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. Based on site observations and consultation with local villagers and forest officials, no threatened wild animal species were seen/are found in and around the proposed site.

Figure 7. Kosigre Village GPS Coordinates and location

Household

PV site

View of some households in Kosigre

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C.4 Subproject S.1 PV grid-tied power plant at OMED Memorial Secondary School

122. OMED Memorial Secondary School is located at Rajasimla Wari, Kharkutta block of North Garo Hills, Meghalaya. The GPS coordinates for this school are 25º54’44’’N 90º54’0’’ E. Currently the school is connected to a low voltage distribution line. Figure 8 shows the site location. The installation of solar PV systems will be done on the rooftop of the school building. There are 7 tall trees on the periphery of the school that will need to be cut for installation of solar PV systems on the rooftop to make the area shadow free. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. School buildings do not have cultural heritage value.

Figure 8. OMED Memorial Secondary School GPS Coordinates and location

School

View of OMED Memorial Secondary School

C.5 Subproject S.2 PV grid-tied power plant at Adogkre Secondary School

123. Adogkre Secondary School is located at Adokgre village of, Kharkutta Block, North Garo Hills District, Meghalaya. The school is currently connected to a low voltage distribution line. The GPS coordinates for this school are 25º54’44’’N 90º54’0’’ E. Figure 9 shows the site location. There are 3 big trees next to the proposed site which belong to an individual. These trees are located at one side. On the other side there are around 7 trees, but these trees are in the community land. These trees will be trimmed back to make the area shadow free for the 94 installation of solar PV systems on the rooftop. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. School buildings do not have cultural heritage value.

Figure 9. Adogkre Secondary School GPS Coordinates and location

Views of Adogkre Secondary School

C.6 Subproject S.3 PV grid-tied power plant at Songsak Secondary School

124. Songsak Secondary School is located at Songsak village in Songsak block of East Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. The GPS coordinates for this school are 25º38’40’’N 90º37’57’’E. Figure 10 shows the site location. The installation of solar PV systems will be done on the rooftop of the school building. There are a few big trees which fall in the community land. These trees will be either trimmed or cut to make the area shadow free for the installation of solar PV systems on the rooftop. There are no protected areas around the proposed site. School buildings do not have cultural heritage value.

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Figure 10. Songsak School GPS Coordinates and location

School

Views of the School and Roof-top of Songsak Secondary School

D. Physical Environment

D.1 Physiography and Land Use

125. Meghalaya, which was previously part of Assam, became a full-fledged state on January 21, 1972. The state of Meghalaya comprises the Khasi, Garo and Jaintia hills. The state has a 496 km long international boundary with Bangladesh in the south and west. It is bordered by Assam in the north and east. The eastern part is bound by the Karbi Hills which are a 96 continuation of the Meghalaya . To the north and west sides of the state lie an extensive plain drained by the river Brahmaputra and in the south lie the river Surma and its tributaries. Meghalaya has 11 districts, namely, West Jaintia Hills, East Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, North Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, West Garo Hills and South West Garo Hills.

126. The state can, broadly, be divided into three physiographic zones:

(i) Central Plateau Region between 900-2000m elevations; (ii) Sub-montane region in continuation with the Central Plateau below 900m which gradually merges with the plains in the north and west; and (iii) Border region which stretches southwards abruptly from the Central Plateau to the plains in Bangladesh.

127. Meghalaya state is also known as the Meghalaya plateau. The elevation of the plateau ranges from 150m to 1961m. The central part of the plateau has the Khasi Hills and the eastern section is bounded by the Jaintia Hills. The highest point in the state is the Shillong Peak with an altitude of 1961 meters. The Garo Hills bound the western section of the plateau, refer to Figure 11. 128. Forest area in the state (42.22%) dominates the major portion of the land use, however, cover is still below the national norm of 60% recommended for hilly areas. This is because a significant proportion of the population depends on jhum or shifting cultivation which is a direct cause of forest loss and degradation in the short term. Most of the land is rural, with Shillong being the main urban settlement. Only 12.74% is net sown area, which has potential to be increased if and when the fallow lands are utilized for cultivation purposes. 17.43% of the land is under wasteland category (comprising of scrubland, jhum, abandoned jhum lands and degraded scrub forest, with the highest proportion in the West Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills. Figure 12 (Table 13) shows the land use map of the state overlaid with the proposed locations for new 33/11kv substations.

Table 13: Land Use Pattern of Meghalaya State Land Use Area in '000 ha Percentage Total Geographical Area 2243 Reporting area for land utilization 2241 100 Forests 946 42.22 Not available for cultivation 239 10.68 Permanent pastures and other grazing 0 0 lands Land under misc. tree crops and groves 167 7.33 Culturable wasteland 391 17.43 Fallow lands other than current fallows 155 6.92 Current fallows 60 2.68 Net sown 285 12.74 Source: Land use Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, GOI, 2012-13

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Figure 11: Physiography zones of Meghalaya

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Figure 12: Land Use of the State and New Substation Locations under Project

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D.2 Climate

129. The climate of the Meghalaya plateau is influenced by its elevation and physical relief. Based on the weather conditions, the Meghalaya plateau has 4 distinct seasons: (i) the rainy season from May to early October; (ii) the cool season from early October to November; (iii) the cold season from December to February; and (iv) the warm season or hot season from March to April. The western part of the Garo Hills is relatively lower in elevation as compared to the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Garo Hills experiences higher temperature conditions and humidity from February to October. April and May are the warmest months and January is the coldest month. Elevation and slope also influence the distribution of rainfall. Figure 13 shows the agro-climate zones of the state.

130. The Khasi and Jaintia Hills experience a moderate climate because of higher elevation. Warm and humid conditions are prevalent in the foothill region in the south and sub-montane region in the north and central uplands. The plateau experiences a temperature of 24oC throughout the year, Figure 14 depicts the mean annual temperature in the state.

131. The average annual rainfall in state is about 11500 mm. The southern parts of the plateau support the -Mawsynram region which receives the heaviest rainfall, an annual average of 12,670mm. The Khasi and Jaintia Hills receive an average of 7,700 mm of rainfall and lie in the rain shadow area. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, lying about 55 km south of Shillong receive an annual rainfall of about 14,000 mm which is the highest amount of rainfall in the world. Table 14 present district wise annual rainfall data.

Table 14: Year-wise rainfall (mm) in districts of Meghalaya

District (Centre) 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 East Khasi Hills 14026 10072 8082 13302 10722 8952 11069 8927 12327 (Mawsynram) Sohra NA NA NA 12647 11415 9000 13472 8732 13350 West Khasi Hills 4036 3097 2366 4778 NA 3507 3316 2982 NA (Nongstoin) Jaintia Hills () 5374 3042 2898 5379 3094 3025 3404 2964 4254 East Garo Hills 3837 3612 2098 3899 3317 3252 3183 NA 3109 (Williamnagar) West Garo Hills 4107 4652 2528 4265 3632 3355 3278 4003 3580 (Tura) Ri-Bhoi () 1147 1792 1274 3086 3853 3354 1156 6278 NA South Garo Hills 1811 2347 1405 2589 2392 1532 1161 2147 1841 (Baghmara)

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Figure 13: Agro-Climate Zones of Meghalaya

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Figure 14: Mean Annual Temperature in Meghalaya

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Figure 15: Mean Annual Precipitation in Meghalaya

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D.3 Geology and Soils5

132. Geologically the Meghalaya plateau comprises of rocks from the oldest Precambrian gneissic complex to the Recent alluvium formations. The stratigraphic sequence is as follows (i) Cretaceous -Tertiary sediments; (ii) The Sylhet trap; (iii) Lower rocks; (iv) Shillong Group of rocks; and (v) Precambrian gneissic complex (Basement gneiss).

133. The soils of the hills are derived from gneissic complex parent materials; they are dark brown to dark reddish-brown in colour, varying in depth from 50-200 cm. The texture of soils varies from loamy to fine loamy. The soils of the alluvial plains adjacent to the northwest and southern plateau are very deep, dark brown to reddish-brown in colour and sandy-loam to silty-clay in texture. Geologic map of the state is given in Figure 16.

134. Being a hilly region Meghalaya has a wide range of soils in terms of depth, texture, structure, fertility and drainage properties, broadly derived from genesis complex parent material. Soils are largely lateritic and deep to moderately deep with the depth of soil varying from 50 to 200 cm in different parts of the state.

135. Broadly, the central part of Garo Hills and central upland of Khasi and Jaintia Hills have red loamy soils formed as a result of weathering of , gneisses, diorites, etc. Red and yellow fine textured soils raining from loam to silty loam are found along the southern fringes of red loamy soils. Lateritic soils are present in the southern part of the state. Alluvial soils are found all along the southern, western and northern fringes of the state, with sandy to clay loamy texture.

5 http://megdmg.gov.in/features.html 104

Figure 16: Geologic Map of Meghalaya

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136. Soils are by and large highly leached, rich in organic carbon with high nitrogen supplying potential, but deficient in phosphorus and potassium. Soil pH varies from acidic (pH 5.0 to 6.0) to strongly acidic (pH 4.5 to 5.0). There is not much difference in fertility classes of soils across the state. Soils occurring on higher altitudes in the high rainfall belt are strongly acidic due to intense leaching. These tend to be excessively drained and erosion-prone. Soils on very steeply sloping hill escarpments are moderately deep, excessively drained, with coarse-loamy texture, sandy surface with very severe erosion hazard and strong stoniness. Soils on steeply sloping side-slopes of hills are generally moderately deep, excessively drained, with fine-loamy surface. These have severe erosion hazard.

137. Soils on moderately steep side-slopes of hills are deep to moderately deep, excessively drained, with fine loamy surface, moderate erosion hazard and strong stoniness. Soils on moderately sloping side-slopes of hills are deep to moderately deep, excessively drained, with fine loamy surface and moderate erosion hazard. Soils on gently sloping side-slopes of hills are deep to moderately deep, excessively drained, with fine loamy surface and some erosion hazard. Soils on level valley bottoms tend to be deep, very poorly drained, fine in texture with clayey surface and prone to water logging. Soils on gently sloping valleys tend to be deep, well drained, having fine-loamy surface. These are suitable for all kinds of crops with proper management of water. Soils on very gently sloping plains tend to be deep, inadequately drained with loamy surface and mild erosion hazard. Soil type map of the state is given in Figure 17.

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Figure 17: Soil Map of Meghalaya

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D.4 Seismology

138. The great Assam earthquake of 1897 (8

139. As per the 2002 Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) map the entire Meghalaya state has been placed under seismic Zone V and therefore all districts in which the project components are proposed fall in Zone V that has highest potential for occurrence of severe earthquake. Therefore, all the project sites fall under seismic Zone V and in areas liable to seismic intensity MM-IX6 and above. This is the most severe seismic zone and is referred to as Very High Damage Risk Zone. The project areas lie in Zone V, where the maximum intensity could reach (MSK)IX7. It must be noted that the BIS estimates the hazard based on previously known earthquakes. The Figure 18 show seismic map of the state produced by Amateur Seismic Centre, Pune.

Figure 18: Seismic hazards map of Meghalaya state

D.5 Water Resources

6 Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale 7 Medvedev-Sponheuer-Karnik scale 108

140. The annual availability of surface water in Meghalaya is roughly estimated at 63.204 billion cubic meters and the estimated replenishable ground water resources are 1.15 billion cubic meters (Department of Water Resources, Government of Meghalaya website). According to the Central Ground Water Board, 1.04 billion cubic meters of ground water are potentially available for utilization. The state has 8,400 ha of reservoirs and 3,734 ha of ponds and tanks. Due to the high rainfall, the state is endowed with a large number of perennial rivers, streams, lakes, springs and ground water. The average annual rainfall in Meghalaya is 1,1500 mm whereas, Sohra, Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram in Meghalaya receive the highest rainfall in the world i.e. about 11,000 mm annually, but this huge rainfall is concentrated only in monsoon months. 11,667 sq. km of the state drains into the Brahmaputra basin and the rest (10,650 sq. km) into the Barak basin. In contrast during non-monsoon months, most of the rain-fed surface sources and spring sources get dried, leading to water scarcity, which is a major problem. People living in these areas with highly variable rainfall experience droughts and floods and often do not have regular access to water for drinking purposes. Meghalaya being a Sixth scheduled state and the autonomous district councils have some power to legislate on water for agricultural purposes. They can also make laws with respect to the use of any canal or watercourse for agriculture. There is no defined custodian of water resources in the state. It does not have any specific law defining ownership and rights over water resources. Rights are derived from customary beliefs and practices which in turn are supported by several legislations.

D.5.1 Surface Water Resources

141. The river system of Meghalaya comprises mainly of rivers draining to the Brahmaputra Basin in the north and the Meghna Basin in the south. The state has two basins with three catchments, eight sub catchments, 35 watersheds and 179 sub-watersheds. The Brahmaputra river and the Barak river share the catchment area of Meghalaya equally, with the north flowing rivers such as Simsang sharing the Brahmaputra catchment area, while the south flowing rivers such as Kynchiang sharing the Barak basin. The area of Meghalaya is 22,489 sq. km, with the catchment area of Brahmaputra in the state being 53% (11,800 sq. km) and the catchment area of Barak River being 10,650 (47%) sq. km. The main rivers in Meghalaya in the Garo Hills are Simsang, Daring, Sanda, Bandra, Bhogai, Dareng, Nitai and the Bhupai. In the central and eastern section of the plateau, the important rivers are Umkhri, Digaru, Umiam, Kynchiang (Jadukata), Mawpa, Umiew or Barapani, Myngot and Myntdu (Jain et al., 2007). In the absence of soil and water conservation techniques, springs dry up a couple of months after the monsoon rains stop and many villages face shortage of drinking water. Figure 19 shows the location of the proposed substations in the catchment area of various surface water bodies of the state.

D.5.2 Springs

142. Most villages of the state depend on springs as the main source of water for household and irrigation purposes. According to an estimate, the state has over 60,000 springs. A sample survey of 714 springs (MINR, 2015) has revealed that more than half of the total springs have either dried or water discharge from them has significantly reduced. All springs in the state are currently being surveyed by the Soil and Water Conservation Department of the Government of Meghalaya. Water flow in a spring gradually declines after the monsoon ends and may stop altogether during December to March, causing drinking water shortages. Under customary law in the state no specific water related institutions exist. Traditionally, the user of land had the use of water on that land. Streams, rivers, etc. under customary law are considered common property. The drinking water in localities outside the Shillong municipal area is managed by the village dorbars. 109

143. The springs get recharged from the sub-surface flow or from the rainwater that percolates down. But recently climatic variations have affected the health of the springs; due to high variability of monsoon and rise in temperature many of these springs are drying up or becoming seasonal and the discharge during the lean season is declining. Impaired springs have caused widespread water stress in the rural landscape, adversely affecting agriculture, livestock and other allied livelihood activities of the people and causing hardship and drudgery. Despite heavy rainfall, many areas are water-stressed due to an increase in demand-supply gap leading to a surge in the use of groundwater. Further, groundwater data shows that the depletion rate between pre-and post-monsoon period is about 40 to 80% depending on the landscape. The institutional response has been focused on spring development from the supply-side (e.g. tanks and pipes). However, little has been done in terms of identification of source or recharge areas and targeted aquifer protection. So, there is a widespread interest to mainstream hydrogeology and other scientific approaches.

144. The government of Meghalaya has embarked on a spring shed revival programme to construct staggered contour trenches, digging staggered pits, other techniques of impounding rainwater (e.g. ponds and water harvesting structures) and changing the vegetative cover through plantations. The attempt essentially is to increase rainwater percolation and reduce runoff.

D.5.3 Groundwater

145. The annual gross dynamic groundwater recharge of Meghalaya has been estimated as 1.234 billion cubic meter (BCM). The level of groundwater development in the state is 0.15%. Meghalaya is mostly dependent on rain and surface water resources for irrigation purposes. Surface water is abundant but limited during non-rainy season. The importance and contribution of groundwater is felt in the recent years to cope with development and water scarcity in the dry season, particularly to meet the drinking water needs. Though the physiography of the rugged terrain restricts development of groundwater, areas with low gradients and valley areas are favorable areas for groundwater development. Groundwater development in Khasi districts is mainly through dug/open well tapping the water in the weathered zone and bore wells are constructed to tap ground water from the fractures/joints in the hard rocks. In the shallow aquifers, the depth to water level ranges from less than 2m bgl to 6m bgl. Springs play a major role to cater for the water requirements of the people throughout the year. Also, conjunctive use of surface and ground water, as well as rainwater harvesting should be encouraged in the state as this entails the planned and coordinated harnessing of ground and surface water resources to achieve optimal utilization of total resources of the state.

D.5.4 Wetlands

146. In the state of Meghalaya, 259 wetlands have been delineated. Total wetland area estimated is 29,987 ha. West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya support the maximum wetland area at 24% of total. A large portion of wetland areas are also observed in West Khasi Hills, East Khasi Hills and in Jaintia Hills. East Garo Hills and Ribhoi district support only a small portion of the state’s wetland area. 110

Figure 19: Surface Water Hydrology in Meghalaya

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Figure 20: Ground Water Hydrology in Meghalaya

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D.6 Mineral Resources

147. Meghalaya has rich mineral deposits. Important mineral resources found in the state are coal, limestone, feldspar, quartz, glass sand, sillimanite, clay, and kaolin. Coal mining and stone and sand quarrying have grown over the past three decades, especially in Garo Hills, Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills. Since land is owned privately by individuals, clans or communities these mining operations are carried out haphazardly in an unscientific manner and are largely unregulated. Coal and limestone are the most important minerals of the state. Meghalaya has estimated coal reserves of 559 million tonnes (MT), spread over an area of 213.9 sq. km. The Garo Hills district has the maximum coal reserves of 390 MT, followed by West Khasi Hills (98 MT), Jaintia Hills (39 MT), and East Khasi Hills (31 MT). Although no official figures are available, it is reported that there are over 10,000 illegal rathole mines active in three coal mining districts of Meghalaya, mostly concentrated in the East Jaintia Hills (bordering Assam state) region of the state. In 2014, India’s National Green Tribunal banned rat hole mining of coal and its transportation over concerns for the environment and labor conditions in the tribal-majority state of Meghalaya. Unregulated and haphazard coal mining in some parts of the state have resulted in the overburden from mines and quarries flowing into streams and fields, leading to pollution of water sources and loss of productive land. The mines are often within existing village boundaries rather than in exclusive mining areas. The overburden gouged out in the course of mining and construction of storage sites leads to heavy silting and pollution of water bodies downstream and often destroys village areas. D.7 Air Quality

148. The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board is monitoring the Ambient Air Quality in the state under the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) sponsored by CPCB. There is no proper documentation of the air quality at district level. In order to establish a more robust baseline for the project, during the detailed design and pre-construction phase it is proposed to undertake pre-construction air quality measurements at six substation locations where sensitive receptors are in close proximity to the substation boundaries as specified in the environmental monitoring plan. For this IEE the ambient air quality data was taken from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board’s Annual Report 2014 (latest data available) although this is for urban rather than rural areas in which the project components are based. The monitoring under NAMP is being performed for Particulate Matter (PM10), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx). The monitoring data for Shillong, West Garo Hills and East Garo Hills District is presented in the Table 15. Air quality parameters like PM10, SO2 and NOX are well within the permissible limits for India. National Air Quality and Noise Standards are given in Appendix-3. However, PM10 levels exceed the annual WHO guideline for the protection of human health therefore the project needs to ensure that any additional dust generation is kept to a minimum.

Table 15: Ambient Air Quality data Nongstoin (West Police Bazar Tura (West Month Khasi Hills) (Shillong) Garo Hills) 3 PM10 (µg/m ) Jan 29.3 49.1 55.1 Feb 31 45.9 46.7 Mar 30.3 48.9 34.3 Apr 27.2 36.8 31.8 May 27.2 40 33.8 Jun 25.3 39.7 35 Jul 24 37.7 24.4 Aug 23.2 37.6 37.9 113

Nongstoin (West Police Bazar Tura (West Month Khasi Hills) (Shillong) Garo Hills) Sep 22.8 36.1 34.1 Oct 21.3 32.1 36.4 Nov 22.9 39.5 49 Dec 21.1 39.2 31.5 Annual Avg. 25.4 40.2 37.5 CPCB Limit 60 60 60 IFC/WHO Limit 50/20 50/20 50/20 (24hr/annual) 3 SO2 (µg/m ) Jan 2 2 2 Feb 2 2 2 Mar 2 2 2 Apr 2 2 2 May 2 2 2 Jun 2 2 2 Jul 2 2 2 Aug 2 2 2 Sep 2 2 2 Oct 2 2 2 Nov 2 2 2 Dec 2 2 2 Annual Avg. 2 2 2 CPCB Limit 50 50 50 IFC/WHO Limit 20 20 20 (24hr) NOx (µg/m3) Jan 4.7 4.9 4.5 Feb 4.5 5.9 4.5 Mar 4.7 5.5 4.5 Apr 4.5 5.9 4.5 May 4.5 5.1 4.5 Jun 4.5 6.5 4.5 Jul 4.5 8.4 4.5 Aug 4.5 8.2 4.5 Sep 4.5 7.87 4.5 Oct 4.5 6.6 4.5 Nov 4.5 5.2 4.5 Dec 4.5 4.5 4.5 Annual Avg. 4.5 6.2 4.5 CPCB Limit 40 40 40 IFC/WHO Limit (annual) 40 40 40 Source: Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, Annual Report 2014

D.8 Noise Quality

149. In order to establish baseline noise levels around the project area noise level measurements have been undertaken during the daytime around locations of the 23 new substations proposed under the project. Considering the rural set up and locations of substations are mostly at remote areas, 15 minutes noise monitoring was carried out at all proposed 114 substation locations to have fair idea of background noise levels around the proposed project locations. Measurements were taken with the help of Sound Level Meter (Lutron, Model: SL- 4033SD; Frequency and Time weighting meet IEC 61672 class 1). The results of the noise quality have been reported as Leq, L10, L50 and L90.

150. Following photographs shows the equipment used and noise measurement carried out at proposed sites of the substations.

151. The results are compared with CBCB (India) as well as WHO (international) guidelines standards for ambient noise levels. The noise levels so obtained are summarized in Table 16 and presented graphically in Figure 21.

Noise Monitoring at Zikzak Proposed S/S site Noise Monitoring at Dagalapal Proposed S/S site (11/06/2019) (10/06/2019) 115

Noise Monitoring at Cherangre Proposed S/S site Noise Monitoring at Kyunshi Proposed S/S site (06/06/2019) (30/05/2019)

152. It can be seen from Table 16 that the equivalent noise levels at all the monitoring locations is well within the permissible limits of 55 dB(A) set by CBCB (India) as well as WHO (international) guidelines for daytime ambient noise levels. The maximum recoded noise level is 54 dB(A) at three locations namely Nonghyllam (N3), Mylum Tyrsad (N4), and Damalgre (N21); whereas minimum noise levels of 39 dB(A) is recorded at Mawshbuit (N2).

Figure 21: Noise Levels at Project Sites

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Table 16: Noise levels at proposed substations Location N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11 N12 Mylum Name Lawbah Mawshbuit Nonghyllam Tyrsad Dongkingding Myriaw Shallang Nongsba Wahkaji Pongtung Chirengre Samgong Date 22/05/19 24/05/19 27/05/19 28/05/19 29/05/19 30/05/19 31/05/19 01/06/19 03/06/19 04/06/19 06/06/19 06/06/19 1 58 41.2 43.3 58.2 56.8 54.5 35.5 32.8 48.4 42.4 51.5 41.6 2 46.8 42.5 42.4 44 33.9 49.9 45.5 55.9 63.7 51.4 52.2 39.9 3 53.9 37.4 60.9 36.2 30.7 47.3 34.9 49.9 49.5 57 39.5 44 4 51.5 34.7 52.3 34.6 32.4 57.7 29.4 45.5 54.2 43.1 33.3 44.2 5 29.7 37.4 49.7 43.7 36.9 46.1 45.4 45.8 46.1 51.7 34.5 41.5 6 61.2 30.7 36.7 50.2 36.6 59.8 40.3 37.6 45.6 61.5 43.3 49 7 28.5 30.3 55.6 57.3 34.7 47.4 30.7 38.4 52.2 40.3 42.8 49.1 8 33.3 29.5 34.2 60.2 32.7 59.1 30.9 43.5 47.6 44.2 38.1 49.5 9 36.9 40.7 33.1 53.5 39.9 39.6 32.4 37.3 45.3 40.8 50 53.5 10 41.6 38.5 37.1 46.5 48.3 40.4 35.6 50.2 49.9 42.3 31.1 53 11 34.8 31.3 56.9 51.6 41 44.7 42.5 43.4 35.4 38.4 50 39.5 12 38.1 34.1 33.3 51.1 32 44 45.1 51.7 36.1 46.5 30.6 48.5 13 34.5 42.9 57.5 57.9 30.8 47.2 42.8 59.7 41.2 37 30.4 39.6 14 36.2 35.2 60.6 44.1 42.2 39.1 38.7 51.8 43 44.3 29.7 35.3 15 35 43.5 38.9 41.9 36.9 44.7 40.3 36 47.9 44.7 32.5 47.1 Maximum 61.2 43.5 60.6 60.2 56.8 59.8 45.5 59.7 63.7 61.5 52.2 53.5 Minimum 28.5 29.5 33.1 34.6 30.7 39.1 29.4 32.8 35.4 37 29.7 35.3 Leq 15 mins 52 39 54 54 46 53 41 51 53 52 46 48 L10 53.87 41.17 60.58 57.87 42.17 57.67 45.07 51.77 52.17 51.67 49.98 49.47 L50 36.85 35.15 43.25 50.15 34.65 47.15 35.55 45.45 46.05 43.05 38.05 43.95 L90 29.63 30.23 33.23 36.13 30.83 39.53 30.63 37.23 36.03 38.33 30.33 39.43 CPCB Limit 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 IFC/WHO Limit (day/night) 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45

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Location N13 N14 N15 N16 N17 N18 N19 N20 N21 N22 N23 Mangsang Rongjeng Pedaldoba Jengjal Sibbari Dagal Ampati Zikzak Damalgre Babadam Mawdiangdiang Date 07/06/19 07/06/19 08/06/19 08/06/19 09/06/19 10/06/19 11/06/19 11/06/19 12/06/19 12/06/19 14/06/19 1 55.5 43.6 31.6 36.5 50.7 38.7 49 51 37.1 38.3 49.1 2 34.3 44.6 29.5 46.5 36.8 35.4 50.2 57.5 49.9 42.1 42.7 3 54.3 40.1 29.5 43.1 33.4 33.9 41.7 38.3 37.5 51.1 51.9 4 63.1 46.3 29.4 54.5 50.6 30.2 42.6 48 59.8 38.5 50.9 5 40.3 52.3 57.2 48.5 44.3 40.7 52 50.3 46.3 30.2 41.4 6 48.4 41.7 54.4 37.7 50 52.1 43.3 54.2 51.6 31.3 43.8 7 32.6 56.2 57.5 36.9 50.5 31.8 53.6 51.6 56.7 32 49.5 8 43.4 39.9 47.9 35.3 43.6 30.3 42.8 52.9 44.3 31.1 50.6 9 49.5 42.9 30.3 36.4 43.7 40.2 45.2 41.7 47.3 33 48.5 10 39.5 40.8 33.4 45.2 34.8 38.6 46.3 42.5 53.7 32.1 45.8 11 35.4 61.1 29.9 36.6 36.8 34.5 46.5 37.7 56.1 39.1 49.6 12 37.5 38.6 30.3 61.1 38 40.8 42.3 57.8 54.8 31.5 49.7 13 35.8 41.8 29.9 35.5 43.6 32.1 44.1 39.6 43 31.8 47.5 14 36.2 53.7 29.8 39.1 48.1 36.4 53.6 60.1 36 31.4 47 15 38.8 49.6 30 46 51.1 38 45.6 54.5 54.5 30.1 41.5 Maximum 63.1 61.1 57.5 61.1 51.1 52.1 53.6 60.1 59.8 51.1 51.9 Minimum 32.6 38.6 29.4 35.3 33.4 30.2 41.7 37.7 36 30.1 41.4 Leq 15 mins 53 52 50 51 47 42 49 53 54 41 48 L10 54.27 53.67 54.37 48.47 50.47 40.67 51.97 57.47 46.07 39.07 50.57 L50 39.45 42.85 30.22 37.65 43.57 35.35 45.15 50.25 47.25 31.95 48.45 L90 34.23 39.83 29.51 35.53 34.73 30.33 42.23 38.23 37.03 31.03 42.63 CPCB Limit 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 IFC/WHO Limit (day/night) 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45 55/45

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E. Ecological Environment

E.1 Forests

153. The total forest area in Meghalaya is 9,496 sq. km, which comprises of 42% of total land area of 22,429 sq. km. Within the forest area, 10.6 % is classified as reserve forest, 0.13% as protected forest and 88% as unclassified forest. State Forest Department is responsible for the reserved forests and protected areas, and the remaining forests are under the control of Administrative District Councils. Community forests are categorized as ‘unclassified’ forests, while forests under State Forest Department stewardship are ‘reserved forests’ and protected areas. Figure 22 (Table 17) presents the forest cover and protected area of the state and the new substation locations.

Table 17: Notified Forests under Meghalaya State Forests Department S. No. Class of Forests Area (Sq. Km.) 1 Reserved Forests 713.12 2 Protected Forests 12.39 3 National Parks (including proposed) 267.48 4 Wildlife Sanctuaries 34.2 Total 1027.19

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Figure 22: Forest cover and protected areas in Meghalaya

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154. As stated above, 1,027.20 sq. km is under the control of State Forest Department, this constitutes only 4.58% of the total geographical area of the state and 6.56% of the total forest area of the state. The remaining forest area is either private or clan/community owned and is under the indirect control and management of the Autonomous District Councils set up under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India; the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Garo Hills Autonomous District Council and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council. Under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, these District Councils have been vested with legislative, executive and judicial functions in many subjects. Important functions which have implications for Community-Led Landscapes Management (CLLMP) are as follows: • Land other than Reserved Forests • Forests other than Reserved Forests • Regulation of the practice of jhum cultivation or any other form of shifting cultivation • Use of any land or water courses for agricultural purposes

155. The vegetation and forest cover of the state is estimated to be 17,275 sq. km which is 77.02% of the state’s geographical area. In terms of canopy density classes, area under “very dense forests” (VDF) is estimated to be around 433 sq. km., “moderately dense forests” (MDF) is around 9775 sq. km and 7,067 sq. km. area is open forests (OF). Around 485 sq. km. area falls under scrub lands category. Estimated area under Trees Outside Forests (TOF) area is 578 sq. km which is 2.58% of the state’s geographical area. In addition to providing an economic and cultural backdrop for the lives of people, forests in Meghalaya deliver an array of essential local and global environmental services, including water storage and filtration, soil stabilization and carbon sequestration, prevention and reduction of floods, provide food, fodder, fuel, medicines, and materials for construction.

156. Evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous tropical forests occur up to an elevation of 1,200m where average rainfall is between 100-125cm mostly on the north eastern and northern and southern slopes of the states. The sub-tropical forests occur at 1,500 m elevation on the southern slopes of Khasi and Jaintia Hills with annual rainfall of 200-250 cm and severe winters during November to March. Degraded grasslands are found in Khasi and Jaintia Hills and West Garo Hills. According to the Forest Survey of India, total area under forests seems to have marginally increased in Meghalaya. This could be due to the increasing number of afforestation activities undertaken in the state. It should be noted that there has been an increase in the area under scrub forest over the 2003-2011 assessments. Of the total of forest cover, a major chunk of it is open and moderately dense forest.

E.2 Protected Areas

157. The protected area network8 in Meghalaya (Table 18) occupies a 1,133.9 sq.km area which constitutes about 5.06% of the state’s geographical area. The Protected Area Network (Table 18) includes 2 National Parks, 4 Wildlife Sanctuaries and 1 Biosphere Reserve playing an important role in in-situ conservation of biodiversity. The Protected Area Network still supports a viable population of the Endangered Western Hoolock Gibbon, the Bengal Slow Loris is patchily distributed. Primates supported include Stumped Tail Macaque, Assamese Macaque, Northern Pig Tail Macaque, Rhesus Macaque, capped Langur, and the blond bellied langur. Among the carnivores, the Bengal Tiger and the have become extremely rare

8 http://megbiodiversity.nic.in

122 while the adaptable leopards are still widely distributed. Bears include Sun bears, Asiatic Black Bear and the Sloth Bear. Smaller cats like the jungle cat, marbled cat, and leopard cat are still found in these protected areas. Smaller carnivores are also abounding, among them mongoose, badger, binturong, dhole, jackal, weasel, otter, fox and marten. Figure 22 (Table 18) presents the protected areas of the state and the new substation locations.

Table 18: Protected Areas in Meghalaya S. No. Protected Areas Area (Sq. Km.) District 1 Siju Wildlife Sanctuary 5.81 South Garo Hills 2 Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary 29 Ri-Bhoi District Baghmara Pitcher Plant 3 0.02 South Garo Hills Sanctuary 4 Balpakram National Park 220 South Garo Hills 5 Nokrek Ridge National Park 47.78 East Garo Hills East, West and South 6 Nokrek Biosphere Reserve 820 Garo Hills 7 Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary 59.9 East Jaintia Hills

E.3 Biodiversity

158. Meghalaya is part of the Indo- bio-geographic region one of the mega bio- diversity regions of the world. Biodiversity rich areas of Meghalaya are: • Balphakram National Park 2,200 ha. (South Garo Hills) • Nokrek Biosphere Reserve 82,000 ha. (Garo Hills) • Nongkhllem Wildlife Sanctuary 2,900 ha. (Ri-Bhoi) • Siju Wildlife Sanctuary 518 ha. (South Garo Hills) • Sacred Groves 10,000 ha. (all over the state)

159. There are 3,128 species of flowering plants including 1,237 endemic species and several valuable medicinal plant species. Some highly exploited and endangered species include Panax pseudoginseng and Rouvlfia serpetania. Most of the endemic and threatened species are confined to protected forests and sacred groves. Species endemic to Meghalaya includes Aeschynanthes parasiticus, A. superba, Callicarpa psilocalyx, Citrus latipes, Ilex embeloides, Impatiens khasiana, Nepenthes khasiana, Paramignya micrantha and many others. Species that were common about 20 to 30 years ago have become rare (e.g., Dipteris wallichii, Cyathea gigantea, Ilex embeloides, Styrax hookerii and Fissistigma verrucosum) due to overexploitation, and habitat destruction. Beside a large number of amphibian, reptile, fish and bird species, more than 110 mammal species are found in the forests of Meghalaya. Many of the species which were common 20-30 years before, and have become rare due to overexploitation, deforestation and destruction.

160. The rare and highly endangered clouded leopard is the state animal. Other carnivores found here are leopard, leopard cat, jungle cat, golden cat, marbled cat, dhole or Indian wild dog and Indian wolf. Herbivores commonly found are elephant, gaur, sambar, serow and barking deer. Omnivores comprise of jackal, common fox, sloth bear, Himalayan black bear, large Indian civets, yellow throated marten, mongoose, hog badger etc. Among the primates, Hoolock gibbon, the only ape found in India and capped langur, both globally endangered species, are also found in the state. Other primates found in the state are slow loris, pig tailed macaque, stump tailed macaque and rhesus macaque. Reptiles such as the Bengal monitor lizard, water monitor lizard and various snakes like the king cobra, Indian cobra, Indian rock python, banded 123 krait, vipers, keelbacks, vine snakes, trinket snakes, wolf snakes, rat snakes, and, flying snakes are found in the state.

161. The state has a rich bird diversity. The extremely rare Rufous Necked Hornbill as well as the Darter, Dordon's or Blyth's Baza Painted Stork, Lesser or Himalayan Grey headed Fish Eagle, Black or King Vulture, Long Billed Vulture, White-backed Vulture, White-legged Falconet, White-cheeked Hill Partridge, Wood Srupe, Tawny Fish Owl, Blyth's Kingfisher, Sprangled Drongo, and Grey Sibia are found in the state. Species recorded for the first time in Meghalaya during a 1996-1998 survey were the Great Crested Grebe, Black Necked Grebe, Red Necked Grebe, Indian Shag, Little Green Heron, Malay Bittern, Greater Adjutant Stork and Black Headed Gull. The Forest Wagtail was recorded for the second time and that too after a century, the first time was by Hume 1888. More than 400 bird species are recorded from Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary. There is also a notable record of Galiforms found in the State like the Khasi Hills Partridge, Khaleej Pheasant, Jungle Fowl and the most elusive Peacock Pheasant. Every year migratory flocks of Teals, Pintails, and Cormorant (Great Cormorant) visit the state.

162. The streams and rivers also support a considerable amount of wildlife. The Golden Mahseer, which has disappeared from other rivers and streams due to excessive fishing, silting of riverbeds and pollution of water can still be found in the River Umtrew. The rare Khasi Hills Terrapin and the Asian Brown Tortoise are also recorded.9

163. Many species which were common 20-30 years before, have become rare due to overexploitation, deforestation and habitat destruction. Many factors are responsible for loss of biodiversity such as unsustainable land tenure system, poor supervision of community owned forests, conversion of mixed forests into monoculture, urbanization etc.

E.4 Sacred Groves

164. Sacred groves are forest patches, which are protected by communities based on religious beliefs, and have a significant religious connotation for the protecting community. The Khasi, Garo and Jaintia tribes, which comprise over 80% of Meghalaya’s population, have been managing the forests and communal lands and water bodies for centuries under tribal customary law. Each tribe has an elaborate system of use-based classification of their lands and stringent protection of forests designated as sacred groves. These groves are considered as one of the most species-rich areas for plants, birds and mammals. Most of the groves are in the catchment areas of major rivers. The information on floristic richness of the sacred groves of Meghalaya revealed that at least 514 species representing 340 genera and 131 families are present in these sacred forests. Many endemic and threatened species of the state are found in the sacred groves. The sacred grove biodiversity compares favorably with that of the core area of some of the biosphere reserves in this region, which are being managed by the state forest department. This bears testimony to the efficacy of the traditional forest management systems practiced by the locals. 10 Ryngkew, Basa, Labasa are some of the deities to whom these groves are dedicated. Bamboo, Needle wood, Indian birch, White Pear, Royal Robe, Balsum of Peru, Phurse Champ, Lac tree and Plot's Elm are among the most commonly found plant species in the sacred groves.11

9 http://www.megforest.gov.in/wildlife.html 10 http://dspace.nehu.ac.m/bitstream/1/6287/1/Sacred%20groves%20of%20Meghalava%20(BK%20Tiwari).pdf 11 Tiwari B.K., S.K. Barik and R.S. Tripathi, 1999, "Sacred Forests of Meghalaya- Biological and Cultural Diversity", and Barik, S.K., H.N.Pandey, B.K. Tiwari and B. Singh, 2006, " Sacred Groves o f Meghalaya: A sceintific and conservation perspective", Regional Centre, National Afforestation and Eco- Development Board, North- Eastern Hill University, Shillong.

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165. A large and intact grove represents a healthy forest ecosystem that renders valuable ecological services like, soil, water and biodiversity conservation, nutrient cycling and temperature regulation. Carbon sequestration per unit area of the grove is expected to be greater than adjoining secondary forests, understandably due to higher biomass. Tiwari et at (1998) report 79 Sacred Groves from the state. Rodgers (1994) mentions categorization of protected groves in Meghalaya, which was formulated by Durbar of Khasis in 1925 as follows: • Ki Law Lyngdoh: forests under the control of the traditional religious leader (or now village councils): no public use permitted. • Ki Law Kyntang: forests of great sacred value for sacrificial and religious ceremonies. • Ki Law Niam: religious forest (may not be distinct from above). • Ki Law Adong: forest protected for non-commercial use, e.g. water. • Ki Law Shnong: forest resources for village use.

166. Groves are often treated as independent distinct entity for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functioning. Water conservation is perhaps the most well documented ecological service provided by the sacred groves, which provides soil and water conservation which are beneficial for the local inhabitants in terms of less , preventing flash flood, supply of water in lean season, etc.

167. Present day groves are typical representation of islands of native vegetation amidst heterogeneous landscapes. They play a vital role in preserving landscape biodiversity and maintaining ecological services. Groves act as shelter place for forest birds and small mammals during their foraging activities. Sacred Groves of Meghalaya are falling under severe anthropogenic pressure causing fragmentation, area shrinkage and degradation, alien species invasion, grazing, resource extraction. Changing social structure plays an important role in gradual declination of sacred grove system. These nature centric worship places in many areas have already been replaced by temples/solid structures in the name of modernization. Once the god/goddess has been shifted to the temple, the surrounding places become irrelevant to the people, thus immediately converted for other usage. Fragmentation of the groves often affects seed dispersal and regeneration of rare plants which ultimately causes decline of plant population. The availability of pollinators and seed dispersers is adversely affected causing decline in mutualistic relationship between trees and animals. Most studies associate sacred groves with perennial water sources. Comparatively rich vegetation cover and thick litter cover help to regulate the runoff water thus reducing the chances of flash floods (downstream) and release it slowly during lean season. Studies in Meghalaya indicate that well preserved groves efficiently reduce the erosive power of runoff water thus preventing soil erosion and nutrient wash out (Khiewtam and Ramakrishnan 1993).

E.5 Endangered and Threatened Species

168. The current protected area system in Meghalaya is inadequate for biodiversity conservation. National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries of the state are distributed only in low and medium altitudes. Similarly, reserve forests are also restricted to low -medium altitudes whereas, protected forest/green blocks are represented by medium and high altitude. Absence of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries at high altitudes and lack of adequate protection for subtropical and temperate forests of Meghalaya are critical issues for conservation; and found as one of the major gaps in the protected area coverage in Meghalaya. Current threats facing biodiversity are logging, mining and shifting cultivation activities.

169. The state’s undisputed botanical wonder is the endemic carnivorous pitcher plant Nepenthes khasiana, the pitcher plant is found on the moist, south-facing slopes of the West and South Garo Hills, West and East Khasi Hills and the Jaintia Hills. Despite being a source of 125 pride for the state, the plant’s habitat has suffered due to coal mining in the Rymbai and Khliehriat areas of the Jaintia Hills. Only two small sanctuaries for the plant exist, at Baghmara, under the forest department and at Jarain, under the Jaintia Hills District Council.

170. The Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosi) is a Schedule-I animal, according to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, classified as Vulnerable (VU) by the IUCN, which is found within Meghalaya. The globally endangered Indian Wild Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee) is still found in small groups of 10 to 20 in the Balpakram-Siju-Baghmara belt and adjacent areas including parts of the West Khasi Hills. Shalyni barb (Pethia shalynius) is a species of cyprinid fish found in hill streams of Meghalaya, and spawns in rice paddies which is currently on IUCN list of vulnerable species as with the increase in coal mining there are reports of heavy metals affecting this species and the quality of habitat, which is declining. The Khasi Hill Rock Toad also known as Mawblang Toad (Bufoides meghalayanus) (IUCN Engaged species) is found in Cherrapunjee area, East Khasi Hills, usually occurring in forest areas dominated by screw pine trees, however the habitat has been affected due to extensive rock-blasting and stone quarrying near Cherrapunjee and the Mawblang plateau area. Other Schedule-I species found in Meghalaya include the Black Spotted Turtle, Assam Roofed Turtle, Bengal Slow Loris, Guar, four horned Antelope, Capped Langur, Western Hoolock Gibbon, Chinese Pangolin, Sun Bear, Sloth Bear, Red Panda, Hedged badger, Oriental Small-clawed Otter, Large Indian Civet, Marbled Cat, Asiatic Golden Cat Leopard, Tiger and Asiatic Elephant.

E.6 IBAT Screening of Key Biodiversity Areas

171. The districts in the western half of the state covering the Central, East Garo, and West Garo Circles in which construction works will take place plus a buffer zone have been screened to determine presence of key biodiversity areas (KBAs) using the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT).12

172. Screening using IBAT (Appendix 4) shows that there are six protected areas (including Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary, there are actually seven protected area in the state, but this protected area falls outside the districts in which construction will take place), 11 KBAs and 124 potential threatened species (within 50 km) listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list potentially coinciding with the area in which in which construction works will take place. Excluding marine and fish species, 30 are classified as critical and endangered species. The IBAT map of Meghalaya state showing the location of KBAs (in pink) and protected areas (in orange) is provided in Figure 23 and the IBAT screening report is provided as Appendix 4. The protected areas are: (i) Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary; (ii) Balpakram National Park; (iii) Nokrek Ridge National Park; (iv) Nokrek Biosphere Reserve; (v) Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary; and (vi) Siju Wildlife Sanctuary. Details of these protected areas are provided in Table 18. The KBAs are (i) Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary; (ii) Balpakram National Park complex; (iii) Chandubi Lake and adjoining areas; (iv) Cherapunjee: cliffs, gorges and sacred groves; (v) Mawphlang Sacred Grove; (vi) Nokrek Ridge National Park; (vii) Rongrengri; (viii) Siju Wildlife Sanctuary; (ix) Tanguar Haor and Panabeel; (x) Upper Shillong area and (xi) Umiam Lake.

12 IBAT is a multi-institutional programme of work involving BirdLife International, Conservation International, IUCN and UNEP-WCMC. IBAT provides a basic risk screening on biodiversity. It draws together information on globally recognised biodiversity information drawn from a number of IUCN’s Knowledge Products: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Key Biodiversity Areas (priority sites for conservation) and Protected Planet/The World Database on Protected Areas (covering nationally and internationally recognised sites, including IUCN management categories I–VI, Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance and World Heritage sites).

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173. The new substations are located in rural areas mostly on the open land available on the outskirts of villages; and the alignments of the 33kV and 11 kV distribution lines mostly follow the alignment of existing roads. Habitat analysis (Table 19) carried out for the 30 critically endangered and endangered species reported in the project area of influence shows that, given habitat preferences, it is unlikely that these 30 species will be regularly found within the direct impact zone of the proposed project facilities especially since protected areas and reserved forests are to be avoided.

174. During site visits no threatened species were observed in the project area, and consultations with forest officials and local communities did not identify the presence of any species of concern. However, in order to confirm this in the case in conjunction with the detailed route surveys of 33kV/11kV distribution lines a qualified terrestrial ecologist will undertake an ecological walkover survey of the routings to map biodiversity habitats and species encountered.

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Figure 23: IBAT Screening Map of PAs and KBAs with Project Facilities

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Table 19: Habitat Analysis for Project Area of Influence – Meghalaya Distribution Project

Common Name S.No. IUCN Category Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence (Species Name) 1 Steppe eagle EN Rocky areas (e.g. inland cliffs, mountain Yes: non-breeding range extend into parts of India including (Aquila nipalensis) peaks), Grassland, Savanna Meghalaya, eBird has infrequent records from project area https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22696038/155419092

2 Arachnochium EN Wetlands (inland) - permanent Extant (resident) - Assam state and probability of extended kulsiense Rivers/Streams/Creeks (includes waterfalls) in Meghalaya https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/197692/2496198 3 White-winged duck EN Forest - Subtropical/Tropical Moist Lowland Yes: native to including Meghalaya, (Asarcornis Wetlands (inland) - Permanent although eBird has no reported records from project area scutulata) Rivers/Streams/Creeks (includes waterfalls), https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22680064/110103586 Permanent Freshwater Marshes/Pools (under 8ha) 4 Hog deer EN Wetlands (inland), Subtropical/Tropical Yes in suitable habitat: native to northeast India including (Axis porcinus) Seasonally Wet/Flooded Grassland and Meghalaya Subtropical/Tropical Moist Shrubland https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41784/22157664

5 Baer's pochard CR Around lakes and other freshwater habitats Low based on known records: possibility in north east (3 (Aythya baeri) (including artificial habitats such as fishponds) were observed in Assam during 2014-15) India, extended with rich aquatic vegetation, typically but not habitat to Meghalaya, eBird has infrequent records from exclusively in dense grass or flooded project area tussock/shrubby meadows https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22680384/154436811

6 Three-striped CR Wetlands (inland)- Terrestrial & Freshwater None: Habitat range limited to the Ganga lowlands of roofed turtle Rivers/Streams/Creeks (includes waterfalls) northern India and Bangladesh. In northeast India extended (Batagur dhongoka) including Dams habitat in Assam only. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/10953/152042542 7 Khasi Hill Rock EN Montane forest dominated by screw pine trees Yes in suitable habitat: mainly reported in Meghalaya and Toad furcatus and is found in crevices Mizoram states. Three sites in the Cherrapunjee area within (Bufoides inside sandstone boulders and in rocky ravines 1.5 km of each other, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India meghalayanus) in the vicinity of wet seasonal streams https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/54800/19625860

8 Hispid hare EN Habitat occupies tracts of early successional None: the species habitat distribution in include (Caprolagus tall grasslands "elephant grass" in dry season, the countries of Bangladesh, India, , and . In hispidus) most grassy areas in marshy areas or grasses northeast India mainly limited to Assam state, not reported adjacent to riverbanks. by IUCN from Meghalaya. 129

Common Name S.No. IUCN Category Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence (Species Name) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/3833/45176688 9 Dhole EN For habitat wide variety of vegetation include Yes in suitable habitat, habitat occurs throughout South and (Cuon alpinus) primary, secondary and degraded forms of East Asia region. In India also found in northeastern states tropical dry and moist deciduous forests; including Meghalaya. evergreen and semi-evergreen forests; https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/5953/72477893 temperate deciduous forests; boreal forests; dry thorn forests; grassland–scrub–forest mosaics; temperate steppe; and alpine steppe 9 Keeled box turtle EN Wetlands (inland)- Terrestrial & Freshwater Yes in suitable habitat, habitat occurs Southeast and South (Cuora mouhotii) Asia, in northeastern states of India including Meghalaya. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/163414/97359633 10 Asian elephant EN Habitat in grassland, tropical evergreen forest, Yes, the species occurs in South Asia and South-east Asia. (Elephas maximus) semi-evergreen forest, moist deciduous forest, In northeastern India mainly found in Garo Hills, Khasi Hills, dry deciduous forested and dry thorn forest, as parts of the lower Brahmaputra plains and Karbi Plateau of well as cultivated and secondary forests and Meghalaya state. scrublands https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/7140/12828813 11 Yellow-breasted CR Wetlands (inland), Grassland, Shrubland, Yes in suitable habitat; in winters the species reported in bunting Artificial/Terrestrial South and South-East Asia region. Including Meghalaya (Emberiza aureola) and other northeastern states of India. eBird has infrequent records from the project area. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22720966/119335690

12 White-rumped CR Forest, Grassland, Shrubland, Savanna, Yes, the species habitat in South Asia and South-east Asia. vulture Artificial/Terrestrial Nearly disappeared from South-East Asia region. Found all (Gyps bengalensis) over India including Meghalaya except high altitude of Himalaya. eBird has infrequent records from the project area. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695194/118307773 13 Slender-billed CR Forest, Grassland, Shrubland, Savanna, Low based on known records; the species habitat in South- vulture Artificial/Terrestrial east Asia and South Asia including India mainly the (Gyps tenuirostris) Gangetic plain of north India, west to at least Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, south to southern West Bengal (and possibly northern Orissa), east through the plains of Assam only. Not reported by IUCN in Meghalaya State but eBird has infrequent records from the project area. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22729460/117367614

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Common Name S.No. IUCN Category Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence (Species Name) 14 Hume’s rat EN Species habitat in tropical evergreen & moist None; the species is endemic to northeastern India only (Hadromys humei) deciduous forests. recorded from Angarakhata in of Assam state, Bishnupur and Senapati district of Manipur at elevations ranging between 900 and 1,300 m ASL. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/9618/22410442 15 Pallas's fish-eagle EN Habitat mainly in wetlands principally large Low based on known records; the species habitat in (Haliaeetus lakes and rivers, from the lowlands to 5,000 m northern India (apparent strongholds in Assam and leucoryphus) Uttarakhand), Bangladesh and Myanmar, with very small numbers in Bhutan including Kazakhstan, Russia and Mongolia in its non-breeding season. eBird has infrequent records from the project area. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695130/131934599

16 Western hoolock EN The species inhabits tropical evergreen Yes in suitable habitat; mainly found in eastern Bangladesh, gibbon rainforests, tropical evergreen and semi- northeastern India (Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, (Hoolock hoolock) evergreen forests, tropical mixed deciduous , and ), and northwestern Myanmar (west forests, and subtropical broadleaf hill forests. of the Chindwin River). https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39876/17968083 17 Bengal Florican CR Prefer habitat include lowland dry, or None; the species has two disjunct habitats, one in the (Houbaropsis seasonally inundated, natural and semi-natural , the other in South-East Asia. One bengalensis) grasslands, often interspersed with scattered occurs from Uttar Pradesh, India, through the of Nepal, scrub or patchy open forest. to Assam, and historically to Bangladesh. eBird has no records from Meghalaya state. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22692015/130184896 18 Elongated tortoise CR Primary habitat are deciduous forest types None; the species habitat widely distributed across South (Indotestudo (Sal, Dry Dipterocarp, Mixed Deciduous and Southeast Asia. South Asia include foothills of elongate) forests) with open, broken canopy allowing with localized occurrences in northern and sufficient light for a moderate to very dense eastern India, Nepal and Bangladesh, Bhutan and much of undergrowth of grasses and herbs; during the Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia, and scattered dry, leafless season animals may retreat to occurrences in Lao PDR and Viet Nam, and extreme evergreen stream gallery forest, mostly from northwestern Peninsular . hilly areas with low altitude to about 600 m https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/10824/152051190 altitude 19 Swamp grass- EN It is found in long grasslands, sometimes None; reported in the plains of the Brahmaputra River, babbler where mixed with acacias and tamarisks, Assam and western Bihar in north-east India and adjacent (Laticilla mainly in the vicinity of large rivers and their northern Bangladesh. eBird has no records from Meghalaya cinerascens) tributaries and in swamps. state. 131

Common Name S.No. IUCN Category Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence (Species Name) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22735351/111366336 20 Greater adjutant EN Inhabits wetlands, nesting in tall trees with Low based on known records; historically was widespread (Leptoptilos dubius) closed canopies and bamboo clumps around and common across South and continental South-East Asia nesting trees. region. Now, in India mainly found in Assam (Kamrup District) and Bihar (Ganga and Kosi river floodplains). Not reported by IUCN in Meghalaya state. eBird has infrequent records from the state. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697721/93633471

21 Indian pangolin EN Species occur in various types of tropical Yes in suitable habitat; found in South Asia from northern (Manis forests as well as open land, grasslands, arid and southeastern Pakistan through much of India south of crassicaudata) areas & degraded habitat the Himalayas (excluding far northeastern portions of the country), southern Nepal, and in northern and western Bangladesh. In eastern state record of the species reported and it possibly occurs in Meghalaya https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12761/123583998 22 Chinese pangolin CR Habitats include primary and secondary Yes in suitable habitat; the species found in the Himalayan (Manis tropical forests, limestone, bamboo, broadleaf foothills of Nepal, southern Bhutan, north and northeastern pentadactyla) & coniferous forests, grasslands & agricultural India including Meghalaya, northeast, northwest and fields southeastern Bangladesh, northern and western Myanmar, to northern and Annamite regions of Lao PDR and northern Viet Nam, part of northwestern Thailand, and across southern PRC. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12764/123585318 23 Asian giant tortoise CR Inhabits evergreen forest, from lowland regions Yes in suitable habitat; species reported from Bangladesh (Manouria emys) up to altitudes of about 1,000 m. and northeastern India through mid-elevation hilly areas of Myanmar, and western and southern Thailand through Malaysia and https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12774/152052098 24 Egyptian vulture EN Rocky areas (e.g. inland cliffs, mountain Low based on available records; the bulk of species (Neophron peaks), Wetlands (inland), Grassland, population occurs in Ethiopia and East Africa, Arabia and percnopterus) Shrubland, Savanna, Artificial/Terrestrial the Indian Subcontinent. eBird has no records from Meghalaya. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695180/154895845 25 Tiger EN Habitat in the forests of tropical Asia Yes in suitable habitat; species widely spread across Asia, (Panthera tigris) (Temperate, Subtropical/Tropical Dry, Moist now habitat is found in eight range states: Bangladesh, Lowland 132

Common Name S.No. IUCN Category Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence (Species Name) Mangrove Vegetation Above High Tide Level) Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Russia, and Thailand. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/15955/50659951 26 Manipur bush-quail EN Inhabits damp grassland with tall grass, bogs Low based on available records; species reported from (Perdicula & swamps, and in vegetation up to 3m northern West Bengal, Assam and Manipur in north-eastern manipurensis) India, with unconfirmed historical records from Nagaland and Meghalaya in India and Chittagong, and Sylhet districts, Bangladesh. eBird has no records from Meghalaya. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22679012/112384972 27 Raorchestes CR Mainly tropical moist forest and moist lowland Yes in restricted habitat; this endemic species is restricted shillongensis to a small area of forest, in and around Shillong, Meghalaya. It has been recorded from elevations below 1,400m ASL. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/58902/11852580 28 Red-headed vulture CR Inhabits in well-wooded hills and dry deciduous None; mainly found in Bangladesh; Cambodia; People’s (Sarcogyps calvus) forest with rivers, usually below 2,500m. Republic of ; India; Lao People's Democratic Republic; Myanmar; Nepal; Viet Nam. Lesser possibility in Meghalaya state. eBird has no records. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695254/118371885 29 Gee’s golden langur EN Found in moist evergreen, dipterocarp, None; species occurs only in Bhutan and north-eastern (Trachypithecus riverine, and moist deciduous forests, and India, Assam state. geei) occasionally in degraded habitats with https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22037/9348940 secondary growth 30 Phayre’s Leaf EN Primary and secondary evergreen and semi- None: range does not extend into Meghalaya Monkey evergreen forest, mixed moist deciduous https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22040/93 (Trachypithecus forest, but is also found in bamboo-dominated phayrei) areas, light woodlands, and near tea plantations

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E.7 Protected Archaeological and Historic Sites

175. Table 20 is a list of Monuments of National Importance as officially recognized by Archaeological Survey of India. There are also state protected monuments, archaeological sites that have been recognized by the ASI in Meghalaya, in the West Garo Hills, these include excavated temples, Buddhist Stupa and a Fortress. None of these sites are affected by the proposed project activities.

Table 20: Protected Archaeological and Historic Sites

S.No. Name of monuments/ sites Location District Megalithic Bridge on the Um-Nyakaneth, Um- 1 Jaintia Hills between Jaraem and Syndai Nyakaneth Megalithic Bridge known as Thulum-wi between 2 Maput Jaintia Hills Jowai and Jarain, Maput,

3 Megalithic Bridge on the Um-Kumbeh Jaintia Hills Um-Kumbeh Stone memorial of U.Mawthaw - dur-briew, 4 Nartiang Jaintia Hills Nartiang 5 Tank, Syndai Syndai Jaintia Hills 6 Stone memorial of U-Mawthoh-dur, Bhoi Country Bhoi Country East Khasi Hills 7 Scott's Memorials, Cherrapunji Cherrapunji East Khasi Hills 8 Manipur Memorial, Shillong Shillong East Khasi Hills

F. Socio-Economic Resources

F.1 Demography

176. The total population of Meghalaya is 2,964,007 with a gender ratio of 1.01 females to males. The literacy rate is 75.48% (Census 2011). Vulnerable people, including some of the important tribes that constitutes the demographics of Meghalaya are Garo (approximately 1,103,115 people), Khasi (approximately 1,209,660) and Jaintia (approximately 392,852), have social issues and problems in relation to their living conditions. The majority of these people live in the area around Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Places like Nongtoin, Tura, Baghmara, Williamnagar, Jowai, etc. rank high in terms of the density of population. Areas around the Garo hills, especially the places around the northern, southern and the western fringes. The census also shows the presence of a lot of Christians within the territory. However, there will be no negative impact on these vulnerable groups as a result of the project as the project activities focused on distribution system enhancement. In contrast, the improved electricity service as a result of the project will be a significant benefit to these communities. 13 F.2 Health and Education

177. In general, people have access to social services and several hospitals and colleges established by government and private authorities. In all towns and villages related to the project sites there are schools and medical clinics. In the larger urban centers such as Shillong, Tura and Jowai these services are generally quite good.

13 Chandramouli, C., & General, R. (2011). Census of India, Government of India. 2011. Provisional Population Totals. New .

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178. There are 112 Higher Secondary Schools, 783 Secondary Schools and nearly 66 Private and 22 Government Universities and Colleges in the state. Meghalaya has nearly achieved universal primary education, with gender equity in enrolment rates.

179. Under the National Health Mission Meghalaya there are 13 Hospitals with Health and Ambulance Facilities.

F.3 Cultural heritage

180. Meghalaya has a long history of human habitation and is steeped in culture that has been enriched throughout centuries of changing rule and influence. Meghalaya has 300 types of fossil flora and fauna collected to date.

181. Meghalaya has various tourist attractions such as caves, national parks and sanctuaries, sacred groves, waterfalls, lakes and rivers–making it an ideal tourism destination. 182. Shad Suk Mynsiem, Nongkrem dance, Wangala, Behdeinkhlam, Laho dance, Chad Sukra, Autumn festival, Strawberry festival, Ranikor festival are the well-known festivals of Meghalaya. Williamson Sangma State Museum, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, and the Entomological Museum (Butterfly Museum) are the famous museums of Meghalaya depicting its rich cultural heritage.

F.4 Economic Development

183. Meghalaya has rich mineral resources, with reserves of 576.48 million tonnes of coal, 15,100 million tonnes of limestone, 12 million tonnes of fire clay, 97 million tonnes of lithomargic clay, 1.45 million tonnes of bauxite, 0.015 million tonnes of phosphate rocks, 0.045 million tonnes of sillimanite, 50 million cubic meters of granite and substantial reserves of quartz, feldspar, gypsum and uranium. Although no official figures are available, it is reported that there are over 10,000 illegal rathole mines active in Meghalaya with such mining activity providing a livelihood for certain local communities.

184. The mining industry is emerging in Meghalaya; most of the coal and stones are being exported to Bangladesh. Meghalaya has a climate that supports agricultural and horticultural activities. The state offers potential for investment in these areas. It supports multiple crops viz., rice, maize, pulses, oilseeds, cotton, jute and mesta. Meghalaya produces substantial quantities of oranges, peaches, pineapples, pears, guavas, plums, bananas, potatoes, tapioca, bay leaves, ginger, maize and jackfruit.

185. The natural resources, policy incentives and infrastructure of the state favors investments in the tourism, hydroelectric power, manufacturing and mining sectors. Agriculture sector contributed around 13.0 per cent to the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in 2011- 2012. Mineral, horticulture, electronics, IT, export-oriented units and tourism have been identified as the thrust sectors for industrial development. As of 2009, there were 120 registered factories in the state. As of 2008-2009, the state had 6,842 small scale industries. The Commerce & Industries Department of Meghalaya and its constituent unit, Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), are jointly responsible for the development of industrial infrastructure in the state.14

14 https://www.ibef.org/download/Meghalaya-110313.pdf 135

F.5 Infrastructure

186. Transport in the project areas is largely by road. Meghalaya had a total road length of 11,984km, with a road density of 53.43 km per 100 sq km, as of March 2011. The state is well connected to its neighboring northeastern states and other parts of India through five National Highways (NH): NH-40, NH-44, NH-51, NH-62 and NH-127B. The Meghalaya Transport Corporation provides bus transport services across the state.

187. Railways and Airports: The nearest railway station is Guwahati, Assam. New railway lines on Azra-Byrnihat, Dudhnoi-Mendipathar and Byrnihat-Shillong routes are under construction.

188. Meghalaya has two airports located in Shillong and Baljek. The (Umroi Airport) is fully operational, while the Baljek Airport is under construction/upgradation. The Airports Authority of India has taken up a proposal to upgrade the Shillong Airport to enable large aircrafts to operate.

189. Water Supply and Sanitation: Access to safe water supply and sanitation impacts the health and hygiene conditions of communities. The average per capita supply of water in major cities and towns is 150 to 200 liters per day. In most of the rural areas the main source of drinking water is freshwater springs and stream; in towns this source is supplemented by supplied water. Being a state with major rainfall, water supply is not usually an issue for the project area and demand can easily be met by local sources during the monsoon, but post- monsoon springs and streams may dry out leading to drought. The project area is of low-medium risk in terms of water stress.15

190. In regard, to access to hygienic sanitation 71% of the population are able to access improved sanitation. These figures do not reflect the significant disparity between urban and rural areas (urban areas much higher than rural). Domestic wastewater is generally released into the environment untreated.

191. Waste Management: Solid waste management facilities are available only in urban centers like Shillong but even here there is only one sanitary engineered landfill designed for waste that cannot be composted or recycled, other dumping grounds are open dumpsites where leachate is free flowing to the surrounding environment. A 100 tons per day (TPD) compost plant in Shillong and 40 TPD plant in Tura are operational in the public private partnership (PPP) made for safe disposal of solid wastes. Sites have been identified in Williamnagar, Baghmara and Resubelpara and work has commenced on developing compost plants here. In rural areas residents usually either compost their waste in pits or burn it. Sometimes they may also throw the waste in the nearest watercourse. As at present there are no hazardous waste facilities or authorized venders in Meghalaya state to deal with PCB oil and other hazardous waste materials so it is likely that authorized venders in Assam would need to be used.16

192. Energy Meghalaya has an installed power generating capacity of about 55,832 MW, comprising 353.03 MW from state utilities and 205.28 MW from central utilities. Of the total installed power generation capacity, 387.19 MW was contributed by hydropower,140.09 MW by thermal power, and 31.04 MW by renewable power.

193. During 2015-2016, 315 kW solar PV power plants of different capacities were being installed across government buildings as well as rooftops in the state. Work on manufacturing

15 https://www.wri.org/applications/aqueduct/water-risk-atlas 16https://pcb.assam.gov.in/sites/default/files/swf_utility_folder/departments/pcb_lipl_in_oid_8/portlet/level_1/files/LIS T%20OF%20THE%20UNITS%20REGISTERED%20WITH%20STATE%20POLLUTION.pdf 136 of 10 kW wind solar hybrid system in the government college at Tura has also been taken up during 2015-2016.

194. Under the 12th Five Year Plan, valid from 2012 to 2017, the state government proposed an outlay of $ 603.02 million, wherein, 11.97% was proposed for power generation, 28.95% for power transmission and distribution and the rest was proposed for survey and investigation, re-engineering works, etc. Another $3.98 million was proposed for non-conventional sources of energy.

195. As per state budget 2016-2017, the 2×20 MW New Umtru Hydro Electric Project (NUHEP) is set to be commissioned within 2017-2018 with the first unit expected to go for trial run in the last week of March 2017.

196. Rural electrification was taken up as a key initiative under the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana, which was launched in 2015. The operational electrification scheme, that is, Rural Electricity Infrastructure and Household Electrification, was subsumed in the scheme launched in 2015. During 2015-2016 (April to November), one village was electrified.

197. As per the budget 2017-2018, MNREDA is implementing projects to popularize renewable technologies such as solar, wind, biogas, biomass, etc. Under the solar component of the new and renewable energy, 1,067 kW of solar power plants have been installed in the State so far. The Government is setting up two Solar Parks of 10 MW each in the East Jaintia Hills and the West Jaintia Hills District.

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V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

198. This chapter presents the potential environmental impacts of the project and the recommended mitigation measures to address adverse environmental impacts. The environmental impacts are structured into three phases as the (i) detailed design and pre-construction phase; (ii) construction phase; and (iii) operational phase of the project. It is based on preliminary locations earmarked for the 23 new substation sites and provisional routing alignments for about 312km of 33 kV distribution line connecting the 23 new substations with existing substations. For other new 33/11 kV lines, alignments will be determined following detailed route surveys. Therefore, following finalization of the 33/11 kV line route alignments and 11 kV existing lines to be reconducted, further assessment will need to be undertaken in accordance with the EMP to confirm the impacts and risks and the IEE updated and cleared by ADB.

199. Considering the nature and footprint of the project activities, the project area of influence is considered as a 500m radius around the substations and 50 m along the distribution line alignments (existing ROW for 33 kV and 11 kV distribution lines is 15 m and 7 m). The ROW of the distribution lines (ROW for 33 kV and 11 kV distribution lines is 15 m and 7 m) is considered as the direct impact zone along the alignment. However, the potential impact zone is considered up to a 5 km radius of substations and distribution line alignments in respect of indirect impacts on environmentally sensitive areas such as national protected areas networks. The potential impacts and risks from the project were assessed based on these considerations and the available design information. Major permanent physical impacts of the project will take place by construction of proposed new substations and installation of 33kV and 11kV new distribution lines.

200. The assessment was carried out through site surveys, public consultations and interviews with stakeholders and assessment of the environmental setting of the project areas. The maps for locations such as protected areas, culturally sensitive areas, geology, land use, and secondary data on environmental and socio-economic settings in the project region (Central, West Garo and East Garo) were generated to determine the extent of the impacts of the project to the environment and communities. Primary baseline data was collected to supplement gaps in the secondary data.

201. The following sections present the potential environmental impacts of the project during various phases of project implementation.

A. Impacts and Mitigation Measures Due to Project Design and Pre-construction Phase of MePDCL Components

202. The distribution system component involves construction of new substations and laying the new 33kV and 11 kV lines from existing 33 kV/11 kV substations to connect to new substations and associated feeders for power evacuation. The potential impacts during the detailed design and pre-construction phase of the MePDCL components are mostly related to construction of the proposed new substations and installation of 33kV and 11kV new distribution lines. The route of the new 33/11kV feeder lines will be aligned alongside existing lines and/or along the alignment of existing road corridors although some sections may need to pass thorough agricultural or plantation areas.

203. The principles that have been (and will be) adopted for selection of optimum sites and routings for the various project components are: (i) minimize disturbance of human settlements (minimum or no land acquisition or resettlement); (ii) avoid monuments and all resources of 138 cultural or historical importance; (iii) do not create a threat to the survival of any community with special reference to ethnic minority communities; (iv) do not affect any public utility services or community facilities like playgrounds, schools etc.; (v) do not encroach or pass through any protected area i.e. wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, reserve forests etc. or key biodiversity areas; and (vi) minimize damage to existing trees/forest resources. In relation to the selection and design of new equipment this will be done to comply with national requirements as well as considering international good practice as per the IFC Guidelines on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution dated 30 April 2007 particularly with respect to avoiding the use of PCB oils in the purchase of transformers and use of asbestos containing materials in construction.

A.1. Encroachment into Areas of Cultural/Historical Significance, Protected Areas, Forests and Areas of Biodiversity Value

204. New substation sites are located in semi-urban/rural areas on land owned by community or private individuals. Mostly the identified locations are on uncultivated land with few trees and vegetation growth of mainly shrubs and grasses. For new substations, 33kV feeder lines from existing 33/11kv substations require erection of new poles and conductors mostly along existing road corridors within the available right of way or potentially crossing agricultural or plantation land.

205. There are no sensitive cultural or biodiversity receptors of international, national, state or district importance including protected areas, key biodiversity areas, forest areas, sacred groves, or historical / cultural monuments around the substation sites or along the alignments of the 33kV distribution lines that will be impacted from the construction or operation of the substations and distribution lines. In conjunction with detailed route surveys of 33kV/11kV distribution lines, to confirm this in the case for all distribution lines a qualified terrestrial ecologist will undertake an ecological walkover survey of the routings to map habitats and species encountered as well as confirming the absence of sensitive receptors. Locally important receptors (e.g. trees and physical cultural resources) if any will be avoided to the extent possible during survey works for the distribution lines.

206. Once installed the main biodiversity impact from distribution lines is electrocution of animals. For example, elephants in forest areas have been electrocuted by distribution lines,17 electrocution of bats handing on wires, and birds of prey when coming into contact with live conductor cables either when perched at the top of poles or when perched on the steel crossarm.

207. No distribution lines will pass through reserve or protected forest areas; but for elephants of which there are about 1,600 in the state outside of these areas the Wildlife Trust of India has identified five elephant corridors in the Garo Hills district of Meghalaya (Figure 24) for the right of safe passage for the elephants. The Hon’ble Supreme Court (in their order dated 04.08.2017) directed the MoEFCC to secure safe passage of wild elephants from one area to another through land acquisition or by entering into lease with the stakeholders of corridors identified as corridors of high priority. Two such corridors, namely, “Baghmara – Balpakram” and “Siju-Rewak” are located in Meghalaya.18

17 https://www.hindustantimes.com/mumbai-news/india-s-death-fields-more-animals-electrocuted/story- JcECsLsulIRkQHO9STIF3K.html; https://www.theguardian.com/environment/india- untamed/2015/sep/15/elephants-electrocuted-by-sagging-power-lines 18 http://www.megforest.gov.in/wildlife_elephantcensus.html 139

Figure 24: Map showing Elephant Corridors in Meghalaya

208. For any 33/11kV feeder lines crossing these two corridors (in southern half of East and West Garo Circles) the detailed design is to ensure that, even if no elephants have been recently recorded or seen by forest officials or the local communities, that the clearance above ground of the lower conductor is as per national regulations or above maximum trunk height of the elephant, which ever higher.

209. For electrocution of birds, studies have shown that for birds electrocution rates can be significantly lower, average reduction of 85%, by discouraging them from perching on top of the pole, and providing a barrier to touching the live cables.19 Mitigation is relatively inexpensive to implement (approximately $12/pole for materials) with no additional maintenance requirement. Given the presence of threatened raptor species in Meghalaya which may be at risk of electrocution, mitigation will be incorporated into detailed design of all new distribution lines and retrofitted to existing lines.

A.2. Loss of Trees and Vegetation

210. The substation locations may need clearing of vegetation and cutting of about 510 trees.

211. Some trees along the alignment of the 33/11kV feeder lines may also be affected and would need to be cut or trimmed in order to achieve the standard safety clearances of 3m for

19 A Dixon, B Bold, P Tsolmonjav, B Galtbalt, & N Batbayar. 2018. Efficacy of a mitigation method to reduce raptor electrocution at an electricity distribution line in Mongolia. Conservation Evidence (2018) 15, 50-53. 140 distribution power lines. The number of trees to be cut or trimmed will be identified as part of the detailed route alignment surveys. During finalization of the position of the line route the position of the concrete poles can be easily adjusted within the road reserve to minimize impacts on trees.

212. MePDCL and their contractors should identify and conduct an inventory of trees to be cut prior to the start of land clearing work at substation sites and along distribution lines. Public trees will be compensated by compensatory afforestation (planting at least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements and the requisite forest department approvals for any tree cutting will be sought pre-construction. MePDCL will provide funds to the forest department rather than undertaking the compensatory afforestation themselves. However, MePDCL will monitor the progress of the compensatory afforestation process it has funded to ensure that planting takes place such that no net loss of biodiversity is obtained. Compensation for the loss of any private trees would be based on their replacement cost, as defined in the resettlement plan. A.3. Interference with other utilities and traffic

213. As per regulations enacted by Government of Meghalaya, it is mandatory for MePDCL to seek requisite clearance prior to construction from agencies like forest department, departments of railways, roads, telecommunication, and wherever necessary, from aviation authorities that could be affected by the construction of power distribution infrastructure. Given that all new substations will be constructed on land secured by MePDCL, no significant interference with other utilities and traffic is expected, but requisite clearances will be obtained for distribution lines. Based on existing routings no reserve forest land is traversed, so forest clearance is not required. In the event the alignment of the distribution lines passes through reserve forest land, forest clearance would need to be obtained prior to commencement of the work in forest areas.

214. To minimize risks from interference with existing roads at the construction sites and used for haulage a Contractor’s traffic management plan is to be developed in accordance with the project EMP will be approved by MePDCL prior to works. The traffic management plan will be prepared by the contractor in consultation with relevant local authorities for approval prior to any works. A.4. Interference with water drainage patterns

215. Construction of new substation infrastructure at new sites will include provision of effective drainage design to attenuate storm water runoff leaving the site to greenfield runoff rates (allowing for climate change and considering addition of impermeable surfaces) such that there will be minimal changes to the natural flow rates and paths of storm water runoff across adjacent land. Drainage will be designed to route storm water runoff from the substation to existing watercourses or to infiltrate to ground in order to avoid flooding of access roads and nearby areas. Storm water management shall conform to governmental agency requirements.

216. There will be no or insignificant impacts on water drainage patterns resulting from 33/11kV feeder line components of the project. A.5. Construction of access roads

217. In relation to traffic existing access roads to substations will be used to the extent possible. Most of new substation locations are accessible from existing village roads or state highway paved roads at distance varying in the range of 50-100m. Existing village roads in poor condition (in total 300m for three substations per Table 11) and unpaved access roads (in total 400m for two substations per Table 11) used for construction traffic and operational access will be (re)surfaced using concrete or asphalt to connect the substations with existing paved roads. 141

Five substations namely Jengjal, Pedaldoba, Dagal Apal, and Samgong, Chengkompara are not connected to state road network and will need construction of new access road (a length of 700m of new access road in total, from 50m to a maximum of 200m for any one individual new access road per Table 11). New access roads will be of single lane configuration (approximately 3m wide carriageway with side drains) and will be of concrete or asphalt surface with adequate drainage. Detailed design of the new access roads will be done by contractors. Construction material for access road works will be sourced from existing approved sources with operating licenses.

218. No new access roads will be required for feeder lines since all lines are connected with existing road within access distance of 50-100m. A.6. Proximity of sensitive receptors including noise/vibration nuisance

219. Some of the identified substation locations are adjacent to the sensitive receptors such as Mawshbuit (houses are at 10m), Rongjen Songma (government offices at 20m), Mangsang (one residential property at 20m), Sibbari (health centre at 30m), Cherangri (houses at 20m) and Zikzak (school, church and settlement areas within 20m). Such proximity of less than 50m to nearby residences is acceptable when internationally recognized design and environmental health and safety standards are applied20 as they will be in this project. This includes ensuring that noise levels generated from the substations do not exceed statutory limits for residential areas.

220. The maximum allowable noise levels for residential areas in India is 55 dBA during daytime (0600 – 2200hrs) and 45 dBA during night time (2200- 0600hrs)21 which is aligned with WHO guideline noise levels given as 1 hour LAeq. In order to ensure that noise generated from construction activities and during operation of the substations does not exceed these noise levels for both the day time and night time, the layout of the substations will need to be designed to keep construction works and the transformers the furthest distance possible from the houses.

221. The equipment installed at substations is mostly static and will be as far as possible be laid out so that transformers are placed at least 10m from the site boundary to provide further noise attenuation, they will also need to be well maintained once substations are operational. Transformers with power levels of 2.5 MVA and 5 MVA, as will be installed respectively, would be required via the contract to generate sound pressure levels of between 45 and 55 dBA at 1m distance.22 The Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers (IEEE) Standard 1127 notes that sound pressure levels from transformers will drop at least 3 dBA for every doubling of distance. In other words, if the noise level of the transformer is measured at a distance of 10 m from the source, this gives attenuation in the noise level by at least 20 dBA. Thus, the maximum estimated noise level generated from the transformers at 10 m from the source (substation boundary) is expected to dissipate to a range between 25-35 dBA which is significantly below the baseline noise levels recorded – at a maximum of 54 dBA as LAeq 15 mins. During operation it should therefore be possible for the substations to remain within the WHO guideline noise levels or at least not result in an increase in noise levels of < 3 dBA where nighttime guidelines are already exceeded by the baseline.

222. For the six substations mentioned above where sensitive receptors are within 50m a solid boundary wall of at least 3 m in height will also be provided on the boundary nearest the receptors; this will be constructed first to also provide screening from construction noise or

20 Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers. 2013. Standard 1127-2013 IEEE Guide for the Design of Electric Power Substations for Community Acceptance and Environmental Compatibility. 21 The noise pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. 22 NEMA Standard ST-20. 142 alternatively temporary acoustic fence will be provided. Once operational, even if in a worst- case the transformers have to be located near the boundary of the substation, the nearest residences are generally still at least a further 20 m away except in the case of Mawshbuit where they are 10m, and Zikzak where they are less than 20m distance; in these two locations a transformer with SPL of 55 dBA at 1m would be heard as 35 dBA at the closest receptor to a substation. With further attenuation by the proposed substation wall provided, even though not acoustically designed, it can be said that the statutory levels and WHO noise guidelines will be complied with such that potential noise impacts on sensitive receptors will not be significant once operational.

223. Replacement of old transformers with modern low noise equipment as above will result in an overall reduction in noise currently generated by the transformers in 45 nos. of the existing 33/11 kV substations to be rehabilitated. Furthermore, the substation sites to be rehabilitated are located at distances well away from residential areas and other noise sensitive receivers such that noise impacts will not be significant.

224. For the 33/11 kV feeder lines statutory clearance distances from buildings of 2 m horizontal distance will be maintained. In addition, given greater vulnerability of children to health and safety risk, the crossing of playgrounds and schools will be avoided by routing new distribution lines outside the compounds of schools and other similar community facilities during survey work. For any 33/11 kV feeders within 5m of such facilities the arrangement plan will be included in the updated IEE, following detailed route surveys having been completed during detailed design.

225. Existing distribution lines being reconductored which cross school compounds and other similar community facilities will also be marginally realigned to ensure that the same requirements as for new lines are met. The arrangements plan for any such realignments will be included in the updated IEE following detailed route surveys having been completed by the contractor. A.6 Escape of Polluting Materials

226. The main potential source of polluting materials arising from the project is oil spill/leakage from substation transformers entering the soil, surface water and groundwater either directly or indirectly through the substation drainage system. Whilst no PCB oils will be used in new transformers, as per international good practice and in compliance with the ban by the Government of India on 6 April 2016, insulating oils used can still adversely affect soil and water quality if inadvertently released to the environment.23 Furthermore, transformers at existing substations and pole mounted transformers on distribution lines may not necessarily be PCB free.

227. Oil filling of transformers occurs when the equipment is initially installed. Periodic reprocessing or replacement of the oil may be necessary to ensure that proper insulation qualities are maintained. Under normal operating conditions some very minor loss of oil may occur over time through leaking seals and gaskets if not well maintained. Otherwise electrical failure or accident/fire could result in a more catastrophic loss of oil to the surrounding environment. The detailed design will need to ensure that adequate oil containment systems

23 In India, mineral oil meeting Indian Standard 335 dated 2018 (https://bis.gov.in/wp- content/uploads/2018/12/PM_IS-335-final.pdf) is usually used as the insulating oil in new distribution transformers but they are flammable and do not biodegrade well. Pentaerythritol tetra fatty acid natural and synthetic esters are an alternative to mineral oil due to their low volatility and high fire point plus they are non-toxic and readily biodegradable. Silicone or fluorocarbon-based oils are also used, but they are more expensive and less biodegradable. 143 comprising impermeable surface (e.g. concrete) with 110% capacity are included for transformers or other oil filled equipment at the new and upgraded substations to ensure that any insulating oil that inadvertently leaks from them is contained and does not migrate from the site.

228. Replacement transformer oil, as well as lubricating oil, solvents, and fuel that may be used by the substations, should be stored in metal drums and kept on an impermeable surface under lock and key and under cover. It is anticipated that no more than about 500 liters of transformer oil would be stored at a substation. The detailed design for new and upgraded substations will need to ensure an adequate store is provided. A concrete berm in the entranceway to or a bund around the covered store should be integrated into the detailed design, so as to create a shallow holding tank (of 110% volume) in the event that any oil, solvent, or fuel products released from a drum or tank are contained. Space will also be provided for solid and hazardous waste garbage bins to be stored.

229. Oil spill clean-up materials (sorbent pads, loose sorbent material, etc.) should be stationed in/outside any oil/fuel/chemical storage building in clearly labelled containers. Substation operators will need to be trained in good housekeeping practices, including how to clean up oil/fuel spills and dispose of contaminated sorbent material which would be treated as a hazardous waste.

230. Liquid waste management systems will be included in the detailed design and installed in substations to ensure that there will be no unacceptable impacts on the surrounding land or water bodies. The substation surface water drainage system should be carefully designed to prevent possible flooding of the substation area and should be directed through an oil and grease separator before discharge outside the site. Sanitary wastewater should be either discharged to an existing sewerage system where this exists or to septic tank with a soak away installed within the grounds of the substation but located at least 50m from any spring or well used for drinking water and 25m from any drain, stream or river.

231. In addition, Contractor’s pollution prevention, solid and hazardous waste management plans to be developed in accordance with the project EMP will be approved by MePDCL prior to works.

232. Provided the above measures are implemented the potential impacts due to the escape of polluting materials from substations will not be significant. A.7 Explosion/fire hazards

233. Modern transformers are oil-cooled devices equipped with fire control systems, including firewalls that separate one transformer from another. These measures help to ensure that transformers do not overheat and catch fire and, on the rare occasion that they do catch fire, the fire does not spread to adjacent transformers.

234. Sufficient fire extinguishers of the type suitable for fighting an oil or fuel fire and other firefighting equipment shall be positioned where oil-filled transformers or other oil-filled equipment is used as well as outside/within the store. Fire detection and alarm system is to be provided in the control buildings. A fire emergency action plan shall be prepared for the substations and training given to staff on how to use firefighting equipment and how to implement the action plan. A.8 Disaster risk

235. To minimize disaster risk, particularly given that some substations and distribution lines are on hilly land and seismic risk is high, detailed design will ensure slope stability for 144 infrastructure on hilly terrain, adherence to national earthquake design codes, and climate change adaptation measures. The detailed design will consider climate change adaptation measures suggested by the separate Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CVRA) which include raising the transformer platforms in substations up to 2m height above the highest flood level etc. Collapse of illegal rathole coal mines from construction above is not anticipated as these activities are mostly concentrated in East Jaintia Hills region where no construction activities are proposed, but it should be confirmed this is the case during detailed route surveys. A.9 Occupational Health and Safety

236. There will be workers based at the new and existing substations and therefore the detailed design must ensure adequate sanitation and welfare facilities are incorporated into the control buildings. Such facilities should meet the requirements of the IFC EHS General Guidelines and will include: • Indoor toilets with hand washing facilities and private bathing area connected to sewerage system or septic tank with soak away and, • Indoor food preparation and clean eating area, provision of sufficient fuel supply for cooking other than wood, • Garbage bins for disposal of waste generated by workers, as burning of waste will be prohibited, • Drinking water supply for any MePDCL stationed at the substation (usually maximum 2- 3 persons) that meets drinking water standards must be provided, if an authorized supplier of canned water is not used the source to be used must be regularly tested to confirm it meets these standards. In rural areas in Meghalaya the source of drinking water is local freshwater springs or streams; if such sources are to be used they must be tested first to confirm they meet drinking water standards and, their use agreed by the local communities (village doubars) in order to avoid any issues regarding water conflict.

237. The construction of substations and 33 and 11 kV distribution lines poses moderate risk to the health and safety of workers. To mitigate this risk, the installation contractor will be required to prepare and implement an occupational health and safety risk assessment and plan for approval prior to construction works. The risk assessment should be undertaken through facilitated risk assessment workshop involving the contractor, MePDCL, and project implementation consultant (PIC). The occupational health and safety plan should follow the health and safety hierarchy including measures set out in the IFC EHS General Guidelines, Section 2 on Occupational Health and Safety and those on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution.

238. There are no acts or regulations published by the Government of India banning the use of asbestos in construction. The Supreme Court of India has given different verdicts on a case to case basis including bans on the manufacturing and mining of asbestos, but it is still being used in India in different forms. Asbestos may therefore be present in existing facilities and disturbed during construction. The Indian Factories Act (1948) stipulates protections for workers in the manufacturing sector with activities involving the manufacturing, handling, and processing of asbestos listed as a hazardous industry under Schedule I of the Factory Act. Schedule II lists the permissible level of chemical substances in the work environment, including asbestos which is listed as a confirmed human carcinogen, as exposure causes lung cancer and cancer in the lining of the lungs or stomach, known as mesothelioma. Therefore, the potential presence of asbestos at existing facilities needs to be checked/surveyed by the contractor as part of their occupational health and safety risk assessment before any works disturbing existing control 145 buildings are undertaken because of the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos dust.24

A.9 Community Health and Safety

239. To mitigate potential impacts to the health and safety of villagers, the contractor will be required to develop a community health and safety risk assessment and plan for approval prior to construction works that incorporates good international practices and recognized standards such as emergency response and preparedness procedures, communication systems and protocols to report any emergency, including interaction with commune and provincial emergency and health authorities. IFC EHS General Guidelines, Section 3 on Community Health and Safety and those on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution will be followed in developing the community health and safety plan by contractor. The risk assessment should be undertaken through facilitated risk assessment workshop involving contractor, MePDCL, and PIC. Community health and safety measures e.g. fencing and signage will be incorporated into the detailed design.

B. Impacts and Mitigation Measures Due to Construction Activities of MePDCL Components

B.1 Waste Management

240. Liquid petroleum fuels for vehicles and other equipment may be used and stored. Recommendations for prevention and control of hazards associated with spill prevention, emergency response, clean-up, and contaminated soil remediation will follow the General EHS Guidelines.

241. Waste management will be in accordance with national regulations and the IFC EHS General Guidelines. Scrap metal and equipment, including removed smart meters, can be taken to the MePDCL stores for reuse or recycling ─ on reaching the stores MePDCL must ensure that old transformers are stored on drip trays; currently they are stored on open ground. As per MePDCL practices, the old conductors will be stored in central store in Shillong and sold to the third-party venders (approved by State Pollution Control Board) for further recycling. Other solid and hazardous waste generated during construction will be limited in volume and should be temporarily stored on site in segregated, labeled, sealed, and covered garbage bins. It will be disposed of by the contractor using a licensed waste management operator to recycle or dispose of it to suitably designed and licensed waste management facility ─ there is only one solid waste landfill in Shillong and no hazardous waste facilities so this may require out of state disposal if no facilities exist in Meghalaya. Records of materials used, generated waste, and transfer records will be kept by the contractor, the PIC will undertake random audit of third party transfer of waste from time to time.

242. Disposal of hazardous waste (especially PCB25 oils) due to decommissioning and disposal of old transformers will be an issue. It is possible that the old transformers to be replaced in the refurbished substations contain PCB oils which are non-biodegradable and carcinogenic and

24 Following national requirements and international good practice as detailed in the IFC EHS General Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety. 25 PCB oils are not in used in new transformers, however, there may be old transformers in use in the distribution system whose oil has not been changed or replaced due to failure and which still contains PCBs. Old transformers whose oil was changed after 2008 have lower risk of PCBs due to the introduction of regulations on the reuse and recycling of spent oil on 24 September 2008. Pre-1994 transformers have the highest risk of containing PCBs as PCBs were still being manufactured globally until then, and pre-2016 India had only banned the import of PCB wastes. 146 their use in electrical installations has been banned internationally since 1986. However, although India never manufactured PBCs it only banned the manufacture and import of PCBs in 2016 with complete prohibition on use by 2025, use of equipment is permitted until then provided it is within its certified life time and properly maintained without possibility of leakage or release of PCBs into the environment26 with disposal of waste PCBs or contaminated equipment by 2028. Since that was only three years ago and equipment nameplates and maintenance records may have also been altered during retrofit it cannot be assumed any transformers are PCB free.

243. In the absence of test data, all old transformers at existing substations or which will be disturbed by the distribution works must be assumed by the contractor to contain PCBs. The only way to determine this is for suitably qualified institute to sample and analyze the oil following United Nations Environment Protection Agency (UNEP) Guidelines for the identification of PCB and materials containing PCB27 and a health and safety risk assessment and plan referring to the measures in UNEP (2002) PCB transformers and capacitors: From Management to Reclassification and Disposal. Since PCBs are toxic and bio accumulative, unless transformers have been certified PCB free all workers working with existing transformers must avoid all exposure to skin and eyes and avoid any potential for accidental ingestion by wearing suitable chemical and/or oil resistant gloves, goggles, and protective clothing during sampling processes and under normal working conditions. If PCB comes into contact with the skin, immediately rinse the affected area with large amounts of running water. This may be done in a sink if the hands are the only portion of the body contacted or under a safety shower if the exposure area is more extensive. If large parts of the skin came in contact with PCBs, remove contaminated clothing while under the shower for a minimum of 15 minutes. Eyewash stations are required. Once equipment has been found to contain PCBs it must be labeled as such, any PCB storage areas should also be marked to allow expeditious identification and response to a PCB accident. Similarly, equipment found to be PCB free should be marked as such for future reference and log of test results to support this kept by MePDCL.

244. Even if well maintained and not leaking existing transformers found to contain PCBs should be replaced now by MePDCL given the 2025 deadline for removal which coincides with the date of the project completion.

245. Contractor’s and MePDCL involved with decommissioning and disposal of old transformers will be required to follow the Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008 and 2016 for transport, storage and disposal of potentially PCB oil containing transformers. Disposal should involve facilities capable of safely transporting and disposing of hazardous waste containing PCBs. The collected PCB oils will be handed over to the authorized third-party vendor by MePDCL for proper disposal of the waste. The third-party vendors are approved by State Pollution Control Boards for transportation and collection of hazardous waste including transformer oil and PCBs. These vendors will deliver the collected waste to approved disposal sites for the hazardous waste. Vendors will most likely be from Guwahati, Assam as there are no authorized third-party PCB venders in Meghalaya as informed by State Pollution control Board and from discussion with MePDCL.

246. Furthermore, in the location where any leaking transformer was removed from site surrounding soil exposed to oil leakage should be assessed for potential contamination, and appropriate removal and / or remediation measures of oil or PCB contamination should be implemented, as addressed in the section on contaminated soil in the General EHS Guidelines.

26 Notification on Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Order, 2016 27 http://www.chem.unep.ch/Publications/pdf/GuidIdPCB.pdf 147

247. If any asbestos is encountered at any of the existing facilities and is at risk of being disturbed by construction work 28 and exposing workers to asbestos dust it must be safely removed and treated as hazardous waste. Asbestos is listed as a hazardous waste in the Environment (Protection) Act (1986) under sections 6, 8 and 25. It is also regulated by the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules (2015). The production of asbestos or asbestos containing materials is listed as a hazardous waste generating process, and asbestos containing residues, discarded asbestos and dust or particulates from exhaust gas treatment are included as hazardous wastes under Schedule I of the Rules. B.2 Erosion and sedimentation hazards

248. For substations excavation and other earthworks will be required, generally confined to soil movement to create a level platform for transformers and substation structures/switchyards to be installed within the land area for substation sites for 23 green field 33/11kV substations but also for the surfacing of unpaved and installation of new access tracks where these are needed. Excavation and other earthworks will be conducted during the dry season of the year to minimize the potential impacts related to erosion and sedimentation of watercourses due to construction activities although this has potential to exacerbate dust impact. Slope stability measures identified during detailed design will need to be implemented during the construction to minimize landslide risk.

249. For feeder lines, the project will involve only minimal excavation that could contribute to soil erosion and the potential for sedimentation of watercourses. Excavation will be mainly limited to the following: • auguring a single hole in the impact corridor for all 33kV lines and 11kV lines • auguring of four holes for each lattice tower concrete support bases for some 33 kV lines in the impact corridor (lattice tower proposed to cover 8 km length for Nongkhlaw– Dongki-ingding 33 kV Line) due to the hilly terrain which is involved

250. Excavations for tower bases will be limited to the immediate area of the tower legs. At most the footprint of a 33kV tower would be about 2m2, therefore, the area that would be exposed to the forces of erosion is limited. The alignment route of proposed 33kV lines from existing substations to new substations will be along the existing roads and in parallel to existing lines with a safe distance for operations. As much as possible existing line maintenance tracks will be used to access the tower/pole sites (33kV) for new lines. The work will be performed within existing roads or other utility corridors. Given the small-scale nature of the excavations required for tower/pole foundations and that works will be undertaken in dry season, the impacts associated with uncontrolled erosion and silt runoff will not be significant.

251. Measures to minimize erosion and sedimentation will be incorporated into contract documents. These will include minimizing removal of existing vegetation and topsoil, and, promptly revegetating with native species for Meghalaya or surfacing any areas where excavation and other earthworks are done. Excavated soil will be covered with tarpaulin when spoil heaps are not active and stored at least 10m from watercourses. Topsoil disturbed during the development of sites will be used to restore the surface of the excavated area. Infertile and rocky material will where possible be reused as fill material, if it needs to be taken off site it will be disposed by licensed waste management operator at designated disposal area suitable for

28 Following national requirements and international good practice as detailed in the IFC EHS General Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety. 148 accepting inert wastes. Records of excavated soil, generated waste, and transfer records will be kept by the contractor. B.3 Nuisance to nearby properties

252. Potential nuisance to nearby properties during construction includes: • Noise and vibration from construction equipment and heavy vehicles transporting materials to the sites • Dust arising during excavation and transport of materials • Air pollution due to exhaust gases from vehicles and plant • Gaseous emissions from welding

253. The construction activities will involve temporary and periodic use of mechanical equipment over a short time period with much of the work carried out using manual labor. The main noise and dust generating activities will be associated with excavation for construction platform preparation of substations and periodic transport of materials and equipment to the sites. The potential impact of noise, dust nuisance and air pollution on nearby communities from these activities will be minor, and periodic in nature. However, good construction practice to minimize these temporary construction impacts shall be specified in the contract documents.

254. According to CPCB’s noise standards29 the maximum allowable noise levels in residential areas is 55 dB (A) during daytime hours (0600-2200hrs) and 45 dB (A) during night- time hours (2200-0600hrs) equivalent to the WHO noise guidelines as 1-hour LAeq. For the project works will be restricted to daytime so the limit is 55dBA which the contractor will be required to comply with.

255. Periodic noise monitoring (at least two times during the construction period) during noisy construction activities at substations such as excavation for platform preparation and delivery of equipment to sites, will be undertaken during the construction of the project. Monitoring points will be located at the façade of the nearest residence where the nearest residence is less than 100m from the construction site or access road. Should noise levels greater than the allowable standard be recorded during noise monitoring, the contractor will be required to implement additional noise mitigation measures such as adjusting his working methods or placing of temporary noise barriers/fences to ensure that the noise standard is met.

256. Mitigation measures for noise at substations and on distribution lines will be in accordance with national regulations and the IFC EHS General Guidelines and will include: • Scheduling all activities only during daytime working hours (8am-6pm) ─ any works outside these hours to only be undertaken with the agreement of local community and residents within 100m • Avoiding noisy works on the weekends, public holidays, religious festivals, and for works in proximity to schools, during exam periods ─ any noisy works within these periods to only be undertaken with the agreement of local community and residents within 100m • Use of low noise generating equipment e.g. less than 55dBA sound pressure level at 1m • Maintenance of construction machinery and vehicles to keep noise at a minimum, and in accordance with any national requirements for noise levels

29 The noise pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 149

• Where sensitive receptors are within 50m of construction works temporary acoustic noise fence to be used • Construction workers exposure to noise should not exceed the levels set out in the General EHS Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety otherwise the hearing protection is to be provided

257. Mitigation measures for dust/air pollution at substations and on distribution lines will be in accordance with national regulations and the IFC EHS General Guidelines and will include: • Poorly condition or unpaved access roads to substations (Table 11) to be surfaced before any excavation or other earthworks at the substation commence • Minimizing removal of existing vegetation and topsoil, and, promptly revegetating with native species for Meghalaya or surfacing any areas where excavation and other earthworks are done • Water to be sprayed to suppress dust during works are in the vicinity of communities; water should be sprayed at least twice a day at substations and on unpaved access roads to distribution lines but more often if needed during excavations, earthworks, and windy conditions that enable dust to be easily mobilized • Vehicles delivering construction materials shall be covered • Vehicles and construction equipment shall be regularly serviced and well maintained • Vehicles and construction equipment shall comply with statutory emission standards • Stockpiles of soil and other dust generating materials will be covered with tarpaulin • Providing workers with N95 dust masks to be worn when dust generating activities take place • Open burning of construction related waste will be strictly prohibited

258. The proposed feeder lines will mainly follow the route along the roads such that activities will mostly be performed in the road corridor. There could be occasional cases where dilapidated distribution poles that need to be replaced are currently located on private property. These poles and lines will be removed from private property for appropriate disposal (any wooden poles removed to be treated as hazardous waste since preservatives may have been used to treat them in the past) and replaced with new poles and lines after obtaining proper consent of individual and village authority. Existing line access will be used to undertake such activities to limit the work zone in private properties. Pole removal could result in temporary minor nuisance / disturbance. Cut vegetation will need to be stored away from habitation and any vegetation material that is not handed over to the landowner will be immediately disposed using appropriately licensed waste management operator on the completion of cutting and trimming activities. B.4 Water quality impacts

259. During construction wastewater will arise from the domestic sewage from site workers, and there is a risk of contamination due to spillage of oil and other lubricants, unsanitary disposal of construction wastes, and wastewater from washing of construction equipment and vehicles. Such wastewater if not properly controlled has the potential to pollute nearby waterbodies namely drainage channels and irrigation canals as well as groundwater sources.

260. The contractors will be required to implement measures to prevent wastewater produced during construction from entering directly into the adjacent drainage channels and irrigation 150 canals or groundwater without adequate treatment. Such measures shall be in accordance with national regulations and the IFC EHS General Guidelines and will include: • Provision of adequate on-site sanitation facilities including septic tanks and soak- away pits or alternative sanitary facilities that do not allow the untreated disposal of sewage to adjacent water bodies e.g. portable toilets (same requirement applies to any construction camps) ─ wastewater generated will be taken offsite for treatment and disposal. • Provision of an appropriate domestic solid waste and construction waste collection and disposal system. • Provision of designated hard standing areas for equipment servicing, refueling and wash down at least 50m from watercourses, springs and wells, with drainage directed through oil and grease interceptors before being discharged into a settling pond prior to discharge offsite. • Implementation of good operation and maintenance practices for construction equipment. • Storage of oil, fuels and chemicals and mounting of plant containing oil and diesel on drip trays to catch leaks. • Oil spill clean-up materials (sorbent pads, loose sorbent material, etc.) should be stationed at site.

261. Proper implementation of the above measures will ensure that the potential water quality impacts during construction will not be significant.

B.5 Interference with utilities, blockage of access ways

262. Most of new substation locations are accessible from existing village roads or state highway paved roads at distance varying in the range of 50-100m. Poor condition and unpaved access roads (Table 11) used for construction traffic and operational access will be surfaced using concrete or asphalt to connect the substations with existing paved roads. Six substations namely Jengjal, Pedaldoba, Dagal Apal, Samgong, and Chengkompara are not connected to state road network and will need construction of new access road (700m in total). Construction traffic to and from the sites will be minor and periodic in nature although large vehicles will be required for plant and equipment transport.

263. The contractors will be required to post warning signs and manage traffic movements to protect the travelling public and its workers as necessary and ensure drivers obey road rules and travel at a safe speed given the nature of local roads and size of vehicles involved. Road safety and warning signs must be posted at 500m, 100m, and immediately in advance of the substation access road and distribution line works at least two weeks prior to the works commencing to inform the public of turning vehicles and the temporary blockage of one lane of the road during pole installation works

264. For feeder lines, the electric poles will be transported (to the site from outside) and installed along existing roads, which may cause temporary disruption of traffic along these roads. Village roads are relatively narrow and movement of large trucks along these roads carrying the electric poles and other materials might cause temporary blockage and nuisance to villagers. Some sections of the 33kV lines will traverse narrow, single/two-lane roads which can cause interference to the normal flow of traffic. This is primarily troublesome in residential areas where 151 roads are being used by vehicles such as bicycles, motorbikes, cars, and vans. As the area has limited space for the temporary storage of the concrete poles and materials, the contractor may park trucks carrying these materials on streets. In such case, there is potential to cause traffic congestion and hazards to commuters using the said road and flagmen should be utilized to warn road users of the situation. All traffic management will need to be done in consultation with the affected communities to ensure they are well aware of likely disruption. In case there is a need for temporary storage, locations to be agreed and any impacts on private land and assets to be compensated in line with the resettlement plan.

265. In the event that stringing conductors presents a possible risk to traffic on roads or rivers, scaffolds will be constructed to protect pedestrians and vehicles (and the conductor itself) from potential injury /damage during conductor stringing. Contractors will be required to ensure that safe access ways to public and private amenities are maintained throughout the construction period.

266. In order to minimize adverse impacts of the project on traffic, the contractor will be required to properly plan and execute a traffic management plan in accordance with national regulations and the IFC General EHS Guidelines that is supported by good site supervision. B.6 Loss of Biodiversity and Cultural Values

267. There are no cultural or ecological protected areas or protected forests within the project area of influence. Construction works and movement of construction vehicles may cause an impact on the local archaeological and cultural significance of the area. The following mitigation measures will be implemented during the construction phase: • No temporary or permanent project facilities shall be established within protected areas/reserve forest areas. Such facilities include but are not limited to vehicle and maintenance areas, storage areas of poles, conductors, transformers, and pole installation equipment. • Demarcation of the working area by contractor and avoidance of encroachment outside the agreed corridor of impact. • Demarcation of mature trees to be avoided and retained. • Avoidance of tree cutting or trimming during the bird breeding/nesting season. • Avoidance of construction works from one hour after dawn to one hour before dusk in areas where there is no existing human disturbance and within known elephant corridors. • Replanting (by forest department) of removed trees on at least a 10:1 basis in accordance with Forest Department approvals and prompt revegetation of disturbed areas with native plant species to Meghalaya. • Removal of invasive plant species during site clearance and routine vegetation maintenance. B.7 Health and Safety

268. Occupational Health and Safety: The construction of substations and 33 and 11 kV distribution lines as well as smart meter replacement poses moderate risk to the health and safety of workers. To mitigate this risk, the installation contractor will undertake works in accordance with the agreed health and safety plan and using skilled workers with suitable training for the job in hand e.g. electricians for the replacement of smart meters. The provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats and safety gloves/boots for every worker (with use mandatory and subject to no work conditions if not compliant) should be made 152 as a last resort where risks cannot be avoided. While working at heights personal safety measures such as harnesses, tool bags, ropes etc. will need to be provided. All workers will receive health and safety induction and those working with live electricity and at heights will attend specialist health and safety trainings and be certified to do so following medical check. Untrained workers will not be permitted to work with live electricity or at height.

269. Live lines will be deactivated and properly grounded before work is performed on, or in close proximity, to the lines and this will be checked and certified in writing by the contractor’s Health and Safety Officer in advance.

270. Sufficient toilets and hand washing facilities, clean eating area, and shaded rest area to accommodate the number of workers on site must be accessible at all construction sites. Drinking water that meets drinking water standards must be provided, if an authorized supplier of canned water is not used the source must be regularly tested to confirm it meets these standards. Either use can be made of existing MePDCL facilities or, if adequate facilities meeting international good practice requirements i.e. connected to existing sewerage system or septic tank with soak away are not available, the contractor must provide portable facilities. Since workers will not be local to the area (in Meghalaya, the skilled laborers that will be required for construction work are not readily available locally) suitable accommodation must be provided by the contractor, ideally use should be made of existing accommodation facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must be adequately equipped with sufficient toilets, hand washing facilities, showers or baths, food preparation and clean eating area, etc.

271. The existing health services in the project areas are generally located in rural areas and may not be able to accommodate additional patients from the construction workforce during emergencies. Therefore, in the construction phase, the contractor will be required to provide readily available first-aid for workers as well as an ambulance for more serious cases.

272. Community Health and Safety: The project construction may potentially result in adverse impacts to community health and safety such as toppling of concrete poles, construction traffic and accidents, and emergency spill of liquid materials. In addition, there may be instances where construction and replacement of smart meters would expose the villagers to hazards such as live electricity. Standing water will need to be avoided due to potential to spread vector borne disease. To mitigate these potential impacts to the health and safety of villagers, the contractor will be required to follow the agreed community health and safety plan, respond promptly to any grievances and undertake community awareness raising of potential risks involved. In case of any emergency or accident involving the project, the contractor will ensure that the affected communities are pre-informed of the emergency procedures to be included in the agreed community health and safety plan and if appropriate given proximity to works included in their mock drills etc.

273. Contractors staff will also be given awareness raising in HIV/AIDS and sexual, exploitation, abuse and harassment.

274. During construction, benefits to local people can be maximized if the contractor recruits construction workers locally. However, precedence must be given to ensuring that all workers are appropriately skilled given the hazardous nature of distribution works and so local workers will be limited to few unskilled positions. Wherever possible, the contractor should not discriminate and should proactively encourage the employment of suitably skilled women on the project.

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C. Impacts and Mitigation Measures from Operation of MePDCL Components

275. The anticipated adverse impacts during the operational phase of substations and MV feeder (33kV and 11 kV) lines are generally related to the occupational and community health and safety issues. These risks can be managed with proper engineering and management controls. C.1 Risks to Worker Health and Safety

276. The main occupational health and safety issues inherent to the operation of substations and MV feeder (33kV and 11 kV) lines include hazards due to exposure of workers to live power lines, working at heights, and potential exposure to electric and magnetic fields (see Section C.2).

277. Accidents that may occur during and maintenance may involve electrocution, lightning, fires, and explosion.

278. Potential impacts related to operation and maintenance will be avoided by MePDCL through implementation of the following measures: (i) Operation and Maintenance of all distribution lines is performed only by adequately and regularly trained and experienced staff of MePDCL various Division and Sub-division Offices, (ii) Operation and Maintenance of 33/11 kV substations is performed only by adequately and regularly trained and experienced staff of MePDCL various Circles and Division Offices, and (iii) The maintenance of all the substations is being performed by staff adequately and regularly trained by MePDCL. (iv) Training program for all workers on substation sites and responsible for maintenance of distribution lines will be provided. (v) MePDCL should be guided by the “Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution” (IFC) dated 30 April 2007 when working at the power line facilities. (vi) Risk assessment and occupational health and safety plan for substation workers and for maintenance for the distribution lines will be developed and adhered to during operation.

279. Sanitation and welfare facilities will also be required for workers based at substations, see Section A.

280. Exposure to Live Power Lines. Workers may come in contact with live power lines during the maintenance of the facilities and electrocution from direct contact with electricity is a hazard directly related to power lines and facilities.30

281. Some of the prevention and control measures when working with live power lines are: (i) Restricting access to electrical equipment only by workers who are trained and certified to work on electrical equipment. (ii) Adherence to electrical safety standards. (iii) Proper grounding and deactivation of live power lines during maintenance work or if

30 IFC. 2007. Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. Washington. 154

working in close proximity to the lines. (iv) Provision of PPE for workers, safety guidelines, personal safety devices such as harnesses, tool bags, ropes etc., and other precautions. (v) Workers will be required to observe guidelines to minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power lines.

282. Working at Heights. Accidents may happen when working in heights. Some of the prevention and control measures when working with live power lines are: (vi) Restricting working at height only by workers who are trained and certified to do so. (vii) Testing of structural integrity prior to proceeding with the work and the use of fall protection measures such as harnesses, tool bags, ropes etc.

C.2 Worker and Community Exposure to Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF)

283. There have been some concerns about possible increased risk of cancer from exposure to electromagnetic radiation from overhead transmission lines. Research has been undertaken into this matter throughout the world. A World Health Organization (WHO) review in 1996 of long term exposure to EMF from overhead transmission lines concluded that: “from the current scientific literature, there is no convincing evidence that exposure to radiation field shortens the life span of humans or induces or promotes cancer”. Further, EMF levels associated with distribution lines are significantly lower than those associated with overhead transmission lines. The EMF from distribution networks in communities can vary widely depending upon the number of phases and whether the circuit is overhead or underground. A typical 11kV overhead distribution line with 300amps current can result in magnetic field of 22mG immediately below the line dropping to 15mG at 7.5m from the line and 8mG at 14m distance31. In addition, within inhabited communities the existing environment already includes EMF from a number of sources including the use of electrical appliances and equipment and ground current in residential water pipes.

284. National authority i.e. MoEFCC has adopted the international standards for protection against adverse levels of EMF in the short term i.e. the WHO recommended international guidelines per the IFC EHS Guidelines, namely those of the International Commission for Non- Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). MePDCL complies with these international norms for field strength limits. The ICNIRP guidelines recommends limiting exposure to EMF, although it adds that the levels quoted should not be interpreted as distinguishing ‘safe’ from ‘unsafe’ EMF levels. Biological effects reported as resulting from exposure to static and extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields were reviewed to provide the scientific rationale for these guidelines for limiting exposure to time varying electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields.

285. The impact of EMF is dependent on the duration of exposure and therefore provided these ICNIRP guideline levels (Table 21) are complied with for worker exposure no significant adverse impacts are envisaged. The ICNIRP for workers is maximum exposure levels of 10kV m-1 for 50- Hz. The ICNIRP guideline for the general public (up to 24 hours a day) which would also apply to worker accommodation for workers based at full-time at the new and existing substation sites, due to their longer period of exposure, is maximum exposure levels of 5kV m-1 for 50-Hz. The value of 10kV m-1 for 50-Hz occupational exposure includes a sufficient safety margin and half of this value was chosen for the general public reference levels i.e. 5kV m-1 for 50 Hz, to prevent indirect effects for more than 90% of exposed individuals.

31 Washington State Electric Transmission Research Needs Task Force 155

286. The minimum electrical clearance, as required by the Indian Electricity Rules & Regulations, are also to be maintained with respect to the ground, roads, railway lines and habitations, to ensure safety of human beings and livestock moving, living or working in the vicinity.

Table 21: ICNIRP Limit Values Concerning Electric and Magnetic Fields (50 Hz) for the Public and at Working Places Source Electric Field Magnetic Flux Strength [kV/m] density [µT] Occupational exposure 10 500 General public exposure 5 100

C.3 Poly Chlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), SF6, and Asbestos

287. Due to its high heat capacity, low flammability and low electrical conductivity, PCBs were extensively used as insulating material in capacitors and transformers prior to the mid-1990s. But after the finding that these PCBs are non-biodegradable and have carcinogenic tendencies, their use in electrical equipment as an insulating medium has been banned internationally. In compliance with the above, MePDCL has also banned purchase of equipment (transformers and capacitors as per international good practice) using PCBs. MePDCL also obtains confirmation from the supplier at the time of bid offer that the offered transformers are free from PCBs so there should be no ongoing risks of exposure to workers or the public related to new installation.

288. For maintenance workers, if any PCB containing transformers remain in-situ then measures set out in the construction section for work related to PCB containing transformers should be followed until 2025/2028 when such transformers would anyway need to have been legally replaced/disposed.

289. Emission of greenhouse gases from insulators, which use SF6 in high voltage equipment, is a major concern. SF6 has a global warming potential 23,900 times greater than CO2, which needs to be controlled. However, given that the project involves low to medium voltage components and substations are air insulated it is most unlikely that SF6 will be present in the project components. Use of SF6 in fire extinguishers provided at substations should also be avoided.

290. Use of all asbestos containing materials will be prohibited in new construction via the contract so there should be no ongoing risks of exposure to workers or the public related to new installation. C.4 Other Risks to Community Health and Safety

291. People and animals can be electrocuted by coming in contact with live wires. Several persons in India are killed due to electricity-related accidents every year. Studies have shown that the key reasons are: contacting / touching live overhead power lines especially snapped conductors (70%); electric shocks due to defective pump motor starter wiring and lack of earthing (15%); attempts to replace fuses at transformers by villagers to restore power for pumping; and safety issues in Single Wire Earth Return Single Phase High Voltaage transformers. In many places, bare live wires are hung at 5 ft above ground, no fencing or barricades are provided, and 156

Regulations and Standards are not being followed.32 The project will therefore have health and safety benefits if properly implemented by MePDCL.

292. However, health and safety issues that may still be encountered by communities living near power distribution lines include electrocution, lightning strikes, explosion and fire, and exposure to magnetic field. The open burning of waste during operation and maintenance will be strictly prohibited. Standing water at substations will need to be avoided due to potential to spread vector borne disease.

293. Electrocution and Lightning Strikes. The results of the stakeholder consultations including MePDCL and Meghalaya Pollution Control Board suggested that lightning strikes and electrocution risks are perceived as potential negative impacts of the project. The operation of the 33 kV and 11 kV distribution lines near community areas may expose the villagers to electrocution hazards as a result of direct contact with live conductors, flashover from the conductor to a pole and conductor breakage, particularly if the person, tree or structure is near a live line where the safe horizontal or vertical clearances are compromised.

294. To prevent these hazards, concerned MePDCL staff need to conduct regular inspections (at least monthly) on the lines to ensure that the minimum vertical clearance as well as protection is maintained. The inspection protocol should include possible conductor snapping and de- energizing of the line within three cycles to avoid the potential for electrocution from a breakage. The community should be educated with respect to the importance of maintaining horizontal clearance from buildings in order that they do not erect new buildings within this zone.

295. Lightning arresters will be provided along the line. There will also be provision for ensuring security of the cable to avoid vandalism. Regular inspections of the line and the facilities would help identify missing or corroded parts that need immediate replacement. Substations should be securely fenced with locked gates to prevent members of the community entering the site. Signs warning about safety hazards should be mounted at the entrance and on equipment within the substation compound using ISO recognized standards. Each pole should also have installed a sign warning about the safety hazard from the power lines, for pole mounted transformers these should be fenced off with a locked gate. The community should be educated with respect to the hazards associated with coming into contact with electrical equipment.

296. Explosion and Fire. Potential fire events and explosion of equipment may occur in medium voltage (33kV and 11 kV) distribution lines. In case of fire events, explosion, and other related situations, a fire management strategy should be developed. This should be included in the emergency preparedness and response plan of the project. Given MePDCL may not be available immediately in rural locations the community should be educated with respect to emergency response with 24/7 emergency contact numbers for MePDCL included on signs.

297. Workers should be trained on emergency preparedness and response procedures and a manual on safety and emergency procedures during operation should be prepared and disseminated to workers on, e.g. extinguishing oil fires from transformers. The procedure should outline identification of potential emergency situations and potential hazards that could result in accidents that can have an impact to the health and safety of workers and communities.

298. Community Health and Safety Campaign: There are potential risks to safety due to exposure to electrical equipment and conductors as discussed above. MePDCL as part of its regular health and safety practices will organize health and safety campaigns in project villages prior to energizing the lines. Awareness programs will use distribution of posters, leaflets and

32 https://cmte.ieee.org/ias-wesafe/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2018/11/Indian-experience-on-electrical-accidents- problem-Full-paper.pdf 157 safety booklets to all households within 50m of the substations and along the corridor distribution lines as well as face-to-face orientation at the village level. These posters and safety booklets are available with MePDCL as its internal health and safety measures. MePDCL will also ensure that disaster and emergency preparedness plans are developed and communicated not only to staff of MePDCL but also to the local communities living close to the substations and distribution lines. Communities living close by should also be included in mock drills in addition to information drives.

299. A public consultation process has been undertaken in the twenty-three project regions as part of the IEE. All participants of the consultations supported the project. The people living in all the project areas expect the different distribution components to facilitate improved power supply and thereby availing them of direct and indirect benefits related to socioeconomic development.

300. The impact of the proposed power distribution project on the socio-economic environment will be beneficial. Improved access to uninterrupted electricity supply will help stimulate economic growth, particularly in rural areas of the districts. During operation, benefits to local people can be maximized if MePDCL recruits local persons for unskilled positions such as substation housekeeping for 23 new 33/11kV substations. The long-term effects of the proposed project in poverty reduction are expected to be significantly positive. C.5. Trimming of Trees

301. One of the regular programs to maintain the integrity of the distribution lines is the trimming of tall trees and vegetation along the ROW. This is being done to maintain the necessary conductor clearance of the line.

302. Private and communal trees and plants about 3 m height within the ROW will be either removed or pruned to provide the necessary conductor clearance distance. In addition, large trees within 3 m of the base of the poles will be selectively removed or pruned during operation to reduce the potential to fall and strike these structures. Tree removal or pruning will also be undertaken immediately outside the ROW to prevent trees from falling and striking the lowest conductor.

303. The vegetation maintenance activities may cause minor disturbance to local people. This can be mitigated by limiting use to already existing roads or tracks to reach the MV 33/11kV feeder lines and informing the locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of the maintenance works. Care should be observed to avoid encroachment into rice or cropland of villagers by workers who will undertake vegetation trimming. Cut vegetation will need to be stored away from habitation and any not handed over to the landowner immediately disposed using appropriately licensed waste management operator on the completion of cutting and trimming activities.

304. MePDCL will not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth.

305. Burning to control vegetation along the ROW is also prohibited.

D. Impacts and Mitigation Measures from JFPR Components

306. The JFPR components include installation of mini-grids consisting of solar PV-battery systems and agriculture processing units in three villages and installation on roof-top solar PV system on the roof of three schools. 158

307. The locations of the Solar PV-battery hybrid system and processing unit mini-grid facility in three villages are selected with due considerations to the environmental and social aspects. The selected locations are mostly community land donated by villagers. There proposed sites are uncultivated land and free from all encumbrances. There are no sensitive cultural or biodiversity receptors of international, national, state or district importance including protected areas, key biodiversity areas, forest areas, sacred groves, or historical / cultural monuments around the proposed sites. However, clearing of land for installation of solar PV-battery hybrid system and processing unit mini-grid facility requiring about 3,031m2 will require cutting and trimming of trees but loss will be avoided to the extent possible during survey work as discussed in the baseline chapter. MNREDA and their contractors should identify and conduct an inventory of trees to be cut prior to the start of land clearing work. Public trees will be compensated by compensatory afforestation (planting at least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements and the requisite forest department clearance for any tree cutting will be sought pre-construction. MNREDA will provide funds to the forest department, rather than undertaking this compensatory afforestation themselves. However, MNREDA will monitor the progress of the compensatory afforestation process it has funded to ensure that planting takes place such that no net loss of biodiversity is obtained.

308. Construction of the infrastructure will include provision of effective drainage design to attenuate storm water runoff leaving the site to greenfield runoff rates (allowing for climate change and considering addition of impermeable surfaces) such that there will be minimal changes to the natural flow rates and paths of storm water runoff across adjacent land. Drainage will be designed to route storm water runoff to existing watercourses or to infiltrate to ground in order to avoid flooding of nearby areas. Storm water management shall conform to governmental agency requirements.

309. No new access roads will be required since all locations are connected with existing road.

310. Contractor’s traffic, pollution prevention, solid and hazardous waste management plans to be developed in accordance with the project EMP will be approved by MNREDA prior to works.

311. For the ground mounted solar, detailed design will ensure slope stability for infrastructure on hilly terrain, earthworks will be required in order to provide a solid construction platform on which to install the PV panels. For rooftop solar on school given that buildings may be old and seismic risk is high, detailed design will include a structural survey of the buildings they are being mounted on, to ensure the structural integrity of the roof with the additional load of the solar panels, and that buildings continue to adhere to national earthquake design codes with the solar panels in place. Community health and safety measures e.g. fencing and signage will be incorporated into the detailed design, for the solar panels access to members of the community especially school children to live electrical equipment must be prevented through detailed design.

312. To mitigate potential impacts to the health and safety of villagers, the contractor will be required to develop a community health and safety risk assessment and plan for approval prior to construction works that incorporates good international practices and recognized standards such as emergency response and preparedness procedures, communication systems and protocols to report any emergency, including interaction with commune and provincial emergency and health authorities. IFC EHS General Guidelines, Section 3 on Community Health and Safety will be followed in developing the community health and safety plan by contractor. The risk assessment should be undertaken through facilitated risk assessment workshop involving contractor, MNREDA, and PIC. 159

313. The anticipated impacts of construction are minor and will be for short duration mostly related to installation work. The key risks are related to (i) land clearance/tree removal/earthworks for installation; (ii) general EHS construction risks, especially health and safety particularly if the community is going to be involved in undertaking site preparation works, etc.; (iii) electrical health and safety (H&S) risks, there is a need to ensure installations are only done by trained technicians and inspected beforehand; (iv) ensuring access to installations are fenced and signed with ISO warning signs on fences and electrical boxes; (v) community awareness raising of the H&S risks associated with the systems; and (vi) future disposal of panels and more importantly the batteries, the contract is to have clause that solar panels and batteries will be returned to supplier for reuse/recycling at the end of their useful life and their cost. In case the supplier is no longer in operation at end of design life there will be a need to identify appropriate disposal routes such as contracting authorized third-party venders from neighboring states (if still locally not available) with valid license to store, handle and process or dispose of the solid and hazardous wastes.

314. During construction the applicable mitigation measures as for the distribution components should be followed for waste management, erosion and sedimentation hazards, nuisance to nearby properties, water quality impacts, interference with utilities, blockage of access ways, loss of biodiversity and cultural values, and health and safety to ensure construction impacts are adequately managed.

315. For agriculture processing unit specific attention will be given (i) if proposing cooling in cold stores, to ensure the highest energy efficiency equipment is purchased and to avoid equipment containing coolants using Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), GHGs etc., (ii) if buildings are involved, structural design to be checked for adherence to earthquake codes, adequate for high seismic risk etc. Additionally, other relevant life and fire safety measures of EHS guidelines depending on their use will be considered; and (iii) for any machines brought, training of the proposed operators in safe use beforehand and the provision of adequate PPE for the number of users, to minimize the H&S risks will be given.

316. The impacts associated with installation on roof-top solar PV system on the roof of three schools are minimal. Besides the general EHS construction risks (as discussed above), specific focus will be given by (i) ensuring structural integrity of school roofs to take solar panels particularly considering high seismic risk present; (ii) installing panels outside school hours, ideally in the school holidays to reduce the H&S risks due to presence of school children; and (iii) to educate the school children on renewable energy but also the electrical hazards associated with solar panels presence.

317. Once operational, the risks relate to maintenance which must be undertaken by trained operatives under MNREDA. Risk assessment and occupational health and safety plan for maintenance will be developed and adhered to during operation. For community health and safety which will be addressed through awareness raising as discussed above; there is a need to ensure members of the community who are not trained do not attempt to maintain equipment. Those villagers that are responsible for operation and maintenance once the contractor finishes their two-year handover will need to be adequately trained by them during the handover. The contractors and MNREDA will need to ensure that a disaster risk and emergency preparedness plan with clear response procedures is prepared and communicated to the school administration, farmers, other users of the solar PV-battery systems and agriculture processing units, and nearby residents so they know how to respond in event of a fire or similar. These stakeholders will be included in mock drills to be conducted by the contractors and MNREDA in addition to information drives.

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VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION

A. Stakeholder and Public Consultations

318. Consultations were held with local communities, landowners, village heads and affected people during preparation of this IEE and will be continued during the process of detailed design including route survey.

319. During the preparation of this IEE, public consultations meetings were held in the months of May and June 2019 for the distribution system component and in the month of January 2020 for JFPR component of the project. Consultation meetings were conducted in all 23 villages where the substations are proposed as well as villages along the alignment of the new 33kV feeder lines. Formal and informal discussions were held, and participants were informed about applicable details of the project. The purpose of the consultation meetings was to: • provide information to the public on the key features of the project including benefits, potential impacts and how such impacts will be avoided or managed. • obtain views and concerns of communities with respect to environmental and social issues relating the project. • gather site specific information from the stakeholder’s perspective on the physical, biological and social aspects of the environment.

320. The key participants at the consultation meetings included: • Representatives from project proponents MePDCL and MNREDA, • Village Head and Secretary as well as other staff of village authorities, • Local villagers and affected people, • Elected representatives from the regions i.e. member of state legislative assembly, village authority, and • Representatives of various public service institutions, and agricultural communities in each district including, education facilities, agricultural/horticultural units and women groups etc.

321. In total 23 consultation meetings were organized in the villages from the distribution system area and a total of 3 public consultations were held across 3 villages for the JFPR component. There were about 15-20 participants at each of the consultation meetings of the distribution system whereas participation level in JFPR component was 5-9 participants in each meeting. Issues associated with environment, health and safety were discussed during these consultation meetings. Details of above public consultation meetings, list of participants, photographs and records are enclosed as Appendix 5. Besides this, there were several informal consultation sessions and focused group discussions organized as part of the project.

322. During each consultation meeting, the representatives from IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA) introduced the project to participants and opened the meeting for discussions. The project team then: • described the project and reasons why it is being undertaken including the benefits of the project to the community and local economy. • described the potential temporary disturbances (mainly environmental and social impacts the project could involve). Also, it was pointed out that all facilities would be constructed on land with prior consent and owned by government, with minimum disturbance to private assets by the works. • advised the participants that: i) an environmental and social impact assessment was being undertaken for the project by ADB’s environmental and social consultants in 161

accordance with ADB’s safeguard policies and this would result in the preparation of environmental and social management plans to be implemented during project implementation. • invited the participants to raise any queries, concerns regarding the project.

323. Besides community consultation meetings, stakeholder consultations have also been undertaken at circle and sub-division level in all proposed substation locations in the months of May and June 2019. Key issues and topics raised and discussed at each meeting are summarized in Table 22 below.

Table 22: Summary of Stakeholder Consultations Sl. Date / Venue Officials Consulted Topic No. 1. 19.05.2019 / 1. Mr. M.B. Kurbah - • The project components and activity MePDCL Office, Superintendent Engineer- of MePDCL, current situation of MECL Complex, cum-Nodal Officer, (ADB- substation location identification, land Shillong Project) area section, specific activities to be 2. Mr. Jyrwa- performed for Environment and Superintendent Engineer, Social Safeguards Studies at site and Khasi Hills requirement of consultation, problems 3. Mr. K. Lyngdoh, Assistant in the field of energy supply in the Executive Engineer, region. MePDCL • Area required for substation installation and planning to process consent from relevant local body for the same. • Layout plan and route finalization process for substation and distribution line. • Forest department clearance and approvals for tree cutting in forest area and approval requirements for private tree cutting. • Information about the substation, condition of plants and equipment, energy supply issues for subscribers. • Project related technical, environmental and social issues of line alignment. 2. 22.05.2019, 1. Mr. E. Kharbuki– • Giving information about the project 30.05.2019 and Executive Engineer of to the Head of Village Authority. 01.06.2019 / MePDCL for West Khasi Discussion of project aspects. Proposed Hills • Current situation of electricity supply, 33/11kV 2. Mr. B. Jyruo- Junior reason for low voltage and frequent Substation Engineer of MePDCL power cut etc. locations at 3. Mr. Mr. Mwahlang • Environmental and social issues Myriaw, Pahsyntiew- Junior related to project implementation. Shallang and Engineer of MePDCL • Potential problems and solutions in Nongsba 4. Mr. W. Mairein-R/J this area. MePDCL • Presence of wildlife and protected 5. Mr. Lurshai L. Nonglait- area in the region. Process for forest R/J MePDCL department approvals for tree cutting 6. Mr. Daraior Marngos- R/J in the forest area requirement. MePDCL • Benefits of project implementation to 7. Mr. Benad- Operator MePDCL. 162

Sl. Date / Venue Officials Consulted Topic No. Substation MePDCL 8. Mr. Dareus – Operator Substation MePDCL 9. Mr. Elding, Jugalee MePDCL 3. 03.06.2019 and 1. Mr. R. War, Executive • Giving information about the project 04.06.2019 / Engineer, MePDCL to the Head of Village Authority. Proposed 2. Mr. S. Rani, Assistant Discussion of project aspects. 33/11kV Executive Engineer, • Current situation of electricity supply, Substation MePDCL reason for low voltage and frequent locations at 3. Mr. K. Lyngdoh, Assistant power cut etc. Wahkaji and Executive Engineer, • Environmental and social issues Pongtung MePDCL related to project implementation. 4. Mr. B. Khongnwir, Junior • Potential problems and solutions in Engineer, MePDCL this area. • Presence of wildlife and protected area in the region. Process for forest department approvals for tree cutting in the forest area requirement. • Benefits of project implementation to MePDCL. 4. 06.06.2019, 1. Mr. P.P. Kar, • Giving information about the project 07.06.2019, Superintending Engineer, to the Head of Village Authority. 08.06.2019, Garo Hills Discussion of project aspects. 09.06.2019 and 2. Mr. M. Sangma, • Current situation of electricity supply, 10.06.2019 / Executive Engineer, East reason for low voltage and frequent Chirengre, Garo Hills power cut etc. Samgong, 3. Mr. Silgrak Sangma, • Environmental and social issues Mangsang, Assistant Executive related to project implementation. Rongjeng, Engineer , Bajengdoba • Potential problems and solutions in Pedaldoba, Sub-Division this area. Jengjal, Sibbari 4. Mr. P.T. Sangma, • Presence of wildlife and protected and Dagal. Assistant Executive area in the region. Process for forest Engineer, Sub-Division department approvals for tree cutting 5. Mr. Sujit Sangma, in the forest area requirement. Assistant Executive • Benefits of project implementation to Engineer, Williamnagar, MePDCL. Sub-Division 6. Mr. D.K. Shrivastava, Assistant Executive Engineer, Baghmara, Sub-Division 7. Mr. G.B. Sangma, Assistant Executive Engineer, Dagal Sub- Division 5. 11.06.2019 and 1. Mr. B.R. Sangma, • Giving information about the project 12.06.2019 / Superintending Engineer, to the Head of Village Authority. Ampati, Zikzak, West Garo Hills Discussion of project aspects. Damalgre and 2. Mrs. C.K.B. Sangma, • Current situation of electricity supply, Babadam Executive Engineer, reason for low voltage and frequent West Garo Hills power cut etc. 3. Mr. Chenchem Marak, • Environmental and social issues Assistant Executive related to project implementation. 163

Sl. Date / Venue Officials Consulted Topic No. Engineer, Ampati Sub- • Potential problems and solutions in division this area. 4. Mr. M.R. Marak, • Presence of wildlife and protected Assistant Executive area in the region. Process for forest Engineer, Garobada department approvals for tree cutting Sub-division in the forest area requirement. 5. Mr. B.N. Sangma, • Benefits of project implementation to Assistant Executive MePDCL. Engineer, Tura Rural 6. Mr. S. Hajom, Junior Engineer, Mahandraganj Sub-division 7. Mr. Rinohmo Nonghuloo, Junior Engineer, Chirangpara 132 KV grid substation 6. 14.06.2019 / 1. Mr. J. Hynniewta, • Giving information about the project Mawdiangdiang Superintending Engineer, to the Head of Village Authority. Shillong Discussion of project aspects. 2. Mr. C. Toi, Assistant • Current situation of electricity supply, Executive Engineer, reason for low voltage and frequent Maudiangdiang power cut etc. 3. Mr. Nongsieg, Junior • Environmental and social issues Engineer, related to project implementation. Maudiangdiang • Potential problems and solutions in this area. • Presence of wildlife and protected area in the region. Process for forest department approvals for tree cutting in the forest area requirement. • Benefits of project implementation to MePDCL.

324. The public consultation was carried out at all 23 locations of proposed 33/11 kV substations. The communities were informed by MePDCL (through telephonic communication to village head) a week in advance about consultation dates and agenda and were encouraged to attend consultation including female member(s) of their family. In total 345 people participated in the consultation sessions at 23 location comprising of 212 (61%) male and 133 (39%) female participants. For JFPR component a total of 29 villagers (11 female and 18 male) participated in the consultation. Summary of public consultation is presented in Table 23.

Table 23: Summary of Public Consultations Participants Sl. No. Location / Village Male Female Total Distribution System Component 1 Babadam 13 4 17 2 Damalgre 12 16 28 3 Samgong 9 11 20 4 Tyrsad 6 17 23 5 Rongjeng 12 8 20 164

Participants Sl. No. Location / Village Male Female Total 6 Mangsang 17 12 29 7 Ampati 5 6 11 8 Zikzak 5 10 15 9 Lawbah 8 6 14 10 Pongtung 7 4 11 11 Mawdiangdiang 6 4 10 12 Wahkaji 6 5 11 13 Myriaw 7 4 11 14 Shallang 12 4 16 15 Sibbari 16 4 20 16 Nonghyllam 8 3 11 17 Mawshbuit 10 0 10 18 Nongsba 6 6 12 19 Dagal 11 3 14 20 Pedaldoba 10 1 11 21 Jengjal 10 1 11 22 Chirengre 8 1 9 23 Dongkinding 8 3 11 Total 212 133 345 JFPR Solar PV-Hybrid System Component 1 Dilma Ading 5 5 10 2 Lower Jambal 7 2 9 3 Kosigre 6 4 10 Total 18 11 29

Photo 1: Consultation meeting in a Village Photo 2: Consultation meeting in a Village 165

Photo 3: Public Consultation in Dilma Ading Photo 4: Public Consultation in Lower Jambal Village Village

325. During consultations local communities repeatedly cited project benefits. Economic benefits included extension of work time, efficiency in farming through the use of electric machines/equipment and opportunities to increase income. Social benefits raised are increased access to information through more use of electronic media and ease in household work resulting in saving of time. Environmental benefits are safe drinking water (boiled water using electricity) and avoidance of spoilage through refrigeration.

326. During consultations with local communities, villagers have shown their support to the project and they want their village to be electrified as a priority. The villagers along the proposed lines are very positive about connection to the grid. The access to the grid will boost and facilitate their present economic activities. They (men and women) are aware of the project benefits and are eager to get connected soon. People also showed their willingness to participate in the construction activities. Table 24 shows issues raised and response by project team during consultations. Further details are provided in Appendix 5.

Table 24: Summary of Issues Raised and Response by Project Team Points Discussed / Issue raised Response by Project Team • General perception about the • Community is aware about new development in project and awareness about their vicinity. Local people positively welcome proposed substation and the proposed project to meet gap in electricity distribution line in their vicinity demand and supply for domestic uses. • Land area and site boundary of • Confirmed the community consent for proposed proposed substation area and land land and transfer of ownership to MePDCL for ownership, community consent for distribution components and MNREDA for JFPR the development project component development • Details of surrounding land and • In surroundings mainly community land with property to proposed site vegetation and community forest. belonging • Main occupation of local community is daily • Land use and cropping pattern in wages in agriculture and community forestry the area works along with agriculture. • Primary income sources of local • Electricity supply for domestic uses is of limited community in the area and only 6-8 hours per day, in high wind and rain occupational engagement of power cut and failure due to faults in line. peoples • Drinking water mainly taken from spring/streams • Electricity supply, reasons for or supply from Government water supply failure and power cuts system. • Current uses of electricity in both • No flood, however minor earthquakes are felt domestic purposes every year. 166

Points Discussed / Issue raised Response by Project Team • Source of water supply for drinking • There are no protected areas, archeological purpose in the area monuments, religious places or known • Last natural disaster/climate (i.e. threatened wildlife presence near to the flood, earthquake, storm etc.) in proposed project site locations. the area, if any. • Almost in every village there is a primary or • Known presence of wild animals in higher secondary school and primary health the nearby location of the project centers are located within a distance of 10-15 site km in nearby village. • Any protected/forest area, • Increase in electricity supply for domestic uses archeological site near to project is required for light and cooking. site • Proper fencing and safety measures should be • Nearest school, hospital and followed in construction and operation of the religious place to the proposed proposed substations. project site • Willingness to get work or employment • Any critical issue or concern by generation from proposed project during local community. installation and operational stage, if any opportunity. 327. The issues and concern raised by public during consultations have been addressed in this IEE.

B. Ongoing Consultation

328. Public consultation is an integral part of the project implementation. The process of public consultation will be continued during project implementation and as necessary during the operation and maintenance stage. The public will be informed about the project at every stage of project execution through notices, information provided through community representatives, and face-to-face consultations. During detailed design surveys, MePDCL and MNREDA officials will post notices and conduct meetings in concerned villages to include female as well as male attendance (and keep records of these meetings) at least one-month in advance of any works taking place to inform them about the timing of construction of the substations/JFPR components and the proposed timing and routing of the distribution lines. During detailed design they will hold face-to-face consultations will all persons occupying properties within 20m of the substations/JFPR components to discuss any specific concerns these persons may have regarding environmental and social impact. During detailed design and pre-construction, every individual on whose land from which the occasional old poles (if any) will be removed or on which new poles will be installed, will be consulted prior to finalization of the position of the pole footings. In addition, all schools along the distribution line alignments will also be consulted prior to finalization of the position of the pole footings and for agreement with the rooftop solar components to be installed at their school.

C. Information Disclosure

329. All environmental safeguards documents are subject to public disclosure, and therefore will be made available to the public. MePDCL, MNREDA and ADB agree that in disclosing environmental information for the project to the public that: (i) MePDCL and MNREDA are responsible for ensuring that all environmental assessment documentation, including the IEE, updated/revised IEE required following detailed route surveys, and any further IEE update, as well as environmental monitoring reports, are properly and systematically kept as part of the MePDCL/MNREDA project specific record; (ii) all environmental documents are subject to public disclosure, and therefore must be 167

made available to public on request; (iii) the IEE, updated/revised IEE, any further IEE update, and monitoring reports with corrective action plan (if required) have to be locally disclosed ─ the IEE (including executive summary in local language i.e. Khasi) will need to be disclosed locally to the public through local offices of MePDCL, and through notices/posters at construction sites with a hard copy to be made available to view on site free of charge on request; (iv) the IEE, updated/revised IEE, and any further IEE update, and monitoring reports with corrective action plan (if required) to be disclosed on ADB’s website upon receipt; and (v) MePDCL and MNREDA will continue to ensure that meaningful public consultations, particularly with project affected persons, are undertaken throughout implementation of the project.

168

VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

330. Grievance redress mechanisms (GRM) are important for infrastructure development projects where ongoing risks or adverse impacts are anticipated. They serve as a way to engage communities, reduce risks, and assist processes that create positive social change. GRM can be an effective tool for early identification, assessment, and resolution of complaints on projects. Under the project funded by the ADB, it is required that a GRM be established to assist affected persons to resolve queries and complaints if any, in a timely manner.

331. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements: ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requires the establishment of a responsive, readily accessible and culturally appropriate grievance redress mechanism capable of receiving and facilitating the resolution of affected persons’ (AP) concerns and grievances about the physical, social and economic impacts of the project. The GRM aims to: (i) reduce conflict, risk of undue delay and complication in project implementation; (ii) improve the quality of project activities and outputs; (iii) ensure that the rights of affected parties are respected; (iv) identify and respond to unintended impacts of the project on individuals; and (v) maximize participation, support and benefit to local communities.

332. Table 25 and Figure 25 show the proposed GRM. The fundamental objectives of the GRM are: (i) To reach mutually agreed solutions satisfactory to both, the Project and the APs, and to resolve any project-related grievance locally, in consultation with the aggrieved party; (ii) To facilitate the smooth implementation of the Environmental Management Plan and prevent undue delay in project implementation; (iii) To democratize the development process at the local level, while maintaining transparency as well as to establish accountability to the affected people; (iv) To facilitate an effective dialogue and open communication between the project stakeholders; and (v) To have clear definition of roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in consideration and resolution of grievances.

169

Figure 25: Chart view of grievance handling process

FIELD/WARD LEVEL

Affected Person

3 DAYS 1st Level Grievance Grievance FIELD/CONTRACTOR Redressed Redress LEVEL

NOT REDRESSED

7 DAYS Grievance 2nd Level Grievance PROJECT/EA Redress Redressed

NOT REDRESSED

15 DAYS 3rd Level Grievance Grievance GRC LEVEL Redress Redressed

NOT REDRESSED

4th Level Grievance Redress: COURT OF LAW

Table 25: Grievance Handling Process Level Name of Level Description Time frame33 1 Field level For each construction site, one Grievance 3 working days (Contractor and Focal Person (GFP) will be assigned by the IA field officers) Contractor in order to receive and handle grievances.

Contractor’s GFP should receive the complaint (verbal or written) and provide an acknowledgement letter to the complainer, ideally with resolution, within 3 days after receipt of the complaint. IA field officers may also receive complaints and pass them immediately to the Contractor’s GFP to process. If workers have a complaint regarding the Contractor especially H&S there will be the option for them to proceed directly to Level 2 if they are not comfortable raising it with their employer.

33 The health and safety issues and ongoing issues which pose a life-and-death risk shall be resolved immediately. 170

Contractor’s GFP should maintain data in a Grievance Logbook and submit/update all necessary data related to the registered grievances to the IA GFP. All grievances received, no matter how small and easily resolved they are should be recorded in the logbook.

If the grievance cannot be solved within 3 working days, then Contractor’s GFP should submit information to the next level (IA level) and provide information to the complainant regarding to the grievance resolution process being followed. 2 Project level For each component, one Grievance Focal 7 working days (IAs HQ Project Person (GFP) will be assigned at HQ level by Officers) the IA (MePDCL and MNREDA) in order to receive and handle grievances related to that component.

IA’s GFP should maintain data in a Grievance Logbook and submit/update all necessary data related to the registered grievances to the EA GRC.

The IA GFP should review and resolve the grievance within 7 working days with the help of field officers. If the case is complex and requires investigation, expert opinion or confirmations from the state bodies, the resolution period can be extended up to 15 calendar days, but the compliant should be notified within 7 days that this will be the case. If the grievance cannot be resolved still, or the complaining party is not agreed with the offered solution, then it will pass to EA level, and GRC. 3 Grievance The GRC within the EA will review the 15 working Redress grievance and resolve it within 15 calendar days Commission days. within the EA The GRC will comprise: • Representative of MePDCL • Representative of MNREDA • IA GFP • Contractor GFP • Community Representative If the grievance is found invalid, a written response should be given to the complaining party explaining in full reasons for the rejection. 4 Court If the AP is still not satisfied with the GRC Depends on decision, then the AP can submit his/her nature of the complaint to the appropriate court of law for complaint resolution. 171

In addition, the AP may raise the concern with ADB Operations Department through INRM for resolution.

333. Considering the distribution of IP in Meghalaya, following measures are proposed as part of the GRM in order to make GRM procedures accessible to indigenous peoples: (i) membership of the indigenous peoples or their representative at the first tier GRM at field/village level; (ii) availability of the GRM form in local/indigenous dialect; (iii) installation of grievance box at all project locations; (iv) and installation of project billboard with grievance focal person's contact details and procedure on how to file a complaint, preferably in local or indigenous dialect, near the villages.

334. Receiving grievances: Grievances may be submitted by workers of community members. All the received grievances, no matter how minor or easy to resolve, should be registered by GFP of Contractor and well as IAs. Submitting grievances and registration should be a straightforward process, and the APs should be able to submit their grievances and questions directly or through a third party. This process requires availability of (i) responsible person to receive and register the complaints (GFP); (ii) multiple points for receiving grievance (contractor, IAs etc.); (iii) procedure for acknowledging the receipt and informing the complaining party about the expected timeframe for the review and resolution, and; d) logbook about the complaints and their status. Anonymous grievances regarding environmental safeguards can be received, but resolution may be limited without opportunity for engagement.

335. The complaining party should be able to submit their grievance in person, by phone call, email, letter or fax, to the GFP and contact persons assigned by MePDCL/MNREDA and PMU. Receipt of grievance lodged verbally or in writing in person or via phone should be acknowledged immediately by a paper issued by the GFP or other persons who received the grievance.

336. All the grievances, regardless of its nature and eligibility, should be recorded in a logbook in details. Upon receipt of grievances, the GFP should sort them to define if the complaint is eligible for the project established GRM. The procedure should establish clear parameters for qualifying grievance as eligible or ineligible for the project established GRM.

337. The following types of grievances are not eligible for resolution by the project established GRM: • Grievances that are not related to the project, and • Grievances that should be reviewed by a separate, more appropriate procedures (e.g. issues of fraud and corruption).

338. Feedback provision: After receiving a grievance, the GFP (or other responsible person) should: • Provide acknowledgement of the grievance via receipt, with response/ recommendations to complainant through preferred mode of communication mentioned in grievance record, • Provide the complainant with information about the status of grievance resolution in each of the grievance resolution levels, • If the resolution is not reached or seems to be unreachable at one level, the grievance should be passed on to the next level, and the complainant should be informed accordingly. Information to the complainant shall include the date when the case was passed on and the date by which the resolution is expected, • The resolution proposed at each level should be informed to the complainant, and 172

• If resolution is not reached or the complaining party is not agreeing with it, the GRC along with its decision, provide the complaining party appropriate information about why the case was not resolved, and the AP should be given a chance to review again. If failed, AP can seek resolution through the court of India or with ADB. The GRM covers both the environmental and social grievances.

339. In all these levels, the parties involved in resolution for grievance should closely discuss the issue and resolution alternatives with the complainant in order to come to the resolution that is reasonable and acceptable for all parties.

340. Reporting: The executing agency is ultimately responsible to monitoring implementation of the project established GRM and reflecting the outcomes in the monitoring reports. • The GFP of contractor should document and monitor the grievance status in grievance logbook. All grievances, no matter how minor, and regardless if immediately resolved by the contractor, will be logged with details of resolution once agreed. • GFP of contractor should report to responsible person in IAs on GRM on biweekly basis on the status of grievance resolution and immediately inform them on receipt of any grievance. • Responsible person in IA will record all grievances, no matter how minor, and regardless if immediately resolved by the contractor, in a tracking table (provided by ADB – table 26) and report to ADB on quarterly basis through progress reports and immediately inform ADB of any grievance which reaches level 3 of the GRM. Besides, all grievances and their status should be reflected in the monitoring reports, along with detailed explanation of the resolution agreed and the status of its implementation.

341. Disclosure of Grievance Redress Procedure: The grievance redress procedure for the project will be disseminated through information leaflets, brochures and notices using visual approach given low literacy rates. The PMU’s Environmental/Social Safeguard Specialist will coordinate information dissemination activities on GRM and ensure that the leaflets, brochures and notices providing details of the GRM and contacts of Contractor GFP are posted in publicly accessible and visible places at every construction site and in every affected community. In addition, the information on GRM (leaflets, brochures, notices), should be available at the site offices of Contractors, he MePDCL Sub-divisional officer, and MNREDA focal person at site.

342. The GRM will also be presented in detail during the project’s ongoing consultation during detailed design survey work (prior to commencement of construction/installation works at each village) explaining that environment, health and safety related grievances can be submitted to the GRM and the process by which grievance can be submitted. During these gatherings, it should be emphasized that the informal GRM is aimed at quick and amicable resolution of complaints and does not substitute the legal process established under national legislation. Communities should be encouraged to approach the GRM in the first instance since resolution can be faster than under legal process.

343. Disclosure shall be carried out by Contractors under the coordination and supervision of the MePDCL and MNREDA as well as PMU’s Environmental Safeguard Specialist to ensure people’s awareness of the availability of the GRM, steps of grievance resolution as well as contacts and locations of focal points to be approached in case of grievance.

344. Contractors, PMU, MePDCL related Regional Power Supply Office, MNREDA site officer, executive power offices in the regions, local municipalities, as well as NGOs and professional mediators are considered as the key actors of the GRM and play a crucial role in disseminating the information on GRM and facilitating the quick and amicable resolution of complaints. 173

345. In the areas populated by minority groups, meetings shall be held and information leaflets shall be provided in the linguistically appropriate manner, if possible, in local language used by the minority group.

Table 26: Grievance Registration Form (Project name: Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement) Contact Action Status of Title of Type of Date Name of Summary of Notes/ No details of taken / complaint / complaint complaint received plaintiff complaint comments plaintiff date date

174

VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

346. This section is the EMP that sets out the mitigation measures to avoid, minimize, mitigate or compensate adverse environmental impacts and risks that have been identified in the previous sections. The EMP is a management tool and the issues are accordingly addressed with regard to the sequence of operations, i.e., those activities that apply to detailed design, pre- construction, construction, and operation and maintenance.

347. The EMP contains a number of components crucial to effective environmental management within the project, these include: (i) plan for corrective action related to existing facilities (substations) to be implemented by MePDCL pre-construction – Appendix 2; (ii) plan for mitigation of impacts (during detailed design, pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance) including performance standards for MePDCL components – Table 27; (iii) plan for mitigation of impacts (during detailed design, pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance) including performance standards for MNREDA components – Table 28; (iv) monitoring plan and performance indicators for MePDCL and MNREDA – Table 29; and (v) implementation arrangements, including organizational responsibilities, budgets, capacity development requirements (for various aspects of EMP implementation).

A. Impacts, Mitigation and Monitoring

A.1. Critical Environmental Review Criteria

348. Loss of irreplaceable resources: The project will involve land take for the substations and the installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and agricultural processing units; they are to be located on land which is already modified habitat, acquired by the government through willing-buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from communities. Upgrading of existing substations will be done within their existing premises; hence no additional land is required. 33/11 kV lines associated poles, conductors, and transformers have a small footprint with reconductoring of 11 kV existing lines and installation of rooftop solar PV systems not requiring any land unless rerouting is needed for lines to avoid sensitive receptors. The project components do not encroach upon any legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas or physical cultural resources.

349. Accelerated use of resources for short-term gains: The project will import all materials for construction and not use any natural resources occurring in the project area during construction, as well as the operation and maintenance phases. Construction material such as steel, poles, cement, etc., shall come from licensed factories. Excavated soil for substations and feeder lines shall be used for backfilling to restore the surface wherever possible. If infertile and rocky material needs to be taken off site, then it will be disposed of by a licensed waste management operator at designated disposal area suitable for accepting inert wastes. Thus, the project shall not cause any accelerated use of resources for short-term gains.

350. Endangering of species: The project components do not encroach upon any legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas. No reserve forest will be affected. Project sites are already modified habitats and disturbed natural environments; new substations are proposed on modified habitat with the footprint of new distribution lines 175 mostly located within the road rights of way although some sections may need to pass thorough agricultural or plantation areas. Based on reports during consultation with local villagers, no threatened wild animal species were found/seen in and around the proposed sites. Thus, the risk of endangering species of flora and fauna present in the project area is limited. However, mitigation measures have been incorporated into the EMP given there are some potential risks to species, especially elephant, bats and birds, once operational.

351. PCB Management by MePDCL: MePDCL has phased out the use of PCBs from its operations in respect of purchasing new equipment after MoEFCC notification in 2016. However, it is not known if PCBs might still exist in old transformers. Old transformers will be tested and will only be retained in-situ if certain requirements are met. Those being disposed of will be safely removed, transported and stored by MePDCL for hand over to an authorized vendor who will be contracted to dispose of them as per the national regulations for Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rule 2008.

352. Overall, the project will have direct, indirect, cumulative and induced environmental impacts that are mostly minor, temporary and of short duration, primarily during construction works, and which can be easily managed through the adoption of international good practices for environmental management as set out in the IFC EHS Guidelines including those on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution dated 30 April 2007. The most significant potential environmental impact is associated with the removal, storage and disposal of phased out equipment, particularly old transformers that may contain PCB oil. The removal, storage and disposal of old transformers will be done in accordance with international good practice34 and the Government of India’s regulations35 to ensure that there will be no residual significant impact associated with the disposal of any old transformers that were found to contain PCBs.

A.2 Mitigation Plan

353. Table 27 and Table 28 includes the proposed mitigation measures requirements for implementation of the project. The EMP will be part of the contract documents and during detailed design, pre-construction and construction relevant measures will be implemented by the respective contractor under the supervision of the PMU and PIC. During detailed design and operation and maintenance, the measures will be implemented by the relevant IAs district office under the supervision of PMU.

A.3 Monitoring Plan

354. Table 29 includes the proposed quantitative monitoring requirements and performance indicators for implementation of the project. During detailed design, pre-construction and construction, specific monitoring activities defined in the EMP will be carried out by the contractor, supervised by the PMU and PIC. During detailed design and operation and maintenance, monitoring activities will be carried out by the relevant IAs district office under the supervision of PMU.

34 IFC EHS Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and Distribution (April 30, 2007); Stockholm Convention of Persistent Organic Pollutants (1972), and UNEP Guidelines for the Identification of PCB and Materials Containing PCB34 and a health and safety risk assessment and plan referring to the measures in UNEP (2002) PCB Transformers and Capacitors: From Management to Reclassification and Disposal. 35 In India PCBs are managed under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans-boundary Movement) Rules 2008 (Amended 2009); and the Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Order, 2016 (S.O. 1327(E). 176

Table 27: Environmental Management Plan Matrix for Distribution System Components (MePDCL) Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU A. DETAILED DESIGN AND PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE Supervise and monitor 100% of IA corrective actions compliance, • Implement the CAP set out in Appendix 2 implemented in a preconstructi Comply with for all existing facilities and submit a report timely manner Per CAP on audit to Existing facilities corrective NA on the status of actions to ADB for prior to (Appendix 2) confirm if action plan clearance prior to the contractor being construction at corrective given access to the substation in question relevant actions substations complied with

100% of new and Check • Conduct training on PCB hazards related to old transformers Comply with contract old transformers and requirements of used in the mitigating document to national laws and regulations for their project are measures ensure phase out and environmentally sound confirmed to be Part of compliance disposal PCB free by 2025 detailed Include

• PCBs will not be used in any transformers design and mitigating Train / Release of toxic No H&S incidents and any other project facilities or equipment. pre- measures for support PMU pollutants, involving PCBs • Equipment purchased by MePDCL or construction Contractor as and chemicals and reported Contractor for use on the project to be cost, include part of tender Contractor re Comply with gases to receptors accompanied by letter from the as BOQ line specifications PCBs per mitigating (air, water, land) 100% of PCB manufacturer that it is guaranteed PCB free but since capacity measures from transformers transformers and labelled as PCB free. $20,000 for testing is building and and other project disposed of under PCB testing specialist training table equipment • Contractor to provide MePDCL with material project are of sample task it will 30. data sheets for insulating oil meeting transported, transformers either need technical specifications for use in new stored, separate Supervise transformers. decontaminated, contract or to and monitor and disposed of • In the absence of test data all transformers be sub- IA/Contractor in an at existing substations or which will be contracted compliance environmentally disturbed by the distribution works must be assumed by the Contractor to contain PCBs sound manner by 177

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU and the oil must be sampled and analyzed 2025 (national Supervise Random following UNEP Guidelines for the deadline is 2028) and monitor third-party Identification of PCB and Materials Contractor audit of Containing PCB36 and a health and safety Compliance with compliance hazardous risk assessment and plan referring to the national laws and waste measures in UNEP (2002) PCB regulations Transport, transfer and Transformers and Capacitors: From storage, third-party Management to Reclassification and decontaminat vendors to Disposal. ion, and confirm • Workers must wear suitable chemical and/or disposal of appropriate oil resistant gloves, goggles, and protective contaminated disposal old clothing whilst sampling the transformer oils. units transformers

• Eye wash station and water supply to shower to be provided during sampling due to risk of PCB coming into contact with skin. • If PCBs are found in existing transformers and other project equipment it should be labelled as such and replaced with new equipment. • Transformers containing PCBs may not be retained in-situ given the 2025 deadline which coincides with the date of the project completion. • Equipment that is found to be PCB free is to be labelled as being PCB free for future reference. • MePDCL to ensure appropriate transport, storage, decontamination, and disposal of contaminated units; disposal should involve facilities capable of safely transporting and disposing of hazardous waste containing PCBs.

36 http://www.chem.unep.ch/Publications/pdf/GuidIdPCB.pdf 178

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • In decommissioning and disposing of transformers (at existing substations) regardless of containing PCB oils MePDCL and Contractor to follow Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008 and 2016 of India for transport, storage and disposal of potentially PCB oil containing transformers. • The handling, transport, storage and disposal of old transformers by third party vendor will be subject to approval obtained from Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board and receiving State Pollution Control Board as vendors for disposal not available in Meghalaya. • On reaching the stores MePDCL must ensure that old transformers are stored on drip trays; currently they are stored on open ground. • Surrounding soil at existing substation exposed to oil leakage from equipment should be assessed by Contractor, and appropriate removal and / or remediation measures should be implemented in accordance with the General EHS Guidelines. • New 33/11kV substations to be located on 100% of Check Comply with land acquired by the government through clearances contract Interference with mitigating willing-buyer and willing-seller mechanism obtained and document to land users, other Part of pre- measures or by voluntary donation from communities. compensation ensure Comply with utilities and traffic construction • Upgrading of existing substations will be paid in compliance mitigating due to design and cost, include Include done within their existing premises; hence accordance with measures layout of project as BOQ line mitigating no additional land is required. RP before Assist with equipment measures for commencement review and • New 33/11 kV lines to ideally be aligned Contractor as along the right of way (ROW) of existing rural of works approval of 179

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU roads although some sections may need to part of tender traffic pass thorough agricultural or plantation Traffic specifications management areas with compensation in accordance with management plan the RP. plan approved Review and • Reconductoring of 11 kV existing lines will before approval of Supervise not require any land unless minor rerouting commencement traffic and monitor is needed for lines to avoid sensitive of works management IA/Contractor receptors in which case any compensation plan compliance due should be paid in accordance with the No unresolved RP. grievances from Supervise local community and monitor • Since any damages must be paid by the Contractor Contractor, photographic and structural pre- Compliance with compliance condition surveys of property including national laws and existing utilities, structures (e.g. buildings) regulations and roads, crops, and drains, utilities, should be completed by the Contractor and agreed with MePDCL and the property owner prior to any works to provide a baseline for any claims. • Continue to follow criteria set out in IEE for site selection in undertaking detailed route alignment surveys and in the event of any change to substation locations; update the IEE and EMP to reflect any design changes. • Obtain necessary clearances consistent with the requirements of Government of India from other utilities that could be affected by the project (electric, water, telecommunications, railways, roads etc.) • Contractor to prepare for MePDCL approval traffic management plan in consultation with relevant local authorities to ensure proper execution of traffic controls including where temporary blockage of one lane of the road during installation is required for health and 180

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU safety purposes that highly visible guides, advance warning signs or flag persons are in place to direct pedestrian and vehicular traffic. • As far as is practical, alignment to avoid the Supervise Comply with need to cut/trim trees by avoiding areas with and monitor mitigating a high concentration of trees - position of IA/Contractor measures poles to be adjusted during detailed route compliance surveys in order to minimize impacts on Comply with trees. Forest mitigating department measures • Cutting or trimming of trees will only be approvals planned when required to meet safety obtained before Include clearance requirements. commencement mitigating • Contractor to identify and conduct an of works measures for inventory of trees to be cut prior to the start Contractor as of any land clearing work at the substation 100% of Part of part of tender sites and along the distribution line compensation detailed specifications Cutting or trimming alignments. paid prior to design and of trees and • Where alignment results in loss of loss of commencement pre- Supervise clearing of fruit-bearing trees that have economic value of works construction and monitor vegetation compensate in accordance with the cost, include Contractor entitlement matrix in the project No unresolved as BOQ line compliance Resettlement Plan. grievances from local community Ensure forest • Obtain approvals from forest department as department per national regulatory framework, Compliance with undertakes approvals are required for tree cutting of national laws and compen- public trees outside protected or forest regulations satory areas. afforestation • Public trees will be compensated for by funded by compensatory afforestation (planting at MePDCL least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements. Provide funds to the forest department to undertake the compensatory afforestation on behalf of 181

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU MePDCL. • MePDCL will monitor the progress of the compensatory afforestation process it has funded to ensure this planting takes place such that “no net loss of biodiversity” is achieved. • Schedule works requiring tree cutting/trimming outside the bird breeding season. • No works shall be undertaken, and no Supervise Comply with temporary or permanent project facilities and monitor mitigating established, within a protected area, IBA, 100% of IA/Contractor measures reserve forest area, or sacred grove etc. distribution lines compliance surveyed by • Suitably qualified ecologist will undertake ecologist for and document the findings of walkover habitats and Comply with surveys of all 33/11kV distribution lines to species present. mitigating confirm habitats and species present, in measures undertaking this walkover they will also No impact on identify locally important receptors e.g. Part of protected area, Include mature trees to be avoided, determine if detailed IBA, reserve mitigating identified elephant corridors design and Encroachment into “Baghmara – forest area, or measures for - are crossed pre- ecologically Balpakram” and “Siju Rewak” sacred grove etc. Contractor as by the route alignments, as well as construction sensitive areas part of tender confirming the absence of any protected cost, include 100% of new and specifications area, IBA, reserve forest area, or sacred as BOQ line existing lines grove etc. designed to Supervise • New lines will be designed and existing incorporate and monitor lines retrofitted to be ecologically sensitive ecologically Contractor for birds (especially raptors) in accordance sensitive features compliance with international good practice e.g. maintaining 1.5 meter spacing between Compliance with energized components and grounded national laws and hardware or, where spacing is not feasible, regulations covering energized parts and retrofitting elevated perches, insulating jumper loops, 182

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU placing obstructive perch deterrents, changing the location of conductors, and / or using raptor hood. • If traversing identified elephant corridors “Baghmara – Balpakram” and “Siju-Rewak” all new lines will be designed, and existing lines retrofitted to be ecologically sensitive for elephants by ensuring clearance above ground of the lower conductor is as per national regulations or above maximum trunk height of the elephant, which ever higher. • Prior to finalization of the detailed designs, Include Check N/A update the IEE to include the final routings mitigating contract (maps) of all 33/11kV lines since these are measures for document to not available until detailed route surveys Contractor as ensure are completed, as well as the final locations part of tender compliance of substations (if any change) and other specifications aspects of detailed design, confirm no change from the impacts and risks described and assessed in this IEE, and seek ADB clearance of the updated IEE Final IEE and EMP report prior to approving the Contractor’s EMP included in N/A in bidding detailed design. bidding documents • Continue to undertake consultation, ensure documents consultation with all potentially affected landowners and communities within 100 meters of ROW undertaken and documented in updated IEE prior to finalization of the route alignment. • IEE and any updates (including executive summary translated into the local language i.e. Khasi) is to be posted on the MePDCL website, at local offices of MePDCL, and its availability disclosed through notices 183

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU posted in the vicinity of works to inform of its availability – hard copy to be made available to view on site free of charge on request. • Ensure EMP is included in the bidding documents and forms integral part of the contractor’s agreement. Check Comply with • Project to comply with national and contract mitigating international regulatory framework as set document to measures out in Table 2 of the IEE plus other ensure applicable environment, health and safety compliance legislation. Comply with mitigating Train / measures • Project to comply with the EHS General Contractor support PMU

Guidelines (April 2007) and the EHS appointed full and Include Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission contingency staff Contractor in mitigating and Distribution (April 2007) in addition to prior to meeting EMP Part of measures for the mitigation set out in this table. mobilization requirements detailed Contractor as and GRM Planning for design and part of tender • MePDCL to appoint to the PMU an EHS CEMP approved operation per construction pre- specifications Team comprising a suitably qualified and before capacity environmental construction experienced dedicated Environment commencement building and management cost, include Review and Officer, dedicated Health and Safety of works training table as BOQ line approval of Officer, and a dedicated Community 30. CEMP Liaison/GRM Officer. One engineer to be No unresolved

allocated by the PMU to supervise and grievances from Assist with Supervise monitor environment, health and safety on local community review and and monitor each contract package with support of the approval of Contractor EHS Team. CEMP compliance

• Conduct training on EMP implementation Supervise for those with responsibilities under it. and monitor IA/Contractor compliance • Contractor to appoint a suitably qualified

and experienced dedicated Environment 184

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Officer, dedicated Health and Safety Officer, and a dedicated Community Liaison/GRM Officer for each component of work. • Ensure GRM is operational by or before loan effectiveness. • Conduct training on GRM for those with responsibilities under it and distribute verbally and through leaflets, brochures, notices with the GRM contacts. • Prior to mobilization the Contractor to submit a construction environmental management plan (CEMP) to MePDCL for approval, to provide details on how contractor plans to implement the construction mitigation measures specified in this EMP and relevant parts of the EHS Guidelines on Construction and Demolition. • CEMP will identify temporary construction facilities needed e.g. laydown and storage areas, concrete casting areas, workers facilities etc. • Transformers to be required via the Comply with Supervise Implement contract to generate sound pressure levels Related facilities mitigating and monitor mitigating of between 45 and 55 dBA at 1m distance. located sufficient measures IA/Contractor measures Location of workers Part of distance from compliance camp and materials • Contractor to ensure construction works detailed nearest receptors Include storage areas could and transformers are located as far as design and mitigating adversely affect possible and ideally at least 10m from the pre- No unresolved measures for residential areas site boundary of substations/50m from construction grievances from Contractor as and sensitive sensitive receptors; if this is not possible cost, include local community part of tender receptors (schools, undertake noise calculations to as BOQ line specifications hospitals/clinics) demonstrate noise standards will be met given distances involved, if necessary, Compliance with Contractor to provide temporary or national laws and Supervise permanent acoustic fence to provide regulations and monitor 185

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU adequate attenuation such that noise levels Contractor can be met. compliance • For substations where sensitive receptors are within 50m of the substation boundary (currently 6 nos. – Mawshbuit, Rongjen Songma, Mangsang, Sibbari, Cherangri, and Zikzak) construct a solid wall at least 3m height on the boundary which is adjacent to the receptors to reduce noise and provide a visual screen. • If required, laydown and storage areas, temporary worker camps, etc. to be located at least 25m from waterbodies, 50m from springs and groundwater wells, and 50m from sensitive receptors (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) however noisy and dusty activities such as concrete batching, hot mix, construction workers overnight accommodation etc. to be located at least 200m away from any sensitive receptors. • Local communities to be consulted when selecting sites for project facilities prior to finalization. Chance find Supervise Implement • Given seismic risk ensure the design of all procedure and monitor mitigating substation foundations and structures and Comply with approved before IA/Contractor measures Risks of soil all other civil and structural project Part of mitigating commencement compliance erosion, damages components are checked for seismic safety detailed measures of works to sub-surface by the design team. design and Assist with utilities and chance • Project components on slopes to pre- Include No unresolved review and find of physical incorporate slope stability measures such construction mitigating grievances from approvals of cultural resources as bioengineering and retaining walls and cost, include measures for local community change find during construction. adequate drainage with designs checked as BOQ line Contractor as procedure so as to confirm that international good part of tender Compliance with practice slope stability design is followed. specifications national laws and

• Detailed designs substations to minimize regulations 186

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU cut and fill in order to reduce dust creation Review and and the generation of construction spoil for approval of disposal. chance find • Schedule all earthworks for substations and procedure installation of poles during the dry season to minimize exposed areas subject to Supervise erosion by surface water runoff. and monitor Contractor • Chance find procedure to be developed for compliance implementation in the event physical cultural resources are found, to include the following procedures: - If suspected physical cultural resources are encountered, all works at the find site should be immediately halted; - The find should be assessed by a competent local District Office of Culture and Fine Arts official, and procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to such physical cultural objects should be agreed in writing with them. - Work should not begin until the procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to the physical cultural resources have been agreed and implemented in full. - If avoidance is not feasible, and no alternatives to removal exist, and the project benefits outweigh the anticipated cultural heritage loss from removal which is unlikely unless in case of resource of local value, following clearance of ADB the physical cultural resources 187

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU should be removed and preserved using the best available technique in accordance with relevant provisions of national heritage protection laws and decrees. - Records should be maintained of all finds, including chain of custody instructions for movable finds. • All construction workers to be made aware of the chance-find procedure and types of finds to be reported. • Detailed design to ensure sanitation to be Supervise Implement connected existing sewerage system or to and monitor mitigating septic tank with soakaway located at least IA/Contractor measures PPP and CWMP 50m from any spring or well used for Include compliance approved before drinking water and 25m from any drain, mitigating commencement stream, river, or other waterbodies. Pit measures for Assist with of works latrines prohibited, no untreated sanitary Contractor as review and

wastewater permitted to be disposed of part of tender approvals of Smart meter direct to surface or groundwater. Part of specifications PPP and WMP approved • Detailed designs of substations to ensure detailed CWMP and before all drainage prevents flooding and is fitted design and Review and smart meter Pollution prevention replacement with oil and grease interceptors to catch oil pre- approval of WMP and generation of works commence spill. construction PPP and construction wastes cost, include CWMP and • For all transformers and related fuel, oil Compliance with as BOQ line smart meter chemical, and waste storage areas the national laws and WMP detailed design is to incorporate bunded regulations

area of 110% volume with an impermeable No unresolved Supervise concrete surface which is not connected to grievances from and monitor the drainage system in order to capture any local community Contractor leaks or spills; the detailed design of the compliance storage area for fuel, oil and chemicals is to be under lock and key and covered to protect it from rain with space also provided in the storage area for solid and hazardous 188

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU waste garbage bins to be stored. • Design to include for oil spill clean-up materials (sorbent pads, loose sorbent material, etc.) to be stationed in/outside any oil/fuel storage building in clearly labelled containers. • Garbage bins for disposal of waste generated by workers to be provided, open burning of waste is strictly prohibited. • Prepare pollution prevention plan (PPP) and construction waste management plan (CWMP) for solid and hazardous waste management in accordance with national regulations and EHS Guidelines • Conduct training of workers on PPP and CWMP including good housekeeping and how to clean up oil/fuel spills and dispose of contaminated sorbent material which would be treated as a hazardous waste • For smart meter replacement, produce a waste management plan (WMP) detailing how removed meters will be disposed of in accordance with national requirements and the EHS Guidelines and provide training on the WMP to the meter replacement workers • No asbestos containing materials of any 100% of new Comply with Supervise Implement type will be used in the design and project facilities Part of mitigating and monitor mitigating construction of project facilities. do not use detailed measures IA/Contractor measures asbestos design and compliance • To inform H&S risk assessment Contractor containing pre- Include Health and safety to check/survey for the presence of materials construction mitigating Assist with asbestos prior to any work to existing control cost, include measures for review and buildings or equipment following national H&S Plan as BOQ line Contractor as approvals of requirements and international good approved before part of tender H&S Plans practice as detailed in the IFC EHS General commencement specifications 189

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Guidelines on OHS and document findings. of works • If any asbestos was found to be present and Review and it will be disturbed by construction works, it Compliance with approval of must be removed following national national laws and H&S Plans requirements and international good regulations practice per EHS General Guidelines on Supervise OHS and disposed of as hazardous waste No unresolved and monitor material. grievances from Contractor workers of the compliance • To inform H&S risk assessment local community check/survey for the presence of any illegal rat hole mines when undertaking the Supply of water detailed route survey and document meets drinking findings. water standards • For all construction works and smart meter (test results) replacement comply with GoI rules and regulations for the protection of workers. • For all construction works and smart meter replacement undertake risk assessment and prepare H&S plan in accordance with EHS Guidelines, considering occupational and community H&S and including adherence emergency preparedness and response plan with communication systems and protocols to report an emergency situation. • Conduct training on occupational health and safety related to project for all construction workers and electricians replacing smart meters, including regular refreshers. To include training for PMU and all Contractor management and construction workers including subcontractors before commencement of works. • Conduct training of workers on emergency 190

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU preparedness and response procedures related to project in case of an occupational or community health and safety incident during construction works or smart meter replacement. To include training for PMU and all Contractor management and construction workers including subcontractors before commencement of works. This is to include an emergency fire action plan for substations with training given to staff on how to use firefighting equipment and how to implement the plan. • Detailed designs of substations to ensure infrastructure is located above the maximum flood level allowing for climate change (e.g. transformer platforms to be placed at least 2m above the highest flood level) • Detailed designs of substations to incorporate adequate drainage design to attenuate storm water runoff leaving the site to greenfield runoff rates (allowing for climate change and considering addition of impermeable surfaces) such that there will be minimal changes to the natural flow rates and paths of storm water runoff across adjacent land. Drainage will be designed to route storm water runoff from the substation to existing watercourses or to infiltrate to ground in order to avoid flooding of access roads and nearby areas. Storm water management shall conform to governmental agency requirements. • Poorly maintained and unpaved access roads (Table 11) used for construction traffic and operational access will be 191

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU surfaced using concrete or asphalt. New access roads (Table 11, about 700m in total) will be single lane configuration (approximately 3 m wide carriageway with side drains) and be concrete or asphalt surfaced with adequate drainage; detailed design of access roads to be approved prior to works. • For all substations provide secure fence with locked gates and warning signs to include the ISO 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol warning of the risk of electrocution. • Design to include adequate pole foundation in order that all poles remain vertical during operation, and that the lines are tensioned. For reconductoring old poles or poles previously incorrectly installed may need to be replaced. • Design to provide on all substation boundaries/equipment and poles, visual and written warning signages to the public to include the ISO 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol warning of the risk of electrocution. • Design to provide lighting arrestors along all lines. • Design to provide around the base of all pole mounted transformers a fence or similar deterrent to prevent climbing with suitable warning signs. • Detailed design of substations and lines to ensure EMF levels are within international good practice International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) 192

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU reference levels (average and peak exposure) and to meet national vertical and horizontal safety distances • Detailed design of lines to ensure their installation above or adjacent to locations intended for highly frequent human occupancy (e.g. schools) is avoided. For lines within 5m of such facilities the detailed arrangement plan will be included in the updated IEE. • If safety distances found not to be complied with during reconductoring reroute to facilitate compliance; also reroute to avoid distribution lines passing over any school compounds or similar community facilities (Chapter 3, Table 12) – for any lines within 5m of such facilities the detailed minor rearrangement plan will be included in the updated IEE. • Detailed design to include for sufficient fire extinguishers of the type suitable for fighting an oil or fuel fire and for other firefighting equipment positioned where oil- filled transformers or other oil-filled equipment is used as well as outside/within the store. • Use of SF6 in fire extinguishers to be provided at substations should be avoided. • Detailed design to ensure fire detection and alarm system is to be provided in the control buildings. • Detailed design of substations to include adequate sanitation and welfare facilities for permanent workers, including indoor kitchen facilities and eating area with 193

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU provision of sufficient fuel supply for cooking other than wood, and adequate number of indoor toilets/washrooms for bathing with a hot and cold running water supply connected to either • Source of drinking water that meets drinking water standards to be identified, if an authorized supplied of canned water is not used this may require drinking water filter to be included in the detailed design. Such water must be regularly tested to confirm if meets drinking water standards. • If local water source is to be used it must be tested first to confirm if it meets drinking water standards and, its use agreed by the local communities (village doubars) in order to avoid any issues regarding water conflict. B. CONSTRUCTION PHASE Check with Supervise Implement Contractor and monitor mitigation • Follow design drawings and implement 100% of regarding IA/Contractor measures Unanticipated careful construction practices to avoid structures (e.g. need for pole compliance impacts on property damage to existing structures (e.g. buildings) and replacement To advise including land and buildings) and roads, crops, bunds, canals roads, crops, on private Undertake PMU and PIC structures. and drains. bunds, canals land and site visits and of need for Part of Loss of agricultural • Demarcation of the working area and avoid and drains left in initiate review pole construction land that causes encroachment outside the agreed corridor same condition necessary documentatio replacement cost, include temporary of impact. as prior to engagement n to audit on private land as BOQ line disruption of construction with implementati • All unanticipated damage to existing farming activities, structures (e.g. buildings) and roads, crops, landowner on of damage to crops, bunds, canals and drains outside the No unresolved measures at bunds, canals and assessed corridor of impact shall be grievances from Supervise all drains. restored to pre-project condition and/or local community and monitor construction compensated at cost of contractor. Contractor sites compliance

194

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Undertake site visits using checklist to confirm implementati on of measures by Contactor

• No works shall be undertaken, and no Supervise Supervise Implement temporary or permanent project facilities and monitor and monitor mitigation

established, within a protected area, IBA, Contractor IA/Contractor measures No impact on reserve forest area, or sacred grove etc. compliance compliance protected area,

• Follow design drawings and implement IBA, reserve Undertake Undertake careful construction practices to avoid forest area, or site visits site visits and damage to trees. sacred grove etc. using review

• Demarcation of mature trees to be avoided checklist to documentatio Works in and retained. confirm n to audit accordance with • Demarcation of the working area and avoid implementati implementati EMP measures, encroachment outside the agreed corridor Part of on of on of Cutting or trimming approved CEMP of impact. construction measures by measures at of trees and and cost, include Contactor all clearing of • Cutting or trimming of trees prohibited compensatory as BOQ line construction vegetation. unless in accordance with design drawings afforestation plan sites in order to meet safety clearance

requirements. Compliance with

• Cut/trimmed trees and other vegetation national laws and trimmings will be temporarily stored at regulations designated places outside of built up area to avoid blocking of accesses or dumping No unresolved on agriculture fields. grievances from local community • Cut/trimmed trees and other vegetation

trimmings will be removed off-site as soon

as line is completed. Unless sold for reuse, to be disposed of to a suitably licensed 195

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU waste management facility with all waste transfer records retained. • Unanticipated loss of fruit-bearing trees that have economic value shall be compensated at cost of Contractor in accordance with the Resettlement Plan. • Unanticipated loss of public trees will be compensated for by compensatory afforestation (planting at least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements. Contractor via MePDCL to provide funds to the forest department to undertake the compensatory afforestation. • Before cutting/trimming trees Contractor’s Environment Officer to check for presence of nesting birds or roosting bats. • Undertake works requiring tree cutting/trimming outside the bird nesting/breeding season. • Avoidance of construction works from one hour after dawn to one hour before dusk in areas where there is no existing human disturbance. • Removal and disposal of identified invasive plant species in an ecologically sound manner. • Use of herbicides or burning in order to clear vegetation is strictly prohibited. • Implement agreed traffic management plan. Works in Supervise Supervise Implement Part of • Safe access to property and roads should accordance with and monitor and monitor mitigation Interference with construction be maintained and alternative routes and EMP measures Contractor IA/Contractor measures traffic and cost, include access provided where there are temporary and approved compliance compliance accessways as BOQ line diversions or blockages. traffic Undertake Undertake • Stockpiling of poles, spoil and cable reels management 196

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU shall be away from properties and only in plan site visits site visits and designated areas where no access will be using review blocked. Compliance with checklist to documentatio • Implement traffic management controls national laws and confirm n to audit during construction works with advance regulations implementati implementati warning signs or flag persons to ensure on of on of health and safety of construction workers No unresolved measures measures at and road users. grievances from all local community construction • Road safety and warning signs must be sites posted at 500m, 100m, and immediately in advance of the works at least two weeks prior to the works commencing to inform the public of the temporary blockage of one lane of the road. • Scaffolds will be constructed to protect pedestrians and vehicles (and the conductor itself) from potential injury /damage during conductor stringing across roads, rivers etc. • Excavation for substations will be limited to Supervise Supervise Implement within the substation footprint. and monitor and monitor mitigation Works in Contractor IA/Contractor measures • Minimize removal of existing vegetation and accordance with compliance compliance topsoil to that which is absolutely EMP measures necessary. and approved Undertake Undertake Soil erosion during • Once earthworks are complete immediately CEMP provisions Part of site visits site visits and substation revegetate areas of substation not utilized construction using review construction and for infrastructure using native species etc. Compliance with cost, include checklist to documentatio auguring/ national laws and as BOQ line confirm n to audit excavation of pole • Undertake earthworks for substations only regulations implementati implementati foundation. during the dry season to minimize sediment laden surface water runoff. on of on of No unresolved measures measures at • Excavated soil will be covered with grievances from all tarpaulin when spoil heaps are not active local community construction and stored at least 10m from watercourses. sites • Topsoil disturbed during the development 197

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU of sites will be used to restore the surface of the excavated area. • Infertile and rocky material will where possible be reused as fill material, if it needs to be taken off site it will be disposed by licensed waste management operator at designated disposal area suitable for accepting inert wastes. • Records of excavated soil, generated waste, and transfer records will be kept by the contractor. • Excavation for poles will be limited to within the agreed corridor of impact, ideally road reserve. • Rehabilitate any disturbed areas beyond footprint of pole foundation to at least original condition immediately through revegetation using native species etc. • Use of auguring to limit the area to be disturbed for pole foundation. • Undertake installation of poles during the dry season to minimize exposed areas subject to erosion by surface water runoff. • Check with relevant local authorities Works in Supervise Supervise Implement (electric, water, telecoms) whether there accordance with and monitor and monitor mitigation Risks of damages are known pipes, cables, or other utility EMP measures Contractor IA/Contractor measures to sub-surface lines and carry out a scan using Cable and approved Part of compliance compliance utilities and chance Avoidance Tool (CAT) to identify any chance find construction find of physical unknown underground utilities prior to procedure cost, include Undertake Undertake cultural resources excavation provisions as BOQ line site visits site visits and during construction. • Rehabilitate any damaged utilities to at using review least original condition in conjunction with Compliance with checklist to documentatio relevant local authorities at cost to the national laws and confirm n to audit Contractor. regulations implementati implementati 198

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Follow chance find procedure if physical on of on of cultural resources are found during No unresolved measures measures at construction works; if physical cultural grievances from all resources are encountered, all works at the local community construction find site should be immediately halted. sites

• Provide at least one-month advance notice Supervise Supervise Implement to local community through the village and monitor and monitor mitigation heads about the schedule of, location plan, Contractor IA/Contractor measures and details of planned construction works. compliance compliance • Carry out construction works only during Comply with daytime hours (8am-6pm) and on CBCB air and Undertake Undertake weekdays unless otherwise agreed with the noise standards, site visits site visits and village heads and all residents within 100m or WHO noise using review to avoid noise nuisance. guidelines where checklist to documentatio stricter than the confirm n to audit • Construction to be conducted using manual national implementati implementati and no heavy equipment. on of on of • Noise generating construction-related Works in measures measures at Part of activities will be avoided during evenings, accordance with all Dust, noise and construction school hours, prayer times, religious or EMP measures If required construction general disturbance cost, include cultural events in close proximity to the and approved undertake sites to local community as BOQ line sensitive receptors. CEMP quantitative

dust and • Construction noise in the vicinity of houses noise and other sensitive receptors must be Compliance with national laws and monitoring to limited to 55dB(A) as 1hour LAeq – if confirm nighttime work is permitted it must be regulations compliance limited to 45dB(A) as 1hour LAeq. No unresolved with • If these levels are exceeded, the contractor grievances from performance will be required to implement additional local community standards at noise mitigation measures such as any given adjusting his working methods or placing of location temporary noise barriers to ensure the noise standard is met. • For substations where sensitive receptors 199

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU are within 50m (currently 6 nos. – Mawshbuit, Rongjen Songma, Mangsang, Sibbari, Cherangri, and Zikzak) the permanent wall should be constructed first or a temporary acoustic noise fence used. • If sensitive receptors are within 50m of construction works temporary acoustic noise fence to be used. • Use of low noise generating equipment e.g. less than 55dBA sound pressure level at 1m • Equipment (e.g. generators) to meet applicable national air and noise emission requirements. • Ensure all construction machinery and vehicles are maintained in good working order and have passed emissions test for noise and air emissions as applicable to them • Prohibit the use of horns in areas where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • Construction workers exposure to noise should not exceed the levels set out in the General EHS Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety otherwise the hearing protection is to be provided • Poorly maintained or unpaved access roads to substations to be surfaced and where required new access roads to be constructed before any excavation or other earthworks or heavy vehicle movements at the substation sites commence (Table 11) • Limit engine idling to maximum 5 minutes 200

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Impose speed limits on construction vehicles to minimize dust emission along areas where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • During the dry season or in windy conditions undertake water sprinkling at least twice a day in exposed areas prone to dust generation where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) and at substations and on unpaved access roads to distribution lines but more often if needed during excavations, earthworks, and windy conditions that enable dust to be easily mobilized • Stockpiles of soil and other dust generating materials will be covered with tarpaulin • Providing workers with N95 dust masks to be worn when dust generating activities take place • Vehicles delivering construction materials shall be covered • Open burning of wastes generated by project-related activities to be strictly prohibited • Ensure all stationary emission sources are maintained in good working order in accordance with manufacturer instructions • Position any stationary emission sources (e.g. diesel generators, compressors, etc.) as far as practical from sensitive receptors (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • Follow General EHS Guidelines for the use and storage of fuel, oil, and chemical 201

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU including prevention and control of hazards associated with spill prevention, emergency response, clean up and contaminated soil remediation • Fuel, oil and chemicals used to be kept under lock and key and stored in labelled, sealed containers on drip trays to provide secondary containment, ideally they will be located on an impermeable surface and be under cover • Mounting of plant containing oil and diesel on drip trays to catch leaks. • Refueling operations, equipment servicing and washdown to take place on an impermeable surface at least 25m from watercourses, and 50m from springs and wells, with drainage directed through oil and grease interceptors before being discharged into a settling pond prior to discharge offsite • Provide sufficient absorbent materials (e.g. sorbents, dry sand, sandbags) on-site for soaking up fuel, oil or chemical leaks/spills. • Construction materials (especially sand and Works in Supervise Supervise Implement gravel e.g. for access road construction) accordance with and monitor and monitor mitigation will be sourced from existing approved EMP measures Contractor IA/Contractor measures sources with operating licenses. and approved compliance compliance Part of • Provision of adequate on-site sanitation PPP and CWMP Pollution prevention construction facilities including septic tanks and soak- and smart meter Undertake Undertake and generation of cost, include away pits or alternative sanitary facilities WMP site visits site visits and construction wastes as BOQ line that do not allow the untreated disposal of using review

sewage direct to adjacent water bodies e.g. Compliance with checklist to documentatio portable toilets (same requirement applies national laws and confirm n to audit to any construction camps). regulations implementati implementati on of on of • Provision of an appropriate domestic solid 202

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU waste and construction waste collection No unresolved measures measures at and disposal system. grievances from all • Provision of designated hard standing local community construction areas for equipment servicing, refueling sites and wash down at least 25m from Random watercourses, and 50m from springs and third-party wells, with drainage directed through oil audit of and grease interceptors before being hazardous discharged into a settling pond prior to waste discharge offsite. transfer and third-party • Implement agreed waste management plan vendors to and avoid or minimize the generation of confirm waste materials, as far as is practicable. appropriate • Collect and segregate construction wastes disposal old including scrap metal, oils, and solid waste. transformers • Store all wastes in designated, labelled area in an environmentally sound manner e.g. oils to be stored in sealed drums on drip trays, solid wastes to be stored in an enclosed bin. • Recover recyclable wastes that could be reused or sold to recyclers. • Prohibit burning of construction wastes. • Prohibit dumping of construction wastes in canals, rivers, ponds, agricultural fields etc. • Scrap metal and similar waste to be immediately removed off-site to the DISCOM stores for appropriate reuse or disposal with all waste transfer records retained. • Unless reused or sold, other construction waste to be disposed of to a suitably licensed waste management facility (depending on if hazardous or non- 203

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU hazardous) with all waste transfer records retained. For hazardous waste out of state disposal may be needed given no or limited hazardous waste facilities in Meghalaya. • Phased out transformers will be collected, transported, stored and processed/disposed of following General EHS Guidelines and GOI’s Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008 and 2016 for transport, storage and disposal of potentially PCB oil containing transformers. On reaching the stores MePDCL must ensure that old transformers are stored on drip trays; currently they are stored on open ground. The handling, transport, storage and disposal of old transformers by third party vendor will be subject to approval obtained from Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board and receiving State Pollution Control Board as vendors for disposal are not available in Meghalaya. • Other hazardous wastes generated by construction (asbestos, old wooden poles, oily rags etc.) to be disposed of in accordance with the General EHS Guidelines and GOI’s Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008 and 2016. • Require workers to confirm they have seen Supervise Supervise Implement and understood the requirements of the No fatalities or and monitor and monitor mitigation lost time incidents Part of Contractor IA/Contractor measures Occupational health OHS plan before proceeding with the work. construction compliance compliance and safety • Only allow suitably trained and qualified 100% of H&S cost, include workers to be allowed to work on electrical incidents as BOQ item Undertake Undertake equipment and at height, these workers including near site visits site visits and 204

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU must have training record of attending miss recorded, using review suitable training course on electrical safety immediately checklist to documentatio and working at height. investigated, and confirm n to audit • Untrained workers will not be permitted to corrective action implementati implementati work with live electricity or at height. taken to prevent on of on of repeat measures measures at • Provide PPE for workers in accordance all with Table 2.7.1. Summary of Works in construction Recommended Personal Protective accordance with sites Equipment According to Hazard in EHS EMP measures Guidelines on OHS. and approved • Enforce disciplinary system (e.g. immediate H&S Plans removal from site) for non-compliance with PPE requirements Compliance with • Require workers to observe the EHS national laws and Guideline on Construction and Demolition regulations

• Require workers to observe EHS Guideline No unresolved on T&D requirements for working with live grievances from power lines workers or the • Ensure proper grounding and deactivation local community of live power lines during construction work or before any work in close proximity to the lines and this will be checked and certified by Health and Safety Officer in advance. • Only suitably trained workers that meet the requirements set out in EHS Guidelines on Transmission and Distribution (T&D) to be allowed to work on live power lines with strict adherence to safety and insulation standards including those listed in the EHS Guidelines • Require other workers to observe the minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power 205

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU lines • Require workers to observe EHS Guideline on T&D requirements for working at height • Require workers to test the structural integrity of poles prior to proceeding with the work. • Use fall protection measures when working on poles, i.e. mobile elevated working platform, all workers are required to wear body harness. • Unless transformers have been certified PCB free workers must wear suitable chemical and/or oil resistant gloves, goggles, and protective clothing whilst working with transformers. Eye wash station and water supply to shower to be provided during works due to risk of PCB coming into contact with skin. • During construction works ensure qualified first aider and trained fire marshal is available on-site at all times with an appropriately equipped first aid kit and appropriate fire extinguisher and other firefighting equipment immediately available for use • Provide an ambulance for more serious cases. • Arrange with nearest Health Center and/or Hospital for emergency cares of workers • Provide workers with access to an existing functional toilet facility (toilets and hand washing area) connected to functional septic tank/soakaway or provide a self- contained portable toilet with hand washing 206

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU facilities (use of pit latrines to be prohibited) – generated wastewater is to be taken off site for its environmentally sound disposal. • Sufficient toilet facilities should be provided for the number of workers, and there should be an indication of whether the toilet facility is “in use” or “vacant” if not segregated. • Toilet facilities to be provided with adequate supplies of hot and cold running water, soap, and hand drying device. • Provide workers with access to clean eating area with supply of drinking water. • Adequate supplies of potable drinking water meeting national standards should be provided to workers. • Since workers will not be local to the area suitable accommodation must be provided by the contractor, ideally use should be made of existing accommodation facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must be adequately equipped with sufficient toilets, hand washing facilities, showers or baths, food preparation and clean eating area, etc. • Install on all substation fences/equipment Supervise Supervise Implement Community health and poles visual and written warning No fatalities or and monitor and monitor mitigation and safety such as signages to the public to include the ISO lost time incidents Contractor IA/Contractor measures toppling of concrete 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol compliance compliance poles, traffic and Part of warning of the risk of electrocution. 100% of H&S accidents, construction incidents Undertake Undertake emergency spill of • Install lighting arrestors along all lines. cost, include including near site visits site visits and materials, and as BOQ item • Provision for ensuring security of the cable miss recorded, using review access of villagers to avoid vandalism. immediately checklist to documentatio to dangerous • Install around the base of all pole mounted investigated, and confirm n to audit working areas. transformers a fence with locked gate or corrective action implementati implementati 207

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU similar deterrent with suitable warning taken to prevent on of on of signs. repeat measures measures at • Fence and sign immediate working area to all prevent public access during construction Works in construction works accordance with sites EMP measures • Do not leave hazardous conditions (e.g. and approved unlit open excavations without means of H&S Plans escape) overnight unless no access by public can be ensured Compliance with • Prevent standing water as it may become a national laws and breeding habitat for mosquitoes etc. regulations • During construction works provide signage detailing site and office contacts in case of No unresolved grievance. grievances from local community • Before handover all poles to be confirmed to have adequate foundation that they will remain vertical during operation, and that all the feeder lines are correctly tensioned. • Contractor will ensure affected communities are pre-informed of emergency procedures included in the agreed community health and safety plan and as appropriate given proximity of residents to works included in their mock drills etc. • Contractors staff will also be given awareness raising in HIV/AIDS, other communicable diseases, and sexual, exploitation, abuse and harassment with strict penalties (e.g. immediate removal from site) for any non-compliance of workers to an agreed code of practice • Wherever possible, the contractor should not discriminate and should proactively encourage the employment of suitably 208

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU skilled women on the project.

C. OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE PHASE • MePDCL HQ Team to appoint suitably qualified and experienced staff on a full time basis to oversee implementation of environment, health and safety matters No fatalities or across the organization, to provide staff lost time incidents regular trainings, and continually improve compliance with national requirements and 100% of H&S good international practice for EHS incidents including health and safety and solid and including near hazardous waste management in particular miss recorded, • For all maintenance works undertake risk immediately Impacts on assessment and prepare H&S plan in investigated, and occupational health accordance with EHS Guidelines, corrective action and safety due to MePDCL considering occupational and community taken to prevent exposure to live District Units; H&S and including adherence to repeat power lines, supervision emergency preparedness and response MePDCL working at heights, and NA NA plan with communication systems and Works in O&M Budget and risks of monitoring by protocols to report an emergency situation. accordance with accidents MePDCL HQ EMP measures (electrocution, • Require workers to confirm they have seen Team and approved lightning, fires and and understood the requirements of the H&S Plans explosion) OHS plan before proceeding with the work.

• Conduct training on occupational health Compliance with and safety for all operations and national laws and maintenance workers including refreshers. regulations • Conduct training of workers on emergency preparedness and response procedures in No unresolved case of an occupational health and safety grievances from incident during operation and maintenance. local community • Only allow suitably trained and qualified workers to be allowed to work on electrical equipment and at height, these workers 209

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU must have training record of attending suitable training course on electrical safety and working at height. • Provide PPE for workers in accordance with Table 2.7.1. Summary of Recommended Personal Protective Equipment According to Hazard in EHS Guidelines on OHS. • Enforce disciplinary system (e.g. immediate removal from site) for non-compliance with PPE requirements • Ensure proper grounding and deactivation of live power lines during maintenance work or before any work in close proximity to the lines • Require workers to test the structural integrity of poles prior to proceeding with the work • Use fall protection measures when working on poles, i.e. mobile elevated working platform, all workers are required to wear body harness • Require workers to observe the minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power lines • During maintenance works ensure qualified first aider and trained fire marshal is available on-site at all times with an appropriately equipped first aid kit and appropriate fire extinguisher and other firefighting equipment immediately available for use • Arrange with nearest Health Center and/or 210

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Hospital for emergency cares of workers • Provide workers with access to an existing functional toilet facility connected to existing sewerage system or septic tank with soakaway or provide a self-contained portable toilet with hand washing facilities (use of pit latrines to be prohibited – no direct discharge of untreated wastewater to surface water or groundwater is allowed) • Occupational EMF exposure should be prevented or minimized through the preparation and implementation of an EMF safety program in accordance with the “Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution” (IFC) dated 30 April 2007 • For all maintenance works undertake risk assessment and prepare H&S plan in No fatalities or accordance with EHS Guidelines, lost time incidents considering occupational and community H&S and including adherence emergency 100% of H&S preparedness and response plan with incidents

communication systems and protocols to including near Impacts to MePDCL report an emergency situation. miss recorded, community health District Units; immediately and safety such as • Conduct training of workers on emergency supervision investigated, and MePDCL electrocution and preparedness and response procedures in and NA NA corrective action O&M Budget lightning strikes, case of a community health and safety monitoring by taken to prevent explosion and fire, incident during operation and maintenance. MePDCL HQ repeat and exposure to Team • Undertake public information/awareness magnetic field. campaign covering all project villages using Works in distribution of posters, leaflets and safety accordance with booklets as well as orientation at village EMP measures level on health and safety risks related to and approved substations and live electric lines and how H&S Plans to avoid or respond to incidents. 211

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Ensure affected communities are pre- Compliance with informed of emergency procedures national laws and included in the agreed community health regulations and safety plan and as appropriate given proximity of residents to works included in No unresolved mock drills etc. grievances from • Regularly inspect (at least monthly) the local community condition of substations, poles, lines and transformers to check minimum vertical clearance and protection is maintained; integrity of the poles and line is in good condition; electrical safety warning signs and lighting arrestors in place; missing or corroded parts are immediately identified and replaced; that any leaking oil from transformers is immediately addressed; and, the status of any vegetation growth that may damage or threaten the integrity of the lines. • Inspection protocol should include possible conductor snapping and de-energizing of the line within three cycles to avoid the potential for electrocution from a breakage • Keep photographic records and log of all inspections and actions taken in response.

• Provide at least one-month advance notice to local community through the village Works in MePDCL heads about the schedule of, location plan, accordance with District Units; and details of planned maintenance works. EMP measures Disturbance to local supervision • Carry out maintenance works only during and approved MePDCL community due to and NA NA daytime hours and on weekdays unless H&S Plans O&M Budget maintenance works. monitoring by otherwise agreed with the village heads. MePDCL HQ Compliance with • During maintenance works provide signage Team detailing site and office contacts in case of national laws and grievance. regulations 212

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MePDCL Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Implement traffic management controls during maintenance works with advance No unresolved warning signs or flag persons to ensure grievances from health and safety of maintenance workers local community and road users. • Prohibit the use of herbicides, pesticides or burning to control any vegetation growth or to manage vegetation waste. • Removal and disposal of identified invasive plant species in an ecologically sound manner. • Scrap metal and similar waste to be immediately removed off-site to the DISCOM stores for appropriate reuse or disposal with all waste transfer records retained. • Vegetation and other solid waste to be immediately removed off-site and disposed of to a suitably licensed waste management facility with all waste transfer records retained.

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Table 28: Environmental Management Plan Matrix for JFPR Component Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU A. DETAILED DESIGN AND PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE • Installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and agricultural processing units to be located on land acquired by the government through willing-buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from 100% of communities. Comply with clearances mitigating • Rooftop solar will be done within the existing obtained before measures Check school premises; hence no additional land is commencement contract required. of works Part of Include document to • Since any damages to be paid by Contractor detailed Interference with mitigating ensure photographic and structural pre-condition No unresolved design and Comply with utilities due to measures for compliance surveys of property including existing grievances from pre- mitigating design and layout of Contractor as Supervise utilities, structures (e.g. buildings) and local community construction measures project equipment part of tender and monitor roads, crops, and drains, utilities, should be cost, include specifications IA/Contractor completed by the Contractor and agreed Compliance with as BOQ line Supervise compliance with MNREDA and the property owner prior national laws and and monitor to any works to provide a baseline for any regulations Contractor claims. compliance • Obtain necessary clearances consistent with the requirements of Government of India from other utilities that could be affected by the project (electric, water, telecommunications etc.) • As far as is practical, avoid the need to Forest Comply with Supervise Comply with department mitigating and monitor mitigating cut/trim trees by avoiding areas with a high Part of clearance measures IA/Contractor measures concentration of trees as indicated in the detailed Cutting or trimming obtained, and compliance IEE. design and of trees and compensatory Include pre- clearing of • Cutting or trimming of trees will only be afforestation plan mitigating construction vegetation planned when required to meet the agreed and measures for cost, include electrical safety clearances and shadow funded by Contractor as as BOQ line requirements. MNREDA before part of tender • Identify and conduct an inventory of trees to works commence specifications 214

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU be cut prior to the start of land clearing work. • Where alignment results in loss of loss of No unresolved Supervise fruit-bearing trees that have economic value grievances from and monitor compensate in accordance with the local community Contractor entitlement matrix in the project compliance Resettlement Plan. Compliance with national laws and Ensure forest • Loss of fruit-bearing trees that have regulations department economic value will be compensated in undertakes accordance with the entitlement matrix in compen- the project Resettlement Plan. satory • Requisite forest department approvals for afforestation any tree cutting outside protected or forest funded by areas will be obtained pre-construction. MNREDA • Public trees will be compensated for by compensatory afforestation (planting at least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements. Provide funds to the forest department to undertake the compensatory afforestation on behalf of MNREDA. • MNREDA will monitor the progress of the compensatory afforestation process it has funded to ensure this planting takes place such that a “no net loss of biodiversity” will be achieved. • Schedule works requiring tree cutting/trimming outside the bird breeding season. • No works shall be undertaken, and no Protected or Part of Comply with Supervise Comply with temporary or permanent project facilities forest areas are detailed mitigating and monitor mitigating Encroachment into shall be established, within protected or not impacted design and measures IA/Contractor measures ecologically reserve forest areas, within a protected pre- compliance sensitive areas area, IBA, or sacred grove etc. Compliance with construction Include national laws and cost, include mitigating

regulations as BOQ line measures for 215

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Contractor as part of tender specifications

Supervise and monitor Contractor compliance • Prior to finalization of detailed design Include Check N/A review the project scope and locations and mitigating contract designs to confirm no change from those measures for document to described and assessed in this IEE, if there Contractor as ensure are any aspects that were not included or part of tender compliance locations, or designs have changed from specifications what was assessed, update the IEE and seek ADB clearance before approving the detailed designs. • Continue to undertake consultation, consult village heads and school officials to agree EMP included in EMP in bidding N/A the detailed designs prior to finalization and bidding documents document outcomes in the updated IEE. documents • IEE and any updates including executive summary translated into the local language i.e. Khasi to be posted on the MNREDA website, and also notices posted in the vicinity of works to inform of its availability – hard copy to be made available to view on site free of charge on request. • Ensure EMP is included in the bidding documents and forms integral part of the contractor’s agreement. Planning for • Project to comply with national and PMU and Part of Comply with Check Comply with construction international regulatory framework as set Contractor detailed mitigating contract mitigating environmental out in Table 2 of the IEE plus other appointed full design and measures document to measures management applicable environment, health and safety contingency staff pre- 216

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU legislation. prior to construction Include ensure • Project to comply with the EHS General mobilization cost, include mitigating compliance Guidelines (April 2007) in addition to the as BOQ line measures for mitigation set out in this table. CEMP approved Contractor as Supervise before part of tender and monitor • MNREDA to appoint to PMU suitably commencement specifications IA/Contractor qualified and experienced Environment, of works compliance Health and Safety Officer who will also be Review and responsible for the ongoing consultation. Related facilities approval of Assist with • Conduct training on EMP implementation located sufficient EMP review and for those with responsibilities under it. distance from approval of • Contractor to appoint suitably qualified and nearest receptors Supervise EMP experienced Environment, Health and and monitor Safety Officer for each component of work. No unresolved Contractor Train / grievances from compliance support PMU • Ensure GRM is operational by or before local community and grant effectiveness. Contractor in • Conduct training on GRM for those with meeting EMP responsibilities under it and distribute and requirements verbally and through leaflets, brochures, and GRM notices the GRM contacts. operation per • Prior to mobilization the Contractor to capacity prepare and submit a construction building and environmental management plan (CEMP) training table to MNREDA for approval, to provide details 30. on how contractor plans to implement the construction mitigation measures specified in this EMP and relevant parts of the EHS Guidelines on Construction and Demolition and including traffic, pollution prevention, solid and hazardous waste management plans in accordance with EHS Guidelines • CEMP will identify temporary construction facilities needed e.g. laydown and storage areas, concrete casting areas, workers facilities etc. 217

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • If required, laydown and storage areas, temporary worker camps, etc. to be located at least 25m from waterbodies, 50m from springs and groundwater wells, and 50m from sensitive receptors (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) however noisy and dusty activities such as concrete batching, hot mix, construction workers overnight accommodation etc. to be located at least 200m away from any sensitive receptors. • Local communities to be consulted when selecting sites for project facilities prior to finalization. • Solar-battery hybrid systems and Supervise Implement agricultural processing units installed on and monitor mitigating slopes to incorporate slope stability IA/Contractor measures measures such as bioengineering and compliance retaining walls and adequate drainage with Include designs checked so as to confirm that mitigating international good practice slope stability measures for design is followed. Detailed designs to CWMP approved Contractor as Part of minimize cut and fill in order to reduce dust before part of tender detailed creation and the generation of construction commencement specifications design and Slope stability, spoil for disposal. of works pre- erosion, and Review and • Schedule all earthworks (if required) during construction drainage systems Compliance with approval of the dry season to minimize exposed areas cost, include national laws and CWMP subject to erosion by surface water runoff. as BOQ line regulations

• Detailed designs of solar-battery hybrid Supervise systems and agricultural processing units and monitor to ensure infrastructure is located above Contractor maximum flood level (allowing for climate compliance change) • Detailed designs of solar-battery hybrid systems and agricultural processing units to incorporate adequate drainage design to 218

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU attenuate storm water runoff leaving the site to greenfield runoff rates (allowing for climate change and considering addition of impermeable surfaces) such that there will be minimal changes to the natural flow rates and paths of storm water runoff across adjacent land. Drainage will be designed to route storm water runoff to existing watercourses or to infiltrate to ground in order to avoid flooding of nearby areas. Storm water management shall conform to governmental agency requirements • Chance find procedure to be developed for implementation in the event physical cultural resources are found, to include the following procedures: - If suspected physical cultural resources are encountered, all works at the find site should be immediately halted; - The find should be assessed by a competent local District Office of Culture and Fine Arts official, and procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to such physical cultural objects should be agreed in writing with them. - Work should not begin until the procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to the physical cultural resources have been agreed and implemented in full. - If avoidance is not feasible, and no alternatives to removal exist, and the project benefits outweigh the 219

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU anticipated cultural heritage loss from removal which is unlikely unless in case of resource of local value, following clearance of ADB the physical cultural resources should be removed and preserved using the best available technique in accordance with relevant provisions of national heritage protection laws and decrees. - Records should be maintained of all finds, including chain of custody instructions for movable finds. • All construction workers to be made aware of the chance-find procedure and types of finds to be reported. • For all construction works comply with GoI Supervise Implement rules and regulations for the protection of Comply with and monitor mitigating workers. mitigating IA/Contractor measures • To inform H&S risk assessment Contractor H&S Plan measures compliance to check/survey for presence of asbestos approved before that may be disturbed prior to any work to commencement Include Assist with of works mitigating review and existing school buildings following national Part of measures for approvals of requirements and international good detailed Compliance with Contractor as H&S Plans practice as detailed in the IFC EHS General design and national laws and part of tender Guidelines on OHS and document findings. pre- Health and safety regulations specifications construction • If any asbestos was found to be present and cost, include it will be disturbed by construction works, it No unresolved Review and as BOQ line must be removed following national grievances from approval of

requirements and international good workers of the H&S Plan practice per EHS General Guidelines on local community OHS and disposed of as hazardous waste Supervise material. and monitor • For all construction works undertake risk Contractor assessment and prepare H&S plan in compliance accordance with EHS Guidelines, 220

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU considering occupational and community H&S and including adherence emergency preparedness and response plan with communication systems and protocols to report an emergency situation. • Conduct training on occupational health and safety related to project for all construction workers including regular refreshers. To include training for PMU and all Contractor management and construction workers including subcontractors before commencement of works. • Conduct training of workers on emergency preparedness and response procedures related to project in case of an occupational or community health and safety incident during construction works. To include training for PMU and all Contractor management and construction workers including subcontractors before commencement of works. • Design to provide on boundaries/equipment visual and written warning signages to the public to include the ISO 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol warning of the risk of electrocution. • Design to provide around the base of all PV panel foundation a fence or similar deterrent with suitable warning signs. • Given seismic risk ensure the design of all civil and structural project components are checked for seismic safety by the design team. • Ensuring structural integrity of school 221

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU roofs/walls to take solar panels in terms of structural integrity particularly considering high seismic risk present. Comply with Check Implement • Ensure the highest energy efficiency mitigating contract mitigating equipment is purchased and to avoid measures document to measures ensure equipment containing coolants using Part of Release of toxic Include compliance CFCs, GHGs etc. detailed chemicals and mitigating • Contract agreements with PV panel No equipment design and gases in receptors measures for Supervise suppliers for dismantling and disposal of containing CFCs pre- (air, water, land) Contractor as and monitor panels and batteries. Solar panels and or GHGs construction from equipment part of tender IA/Contractor batteries will be returned to supplier for purchased. cost, include design and specifications compliance reuse/recycling at the end of their useful as BOQ line selection life at their cost. Supervise • Consider guarantee from supplier in case and monitor supplying company goes out of business. Contractor compliance Comply with Supervise Implement mitigating and monitor mitigating measures IA/Contractor measures compliance Part of Include detailed mitigating Visual impacts and • Detailed design of solar arrays to be such No unresolved design and measures for glare from reflection as to absorb any incident solar radiation. grievances from pre- Contractor as and glare from solar local community construction • Proper orientation of arrays to maximize part of tender arrays energy generation but reduce solar glare. cost, include specifications as BOQ line

Supervise and monitor Contractor compliance B. CONSTRUCTION PHASE Unanticipated • Follow design drawings and implement 100% of Part of Check with Supervise Advise PMU impacts on property careful construction practices to avoid structures (e.g. construction Contractor and monitor and PMC of 222

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU including land and damage to existing structures. buildings) left in cost, include regarding IA/Contractor need for structures. • Demarcation of the working area and avoid same condition as as BOQ line need for compliance private land encroachment outside the agreed plot or prior to private land buildings. construction and initiate Undertake necessary site visits and • All unanticipated damage to existing No unresolved engagement review structures (e.g. buildings) shall be restored grievances from with land documentatio to pre-project condition and/or local community owner if n to audit compensated at cost of contractor. required implementati on of Supervise measures at and monitor all Contractor construction compliance sites

Undertake site visits using checklist to confirm implementati on of measures by Contactor

• No works shall be undertaken, and no No impacts on Supervise Supervise Implement temporary or permanent project facilities protected/forest and monitor and monitor mitigation shall be established, within protected areas Contractor IA/Contractor measures areas/forest areas. compliance compliance Part of Cutting or trimming Works in • Follow design drawings and implement construction of trees and accordance with Undertake Undertake careful construction practices to avoid cost, include clearing of project EMP, site visits site visits and damage to trees. as BOQ line vegetation. approved CEMP using review

• Demarcation of mature trees to be avoided and checklist to documentatio and retained. compensatory confirm n to audit • Demarcation of the working area and avoid afforestation plan implementati implementati encroachment outside the agreed corridor on of on of 223

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU of impact. Compliance with measures by measures at • Cutting or trimming of trees prohibited national laws and Contactor all unless in accordance with design drawings regulations construction in order to meet safety clearance and sites shadowing requirements. No unresolved grievances from • Cut/trimmed trees and other vegetation local community trimmings will be temporarily stored at designated places outside of built up area to avoid blocking of accesses or dumping on agriculture fields. • Cut/trimmed trees and other vegetation trimmings will be removed off-site as soon as work is completed. • Unanticipated loss of fruit-bearing trees that have economic value shall be compensated at cost of contractor. • Unanticipated loss of public trees will be compensated for by compensatory afforestation (planting at least 10 trees for each tree cut) as per forest department requirements. Contractor via MNREDA to provide funds to the forest department to undertake the compensatory afforestation. • Before cutting/trimming trees Contractor’s EHS Officer to check for presence of nesting birds or roosting bats. • Undertake works requiring tree cutting/trimming outside the bird nesting/breeding season. • Avoidance of construction works from one hour after dawn to one hour before dusk in areas where there is no existing human disturbance. • Removal and disposal of identified invasive 224

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU plant species in an ecologically sound manner. Check with Supervise Implement Contractor and monitor mitigation regarding IA/Contractor measures need for compliance Works in storage area Advise PMU • Implement agreed traffic management plan accordance with Undertake and PIC of (part of CEMP). project EMP and Supervise site visits and need for • Safe access to property and roads should approved CEMP and monitor review storage areas be maintained and alternative routes and Part of Contractor documentatio

access provided where there are Compliance with construction compliance n to audit Interference temporary diversions or blockages. national laws and cost, include implementati accessways regulations as BOQ line Undertake on of • Stockpiling of PV panels shall be away from properties with minimum visibility from site visits measures at residences and roads with screening where No unresolved using all necessary and only in designated areas grievances from checklist to construction where no access will be blocked. local community confirm sites implementati on of measures by Contactor

• Minimize removal of existing vegetation Works in Supervise Supervise Implement and topsoil to that which is absolutely accordance with and monitor and monitor mitigation necessary. project EMP and Contractor IA/Contractor measures Risks of damages • Once earthworks (if any) are complete approved CEMP compliance compliance to sub-surface immediately revegetate areas not utilized provisions Part of utilities and chance for infrastructure using native species etc. construction Undertake Undertake find of physical Compliance with cost, include site visits site visits and • Undertake earthworks (if any) only during cultural resources national laws and as BOQ line using review the dry season to minimize sediment laden during construction. regulations checklist to documentatio surface water runoff. confirm n to audit • Excavated soil will be covered with No unresolved implementati implementati tarpaulin when spoil heaps are not active grievances from on of on of and stored at least 10m from watercourses. local community measures by measures at 225

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Topsoil disturbed during the development Contactor all of sites will be used to restore the surface Chance find construction of the excavated area. procedure sites • Infertile and rocky material will where provisions possible be reused as fill material, if it followed needs to be taken off site it will be disposed by licensed waste management operator at designated disposal area suitable for accepting inert wastes. • Records of excavated soil, generated waste, and transfer records will be kept by the contractor. • Check with relevant local authorities (electric, water, telecoms) whether there are known pipes, cables, or other utility lines and carry out a scan using Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) to identify any unknown underground utilities prior to excavation • Rehabilitate any damaged utilities to at least original condition in conjunction with relevant local authorities at cost to the contractor • Follow chance find procedure if physical cultural resources are found during construction works; if physical cultural resources are encountered, all works at the find site should be immediately halted. • Provide at least one-month advance notice Comply with Supervise Supervise Implement to local community through the village CBCB air and Part of and monitor and monitor mitigation Dust, noise and heads about the schedule of, location plan, noise standards, construction Contractor IA/Contractor measures general disturbance and details of planned construction works. or WHO noise cost, include compliance compliance to local community guidelines where as BOQ line • Carry out construction works only during stricter than the Undertake Undertake daytime hours (8am-6pm) and on national site visits site visits and 226

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU weekdays unless otherwise agreed with using review the village heads to avoid noise nuisance. Works in checklist to documentatio • Carry out installation of rooftop solar accordance with confirm n to audit panels only during the school holidays to EMP measures implementati implementati minimize risks associated with presence of and approved on of on of school pupils at an active construction site CEMP measures by measures at Contactor all • Construction to be conducted using manual Compliance with construction and no heavy equipment. national laws and sites • Noise generating construction-related regulations activities will be avoided during evenings, school hours, prayer times, religious or No unresolved cultural events in close proximity to the grievances from sensitive receptors. local community • Construction noise in the vicinity of houses and other sensitive receptors must be limited to 55dB(A) as 1hour LAeq – if nighttime work is permitted it must be limited to 45dB(A) as 1hour LAeq. • If these levels are exceeded the contractor will be required to implement additional noise mitigation measures such as adjusting his working methods or placing of temporary noise barriers to ensure the noise standard is met. • If sensitive receptors are within 50m of construction works temporary acoustic noise fence to be used. • Use of low noise generating equipment e.g. less than 55dBA sound pressure level at 1m • Equipment to meet CPCB noise standards • Ensure all construction vehicles are maintained in good working order and have passed emissions test 227

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Prohibit the use of horns in areas where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • Construction workers exposure to noise should not exceed the levels set out in the General EHS Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety otherwise the hearing protection is to be provided • Limit engine idling to maximum 5 minutes • Impose speed limits on construction vehicles to minimize dust emission along areas where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • During the dry season or in windy conditions undertake water sprinkling at least twice a day in exposed areas prone to dust generation where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) but more often if needed during earthworks, and windy conditions that enable dust to be easily mobilized • Stockpiles of soil and other dust generating materials will be covered with tarpaulin • Providing workers with N95 dust masks to be worn when dust generating activities take place • Vehicles delivering construction materials shall be covered • Burning of wastes generated by project- related activities to be strictly prohibited • Ensure all stationary emission sources are maintained in good working order in accordance with manufacturer instructions 228

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Position any stationary emission sources (e.g. diesel generators, compressors, etc.) as far as practical from sensitive receptors (houses, schools, clinics, temples, etc.) • Follow General EHS Guidelines for the use and storage of fuel, oil, and chemical including prevention and control of hazards associated with spill prevention, emergency response, clean up and contaminated soil remediation • Fuel, oil and chemicals used to be stored under lock and key in labelled, sealed containers on drip trays to provide secondary containment, ideally they will be located on an impermeable surface and be under cover • Refueling operations, equipment servicing and washdown to take place on an impermeable surface at least 25m from watercourses, 50m from springs and wells, with drainage directed through oil and grease interceptors before being discharged into a settling pond prior to discharge offsite • Provide sufficient absorbent materials (e.g. sorbents, dry sand, sandbags) on-site for soaking up fuel, oil or chemical leaks/spills. • Construction materials will be sourced from Works in Supervise Supervise Implement accordance with and monitor and monitor mitigation existing approved sources with operating Part of EMP measures Contractor IA/Contractor measures licenses. construction Generation of and approved compliance compliance • Provision of an appropriate domestic solid cost, include construction wastes CEMP waste and construction waste collection as BOQ line Undertake Undertake and disposal system. Compliance with site visits site visits and • Avoid or minimize the generation of waste national laws and using review 229

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU materials, as far as is practicable. regulations checklist to documentatio • Collect and segregate construction wastes confirm n to audit including scrap metal, oils, and solid waste. No unresolved implementati implementati grievances from on of on of • Store all wastes in designated, labelled local community measures by measures at area in an environmentally sound manner Contactor all e.g. oils to be stored in sealed drums on construction drip trays, solid wastes to be stored in an sites enclosed bin. • Recover recyclable wastes that could be reused or sold to recyclers. • Prohibit burning of construction wastes. • Prohibit dumping of construction wastes into canals, rivers, agricultural fields etc. • Unless reused or sold, other construction waste to be disposed of to a suitably licensed waste management facility (depending on if hazardous or non- hazardous; out of state disposal may be needed given limited facilities existing within Meghalaya) with all waste transfer records retained. • Require workers to confirm they have seen Supervise Supervise Implement and understood the requirements of the No fatalities or and monitor and monitor mitigation OHS plan before proceeding with the work. lost time incidents Contractor IA/Contractor measures compliance compliance • Only allow suitably trained and qualified 100% of H&S workers to be allowed to work on electrical Part of incidents Undertake Undertake equipment, these workers must have construction Occupational health including near site visits site visits and training record of attending suitable training cost, include and safety miss recorded, using review course on electrical safety and working at as BOQ line immediately checklist to documentatio height as applicable. investigated, and confirm n to audit • Provide PPE for workers in accordance corrective action implementati implementati with Table 2.7.1. Summary of taken to prevent on of on of Recommended Personal Protective repeat measures by measures at Equipment According to Hazard in EHS Contactor all 230

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU Guidelines on OHS. Works in construction • Enforce disciplinary system (e.g. accordance with sites immediate removal from site) for non- EMP measures compliance with PPE requirements and approved H&S Plans • Require workers to observe the EHS Guideline on Construction and Demolition Compliance with • Use fall protection measures when working national laws and on height, i.e. mobile elevated working regulations platform, all workers are required to wear body harness. No unresolved • During construction works ensure qualified grievances from first aider and trained fire marshal is workers or the available on-site at all times with an local community appropriately equipped first aid kit and appropriate fire extinguisher and other firefighting equipment immediately available for use • Arrange with nearest Health Center and/or Hospital for emergency cares of workers • Provide workers with access to an existing functional toilet facility (toilets and hand washing area) connected to functional septic tank with soak away or provide a self-contained portable toilet with hand washing facilities (use of pit latrines to be prohibited) – generated wastewater to be taken off site for environmentally sound disposal • Sufficient toilet facilities should be provided for the number of workers, and there should be an indication of whether the toilet facility is “in use” or “vacant” if not segregated. • Provide workers with access to clean 231

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU eating area with supply of drinking water. • Adequate supplies of potable drinking water meeting national standards should be provided to workers. • Since workers will not be local to the area suitable accommodation must be provided by the contractor, ideally use should be made of existing accommodation facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must be adequately equipped with sufficient toilets, hand washing facilities, showers or baths, food preparation and clean eating area, etc. • Installing panels outside school hours, Supervise Supervise Implement ideally in the school holidays to reduce No fatalities or and monitor and monitor mitigation the H&S risks due to presence of school lost time incidents Contractor IA/Contractor measures children compliance compliance • To educate the school children on 100% of H&S renewable energy but also the electrical incidents Undertake Undertake hazards associated with solar panels including near site visits site visits and Community health presence. miss recorded, using review and safety such as immediately checklist to documentatio • Implement agreed community health and toppling of PV panel investigated, and Part of confirm n to audit safety risk assessment and plan including structure, accidents, corrective action construction implementati implementati following the requirements of IFC EHS emergency spill of taken to prevent cost, include on of on of General Guidelines, Section 3 on materials, and repeat as BOQ line measures by measures at Community Health and Safety. access of villagers Contactor all to dangerous • Ensure affected communities are pre- Works in construction working areas. informed of emergency procedures accordance with sites included in the agreed community health EMP measures and safety plan and if appropriate given and approved proximity to works included in their mock H&S Plans drills etc. • Install on all PV solar plant with Compliance with fences/equipment visual and written national laws and warning signages to the public to include regulations 232

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU the ISO 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol warning of the risk of electrocution. No unresolved • Provision for ensuring security of the cable grievances from to avoid vandalism. local community

• Install around the boundary of PV plant site a fence with locked gate or similar deterrent with suitable warning signs. • Fence and sign immediate working area to prevent public access during construction works • Do not leave hazardous conditions (e.g. unlit open excavations without means of escape) overnight unless no access by public can be ensured • Prevent standing water as it may become a breeding habitat for mosquitoes etc. • During construction works provide signage detailing site and office contacts in case of grievance. • Contractors staff will also be given awareness raising in HIV/AIDS, other communicable diseases, and sexual, exploitation, abuse and harassment with strict penalties (e.g. immediate removal from site) for any non-compliance of workers to an agreed code of practice • Wherever possible, the contractor should not discriminate and should proactively encourage the employment of suitably skilled women on the project. C. OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE PHASE Impacts from • MNREDA to ensure an adequate storage Compliance with MNREDA Implement disposal and and handling system is available for used EHS Guidelines, MNREDA field units; NA MNREDA management of batteries and solar panels in accordance national laws and O&M Budget supervision responsibilities 233

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU waste including with national requirements and EHS regulations and for first two used batteries from general guidelines on waste management. monitoring by years of replacement • Used batteries and solar panels will be No unresolved MNREDA operation and stored, transported, and disposed of in grievances from HQ Team maintenance compliance with national norms i.e. local community Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules 1989 with solar panels and batteries returned to supplier for reuse/recycling at the end of their useful life at their cost. • Ensure all other solid and hazardous waste disposed of in accordance with EHS Guidelines, national laws and regulations. Compliance with MNREDA to use water with no chemical • EHS Guidelines, additives for the cleaning of solar panels. MNREDA Implement national laws and Impacts from field units; MNREDA • MNREDA to ensure cleaning of drainage regulations, O&M wastewater supervision responsibilities system installed. manual MNREDA generated from and NA for first two O&M Budget cleaning of PV • Wastewater generated will be managed in monitoring by years of No unresolved panels compliance with national norms i.e. The MNREDA operation and grievances from Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) HQ Team maintenance Act 1972 (Amended 1988) and Rules 1974 local community

• For all maintenance works undertake risk assessment and prepare H&S plan in accordance with EHS Guidelines, Compliance with Impacts on considering occupational and community EHS Guidelines, MNREDA Implement occupational health national laws and field units; MNREDA H&S and including adherence to and safety due regulations, supervision responsibilities emergency preparedness and response MNREDA accidents and NA for first two plan with communication systems and O&M Budget (cyclones, weather No unresolved monitoring by years of protocols to report an emergency situation. related events) and grievances from MNREDA operation and • Risk assessment and H&S plan to take emergency local community HQ Team maintenance account that villagers will be responsible

for operation and maintenance once the contractor finishes their two-year handover. 234

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Suitable members of the community will need to be identified and adequately trained by the Contractor and MNREDA during the two-year handover time with clear delineation on jobs that can be undertaken based on the skills and training received and which activities must be referred to MNREDA for maintenance. • MNREDA will also assign a project implementation and monitoring officer for each village to provide technical support even after the two-year handover period. • Require workers to confirm they have seen and understood the requirements of the OHS plan before proceeding with the work. • Conduct training on occupational health and safety for all operations and maintenance workers including refreshers. • Conduct training of workers on emergency preparedness and response procedures in case of an occupational health and safety incident during operation and maintenance. • Only allow suitably trained and qualified workers to be allowed to work on electrical equipment and at height, these workers must have training record of attending suitable training course on electrical safety and working at height. • Provide PPE for workers in accordance with Table 2.7.1. Summary of Recommended Personal Protective Equipment According to Hazard in EHS Guidelines on OHS. • Enforce disciplinary system (e.g. immediate removal from site) for non- 235

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU compliance with PPE requirements • Require workers to test the structural integrity of roofs and buildings, structures/frames prior to proceeding with the work • Use fall protection measures when working on height, i.e. mobile elevated working platform, all workers are required to wear body harness • During maintenance works ensure qualified first aider and trained fire marshal is available on-site at all times with an appropriately equipped first aid kit and appropriate fire extinguisher and other firefighting equipment immediately available for use • Arrange with nearest Health Center and/or Hospital for emergency cares of workers • Provide workers with access to an existing functional toilet facility or provide a self- contained portable toilet with hand washing facilities (use of pit latrines to be prohibited) • For all maintenance works undertake risk assessment and prepare H&S plan in accordance with EHS Guidelines, Compliance with considering occupational and community EHS Guidelines, MNREDA Implement national laws and field units; MNREDA H&S and including adherence emergency regulations, supervision responsibilities Impacts to preparedness and response plan with MNREDA and NA for first two community health communication systems and protocols to O&M Budget No unresolved monitoring by years of and safety report an emergency situation. grievances from MNREDA operation and • Conduct training of workers on emergency local community HQ Team maintenance preparedness and response procedures in

case of a community health and safety incident during operation and maintenance. 236

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU • Undertake public information/awareness campaign covering all project villages using distribution of posters, leaflets and safety booklets as well as orientation at village level on health and safety risks related to PV plant and how to avoid or respond to incidents. • Ensure that a disaster risk and emergency preparedness plan with clear response procedures is prepared and communicated to the school administration, farmers, other users of the solar PV-battery systems and agriculture processing units, and nearby residents so they know how to respond in event of a fire or similar. These stakeholders will be included in mock drills. • Regularly inspect (at least monthly) the condition of the PV panels, this is needed to ensure that system remains operational and members of the community who are not trained do not attempt to maintain equipment. • Keep photographic records and log of all inspections and actions taken in response. • For agricultural units, for any machines, training of the proposed operators in safe use beforehand and the provision of adequate PPE for the number of users, to minimize the H&S risks will be given by the contractor with refreshers during the two- year handover period. D. DECOMMISSIONING PHASE Impacts from • Contract agreements with PV panel Compliance with MNREDA disposal of PV suppliers for dismantling and disposal of EHS Guidelines, MNREDA NA NA HQ Team panels and panels and batteries. Solar panels and national laws and maintenance 237

Responsibilities Environmental Performance Budget/ Mitigating Measures MNREDA Impact Standard Source PIC Contractor PMU batteries from batteries will be returned to supplier for regulations. Budget dismantling of PV reuse/recycling at the end of their useful panels life and their cost. No unresolved • If supplier does not exist on grievances from decommissioning ensure solid and local community hazardous waste disposed of in accordance with EHS Guidelines, national laws and regulations.

238

Table 29: Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMoP)

Time, Frequency, Responsible party Sl. Environmental Location and Performance Aspect to be Monitored MNREDA/ No. Features Method of Standard PIC Contractor Monitoring MePDCL PRE-CONSTRUCTION STAGE 1 PCBs in transformer Transformer oil testing of Testing of transformer 100% of MePDCL PIC to Contractor to oil transformers to confirm all oil following UNEP transformers PMU to supervise undertake transformers to be retained as Guidelines pre- retained as supervise testing and tests and part of the project are PCB free construction to part of the testing and report at least report monthly identify any with PCB project are report quarterly to to MePDCL PCB free semiannually MePDCL PMU PMU and PIC to MeECL 2 Air Dust levels for substations within Undertake PM10 National MePDCL PIC to Contractor to 50m proximity to residential or monitoring taking 24- standards for PMU to supervise undertake other sensitive properties in hour averages once PM10 24 hour, supervise testing and tests and relation to nuisance. Only over a fortnight prior no change testing and report at least report monthly required at six substations to any construction from baseline report quarterly to to MePDCL (Mawshbuit, Rongjen Songma, work, using if WHO 24 semiannually MePDCL PMU PMU and PIC Mangsang, Sibbari, Cherangri, professional, hour to MeECL and Zikzak, Chapter 3, Table 11) calibrated portable guidelines monitoring devices. exceeded CONSTRUCTION STAGE 3. Construction materials Materials used and waste Record all 100% of MePDCL and PIC to Contractor to and wastes generated during construction construction materials materials used MNREDA supervise keep records used and waste and waste PMUs to record and report generated by generated supervise keeping report monthly to construction sourced or record at least MePDCL PMU (including type, disposed of in keeping and quarterly to and PIC volumes, sources, environmental to report MePDCL PMU and disposal routes sound manner semiannually with copies of to MeECL licenses if third parties are used) 239

Time, Frequency, Responsible party Sl. Environmental Location and Performance Aspect to be Monitored MNREDA/ No. Features Method of Standard PIC Contractor Monitoring MePDCL 4. Trees Number of trees removed and Record all trees 100% of trees MePDCL and PIC to Contractor to replanted during construction removed during removed MNREDA supervise keep records construction, compensated PMUs to record and report compensation paid, for or with 10:1 supervise keeping and to monthly to and replacements replacement record report at least MePDCL PMU planted (including by native tree keeping and quarterly to and PIC species, size, and, species to report MePDCL PMU economic value) semiannually to MeECL 5. Health and safety; Health and safety incidents (near Record all incidents Zero lost time MePDCL and PIC to Contractor to injury to workers and miss including fires, minor, lost associated with or fatalities MNREDA supervise keep records villagers time, and fatal) to workers and construction and 100% lost time PMUs to record and report villagers responses taken and fatalities supervise keeping and monthly to (including date, time, reported to record report monthly MePDCL PMU and, details of MePDCL HQ keeping and to MePDCL and PIC, but incident, treatment in 24 hours to report PMU, but to to report lost given and the For 100% semiannually report lost time and outcome) incidents to MeECL time and fatalities to all immediate but to report fatalities to within 24 action taken to lost time and ADB within 24 hours avoid repeat fatalities hours within 24 hours Dust levels for substations within Undertake PM10 National MePDCL PIC to Contractor to proximity to residential or other monitoring taking 24- standards for PMU to supervise undertake sensitive properties in relation to hour averages once PM10 24 hour, supervise testing and tests and nuisance. Only required at six over a fortnight with no change testing and report at least report monthly substations (Mawshbuit, active earthworks from baseline report quarterly to to MePDCL Rongjen Songma, Mangsang, during dry season, if WHO 24 semiannually MePDCL PMU PMU and PIC Sibbari, Cherangri, and Zikzak, using professional, hour to MeECL Chapter 3, Table 11) unless calibrated portable guidelines PMU/PIC are concerned monitoring devices. exceeded Contractor is not complying with the EMP measures at other location or there are grievances raised related to dust generation. 240

Time, Frequency, Responsible party Sl. Environmental Location and Performance Aspect to be Monitored MNREDA/ No. Features Method of Standard PIC Contractor Monitoring MePDCL Noise levels for substations Undertake noise Noise level MePDCL PIC to Contractor to within proximity to residential or monitoring as 1hr limited to PMU to supervise undertake other sensitive properties. Only LAeq over a 48-hour 55dB(A) as supervise testing and tests and required at six substations period twice during 1hour LAeq testing and report at least report monthly (Mawshbuit, Rongjen Songma, active construction day and report quarterly to to MePDCL Mangsang, Sibbari, Cherangri, and once on 45dB(A) as semiannually MePDCL PMU PMU and PIC and Zikzak, Chapter 3, Table 11) completion prior to 1hour LAeq at to MeECL unless PMU/PIC are concerned handover, using night, no Contractor is not complying with professional, change from the EMP measures at other calibrated portable baseline location or there are grievances monitoring devices. >3dBA if WHO raised related to noise levels guidelines exceeded OPERATION STAGE 6. Health and safety; Health and safety incidents (near Record all incidents Zero lost time MePDCL PIC to For first two injury to workers and miss including fires, minor, lost associated with or fatalities District Units supervise years O&M villagers time, and fatal) to workers and project facilities and 100% lost time following two testing and Contractor to villagers responses taken and fatalities years O&M, report at least keep records (including date, time, reported to MNREDA to quarterly to and report and, details of MePDCL HQ report MNREDA monthly to incident, treatment in 24 hours semiannually PMU for first MePDCL PMU given and the For 100% to HQ Team two years but to report outcome) incidents who will O&M if still in lost time and immediate report to contract fatalities to all action taken to MeECL but within 24 avoid repeat to report lost hours time and fatalities within 24 hours 241

B. Supervision, Monitoring and Reporting

355. MeECL (as project EA) and each IA (MePDCL and MNREDA) are required to implement the EMP as provided in the loan/grant agreement. Overall, the corrective action, mitigation, and monitoring requirements set out in the EMP will be implemented by the PMUs within MePDCL and MNREDA, and their Contractors, under the supervision of the IAs, MeECL and ADB.

356. In consultation with MeECL and ADB, the IAs will establish a system for preparing a combined semi-annual environmental monitoring reports covering all project components up until the completion of construction, reverting to an annual submission during operation up until project closure. MePDCL’s PMU will take the lead on report preparation with MNREDA’s PMU providing them with inputs related to their project components. MePDCL through MeECL will then submit the combined report for ADB’s review and disclosure on the ADB website. MePDCL and MNREDA will be responsible for local disclosure of the combined report. Progress on EMP implementation (environmental performance) as well as the results of quantitative monitoring (as defined in Table 29) will be included in the combined semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports together with details of any grievances and their resolution and corrective action plans if needed. The format of the environmental monitoring report is attached as Appendix 7.

357. MeECL, and MePDCL and MNREDA will carry out the following actions to supervise and monitor project implementation: (i) appoint a dedicated Environmental Officer and a dedicated Occupational Health and Safety Officer to MePDCL’s PMU and a dedicated Environment, Health and Safety Officer to MNREDA’s PMU before the commencement of detailed design to support EMP implementation, supervision and monitoring of the project by the IAs. (ii) establish and maintain procedures to supervise and monitor the progress of implementation of the EMP by the PMUs for detailed design phase prior to contract award; (iii) ensure that relevant sections of the EMP are included in the various contract packages’ bidding document and in the contract documentation upon award of contract; (iv) appoint a dedicated Community Liaison/GRM Officer to MePDCL’s PMU before any contract package awarded who will be responsible for day to day supervision of the project together with the already appointed Environmental Officer and Occupational Health and Safety Officer. For MNREDA’s PMU the Environment, Health and Safety Officer will also take on the responsibility for community liaison; (v) MePDCL will nominate an Environment, Health and Safety Officer to supervise and monitor each individual contract package with the support of the dedicated staff in the headquarters team before the commencement off construction works; (vi) establish and maintain procedures to supervise and monitor the progress of implementation of the EMP by the contractor and PMUs for all contract packages; (vii) MePDCL’s PMU Environment Officer, Health and Safety Officer, and Community Liaison Officer and MNREDA’s Environment, Health and Safety Officer to undertake and document the findings of periodic “spot check” site visits to confirm compliance with the EMP; (viii) MePDCL’s PMU Environment Officer, Health and Safety Officer, and Community Liaison Officer and MNREDA’s Environment, Health and Safety Officer to conduct 242

and document the findings of monthly supervision visits involving detailed review of safeguards compliance for each ongoing construction package; (ix) Confirm compliance with environmental, health and safety measures, and progress toward the desired outcomes for ongoing measures; (x) document monitoring findings in the combined semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports, identify corrective action for any non-compliance identified and set out in a corrective action plan – IA PMUs should consolidate quarterly reports into a single report for submission to ADB with MNREDA providing inputs to MePDCL for consolidation; (xi) implement corrective action plans to ensure progress toward the desired outcomes; (xii) EA to submit semi-annual/annual Environmental Monitoring Reports to ADB for review and disclosure on the ADB website up until the Project Completion Report is issued, or longer if recommended on completion; (xiii) IA PMUs to locally disclose the findings of the semi-annual/annual Environmental Monitoring Reports through publication on their websites, copies of reports available at local offices of MePDCL, and notices at construction sites informing of main findings and the availability of the reports which should be shared upon request; and (xiv) Inform the ADB of any changes to the design or other unanticipated impacts and any changes to the IEE/EMP that are recommended prior to implementing the changes.

358. ADB will carry out the following monitoring actions to supervise project implementation: (i) conduct periodic site visits during the project implementation to confirm compliance with the EMP; (ii) if required, conduct supervision missions with detailed review by ADB’s safeguard specialists/officers or consultants; (iii) review the semi-annual/annual monitoring reports submitted by MeECL to ensure that adverse impacts and risks are mitigated as was planned and agreed with ADB; (iv) work with MeECL and IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA) to rectify to the extent possible any failures to comply with their safeguard commitments, as covenanted in the loan agreement, and exercise remedies to re-establish compliance as appropriate; and (v) prepare a project completion report that assesses whether the objective and desired outcomes of the EMP has been achieved, taking into account the baseline conditions and monitoring results.

359. For this purpose, the EA and IAs will provide ADB with access to the site and all requested information on the project.

C. Implementation Arrangement

360. The main institutions that will be involved in environmental management activities are MeECL the project executing agency, MePDCL (Output 1 to 3) and MNREDA (Output 4) as project implementing agencies (IAs), PIC, Contractors for each contract package, and relevant line agencies including forest department and state pollution control boards.

361. Responsibility of environmental management and compliance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements lies with the MeECL and IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA). MeECL has the ultimate responsibility for all aspects of the Project. Project Management Units 243

(PMUs) will be established within MePDCL and MNREDA who will be responsible for the overall management of the technical, environmental, and social aspects of the Project. MePDCL and MNREDA will act as implementing agency for their respective outputs and be responsible for the day to day management of the technical, environmental, and social aspects of the Project.

362. MePDCL PMU will be required to have at least one suitably qualified and experienced dedicated Environment Officer, Health and Safety Officer, and Community Liaison/GRM Officer. They will also need to have one nominated engineer to supervise and monitor Environment, Health and Safety on each contract package with the support of the headquarters EHS team. MNREDA PMU will be required to have at least one suitably qualified and experienced dedicated Environment, Health and Safety Officer who will also be responsible for the community liaison.

363. MeECL and the IAs will ensure that the staff resources and environmental management and monitoring budgets are available to the project and utilized as necessary for timely EMP implementation.

364. The PIC will assist MeECL and thus the IAs in overall coordination, supervision, and monitoring of the project implementation. The environmental specialist and health and safety specialist from the PIC will support MeECL in overall management, supervision, and monitoring of EMP implementation considering all the environmental, health, safety and social aspects associated with the Project. The Health and Safety Specialist will need to have experience of electrical health and safety risk assessment and planning for distribution lines including training of construction and maintenance engineers and workers. They will provide support to the IAs and their Contractors on EMP implementation, including trainings and guidance on environment, health and safety issues, updating the IEE to reflect final locations/alignments following detailed route surveys, and preparing the combined semiannual/annual environmental monitoring reports.

365. For MePDCL components each contractor, for each contract package if they are awarded multiple contracts, will be required to have prior to the commencement of works (i) one appropriately qualified and experienced, dedicated environment officer designated with responsibility for day to day implementation of the EMP; (ii) one appropriately qualified and experienced, dedicated health and safety officer designated with responsibility for day to day implementation of health and safety requirements under the EMP; and (iii) one appropriately qualified and experienced, dedicated community liaison officer dealing with ongoing consultations and grievances.

366. For MNREDA components the contractor will be required to have prior to the commencement of works (i) one appropriately qualified and experienced, dedicated environment officer designated with responsibility for day to day implementation of the EMP and community liaison; and (ii) one appropriately qualified and experienced, dedicated Health and Safety Officer designated with responsibility for day to day implementation of health and safety requirements under the EMP.

367. The contractor for the JFPR components will also be responsible to carry out the operation and maintenance of the project components for the first two years. The contractor will also provide capacity building trainings to the village ensuring that those who will be responsible for maintenance after the two-year period receive adequate health and safety trainings to continue to operate and maintain the equipment. MNREDA will also assign a project implementation and monitoring officer for each village to provide technical support even after the operational and maintenance period. 244

368. The main responsibilities of each institution are listed below (this is not an exclusive list):

C.1 MeECL Responsibilities (supported by PIC)

(i) Ensure that the final EMP including relevant mitigation measures needing to be incorporated during the detailed design, pre-construction and construction stage by the contractor are included in the bidding and contract documents. (ii) Ensure that the IAs have access to the IEE and EMP for their contract packages. (iii) Ensure the IAs understand their responsibilities to implement the EMP and mitigate environmental impacts associated with detailed design, pre- construction, construction, and operational and maintenance activities and provide training to their staff as required. (iv) Ensure that the IEE is updated and cleared by ADB following the completion of detailed route surveys before MePDCL approve the contractor’s detailed designs. (v) Support IAs in reviewing and approving contractor sub-plans e.g. Construction EMP plus Traffic Management Plan, Construction Waste Management Plan, and Health and Safety Plan. (vi) Supporting the IAs in undertaking ongoing consultation and implementing the GRM. (vii) Supervise and monitor that the EMP is being properly implemented. (viii) Ensure that the IAs submit their quarterly reports; these will be consolidated by MePDCL into the combined semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports. (ix) Submit semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports to ADB. (x) In case unanticipated environmental impacts occur during the project implementation stage, including design changes, inform ADB, and, as required, update the IEE and EMP in consultation with relevant government agencies for clearance by ADB before any changes are implemented. (xi) In case of non-compliance, inform ADB, and prepare in consultation with relevant government agencies and implement as necessary a corrective action plan for clearance by ADB. C.2 MePDCL and MNREDA Responsibilities (supported by PMUs)

(i) Obtain necessary permits and/or clearance, as required, from forest department and other relevant government agencies (except those required to be obtained by contractor), ensuring that all necessary regulatory clearances are obtained before commencing any civil work on the relevant sections. (ii) Implement the EMP in respect of actions allocated to the IAs during detailed design, pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance. (iii) Ensure that the final EMP including relevant mitigation measures needing to be incorporated during the construction stage by the contractor are included in the bidding and contract documents. (iv) Ensure that the contractors have access to the IEE and EMP for their contract 245

packages. (v) Ensure that the contractors understand their responsibilities to implement the EMP and mitigate environmental impacts associated with their pre-construction and construction activities and with support of MeECL provide training to their staff as required. (vi) Update the IEE for clearance by ADB following the completion of detailed route surveys by the contractor and obtain ADB clearance before approving the contractor’s detailed designs. (vii) Review and approve Contractor sub-plans e.g. Construction EMP plus Traffic Management Plan, Construction Waste Management Plan, and Health and Safety Plan with support of MeECL. (viii) Undertake ongoing consultation and implement the GRM. (ix) Undertake quantitative environmental monitoring as set out in Table 29 during pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance phases. (x) Supervise and monitor that the EMP is being properly implemented. (xi) Ensure that the contractors submit monthly environmental management reports (these reports will be included as part of the contractors’ monthly progress reports). (xii) Submit quarterly reports to MeECL, these will be consolidated by MePDCL into the combined semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports. (xiii) MePDCL to submit combined semi-annual/annual environmental monitoring reports to MeECL, MNREDA to provide their inputs to the report to MePDCL to incorporate. (xiv) In case unanticipated environmental impacts occur during the project implementation stage, including design changes, inform MeECL, and, as required, help update the IEE and EMP for clearance by ADB before any changes are implemented. (xv) In case of non-compliance, inform MeECL, and help prepare and implement as necessary a corrective action plan for clearance by ADB. (xvi) MNREDA to assign a project implementation and monitoring officer to each village to provide technical support even after operational and maintenance period. C.3 Contractors’ Responsibilities

(i) Implement the EMP in respect of actions allocated to the Contractor during pre- construction and construction. (ii) Ensure adherence to all applicable national environment, health, safety and labor laws, (iii) Support MePDCL to update the IEE for clearance by ADB following the completion of detailed route surveys. (iv) Prepare sub-plans including Construction EMP plus Traffic Management Plan, Construction Waste Management Plan, and Health and Safety Plan as specified in the EMP for review and approval by IAs. (v) Ensure that construction workers including all formal and informal 246

subcontractors understand their responsibilities to implement the EMP and mitigate environmental impacts associated with their pre-construction and construction activities and with support of MeECL and IA PMUs provide training to construction workers as required. (vi) Support the PMUs in undertaking ongoing consultation and implementing the GRM. (vii) Undertake quantitative environmental monitoring as set out in Table 29 during pre-construction and construction. (viii) Submit monthly environmental management reports to the PMUs (these reports will be included as part of the contractors’ monthly progress reports). It will identify the work undertaken over the reporting period and document the environmental, health and safety measures including qualitative and quantitative monitoring activities that have been carried out, problems encountered, and follow-up actions that were taken (or will be taken) to correct the problems. (ix) In case unanticipated environmental impacts occur during the project implementation stage, including design changes, inform PMUs, and, as required, help update the IEE and EMP for clearance by ADB before any changes are implemented. (x) In case of non-compliance, inform PMUs, and help prepare and implement as necessary a corrective action plan for clearance by ADB. (xi) Installation contractor for MNREDA component will carry out the operation and maintenance for the first two years including continuing to implement management and monitoring measures. (xii) Installation contractor for MNREDA component will provide capacity building trainings to village.

C.4 ADB’s Responsibilities

(i) conduct periodic site visits during the project implementation to confirm compliance with the EMP; (ii) in case of significant issues, conduct supervision missions with detailed review by ADB’s safeguard specialists/officers or consultants; (iii) review the semi-annual/annual monitoring reports submitted by MeECL to ensure that adverse impacts and risks are mitigated as planned and agreed with ADB; (iv) work with MeECL and IA PMUs to rectify to the extent possible any failures to comply with their safeguard commitments, as covenanted in the loan agreement, and exercise remedies to re-establish compliance as appropriate; and (v) prepare a project completion report that assesses whether the objective and desired outcomes of the EMP has been achieved, taking into account the baseline conditions and monitoring results.

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D. Review of MeECL and IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA) Environmental Management Capability

369. The EA and IAs’ organizational structure currently does not include any dedicated group or person responsible for management of the environmental, health and safety aspects associated with its operations. In MePDCL, responsibility for coordinating the environmental, health and safety aspects of works sits with technical staff members (executive engineers) within the organizational structure shown in Figure 26. These executive engineers and other staff do not receive any regular environmental, health and safety capacity development. Similarly, in MNREDA, responsibility for coordinating the environmental, health and safety aspects of works sits with the programme officer. Limited environmental, health and safety systems exist within these organizations. Both, MePDCL and MNREDA refer to environmental, health and safety guidance developed at national level. In relation to the existing facilities audit, it is apparent that environmental, health and safety capacity needs to be developed to ensure staff understand their responsibilities under national requirements and international good practice and are given the tools and knowledge to comply with them.

Figure 26: MePDCL Organizational Structure

370. Given MeECL and IAs (MePDCL and MNREDA) do not currently have capacity and have not previously implemented an ADB project, capacity development and training activities are required. Table 30 below shows the proposed training activities for executing agency and IA staff.

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Table 30: Summary of Capacity Development Training Activities Item Attendees Delivered By Total Cost ($) Development of good PIC Consultant Included in PIC practice manual on Consultant pollution control and Contract risk for MePDCL including solid and n/a hazardous waste (e.g. oils, lead acid batteries, and lubricants etc.) management Development of PIC Consultant Included in PIC environmental Consultant n/a checklists for use on Contract site Development of good PIC Consultant Included in PIC practice manual on Consultant n/a health and safety for Contract MePDCL Development of PIC Consultant Included in PIC health and safety Consultant n/a checklists for use on Contract site MeECL and MePDCL PIC Consultant 4,000 + Awareness on PCB Staff, including PMU Included in PIC risks and Environment, Health Consultant management and Safety Officers Contract MeECL and IAs PIC Consultant 12,000 + SPS, EHS Guidelines, (MePDCL and Included in PIC Implementing EMP MNREDA) Staff, Consultant and Preparing including PMU Contract Environmental Environment, Health Monitoring Reports and Safety Officers GRM Committee PIC Consultant 4,000 + Members, GRM Focal Included in PIC Points from IAs Consultant GRM Operation (MePDCL and Contract MePDCL) and Contractors PMU Environment, 4,000 + EMP implementation MePDCL and MNREDA Health and Safety Included in PIC for detailed design PMU Officers Officers with support Consultant of PIC Consultant Contract MePDCL and MNREDA PMU Environment, 4,000 + EMP implementation PMU Officers and Health and Safety Included in PIC for pre-construction Contractor Officers with support Consultant and construction management team of PIC Consultant Contract 249

Item Attendees Delivered By Total Cost ($) PMU Environment, 4,000 + MePDCL and MNREDA EMP for operation Health and Safety Included in PIC PMU Officers, MePDCL and maintenance Officers with support Consultant district staff of PIC Consultant Contract Contingency @ 10% contingency 3,200 Total 35,200

E. Environmental Management Budget and Resources

371. The cost of all mitigation and monitoring measures will need to be borne by the project. Table 31 below shows the costs of the EMP implementation. Table 31: Summary of Estimated Costs for EMP of the Project Item Sub Item Total Cost ($) Support updating IEE following detailed route surveys Included in PIC Monitoring and Supervision of EMP PIC Environment Specialist Consultant implementation (capacity development, Contract at least quarterly site visits required for project duration) Monitoring and Supervision of EMP Included in PIC PIC Health and Safety implementation (capacity development, Consultant Specialist at least monthly site visits required for project duration) Contract Undertake pre-construction ecological walkover to support updating IEE MePDCL Field Ecologist 45,000 following detailed route surveys for 3 person months input. Support updating IEE following detailed route surveys MePDCL PMU Environment Monitoring and Reporting on 96,000 Officer environmental management (full time for 4 years, 48 person months for 4 years) Monitoring and Reporting on health and MePDCL PMU Health and safety (full time for 4 years, 48 person 96,000 Safety Officer months for 4 years) Monitoring and Supervision of EMP MePDCL Community Liaison implementation (full time for 4 years, 48 96,000 Officer person months for 4 years) Monitoring and Reporting on MNREA PMU Environment, environmental management 32,000 Health and Safety Officer (Intermittent for 4 years, 16 person months for 4 years) Pre-construction air quality monitoring at 6 new substations @ 1000 USD per Ambient air quality monitoring 6,000 location (one time before start of construction) – other costs included in 250

Item Sub Item Total Cost ($) construction contract PCB Testing (for sample One time testing for sample 78,000 transformers) transformers to know presence of PCBs Capacity building/training Training for PMUs, PIC and Contractors 35,200 cost (Refer Table 30) personnel Contingency @ 10% contingency 48,420 Total 532,620 Note: Costs estimated are indicative only.

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IX. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

372. The environmental impacts and risks of the project, in particular the infrastructure components involving works, have been assessed as described in the previous sections of this IEE report. Potential negative impacts were identified in relation to the detailed design and pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance of the improved distribution infrastructure under MePDCL and the JFPR components under MNREDA. Mitigation measures have been developed and are included in the EMP to address all negative impacts identified.

373. Potential construction impacts relate to disturbance to land and communities as project infrastructure is installed and pollution, health and safety risks to workers and the community in proximity to works if the construction activities are not well managed. Pollution, health and safety risks to workers and the community will remain during operation and maintenance works. The most significant potential environmental impact is associated with the removal, storage and disposal of phased out equipment, particularly old transformers, that may contain polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) oil. The removal, storage and disposal of old transformers will be done in accordance with international good practice (IFC EHS Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and Distribution (April 30, 2007) plus the Stockholm Convention of Persistent Organic Pollutants (1972) and UNEP Guidelines for the Identification of PCB and Materials Containing PCBs under a health and safety risk assessment and plan referring to the measures in UNEP (2002) PCB Transformers and Capacitors: From Management to Reclassification and Disposal) and the Government of India’s regulations (Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans-boundary Movement) Rules 2008 (Amended 2009) and the Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Order, 2016 (S.O. 1327(E)). This will ensure that there will be no residual significant impact associated with disposal of any old transformers under the project that were found to contain PCBs.

374. Overall construction, operation and maintenance of the project facilities is likely to give rise to direct, indirect, cumulative and induced environmental impacts that are mostly minor in magnitude, site-specific, generally reversible, temporary and of short duration primarily during construction works. Potential impacts can be easily mitigated through the adoption of international good practices for environmental management as set out in the IFC EHS Guidelines including those on Electric Power Transmission and Distribution dated 30 April 2007. This is due to the following findings: • All of the proposed new 33/11kV substations and the installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and agricultural processing units are located on land acquired by the government through willing-buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from communities. • Upgrading of existing substations will be done within their existing premises; hence no additional land is required. • The new 33/11 kV lines will mostly be aligned along the ROW of existing rural roads although some sections may need to pass through agricultural or plantation areas; the associated poles, conductors, and transformers have a small footprint ─ the IEE will be updated following detailed route surveys for these components of the project. • Reconductoring of 11 kV existing lines and installation of rooftop solar PV systems will not require any land unless rerouting is needed for lines to avoid sensitive receptors ─ the IEE will be updated following detailed route surveys for these components of the project. 252

• Project components are located in semi-urban and rural areas which do not support high biodiversity values and will be away from legally protected areas or internationally or nationally important biodiversity areas or physical cultural resources. • There will be only minor civil works required for the project. • An EMP has been prepared for the project. The EMP includes (i) corrective action for existing facilities i.e. substations; (ii) mitigation measures for potential environmental impacts during implementation, including ensuring detailed designs take into account slope stability for infrastructure on hilly terrain, structural integrity for rooftop solar on schools, high seismic risk, and climate change adaptation measures; adhering to EMF exposure and noise guideline levels; approving contractor’s pollution prevention, solid and hazardous waste management, and health and safety management plans prior to works; prohibiting PCB use in new transformers and the use of all asbestos containing materials in new construction; and, community awareness raising activities on the health and safety risks of electrical equipment; (iii) an environmental monitoring program, including monitoring of health and safety incidents; and (iv) the responsible entities for mitigation, monitoring, and reporting namely MeECL, MePDCL and MNREDA.

375. Mitigation measures will be assured by a program of environmental supervision and monitoring to be conducted during the construction and operation stages. All planning and design, construction, and operation and maintenance activities will be supervised, monitored, and reported by MeECL and the respective IA (MePDCL and MNREDA) in accordance with the EMP.

376. This IEE including EMP are considered sufficient to meet the environmental assessment requirements of ADB and Government of India. However, following selection of final 33/11 kV line alignments and 11 kV existing lines to be reconducted, and, in case of any unanticipated scope or design change occurring during project implementation, this IEE and EMP will be updated and cleared by ADB.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (REA) CHECKLIST

POWER TRANSMISSION / DISTRIBUTION

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 Safeguards Division (SDSS) for endorsement by Director, SDSS 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: India: Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project

Sector Division: SAEN

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. Project Siting The project will support: (i) construction of 23 new Is the Project Area adjacent to or within any 33/11kV substations, (ii) upgrading and modernization of the following Environmentally Sensitive of 45 33/11kV existing substations; (iii) erection of 771 Areas? ckm of 33kV and 669 ckm of 11 kV new lines, (iv) ▪ Cultural Heritage Site X reconductoring of 496 ckm of 33kV and 278 ckm of 11 kV existing lines, and (v) smart metering scheme for up ▪ Protected Area X to 75,000 consumers. ▪ Wetland X There are no sensitive cultural or biodiversity receptors of international, national, state or district importance ▪ Mangrove X including protected areas, key biodiversity areas, forest ▪ Estuarine X areas, sacred groves, or historical / cultural monuments around the substation sites or along the alignments of ▪ Buffer Zone of Protected Area X the distribution lines that will be impacted from the construction or operation of the substations and ▪ Special Area for Protecting Biodiversity X distribution lines. B. Potential Environmental Impacts Will the Project Cause… 254

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ encroachment on historical/cultural areas, X The project will involve land take for the substations and disfiguration of landscape and increased the installation of solar-battery hybrid systems and waste generation? agricultural processing units; they are to be located on land which is already modified habitat and not located within any historical/cultural area. Upgrading of existing substations will be done within their existing premises; hence no additional land is required. 33/11 kV lines associated poles, conductors, and transformers have a small footprint with reconductoring of 11 kV existing lines and installation of rooftop solar PV systems not requiring any land unless rerouting is needed for lines to avoid sensitive receptors. Infrastructure will need to be well constructed and maintained to minimize disfiguration of the in semi-urban and rural landscape in which distribution lines are already an existing feature. Through the EMP locally important receptors (e.g. trees) will be avoided to the extent possible during survey works for the distribution lines. Chance find procedures as per national requirements and SPS will apply to the project. There will be additional waste generation due to construction and maintenance to be managed through EMP and development of a Construction Waste Management Plan reflecting national requirements and EHS Guidelines. ▪ encroachment on precious ecosystem X Project components are all located in semi-urban and (e.g. sensitive or protected areas)? rural areas which do not support high biodiversity values. Through the EMP locally important receptors (e.g. trees) will be avoided to the extent possible during survey works for the distribution lines. ▪ alteration of surface water hydrology of X No waterways will be crossed by new roads but some waterways crossed by roads and resulting substations are in proximity to waterways thus in increased sediment in streams affected increased soil erosion at the construction site is a risk to by increased soil erosion at the be managed through EMP reflecting national construction site? requirements and EHS Guidelines including the avoidance of work during the rainy season to minimize increased sediment load entering waterways that are adjacent. ▪ damage to sensitive coastal/marine X Not applicable as project in land locked state and no habitats by construction of submarine submarine cables involved. cables? 255

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ deterioration of surface water quality due X Some substations are in proximity to waterways thus to silt runoff, sanitary wastes from worker- increased soil erosion, generation of sanitary wastes based camps and chemicals used in from construction workers, and use of construction? oils/chemicals/fuels in construction are risks to be managed through EMP reflecting national requirements and EHS Guidelines including the avoidance of work during the rainy season to minimize increased sediment load entering waterways that are adjacent, provision of adequate sanitation and welfare facilities for the workers with no discharge of untreated water to waterways, ideally use should be made of existing accommodation facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must be adequately equipped, and correct storage of any construction related oils/chemicals/fuels used on impermeable bunded surfaces or drip trays with empty drums to be disposed of by suitably licensed contractor to suitably licensed disposal facility in accordance with national requirements. Potential to encounter PCB oils in transformers; to be managed through EMP with old transformers disposed per the guidelines of the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Trans- Boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 and international good practice. ▪ increased local air pollution due to rock X Cutting and filling will be required during construction. crushing, cutting and filling? Impacts from increased dust and vehicular emissions during construction stage are temporary and can be minimized through EMP following national regulations and EHS Guidelines. ▪ risks and vulnerabilities related to X OHS risks exist during both construction and operation, occupational health and safety due to to be minimized through EMP following national physical, chemical, biological, and regulations and EHS Guidelines including radiological hazards during project implementation of risk assessments and management construction and operation? plans. ▪ chemical pollution resulting from chemical X Chemicals will not be used for clearing of vegetation, to clearing of vegetation for construction be prohibited through EMP. site?

▪ noise and vibration due to blasting and X Blasting may not be required for excavation as the soil other civil works? does not have solid rock. Increased noise during construction stage is temporary and can be minimized through EMP following national requirements and EHS Guidelines; including adhering to most stringent noise levels. ▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of X Most land acquired by the government through willing- people? buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary donation from communities or will be in road right of way but as there is a risk distribution lines may cross over agricultural or plantation land, IR is Category B and RP has been produced. ▪ disproportionate impacts on the poor, X IP is Category C indicating no disproportionate impacts women and children, Indigenous Peoples on IPs. Children may be more vulnerable to community or other vulnerable groups? health and safety risks; additional measures to be included in EMP in the vicinity of schools with proposed community awareness raising activities to involve them. 256

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ social conflicts relating to inconveniences X Construction works are not expected to cause social in living conditions where construction conflicts given works will be completed in a short time interferes with pre-existing roads period, but existing roads will be involved so through EMP a traffic management plan will be developed and implemented to manage interference with pre-existing roads and facilitate safe access and passage during ongoing works. ▪ hazardous driving conditions where X Existing roads will be involved so through EMP a traffic construction interferes with pre-existing management plan will be developed and implemented roads? to manage interference with pre-existing roads and facilitate safe access and passage during ongoing works; traffic signs and if necessary diversions to be put up wherever the project involves pre-existing roads. ▪ creation of temporary breeding habitats X Standing water may create temporary breeding habitat for vectors of disease such as mosquitoes for vectors; poor waste management may attract and rodents? rodents. Risks are to be managed through EMP requiring that good housekeeping to be enforced at project sites. ▪ dislocation and compulsory resettlement X Most land acquired by the government through willing- of people living in right-of-way of the buyer and willing-seller mechanism or voluntary power transmission lines? donation from communities or will be in road right of way but as there is a risk distribution lines may cross over agricultural or plantation land, IR is Category B and RP has been produced. ▪ environmental disturbances associated X Through the EMP locally important receptors (e.g. trees) with the maintenance of lines (e.g. routine will be avoided to the extent possible during survey control of vegetative height under the works for the distribution lines but it will be necessary to lines)? regularly maintain the lines including cutting back height of vegetation beneath for H&S reasons. ▪ facilitation of access to protected areas in X No protected areas are traversed. case corridors traverse protected areas?

▪ disturbances (e.g. noise and chemical X No chemicals will be used, to be prohibited through pollutants) if herbicides are used to control EMP. vegetative height?

▪ large population influx during project X Project is not expected to cause large population influx construction and operation that cause given scale of works but, as skilled workers who will not increased burden on social infrastructure be local to villages are required during construction and and services (such as water supply and operation, they will need to be locally accommodated. sanitation systems)? Ideally use should be made of existing accommodation facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must be adequately equipped. Drinking water will be purchased from local water suppliers by the construction team at each project site. If no local sewerage system, then toilets provided will be connected to septic tanks with soakaways away from groundwater wells to avoid contamination. ▪ social conflicts if workers from other X Local hiring for unskilled work will be given priority e.g. regions or countries are hired? housekeepers but skilled workers are also required who will come from outside the local villages; ongoing consultations will be needed to help avoid conflicts. 257

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in X Ideally use should be made of existing accommodation construction camps and work sites, and facilities but if a construction camp is provided it must possible transmission of communicable be adequately equipped. Sanitation and welfare diseases from workers to local facilities are to be provided. If no local sewerage populations? system, then toilets provided will be connected to septic tanks with soakaways away from groundwater wells to avoid contamination. There will be solid waste generation due to construction workers to be managed through development of a Construction Waste Management Plan reflecting national requirements and EHS Guidelines. Construction workers will be given awareness raising on the prevention of communicable diseases including HIV/AIDS and medicals of workers will be conducted. ▪ risks to community safety associated with X CHS risks exist during both construction and operation, maintenance of lines and related particularly if lines are not well maintained, to be facilities? minimized through EMP following national regulations and EHS Guidelines including regular maintenance checks and implementation of risk assessments and management plans during maintenance activities. Program of awareness raising for local communities will be conducted to warn them of danger interfering with electricity infrastructure and H&S incidents will be monitored. ▪ community health hazards due to X For EMF horizontal and vertical safety spacing electromagnetic fields, land subsidence, distances as per Indian Electricity Act shall be lowered groundwater table, and maintained by IA and international good practice EMF salinization? levels ensured. Information, education, and communication efforts will be introduced by the IAs to build awareness of living safely in proximity to distribution lines in the project area. No land subsidence, lowering of the groundwater table or salinization is anticipated. ▪ risks to community health and safety due X Project will not involve the use of explosives unless to the transport, storage, and use and/or blasting is required during earthworks which is unlikely disposal of materials such as explosives, as the soil does not have solid rock. If needed, then fuel and other chemicals during blasting to only be undertaken by a specialist contractor construction and operation? under strict protocols. For fuels, oils, and chemicals these will be kept in locked compound on impermeable bunded surfaces or drip trays with empty drums to be disposed of by suitably licensed contractor to suitably licensed disposal facility in accordance with national requirements. Through EMP use of herbicides to control vegetation to be prohibited. Potential to encounter PCB oils in transformers; to be managed through EMP with old transformers disposed per the guidelines of the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Trans- Boundary Movement) Rules, 2008 and international good practice. 258

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ community safety risks due to both X Infrastructure will need to be well constructed and accidental and natural hazards, especially maintained by the IA to minimize any accidental risks where the structural elements or e.g. poles toppling over, transformer oil leaks etc. components of the project (e.g., high The vertical and horizontal safety spacing distances as voltage wires, and transmission towers per Indian Electricity Act shall be maintained by IA. and lines) are accessible to members of For earthquakes and slope stability detailed designs will the affected community or where their ensure seismic and slope stability measures are failure could result in injury to the incorporated to avoid building collapse, landslide or a community throughout project similar CHS impact. construction, operation and decommissioning?

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A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening

Country/Project Title: India: Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project Sector: Energy Subsector: Power Distribution Division/Department: SAEN/SARD

Screening Questions Score Remarks37 Location and Is siting and/or routing of the project (or its components) likely to be 1 Design of affected by climate conditions including extreme weather-related events project such as floods, droughts, storms, landslides? Would the project design (e.g. the clearance for bridges) need to consider 1 any hydro-meteorological parameters (e.g., sea-level, peak river flow, reliable water level, peak wind speed etc.)? Materials and Would weather, current and likely future climate conditions (e.g. 0 Maintenance prevailing humidity level, temperature contrast between hot summer days and cold winter days, exposure to wind and humidity hydro- meteorological parameters likely affect the selection of project inputs over the life of project outputs (e.g. construction material)? Would weather, current and likely future climate conditions, and related 1 extreme events likely affect the maintenance (scheduling and cost) of project output(s)? Performance Would weather/climate conditions, and related extreme events likely 0 of project affect the performance (e.g. annual power production) of project output(s) outputs (e.g. hydro-power generation facilities) throughout their design life time?

Options for answers and corresponding score are provided below:

Response Score Not Likely 0 Likely 1 Very Likely 2

Responses when added that provide a score of 0 will be considered low risk project. If adding all responses will result to a score of 1-4 and that no score of 2 was given to any single response, the project will be assigned a medium risk category. A total score of 5 or more (which include providing a score of 1 in all responses) or a 2 in any single response will be categorized as high-risk project.

Result of Initial Screening (Low, Medium, High): Medium Other Comments: ______

37 If possible, provide details on the sensitivity of project components to climate conditions, such as how climate parameters are considered in design standards for infrastructure components, how changes in key climate parameters and sea level might affect the siting/routing of project, the selection of construction material and/or scheduling, performances and/or the maintenance cost/scheduling of project outputs. 260

APPENDIX 2: AUDIT REPORT OF MEPDCL EXISTING SUBSTATIONS

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Objectives of the Environmental Compliance Audit

1. The Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project (the Project) is categorized as an Environment B project per ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). For Category B projects, an initial environmental examination (IEE) is required to address the anticipated impacts of the project and to suggest appropriate mitigation measures. An IEE report was prepared for the Project based on the table of contents provided in Appendix 1 of the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009). 2. In addition, for projects involving facilities and/or business activities that already exist or are under construction before ADB's involvement, ADB requires relevant external experts to conduct an environment audit, including on site assessment. For a project involving an upgrade or expansion of existing facilities, as is the case for 45 substations under the Project, the requirements for environmental assessment and planning apply in addition to the environmental audit.

3. The environmental audit will determine the existence of any areas where the substations may cause or are causing environmental risks and impacts. The existing facilities must comply with the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) and applicable national laws and regulations on environment, health and safety. Where existing facilities are found not to be in accordance with the environment safeguard principles and requirements applicable to the Project, a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is to be prepared, including implementation schedule and sufficient budget, to bring the existing facilities into compliance.

4. The environment audit has been conducted with the aim of assessing the 45 existing substation’s compliance with:

(i) National (India) laws and regulations on environment, health and safety. This incudes, but not limited to, The Water (Preventions Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (amended 1988), The Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (amended 1987), Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans-boundary Movement) Rules 2008 (amended 2009, 2016); and the Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Order, 2016 (S.O. 1327(E); (ii) Health and safety measures at work places under National Acts and State Rules including the Factories Act, 1948 and the Electricity Act, 2003 (amended 2007); and (iii) Environmental safeguards according to ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) and International Finance Corporation (IFC), Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines.

1.2 The Purpose of the Environmental Audit

5. The purposes of the Environmental Audit is:

(i) to identify present inadequacies in environmental management, and health and safety issues in the existing facilities, i.e. substations; 261

(ii) to determine the need for remedial actions necessary to bring the existing facilities into compliance with environment safeguard principles and requirements applicable to the Project, including the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) and IFC EHS Guidelines; and (iii) to recommend actions to be taken to improve and strengthen MePDCL’s environmental, health, and safety management.

1.2.1 Scope of Work

6. The Project is located in rural areas of three adminirative circles (regions) of MePDCL namely Central, West Garo and East Garo. The administrative circles are located in the districts of East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, West Garo Hills and East Garo Hills of Meghalaya state. The list of 45 existing substations along with scope of proposed augmentation/upgrading work is presented in Table 1.

Table 1: Circle wise Details and Scope of 33/11 kV substations augmentation work 1. Central Circle

Substation Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformers Augmentation / + 1nos. 33 kV bay + 4 x 11 kV CC-SS - 08 33/11 kV Ichamati East Khasi Hills Upgrading feeders, existing control room upgraded 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformer + Augmentation / 4nos. 33kV bays + bus coupler + 4 x CC-SS - 09 33/11 kV Welloi East Khasi Hills Upgrading 11 kV feeders + new control room (switching substation) 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers Augmentation / CC-SS -10 33/11 kV Jonksa East Khasi Hills + 2nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV Upgrading feeders + new control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 33/11 kV Augmentation / 3nos. 33kV bays + bus coupler + 6 x CC-SS - 11 East Khasi Hills Mawsynram Upgrading 11 kV feeders + existing control room upgraded 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA Augmentation / transformers + 2nos. 33 kV bays + 6 CC-SS - 12 33/11 kV Sohiong East Khasi Hills Upgrading x 11kV feeders + existing control room upgraded 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + Augmentation / CC-SS - 13 33/11 kV Jaklon East Khasi Hills 2nos. 33 kV bays + 6 x 11kV feeders Upgrading + new control room 1 x 10 MVA to 2 x 10 MVA Augmentation / transformers + 1 x 33kV incomer + 6 CC-SS -14 33/11 kV Sohra East Khasi Hills Upgrading x 11 kV feeders + existing control room upgraded Executive Engineer, CC-SS - 15-1 132/33 Mawphlang Upgrading New 33kV bay Shillong West CC-SS - 15-2 33/11 KV Ranikor East Khasi Hills Upgrading New 33kV bay Executive CC-SS - 15-3 33/11 KV Airforce Engineer,Shillong Upgrading New 33kV bay West 262

Substation Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference Executive 33/11 KV Happy CC-SS - 15-4 Engineer,Shillong Upgrading New 33kV bay Valley West 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + Augmentation / CC-SS - 06 33/11 kV RAMBRAI West Khasi Hills 1nos. 33kV bay + 6 x 11 kV feeders + Upgrading new control room 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformer + Augmentation / CC-SS - 07 33/11 kV Nongksen West Khasi Hills switchyard structure + earth mat + Upgrading switchyard lighting 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers 33/11 kV Augmentation / CC-SS - 08 West Khasi Hills + 2 nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV Nongkhlaw Upgrading feeders + new control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers Augmentation / CC-SS - 09 33/11 KVMawsaw West Khasi Hills + 3nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV Upgrading feeders + new control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers Augmentation / CC-SS - 10 33/11 kV Riangdo West Khasi Hills + 3nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV Upgrading feeders + new control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers Augmentation / CC-SS - 11 33/11 kV Kynshi West Khasi Hills + 2nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV Upgrading feeders + new control room 2 x 2.5 MVA (existing) transformers + 33/11 kV CC-SS - 12 West Khasi Hills Upgrading 3nos. 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders Mawkyrwat + new control room 2 x 2.5 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 33/11 kV Augmentation / CC-SS - 13 West Khasi Hills 2nos. 11kV bays + existing control Mawasawa Upgrading room upgraded 2 x 5 MVA to 2 x 10 MVA Augmentation / CC-SS - 14 33/11 kV Nongstoin West Khasi Hills transformers, no addition of 33kV or Upgrading 11 kV bays or control room 132/33 CC-SS - 15 West Khasi Hills Upgrading New 33kV bay Nongpyndeng

B. East Garo Circle

Subproject Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + Augmentation / 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at EGC - 09 33/11 kV Songsak East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading existing control room + 4-unit barrack 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 3.15 MVA transformers Augmentation / EGC - 10 33/11 kV Samanda East Garo Hiils DD + 1 x 33 kV bay + 6 x 11kV bays at Upgrading existing control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + Augmentation / EGC - 11 33/11 kV Kharkuta East Garo Hiils DD 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + Upgrading new control room + 4-unit barrack 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA 33/11 kV Augmentation / transformers + 3 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 EGC - 12 East Garo Hiils DD Bajengdoba-I (old) Upgrading kV feeders + new control room + 4- unit barrack 263

Subproject Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 2 Augmentation / EGC - 13 33/11 kV Chokpot East Garo Hiils DD x 33kV bays +6 x 11 kV feeders + new Upgrading control room + 4-unit barrack 1 x 3.15+1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA 33/11 kV Augmentation / EGC - 14 East Garo Hiils DD transformers + 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 Mendipathar(Old) Upgrading kV feeders at existing control room 1 x 2.5 +1 x 1.6 to 2 x 5 MVA Augmentation / transformers + 3 x 33 kV bays + 6 X EGC - 15 33/11 kV Dainadubi East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading 11kV bays + new control room + 4- unit barrack 33/11 KV EGC - 16 - 1 East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading New 33 kV bay Williamnagar 33/11KV EGC - 16 - 2 East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading New 33 kV bay Jaksongram 33/11 KV EGC - 16 - 3 East Garo Hiils DD Upgrading New 33 kV bay Resubelpara

C. West Garo Circle

Subproject Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 2 x Augmentation / WGC - 05 33/11 kV Selsella WGHDD 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + new Upgrading control room 1 x 1.6 +1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA Augmentation / WGC - 06 33/11 kV Ampati WGHDD transformers + 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 Upgrading kV feeders + new control room 1 x 1.6 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 33/11 kV Augmentation / WGC - 07 WGHDD 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders + Daddengre Upgrading new control room 1 x 1.6 to 1 x 2.5 MVA transformers + Augmentation / 4 x 33kV bays and bus coupler + 4 x WGC - 08 33/11 kV Baromile TDD Upgrading 11 kV feeders at existing control room Upgrading existing 1 x 2.5 MVA WGC - 09 33/11 kV Purkhasia TDD Upgrading substation with 1 x 33kV bay at existing control room Upgrading existing 2 x 2.5 MVA WGC - 10 33/11 kV Dalu TDD Upgrading substation with 1 x 33kV bay at existing control room 1 x 3.15 to 2 x 5 MVA transformers + 33/11 kV Augmentation / WGC - 11 WGHDD 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at Haldiyaganj Upgrading existing control room Upgrading existing 1 x 2.5 + 1 x 5 MVA substation with 3 x 33kV bays + WGC - 12 33/11 kV Phulbari WGHDD Upgrading 6 x 11 kV feeders at existing control room 1 x 2.5 to 2 x 2.5 MVA transformers + 33/11 kV Augmentation / WGC - 13 TDD 2 x 33kV bays + 6 x 11 kV feeders at Paharinagar Upgrading existing control room 264

Subproject Substation Name MePDCL Dist. Div. Scope Configuration Reference 1 x 1.6 + 1 x 5 to 2 x 5 MVA 33/11 kV Augmentation / transformers + 5 x 33 kV bays and WGC - 14 WGHDD Gongglangre Upgrading bus coupler + 6 x 11kV feeders at existing control room with extension Upgrading existing 1 x 5 MVA 33/11 kV WGC - 15 WGHDD Upgrading substation with 2 x 33kV bay + 6x Mahendraganj 11kV bays at existing control room Upgrading existing 2 x 5 MVA WGC - 16 33/11 kV Dakopre TDD Upgrading substation with 3 x 33 kV bays at existing control room 132/33 kV WGC - 17 Upgrading 2 nos. new 33 kV bays* Chiringpara *Chiringpara 132/33kV substation is counted as two substations for the purpose of the project description, thus whilst there are 45 existing substations in the project, there are only 44 physical existing substation sites involved

7. The environmental audit assessment focused on the 45 existing 33/11kV substations earmarked for capacity augmentation and upgrading proposed under the Project. These facilities are located on MePDCL land in the three administrative circles (Central, West Garo and East Garo) of Meghapaya state. It is proposed to upgrade these substations under the Project, hence as per Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) these qualify as existing facilities requiring an environmental audit.

8. The augmentation work involves increasing the capacity of transformers by the installation of new or replacement of existing 2.5 MVA transformers, the installation of 33kV bays, construction of new and renovation of existing control rooms, and the installation of associated 33 kV and 11kV feeders. All these works will be done within the premises of the existing substations of MePDCL.

1.2.2 Method and Approach

9. The Environmental audit was conducted based on desk-based review of available documents followed by site visits. All available relevant in-house documents were reviewed, including the following:

i. Project proposal, MePDCL’s existing management system, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training on EHS, and ii. Records on health and safety and compliance with respect to site specific safety management by MePDCL’s engineering and procurement staff and construction contractors.

1.2.3 Site Observation and Interview 10. The environmental audit took place in the months of May and June 2019. The audit was undertaken by an independent environmental expert engaged by ADB under TA budget. Four substations (Mawsynram, Kynshi, Nongkhlaw, and Bajengdoba) were visited by the environmental expert together with MePDCL officials. During the site visit to these four substations, a visual inspection was conducted and the critical environment, health and safety issues cross checked using an audit checklist to identify areas of strength in each substation, and areas that need corrective actions to meet the required standard. 265

11. The audit checklist (Table 2) identifies critical issues as per the following criteria deduced from the standards and guidelines mentioned above:

• General environmental management, • Waste management practices, • Hazardous material management, • Occupational health and safety management, and • Community health and safety management.

12. Interviews were also held with MePDCL staff and also workers and local communities in the vicinity of the four substations. The general conditions along with key observations from these substations are discussed in the subsequent section. Selected pictures of the substations subject to site visit are attached in Annex 1.

13. The remaining 41 substations were assessed by the expert based on MePDCL substation in-charge staff filling in the audit checklist (Table 2) which was provided to them by the independent environmental expert.

2. FINDINGS OF THE ENVIRONMENT AUDIT OF SELECTED SUBSTATIONS

14. 33/11 kV Substation Mawsynram (Central Circle)

15. Environmental audit findings:

• The substation was commissioned in the year 1997. At present it has one 2.5 MVA capacity transformer. • The substation is earthened and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. • The substation transformer is with oil circuit breakers; none of them use PCB as confirmed by MePDCL officials however this is based on sample testing at national level and there is no documentary or testing evidence for this substation to confirm that this is the case. • No asbestos containing materials (ACMs) seen in substation based on visual inspection. No asbestos sheet used for the roofing in the billing office building at substation. MePDCL official informed not aware of ACMs being used either as insulating material or in other equipment. However, there is no documentary evidence to confirm if asbestos is present or not. • The substation is housed within a large chain fence perimeter and has warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution (however, this needs improvement). • The substation compound houses the billing office as well as material stocking yard. The material handling including waste material (scrap metals) is poorly organized. • While the filed transformers are placed on impermeable concrete platforms, and conductors and other material were stocked on impermeable surfaces, housekeeping needs further improvement. • The transformer oil drums are stored in the open which poses a risk of accidental leakage to the ground. • Lighting within the substation building was inadequate; ventilation in the substation building is adequate but needs improvement. • Safety kits (PPE, fire extinguishers) are available in the substation compound; these need to be increased in number for the proposed capacity of the substation. 266

16. The substation needs improvements in the following areas:

• Confirmation if transformer oil is PCB free and labelling of transformer to confirm status. • While the substation is housed within a fenced perimeter, the fencing of the yard where the transformers are placed is badly damaged. A new fence around the yard needs to be erected, signage needs to be improved. • Handling of transformer oil needs to be improved. In particular, containment of leaked oil in the event of spillage. The concrete platforms on which the transformers are placed need to be retrofitted with elevated impermeable bunds to 110% capacity above the highest known flood level, which would contain any oil spillage. • There is scrap metal scattered around the yard. It is evident that there is no waste management system, including handling and ultimate disposal of scrap metal. A system for managing waste generated from substations needs to be standardized and institutionalized across all substations. The scattered metal poses a risk of falling/tripping. • Handling and storage of hazardous material – i.e. transformer oil – needs to be improved. Storage in barrels should be in covered area on impermeable platforms with bunds to avoid risks of spillages. • Substation building has been designed with ventilation ducts, but are kept closed, or blocked. They need to remain open for proper air circulation. • Many light fixtures within the substation were in disrepair. This needs to be addressed.

17. 33/11 kV Kynshi Substation (Central Circle)

18. Environmental audit findings:

• The substation was commissioned in the year 2008. It has one transformer of 1.6 MVA capacity. • The substation is earthed and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. • The substation transformer is with oil circuit breakers; none of them use PCB as confirmed by MePDCL officials however this is based on sample testing at national level and there is no documentary or testing evidence for this substation to confirm that this is the case. • The substation is housed within a chain fencing perimeter and has information board with warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution (the information on board is not properly visible, this needs improvement). • In the substation compound, no separate material stocking yard has been designated and maintained, transformer oil is stored barrels in the open on a permeable surface. • No asbestos containing materials (ACMs) seen in substation based on visual inspection. No asbestos sheet used for the roofing in the billing office building at substation. MePDCL official informed ACMs are not used in substation equipment. However, there is no documentary evidence to confirm if asbestos is present or not. 267

• The transformers are placed on impermeable concrete platforms at ground level, but there are no bunds to stop the leaked transformer oil from trickling down from the concrete bases into the soil and leaking oil from the transformers is evident. • There are no basic facilities (toilet and drinking water) for operators and helpers in substation building (need to provide). • Lighting within the substation is adequate; ventilation in the substation building is adequate but needs improvement. • Safety kits (PPE, fire extinguishers) are available in the substation compound but poorly maintained and there is no record of periodic checks.

19. The substation needs improvements in the following areas:

• Confirmation if transformer oil is PCB free and labelling of transformer to confirm status. • While the substation is housed within a perimeter, there is no fencing for transformers. A fence around the transformer needs to be erected, signage needs to be improved. • There is scrap metal scattered around in the substation. It is evident that there is no waste management system, including handling and ultimate disposal of scrap metal. A system for managing waste generated from substations needs to be standardized and institutionalized across all substations. The scattered metal poses a risk of falling/tripping. • Handling and storage of hazardous material – i.e. transformer oil – needs to be improved. Storage in barrels should be in covered area on impermeable platforms with bunds to avoid risks of spillages. • The spillage oil from transformers, needs to be addressed and prevented by carrying out regular preventive maintenance of transformers and ensuring valves, nuts and bolts are tightly secured; and the rubber seals of the radiators of the transformers are regularly replaced (another source of oil leakage). While not large in volume, the spilled oil falls on the concrete transformer platform and travels to ground. Extra gravel should be placed to intercept and prevent any oil percolation into the ground. • The elevated platform need to be provided with retrofitted with elevated impermeable bunds of 110% capacity above the highest known flood level, which would contain any oil spillage. • Adequate sanitation and welfare facilities for employees on duty need to be provided within the substation building including toilets with running water, kitchen, dining and rest areas, and an adequate supply of drinking water that meets national standards. • Periodic checks of safety kits at the substation should be recorded and information on the same should be monitored as per SOPs. • Substation building has been designed with ventilation ducts, but are kept closed, or blocked. They need to remain open for proper air circulation.

20. 33/11 kV Substation Nongkhlaw (Central Circle)

21. Environmental audit findings:

• The substation was commissioned in the year 2008. It has one transformer of 2.5 MVA capacity. 268

• The substation is earthed and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. • The substation transformer is with oil circuit breakers; none of them use PCB as confirmed by MePDCL officials however this is based on sample testing at national level and there is no documentary or testing evidence for this substation to confirm that this is the case. • The substation is housed within a chain fencing perimeter in poor condition and has an information board without warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution (the information on this board needs improvement). • No asbestos containing materials (ACMs) seen in substation based on visual inspection. MePDCL official informed ACMs are not used in substation equipment. However, there is no documentary evidence to confirm if asbestos is present or not. • There is no building in this substation and all operations are in the open (a substation building needs to be provided). • The substation is earthed and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. • No safety kits (PPE, fire extinguisher) were available in the substation compound.

22. The substation needs improvements in the following areas:

• Confirmation if transformer oil is PCB free and labelling of transformer to confirm status. • Control room/substation building needs to provide with adequate lighting and ventilation. • Adequate sanitation and welfare facilities for employees on duty need to be provided within the substation compound including toilets with running water, kitchen, dining and rest areas, and an adequate supply of drinking water that meets national standards. • Locked gate and proper fencing of the substation compound are required. • Sign board for general public with information on risk of electrocution to be installed and maintained. • Material storage yard and designated area for barrels of transformer oil to be provided in the substation. Oil storage in barrels should be in covered area on impermeable platforms with bunds to avoid risks of spillages. • Safety kits (PPE, fire extinguisher) need to be available in the substation compound. Periodic checks of safety kits at the substation should be recorded and information on the same should be monitored as per SOPs.

23. 33/11 kV Substation Bajengdoba (East Garo Hills Circle)

24. Audit findings and the required remedial actions;

• The substation was commissioned in the year 2008. It has one transformer of 2.5 MVA capacity. • The substation is earthed and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. • The substation is PCB free and transformer is with oil circuit breakers; none of them use PCB as confirmed by MePDCL officials however this is based on sample 269

testing at national level and there is no documentary or testing evidence for this substation to confirm that this is the case. • No asbestos containing materials (ACMs) seen in substation based on visual inspection. MePDCL official informed ACMs are not used in substation equipment. However, there is no documentary evidence to confirm if asbestos is present or not. • The substation is housed within a chain fence perimeter (however, this needs improvement). • The substation compound does not have material stocking yard. • The filed transformers are placed on impermeable concrete platforms, along with conductors. • Lighting within the substation is adequate; ventilation in the substation is adequate, but needs improvement. • Safety kits (PPE, fire extinguisher) are available in the substation site; these need to be increased for proposed capacity of substation. • Information board at substation is missing.

25. The substation needs improvements in the following areas:

• Confirmation if transformer oil is PCB free and labelling of transformer to confirm status. • While the substation is housed within a perimeter fence, the fencing of the yard where the transformers are placed is badly damaged. A new fence around the yard needs to be erected, signage needs to be improved. • Handling of hazardous material – i.e. transformer oil – needs to be improved. In particular, containment of leaked oil, in the event of spillage. The concrete platforms on which the transformers are placed need to be retrofitted with elevated impermeable bunds to 110% capacity above the highest known flood level, which would contain any oil spillage. • There is scrap metal scattered around the yard. It is evident that there is no waste management system, including handling and ultimate disposal of scrap metal. A system for managing waste generated from substations needs to be standardized and institutionalized across all substations. The scattered metal poses a risk of falling/tripping. • Substation has been designed with ventilation ducts, but they are kept closed, or blocked. They need to remain open for proper air circulation. • Many light fixtures within the substation were in disrepair. This needs to be addressed. • Periodic checks of safety kits at substation should be recorded and information on the same should be monitored as per SOPs.

270

Table 2: Filled in Environmental Audit Checklists

A. Audit Checklist from Khasi Hills Circle

Guidelines Considered Mawsynram Ranikor Nongkhlaw Kynshi Riangdo Nongpyndeng 33/11 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV PCB oil in transformers and switchgear • Transformers with PCB X X X X X X • Switchgear with PCB X X X X X X • Safe disposal of PCB oil NA NA NA NA NA NA • Prevention of PCB fires NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB Labelling NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB oil leakage X X X X X X • Retrofitting X X X X X X • PCB oil Storage X X X X X X Use of SF6 and other greenhouse/hazardous gases • Gas insulated switchgear X X X X X X • Gas insulated t/f X X X X X X • Presence of SF6 in switchgear X X X X X X • SF6 retrieval arrangements NA NA NA NA NA NA • Presence of other hazardous gases X X X X X X Storage of liquid fuels, raw and in-process materials, solvents, wastes: to prevent spills, to prevent soil contamination and to prevent ground and surface water contamination • Provision of Containment, Dikes, and X X X X X X Berms (e.g. for transformers) • Provision of dedicated storage facility X X X X X X • Drainage       • Evidence of oil leakage       • Need for extra gravel X X X X X X Workplace air quality • Monitoring of workplace air quality X X X X X X • Good ventilation (ensure)       • Providence of respiratory equipment X X X X X X • Enforcement of the application of personal NA NA NA NA NA NA protective equipment whenever exposure levels of fumes, solvents and other materials exceed threshold limit Workplace noise • Noise control equipment X X X X X X 271

Guidelines Considered Mawsynram Ranikor Nongkhlaw Kynshi Riangdo Nongpyndeng 33/11 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV IFC/ EHS Noise levels Ambient Noise (dB) Day Level within Level within Level within 45 Level within 45 Level within Level within 45 dB Residential 55 45 45 dB limit 45 dB limit dB limit dB limit 45 dB limit limit Industrial 70 70 • Maintenance of equipment       • Use of protective gear when noise level NA NA NA NA NA NA exceeds 85 dB Other Physical Agents • Safe working area (absence of radiation,       magnetic fields) • Monitor regularly for radiation and field X X X X X X levels and equipment integrity (earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc. Electrocution • Strict procedure for de-energizing before X X X X X X working on electrical equipment • Training of personnel for safety       procedures Occupational health and safety guidelines • Physical factors in the workplace signage X X X X X X • Lighting (including security lights)       • Fire detection mechanism/equipment X X X X X X • Fire fighting equipment  X X X X  • Cleanness (inside and outside substation) X X X X X X • First Aid Kit X X X X X X • Features that pose safety risks (missing NI NI NI NI NI NI or broken slabs, dogged holes, etc.) • Fence or enclosure of the site (Restriction       of unauthorized people) Welfare Facilities • Safe and clean drinking water       • Toilets   X X X  • TV/Radio/internet   X X X  • Guard kiosk X X X X X X Personal Protective Equipment • Eye and face X X X X X X • Head X X X X X X 272

Guidelines Considered Mawsynram Ranikor Nongkhlaw Kynshi Riangdo Nongpyndeng 33/11 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV • Hearing X X X X X X • Hand       • Respiratory X X X X X X • Leg and body X X X X X X Ambient factors in the workplace • Noise       • Vibration       • Illumination       • Reflections X X X X X X • Temperature X X X X X X • Hazardous materials X X X X X X • Biological agents X X X X X X • Ionization radiation X X X X X X Training and Documentation • Training (Learning materials, equipment X X X X X X and tools) • Training on operational hazardous and X X X X X X how to control the hazards • Training on health risks, hygiene, and X X X X X X exposure prevention • Training on accidents and accident X X X X X X prevention, protective equipment and clothing Performance Monitoring • OHSMS organization policy X X X X X X • Emergency prevention, preparedness and X X X X X X response • Investigation of work-related injuries, ill X X X X X X health, disease and accidents • Safety inspection, testing and calibration       Material handling (Hazardous and non-hazardous materials) • Storage X X X X X X • Labelling X X X X X X • Handling X X X X X X Solid Waste/Scraps • Handling X X X X X X 273

Guidelines Considered Mawsynram Ranikor Nongkhlaw Kynshi Riangdo Nongpyndeng 33/11 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV • Disposal X X X X X X Space for Expansion • Availability of space for expansion      

Guidelines Considered Rambrai Nongkasen33 Ichamati 33/11 Weiloi Jongksha Mawsaw 33/11 33/11 kV /11 kV kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV PCB oil in transformers and switchgear • Transformers with PCB X X X X X X • Switchgear with PCB X X X X X X • Safe disposal of PCB oil NA NA NA NA NA NA • Prevention of PCB fires NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB Labelling NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB oil leakage X X X X X X • Retrofitting X X X X X X • PCB oil Storage X X X X X X Use of SF6 and other greenhouse/hazardous gases • Gas insulated switchgear X X X X X X • Gas insulated t/f X X X X X X • Presence of SF6 in switchgear X X X X X X • SF6 retrieval arrangements NA NA NA NA NA NA • Presence of other hazardous gases X X X X X X Storage of liquid fuels, raw and in-process materials, solvents, wastes: to prevent spills, to prevent soil contamination and to prevent ground and surface water contamination • Containment, Dikes, and Berms (e.g. for X X X X X X transformers) • Storage facility X X X X X X • Drainage       • Oil leakage       • Need for extra gravel X X X X X X Workplace air quality • Monitoring of workplace air quality X X X X X X • Good ventilation (ensure)       • Providence of respiratory equipment X X X X X X • Enforcement of the application of personal NA NA NA NA NA NA protective equipment whenever exposure levels of fumes, solvents and other materials exceed threshold limit 274

Guidelines Considered Rambrai Nongkasen33 Ichamati 33/11 Weiloi Jongksha Mawsaw 33/11 33/11 kV /11 kV kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV Workplace noise • Noise control equipment X X X X X X IFC/ EHS Noise levels Ambient Noise (dB) Day Level within Residential 55 45 45 dB limit Industrial 70 70 • Maintenance of equipment       • Use of protective gear when noise level NA NA NA NA NA NA exceeds 85 dB Other Physical Agents • Safe working area (absence of radiation,       magnetic fields) • Monitor regularly for radiation and field X X X X X X levels and equipment integrity (earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc. Electrocution • Strict procedure for de-energizing before X X X X X X working on electrical equipment • Training of personnel for safety procedures       Occupational health and safety guidelines • Physical factors in the workplace signage X X X X X X • Lighting (including security lights)       • Fire detection mechanism/equipment X X X X X X • Fire fighting equipment X X X X X X • Cleanness (inside and outside substation)       • First Aid Kit X X X X X X • Features that pose safety risks (missing or NI NI NI NI NI NI broken slabs, dogged holes, etc.) • Fence or enclosure of the site (Restriction       of unauthorized people) Welfare Facilities • Safe and clean drinking water X X X X X X • Toilets X X X X X X • TV/Radio/internet X X X X X X • Guard kiosk X X X X X X Personal Protective Equipment • Eye and face X X X X X X 275

Guidelines Considered Rambrai Nongkasen33 Ichamati 33/11 Weiloi Jongksha Mawsaw 33/11 33/11 kV /11 kV kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV • Head X X X X X X • Hearing X X X X X X • Hand X X X X X X • Respiratory X X X X X X • Leg and body X X X X X X Ambient factors in the workplace • Noise       • Vibration       • Illumination       • Reflections X X X X X X • Temperature X X X X X X • Hazardous materials X X X X X X • Biological agents X X X X X X • Ionization radiation X X X X X X Training and Documentation • Training (Learning materials, equipment X X X X X X and tools) • Training on operational hazardous and how X X X X X X to control the hazards • Training on health risks, hygiene, and X X X X X X exposure prevention • Training on accidents and accident X X X X X X prevention, protective equipment and clothing Performance Monitoring • OHSMS organization policy X X X X X X • Emergency prevention, preparedness and X X X X X X response • Investigation of work-related injuries, ill X X X X X X health, disease and accidents • Safety inspection, testing and calibration       Material handling (Hazardous and non-hazardous materials) • Storage X X X X X X • Labelling X X X X X X • Handling X X X X X X 276

Guidelines Considered Rambrai Nongkasen33 Ichamati 33/11 Weiloi Jongksha Mawsaw 33/11 33/11 kV /11 kV kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV kV Solid Waste/Scraps • Handling X X X X X X • Disposal X X X X X X Space for Expansion • Availability of space for expansion      

Guidelines Considered Mawkyrwat Sohiong Mawsawa Jaklon Nongstoin Sohra Mawphlang 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 132/33kV PCB oil in transformers and switchgear • Transformers with PCB X X X X X X X • Switchgear with PCB X X X X X X X • Safe disposal of PCB oil NA NA NA NA NA NA NA • Prevention of PCB fires NA NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB Labelling NA NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB oil leakage X X X X X X X • Retrofitting X X X X X X X • PCB oil Storage X X X X X X X Use of SF6 and other greenhouse/hazardous gases • Gas insulated switchgear X X X X X X X • Gas insulated t/f X X X X X X X • Presence of SF6 in switchgear X X X X X X • SF6 retrieval arrangements NA NA NA NA NA NA NA • Presence of other hazardous gases X X X X X X X Storage of liquid fuels, raw and in-process materials, solvents, wastes: to prevent spills, to prevent soil contamination and to prevent ground and surface water contamination • Containment, Dikes, and Berms X X X X X X X (e.g. for transformers) • Storage facility X X X X X X X • Drainage        • Oil leakage        • Need for extra gravel X X X X X X X Workplace air quality • Monitoring of workplace air quality X X X X X X X • Good ventilation (ensure)        • Providence of respiratory equipment X X X X X X X 277

Guidelines Considered Mawkyrwat Sohiong Mawsawa Jaklon Nongstoin Sohra Mawphlang 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 132/33kV • Enforcement of the application of NA NA NA NA NA NA NA personal protective equipment whenever exposure levels of fumes, solvents and other materials exceed threshold limit Workplace noise • Noise control equipment X X X X X X X IFC/ EHS Noise levels Ambient Noise (dB) Day Level within Residential 55 45 45 dB limit Industrial 70 70 • Maintenance of equipment        • Use of protective gear when noise NA NA NA NA NA NA NA level exceeds 85 dB Other Physical Agents • Safe working area (absence of        radiation, magnetic fields) • Monitor regularly for radiation and X X X X X X X field levels and equipment integrity (earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc. Electrocution • Strict procedure for de-energizing X X X X X X X before working on electrical equipment • Training of personnel for safety        procedures Occupational health and safety guidelines • Physical factors in the workplace X X X X X X X signage • Lighting (including security lights)        • Fire detection X X X X X X X mechanism/equipment • Fire fighting equipment X   X    • Cleanness (inside and outside        substation) • First Aid Kit X X X X X X X 278

Guidelines Considered Mawkyrwat Sohiong Mawsawa Jaklon Nongstoin Sohra Mawphlang 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 132/33kV • Features that pose safety risks NI NI NI NI NI NI NI (missing or broken slabs, dogged holes, etc.) • Fence or enclosure of the site        (Restriction of unauthorized people) Welfare Facilities • Safe and clean drinking water        • Toilets X   X    • TV/Radio/internet X   X    • Guard kiosk X X X X X X X Personal Protective Equipment • Eye and face X X X X X X X • Head X X X X X X X • Hearing X X X X X X X • Hand        • Respiratory X X X X X X X • Leg and body X X X X X X X Ambient factors in the workplace • Noise        • Vibration        • Illumination        • Reflections X X X X X X X • Temperature X X X X X X X • Hazardous materials X X X X X X X • Biological agents X X X X X X X • Ionization radiation X X X X X X X Training and Documentation • Training (Learning materials, X X X X X X X equipment and tools) • Training on operational hazardous X X X X X X X and how to control the hazards • Training on health risks, hygiene, X X X X X X X and exposure prevention 279

Guidelines Considered Mawkyrwat Sohiong Mawsawa Jaklon Nongstoin Sohra Mawphlang 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 33/11 kV 132/33kV • Training on accidents and accident X X X X X X X prevention, protective equipment and clothing Performance Monitoring • OHSMS organization policy X X X X X X X • Emergency prevention, X X X X X X X preparedness and response • Investigation of work-related injuries, X X X X X X X ill health, disease and accidents • Safety inspection, testing and        calibration Material handling (Hazardous and non-hazardous materials) • Storage X X X X X X X • Labelling X X X X X X X • Handling X X X X X X X Solid Waste/Scraps • Handling X X X X X X X • Disposal X X X X X X X Space for Expansion • Availability of space for expansion       

OHSMS- Occupational Health & Safety Management System NA Not Applicable,  Yes/OK X No t/f Yes, on transformers CB Yes, on oil Circuit Breakers AC Yes, with air conditioners NI It is there, but Need Improvements NI Need Improvements S/S Substation NT Need Training NR Need some Repair NM Need Maintenance Con Yes, it is contaminated

280

B. Filled in Audit Checklist from West Garo Hills Circle

281

282

283

C. Filled in Audit Checklist from West Garo Hills Circle

284

285

286

D. Filled in Audit Checklist for additional substations from East Garo Hills and Khasi Hills (Central) Circle

33/11 KV 33/11 KV Happy 33/11 kV 33/11 KV 33/11KV 33/11 KV Guidelines Considered Airforce(Centra Valley (Central Mendipathar- Old Williamnagar (East Jaksongram (East Resubelpara l Circle) Circle) (East Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) (East Garo Hiils) PCB oil in transformers and switchgear • Transformers with PCB x x X X X X • Switchgear with PCB x x X X X X • Safe disposal of PCB oil √ √ NA NA NA NA • Prevention of PCB fires √ √ NA NA NA NA • PCB Labelling x x NA NA NA NA • PCB oil leakage √ √ NA NA NA NA • Retrofitting NA NA NA NA NA NA • PCB oil Storage NA NA NA NA NA NA Use of SF6 and other greenhouse/hazardous gases • Gas insulated switchgear x x X X X X • Gas insulated t/f x x X X X X • Presence of SF6 in switchgear x x X X X X • SF6 retrieval arrangements NA NA NA NA NA NA • Presence of other hazardous gases x x X X X X Storage of liquid fuels, raw and in-process materials, solvents, wastes: to prevent spills, to prevent soil contamination and to prevent ground and surface water contamination • Containment, Dikes, and Berms (e.g. for transformers) x x X X X X • Storage facility √ √ ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI • Drainage √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Oil leakage √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Need for extra gravel √ √ ✓NI ✓ ✓NI X Workplace air quality • Monitoring of workplace air quality √ √ ✓ • Good ventilation (ensure) √ √ ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI • Providence of respiratory equipment √ √ X X X X • Enforcement of the application of personal protective equipment whenever exposure levels of fumes, solvents and other materials NA exceed threshold limit Workplace noise • Noise control equipment x X x X IFC/ EHS Noise levels Ambient Noise (dB) Day Level within 45 Db Level within 45 Db Level within 45 Db Level within 45

Residential 55 45 limit limit limit Db limit 287

33/11 KV 33/11 KV Happy 33/11 kV 33/11 KV 33/11KV 33/11 KV Guidelines Considered Airforce(Centra Valley (Central Mendipathar- Old Williamnagar (East Jaksongram (East Resubelpara l Circle) Circle) (East Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) (East Garo Hiils) Industrial 70 70 • Maintenance of equipment ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Use of protective gear when noise level exceeds 85 dB NA NA NA NA NA Other Physical Agents • Safe working area (absence of radiation, magnetic fields) x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Monitor regularly for radiation and field levels and equipment √ √ NA NA NA NA integrity (earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc. Electrocution • Strict procedure for de-energizing before working on electrical √ √ ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI equipment • Training of personnel for safety procedures √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Occupational health and safety guidelines • Physical factors in the workplace signage √ √ X X X X • Lighting (including security lights) √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Fire detection mechanism/equipment √ √ X X X X • Firefighting equipment √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ √ √ • Cleanness (inside and outside substation) ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI

• First Aid Kit x x X X X X • Features that pose safety risks (missing or broken slabs, dogged √ √ ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI holes, etc.)

• Fence or enclosure of the site (Restriction of unauthorized people) ✓NI ✓ ✓ ✓

Welfare Facilities • Safe and clean drinking water √ √ ✓ ✓ X ✓NI • Toilets √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • TV/Radio/internet √ √ X ✓ X X • Guard kiosk NA NA X X X X Personal Protective Equipment • Eye and face x x X X X X • Head √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Hearing √ √ X X X X • Hand √ √ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Respiratory X X X X X X • Leg and body x x X X X X 288

33/11 KV 33/11 KV Happy 33/11 kV 33/11 KV 33/11KV 33/11 KV Guidelines Considered Airforce(Centra Valley (Central Mendipathar- Old Williamnagar (East Jaksongram (East Resubelpara l Circle) Circle) (East Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) (East Garo Hiils) Ambient factors in the workplace • Noise x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Vibration x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Illumination x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Reflections x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ • Temperature x ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI ✓NI • Hazardous materials x x X X X X • Biological agents x x X X X X • Ionization radiation x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Training and Documentation • Training (Learning materials, equipment and tools) x x X X X X

• Training on operational hazardous and how to control the hazards x x X X X X

• Training on health risks, hygiene, and exposure prevention x x X X X X

• Training on accidents and accident prevention, protective x x XNT XNT XNT XNT equipment and clothing Performance Monitoring • OHSMS organization policy x x X X X

• Emergency prevention, preparedness and response x x X X X

• Investigation of work-related injuries, ill health, disease and x x ✓ ✓ ✓ accidents

• Safety inspection, testing and calibration x x ✓ ✓ ✓ Material handling (Hazardous and non-hazardous materials) • Storage x x ✓ ✓ X X • Labelling x x X X X X • Handling x x X X X X Solid Waste/Scraps • Handling x x X X X X • Disposal x x X X X X Space for Expansion 289

33/11 KV 33/11 KV Happy 33/11 kV 33/11 KV 33/11KV 33/11 KV Guidelines Considered Airforce(Centra Valley (Central Mendipathar- Old Williamnagar (East Jaksongram (East Resubelpara l Circle) Circle) (East Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) Garo Hiils) (East Garo Hiils) • Availability of space for expansion x x ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

OHSMS- Occupational Health & Safety Management System NA Not Applicable,  Yes/OK X No t/f Yes, on transformers CB Yes, on oil Circuit Breakers AC Yes, with air conditioners NI It is there, but Need Improvements NI Need Improvements S/S Substation NT Need Training NR Need some Repair NM Need Maintenance Con Yes, it is contaminated

290

3. CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN (CAP)

26. Waste management, including handling, storage and disposal, is the principal EHS concern in all substations audited. Pieces of solid wastes (removed parts of transformers, metal scraps etc.) had no specific and designated area for collection and storage, and there was no organized disposal mechanism. Substation facilities should designate special segregated areas/points for solid and hazardous waste collection and collect all unwanted scraps for safe disposal. Wastes such as pieces of cables, switch gears and other waste should have special bins.

27. Handling of hazardous material (transformer oil) needs to be improved especially storage arrangements, and the prevention of spillage. Almost all transformers were leaking oil. As such, as outlined above, the impermeable base should expand beyond the footprint of the transformer and a protective bund should be constructed to contain any oil leaks. However, first priority should be prevention of spillage, which can be achieved through regular checks and preventive maintenance.

28. Furthermore, sanitation and welfare facilities, safety requirements and training and awareness of staff was found to be woefully inadequate. There are no written hazardous materials or solid and hazardous waste management systems and guidelines for substation personnel; there were no written Environment, Health and Safety Plans or trainings to prepare staff for emergencies. While Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was available at substation, workers were not aware of the importance of wearing them. Not all substations have toilets or a supply of drinking water for staff. Trainings should include and highlight the importance of worker health and safety.

29. To ensure used and scrap equipment/material are properly disposed after removal/replacement, it is recommended for hand-over procedures of maintenance activities/construction works to include an environmental checklist which prompts the appropriate disposal method. This is required to avoid new debris and waste/scrap being accumulated at the substations in the future, leading up to and during the project implementation.

30. MePDCL informed that PCBs and ACMs are not used in the transformers and substations but there is no documentary evidence to support if these materials are present or not. Therefore, because of the risk PCBs and asbestos pose to workers a check/survey for PCBs and asbestos is included in the project EMP and should be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the EMP prior to any work being done on transformers and control buildings at the substations following the national requirements that exist and international good practice.

31. 3 present the corrective action plan for all substations. Table 4 presents the specific measures applicable to each of the 45 substations. MePDCL will complete a detailed report submitted to ADB confirming the completion of the included actions, for clearance before any project works commence. Table 3. Corrective Action Plan for all Substations S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) 1a Improvement of • Develop and cascade MePDCL Immediately PIC and EMP hazardous materials to all SS for with to be training budget, (oils) and waste implementation a support PIC completed by MePDCL SS management standardized to MePDCL operational 291

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) system/procedures at hazardous materials implement, before any budget for MePDCL level. and waste to be project works implementation. • Improper storage of management cleared by commence. transformer oil in system/procedure in ADB open posing accordance with contamination to national laws and soil in case of regulations and the leakage EHS Guidelines on • Improper solid Hazardous Materials waste management Management and • Scrap metal Waste Management scattered all over (covering oils, lead acid sites poses a risk of batteries, lubricants falling/tripping amongst others) and • Hazardous including details of transformer oil dedicated staff and stored in barrels, vehicles. but not in dedicated • System/procedure to bunded areas; this include avoiding or poses a risk of minimizing the leakage to the generation waste ground. materials, as far as practicable. Where waste generation cannot be avoided but has been minimized, the preference should be recovery and reuse. Where waste cannot be recovered or reused, reputable, legitimate, licensed contractors must be appointed to treat, destroy and dispose of it in an environmentally sound manner. • Develop as part of system/procedure a checklist for SS managers on correct storage and disposal of old transformers, transformer oils, other fuel, oil, and chemicals, scrap metals and electronic wastes, municipal solid wastes, and sanitary wastes. • Dedicate sufficient workers and vehicles to remove current old transformers, oil, and, scrap metal stockpiled 292

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) at all SS to stores in a timely manner, once stockpiled waste cleared sufficient workers and vehicles to remain available to collect from all the SS on a regular basis. • Provide training to all SS managers on implementation of the hazardous materials and waste management system/procedure and use of the checklist on storage and disposal (document training and attendance) 1b Improvement of • Staff to attend training MePDCL/ At the MePDCL SS hazardous materials on standardized SS earliest operational (oils) and waste hazardous materials Managers opportunity - budget for management and waste to to be implementation. procedures and management implement, completed by facilities at the system/procedure. to be MePDCL substations. • Identify and demark in cleared by before any • Improper solid the SS compound an MePDCL project works waste management appropriate area for EHS and utilizing • Scrap metal waste storage yard and PIC Team existing scattered all over for storage of oil substations sites poses a risk of barrels commence. falling/tripping • Implement hazardous • Hazardous materials and waste Construction transformer oil management of a stored in barrels, system/procedure to dedicated, but not in dedicated include the (i) covered, bunded areas; this segregation of all solid bunded poses a risk of and hazardous waste impermeable leakage to the generated; (ii) area may be ground. environmentally sound incorporated storage of all solid and into contract hazardous waste in for dedicated, labelled responsibility areas within the of contractor. premises of substations; and (iii) request for timely collection and transport of waste from the substation to stores or by reputable, legitimate, licensed contractor and keep 293

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) records of waste transfer. • Quantify and request stores to remove current scrap metal and electronic wastes stored on site and agree its removal in a timely manner. • Quantify and request stores to remove any old transformers and oil stored on site and agree their removal in a timely manner. • Move all barrels of transformer oil to covered, impermeable, 110% bunded area. If not currently available store them temporarily on drip trays ideally undercover. • Construct a dedicated, covered, bunded impermeable area to 110% for storage of new transformer oil to prevent the leakage of oil into the ground.

2a Transformer Oil • Test for PCBs in MePDCL/ At the PCB testing by Leakage-Short Term accordance with the SS earliest Contractor on Measures at the EMP and label Managers opportunity - behalf of substations. transformers as PCB to to be MePDCL. • Handling of free or containing implement, completed by hazardous PCBs in accordance to be MePDCL MePDCL SS transformer oil needs with international good cleared by before any operational to be improved. In practice and keep log MePDCL project works budget for particular, prevention of equipment and the EHS and utilizing implementation. of spillage, and PCB status on-site. PIC existing containment of • Carry out preventive substations leaked oil, in the maintenance of commence. event of spillage. transformers and ensure values, nuts Contractor to and bolts are fully be given functional and tightly advance secured, ensure rubber access to seals of radiators are carry out intact, continue to do PCB testing so on a regular basis. on behalf • Provide in a signed, MePDCL. accessible location on- 294

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) site sufficient absorbent materials (e.g. sorbents, dry sand, sandbags) for soaking up oil spills • Soak up existing oil spills and remove soil to depth 30cm for 1m beyond footprint for disposal to hazardous landfill site by reputable, legitimate, licensed contractor keeping photographic records and waste transfer notes. • Extra gravel to at least 30cm depth extending 1m beyond footprint to be placed to intercept and prevent any further oil percolation into the ground. • Soil and groundwater investigation to be undertaken by suitably qualified consultant to confirm extent of any contamination across/beneath SS from oil leaks and spills and additional remedial measures required. 2b Transformer Oil • Existing concrete MePDCL/ At the MePDCL SS Leakage-Long Term foundations to be SS earliest operational Measures at the retrofitted so that an Managers opportunity - budget for Substations. impermeable platform to to be implementation. • Handling of extends 1m beyond the implement, completed by hazardous footprint and to be MePDCL transformer oil needs incorporate elevated cleared by before any to be improved. In impermeable bunds to MePDCL project works particular, prevention 110% capacity above EHS and utilizing of spillage, and the highest known PIC Team existing containment of flood level. substations leaked oil, in the • Implement any commence event of spillage. additional remedial unless measures identified by incorporated consultant following the into contract testing of soil and for groundwater. responsibility of contractor. 3 Lighting • If existing lighting does MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS not provide sufficient SS to be operational 295

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) illumination to meet Managers completed by budget for EHS Guideline to MePDCL implementation. standards (Table 2.3.3. implement, before any Minimum Limits For to be project works Workplace Illumination cleared by utilizing Intensity in OHS MePDCL existing Guidelines) install EHS and substations additional illumination PIC Team commence unless incorporated into contract for responsibility of contractor. 4 First Aid Equipment • Ensure appropriately MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS • The first aid kits at equipped first aid kits SS to be operational substations are available at first aid Managers completed by budget for incomplete stations in each to MePDCL implementation. working area and implement, before any building to be signed to be project works and easily accessible; cleared by utilizing to include list of MePDCL existing equipment and use by EHS and substations dates. PIC Team commence • Ensure that a qualified unless first-aider is provided incorporated on-site at all times; this into contract can be a member of for staff trained in first aid. responsibility • Eye-wash station of contractor. and/or emergency shower to be provided, locate close to working area where immediate flushing with water is recommended first-aid response. 5 Fire Safety Equipment • In buildings, all rooms MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS to be installed with fire SS to be operational detectors with visible Managers completed by budget for and audible alarm. to MePDCL implementation. • In each working area implement, before any and building provide to be project works fire extinguishers and cleared by utilizing other manual MePDCL existing firefighting equipment EHS and substations maintained in good PIC Team commence working order and unless readily accessible – incorporated number to be adequate into contract for size of premises, for equipment installed, responsibility physical and chemical of contractor. 296

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) properties of substances present, and the maximum number of people present. • Ensure that a fire marshal is provided on- site at all times; this can be a member of staff trained in emergency procedures to follow in event of fire.

6 Handling emergencies • Develop and MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS implement emergency SS to be operational preparedness and Managers completed by budget for response plans for (i) to MePDCL implementation. environmental incident, implement, before any (ii) health and safety to be project works incident in accordance cleared by utilizing with the General EHS MePDCL existing Guidelines to include EHS and substations. details of emergency PIC Team equipment on site, MePDCL designated Team, nearest doctors, hospital, fire station, monthly testing of fire alarms, emergency preparedness and response training plan, and quarterly emergency drills with records.

7 Safety training and • Conduct health and MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS awareness raising safety training and SS to be operational program awareness workshop Managers completed by budget for for staff - the to MePDCL implementation. importance of safety implement, before any needs to be stressed to to be project works effect cleared by utilizing behavioural/attitudinal MePDCL existing change EHS and substations PIC Team commence. 8 Health and Safety of • PPE (footwear, masks, MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS Staff protective clothing and SS to be operational • Staff to use personal goggles in appropriate Managers completed by budget for protective equipment areas) to be provided to MePDCL implementation. (PPE) at all times. to the staff in implement, before any • Civil works in control accordance with Table to be project works room of substations 2.7.1. Summary of cleared by utilizing 297

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) (flooring of substation Recommended MePDCL existing control rooms) Personal Protective EHS and substations observed to be Equipment According PIC Team commence. incomplete posing a to Hazard in EHS risk to workers falling Guideline on OHS on live control panels. • Introduce disciplinary • Risk of asbestos in system for non- control buildings of compliance with PPE substations. requirements to enforce their use in accordance with the MePDCL requirements for work being carried out • Periodic checks of safety kits at substations should be carried out, recorded and information on the same should be monitored as per operating procedures. • Survey for asbestos containing materials in existing control buildings in accordance with the EMP following national requirements that exist and international good practice. 9 Drainage • Identify areas of the SS MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS most susceptible to SS to be operational flooding from past Managers completed by budget for experience. Install to MePDCL implementation. underground drainage implement, before any pipe or channel of to be project works sufficient size to cleared by utilizing accommodate runoff MePDCL existing around the perimeter of EHS and substations SS site with oil PIC Team commence interceptor fitted on unless outlet into the drainage incorporated system, outside the into contract boundary of the SS. for • Once built, the responsibility drainage pipe or of contractor. channel must be kept clear of scrap-metal and other solid waste in order to not clog the hydraulic flow into the drainage outside. 298

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) 10 Sanitation and Welfare • Provide SS staff with MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS Facilities for SS Staff access to an existing SS to be operational functional toilet facility Managers completed by budget for (toilets and hand to MePDCL implementation. washing area) or implement, before any provide a self- to be project works contained portable cleared by utilizing toilet with hand MePDCL existing washing facilities (use EHS and substations of pit latrines to be PIC Team commence prohibited). unless • Toilet facilities to be incorporated provided with adequate into contract supplies of hot and for cold running water, responsibility soap, and hand drying of contractor. device as well as a lock or an indication if occupied. • Provide SS staff with access to indoor kitchen facilities and a clean eating and rest area that has an adequate supply of drinking water. • Supply of potable drinking water meeting national standards to be available to SS staff. • Ensure existing ventilation ducts are kept open at all times. 11 Community Health and • Erect a new or MePDCL/ Immediately - MePDCL SS Safety maintain existing fence SS to be operational with locked gates Managers completed by budget for around the SS to MePDCL implementation. compound to prevent implement, before any access by to be project works unauthorised persons cleared by utilizing • Provide appropriate MePDCL existing signage to warn of EHS and substations electrical hazards to PIC Team commence include the ISO 7010 unless Hazard Type: Electrical incorporated Symbol warning of the into contract risk of electrocution for • Erect a new or responsibility maintain existing fence of contractor. around the transformer and switch yard which is appropriately signed 299

S. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget No (source) to include the ISO 7010 Hazard Type: Electrical Symbol

Table 4. Application of Corrective Action Plan to 45 no. Substations

S. No Substation No. 1a (Improvement of hazardous materials (oils) and All substations waste management system/procedures at MePDCL level) 1b (Improvement of hazardous materials (oils) and All substations waste management procedures and facilities at substations) 2a (Transformer Oil Leakage-Short Term All substations Measures at the substations) 2b (Transformer Oil Leakage-Long Term All substations Measures at the Substations) 3 (Lighting) All substations 4 (First Aid Equipment) All substations 5 (Fire Safety Equipment) All substations 6 (Handling emergencies) All substations 7 (Safety training and awareness raising program) All substations 8 (Health and Safety of Staff) All substations 9 (Drainage) All substations 10 (Sanitation and Welfare Facilities for SS Staff) All substations 11 (Community Health and Safety) All substations

4. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

32. The substations audited are under operation and were found by the consultant to be in compliance with laws and regulations of India but there are non-compliances with EHS aspects and also SPS requirements. The MePDCL management team appreciates the need for enhanced health and safety in the workplace and have shown interest in ensuring compliance, wherever compliance is required.

33. To conclude, the substations need improvements in general cleanliness and health and safety management.

34. The handling and storage of hazardous transformer oil was found to be inadequate to prevent spillage and leakage. To rectify this MePDCL will need to carry out the corrective measures mentioned in the CAP for compliance of EHS safeguards. This includes dedicated storage areas for the transformer oil, preventive maintenance of transformers, and enhanced bunding of transformers to contain any leaked oil.

35. The substations also need a well-defined mechanism to keep the yards free of any scrap metal and fallen parts from transformers. Appropriate waste management (handling, storage and disposal) will need to be standardized across all substations of MePDCL. As such, the MePDCL will need to carry out corrective measures mentioned in the CAP for compliance in regards of EHS safeguards. 300

36. CAP actions should be addressed before the commencement of activities planned under the Project.

Annex 1: Photographic Records of Substation Conditions

Conditions in substation compound at Mawsynram

Photo 1: Information board and chain fencing Photo 2: Installed transformer

Photo 3: Distribution transformer stacked in compound Photo 4: Transformer oil stored in barrels in substation 301

Photo 5: Transformer loading and unloading facility Photo 6: Empty oil containers laying on soil surface

Conditions in substation compound at Kynshi

Photo 7: Condition of information board and chain fencing Photo 8: Installed transformer without raised platform

Photo 9: Temporary toilet within compound Photo 10: Scrap material laying under operational incoming bay

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Conditions in substation compound at Nongkhlaw

Photo 11: Caution board and chain fencing Photo 12: No control room building and facilities for operator

Conditions in substation compound at Bajengdoba

Photo 13: Substation 303

Photo 14: Scrap kept outside the substation premises Photo 15: Circuit breaker mounted at ground

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APPENDIX-3: NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY AND NOISE LEVEL STANDARDS (MOEFCC, 2009)

Concentration in Ambient air (g/m3) Time Weighted Industrial, Pollutant Ecologically Average Residential, Rural Sensitive Areas and Other Areas Annual Average* 50 20 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 24 hr** 80 80 Annual Average * 40 30 Oxides of Nitrogen (as NO2) 24 hr** 80 80 Particulate Matter: PM10 Annual Average * 60 60 (<10 μm) 24 hr** 100 100 Particulate Matter: PM2.5 Annual Average * 40 40 (<2.5 μm) 24 hr** 60 60 Annual Average * 0.5 0.5 Lead 24 hr** 1.0 1.0 8 hr 2.0 2.0 Carbon monoxide mg/m3 1 hr 4.0 4.0 * Annual Arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurement in a year taken for a week 24 hourly at uniform interval. ** 24 hourly or 8 hourly or 1 hourly monitored values should meet 98% of the time in a year Source: MoEFCC notification Central Pollution Control Board (1997) National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Series, NAQMS/a/1996-97.

National Ambient Noise Level Standards* Limits in Decibels (dB A) Area Code Category Day Time Night Time A Industrial 75 70 B Commercial 65 55 C Residential 55 45 D Silence Zones 50 40 Note: (1) Daytime: 6 AM to 9 P.M., Night-time 9 PM to 6 AM; (2) Silence zone is an area up to 100 m around premises as hospitals, educational institutions and courts. Source: Central Pollution Control Board, New Delhi

* SPS requires the more stringent of national and WHO noise 1hr LAeq guidelines to be adhered to, the latter apply on an individual receptor not area basis and for industrial receptors require a level of 70dBA daytime as well as nighttime limit to be met which is more stringent than national.

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APPENDIX 4: IBAT SCREENING REPORT

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APPENDIX 5: LIST OF COMMUNITIES CONSULTED

A. Summary and List of Communities Consulted

# Date Village/No. of Point Discussed Participants 1. 22.05.2019 Lawbah • General perception about the project • Community is aware about new development in Male-8 and awareness about proposed their vicinity. Local people positively welcome the Female-6 substation in their vicinity proposed project to meet gap in electricity demand Total-14 • Land are and site boundary of and supply for domestic uses. 2. 24.05.2019 Mawsbuit proposed substation area and land • Confirmed the community consent for proposed Male-10 ownership, community consent for the land and transfer of ownership to MePDCL for Female-0 development project development Total-10 3. 27.05.2019 Nongkhyllam • Details of surrounding land and • In surroundings mainly community land with Male-8 property to proposed site belonging vegetation and community forest. Female-3 • Landuse and cropping pattern in the • Main occupation of local community is daily Total-11 area wages in agriculture and community forestry works 4. 28.05.2019 Mawlum Trysad • Primary income sources of local along with agriculture. Male-6 community in the area and occupational • Electricity supply for domestic uses is of limited Female-17 engagement of peoples only 6-8 hours per day, in high wind and rain power Total-23 cut and failure due to faults in line. 5. 29.05.2019 Dongkingding • Electricity supply, reasons for failure Male-8 and power cuts • Drinking water mainly taken from spring/streams Female-3 • Current uses of electricity in both or supply from Government water supply system. Total-11 domestic purposes • No flood, however minor earthquakes are felt 6. 30.05.2019 Myriaw • Source of water supply for drinking every year Male-7 purpose in the area • There is no protected area, archeological Female-4 monument, religious place and known presence of Total-11 • Last natural disaster/climate (i.e. Flood, earthquake, storm etc.) in the wild animals near to proposed project site location of 7. 30.05.2019 Shallang area, if any. substations and 33kV lines. Male-12 • Almost in every village there is a primary or Female-4 • Known presence of wild animals in the higher secondary school and public health centers Total-16 nearby locations of the project sites are located within a distance of 10-15 km in nearby 8. 01.06.2019 Nongsba • Any protected/forest area, village. Male-6 archeological site near to project site Female-6 320

Total-12 • Nearest school, hospital and religious • Increase in electricity supply for domestic uses is 9. 03.06.2019 Wahkaji place to the proposed project site required to light and cooking. Male-6 • Any critical issue or concern by local • Proper fencing and safety measures should be Female-5 community. followed in construction and operation of the Total-11 proposed substations. 10 04.06.2019 Pongtung Male-7 • Willingness to get work or employment generation Female-4 from proposed project during installation and Total-11 operational stage, if any opportunity. 11 06.06.2019 Chirengre Male-8 Female-1 Total-9 12 06.06.2019 Samgong Male-9 Female-11 Total-20 13 07.06.2019 Mangsang Male-17 Female-12 Total-29 14 07.06.2019 Rongjeng Male-12 Female-8 Total-20 15 08.06.2019 Pedaldoba Male-10 Female-1 Total-11 16 08.06.2019 Jengjal Male-10 Female-1 Total-11 17 09.06.2019 Sibbari Male-16 Female-4 Total-20 18 10.06.2019 Dagal Male-11 321

Female-3 Total-14 19 11.06.2019 Ampati Male-5 Female-6 Total-11 20 11.06.2019 Zikzak Male-5 Female-10 Total-15 21 12.06.2019 Babadam Male-13 Female-4 Total-17 22 12.06.2019 Damalgre Male-12 Female-16 Total-28 23 14.06.2019 Mawdiangdiang Male-6 Female-4 Total-10 24 03.02.2020 Dilma Ading Village • General perception about the • The villagers had some information regarding the Male-5 proposed JFPR supported solar-PV proposed project. They were aware that the Female-5 system project proposed project will supply more electricity to the Total-10 • Land area and site boundary of households and a cold storage will be established to 25 05.05.2020 Jambal Village proposed sites of solar PV system and preserve the fruits and vegetables. Male-7 land ownership, community consent for • In one village (Dilma Ading), there is no electricity Female-2 the development connection. Participants in the other two villages Total-9 mentioned that there are daily power cuts and during 26 04.02.0202 Kosigre Village • Details of surrounding land and the rainy season the power cut is very frequent and Male-6 property to proposed site belonging there is voltage fluctuation. Female-4 • Landuse and cropping pattern in the Total-10 area • Most of the participants held that the cold storage and help in processing of fruits and vegetables is • Primary income sources of local very much required in the area. There are lot of community in the area and occupational ginger, turmeric, pineapple and oranges produced in engagement of peoples this area. 322

• Electricity supply, reasons for failure • Almost all the villagers felt that the project will be and power cuts very helpful for the farmers as they can preserve the • Current uses of electricity in both crop yields and sell it later when the price is higher. domestic purposes They also felt that the solar system will be helpful to ensure reliable power supply to the HHs. • Source of water supply for drinking purpose in the area • All the villagers extended their support to the proposed project without any condition. • Last natural disaster/climate (i.e. Flood, earthquake, storm etc.) in the • The villagers in each village have identified a area, if any. community land and given their consent to donate this land voluntarily for the Project. • Availability of wild animals in the nearby location of the project site • The participants mentioned that they do not want any compensation. They want the implementation of • Any protected/forest area, Project as soon as possible so that villagers will get archeological site near to project site the benefit soon. • Nearest school, hospital and religious • Most of the participants held that during the off place to the proposed project site season there is less employment opportunity. • Any critical issue or concern by local Hence, they want to be involved during the community. construction work as labour. • The source of drinking water supply in the area is mainly small river/stream water. • There is no natural disaster in the area. • There is no known wild animal reported near to the project site. • There is no protected/forest area, archaeological site near to project site. • There is no anticipated environmental, health and safety issues. • The villagers mentioned that the project will have no adverse impact on the water or soil resource in the locality.

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B. Attendance Sheets

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APPENDIX 6: PHOTOGRAPHS (CONSULTATIONS)

Community Consultation at Lawbah Community Consultation in Mawsbuit

Community Consultation at Trysad Community Consultation at Nongkhyllam

Community Consultation at Dong-ink-ingding Community Consultation at Myriaw 347

Community Consultation at Shyllang Community Consultation at Nongsba

Community Consultation at Wahkaji Community Consultation at Pongtung

Community Consultation at Chirengre Community Consultation at Samgong 348

Community Consultation at Damalgre Community Consultation at Babadam

Community Consultation at Rongjeng Community Consultation at Mangsang

Community Consultation at Ampati Community Consultation at Zikzak 349

Community Consultation at Sibbari Community Consultation at Dagal

Community Consultation at Pedaldoba Community Consultation at Jengjal

Community Consultation at Mawdiangdiang Community Consultation at Mawdiangdiang 350

Public Consultation in Dilma Ading Village Public Consultation in Lower Jambal Village

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APPENDIX 7: OUTLINE OF A SEMI-ANNUAL/ANNUAL ENVIRONMENT MONITORING REPORT

The borrower is required to prepare and submit to ADB semiannual/annual monitoring reports that describe compliance with environment safeguards loan covenants, PAM, contract, progress with implementation of the project EMP, quantitative monitoring results, environment, health and safety incidents and responses, grievances and responses, potential or actual non-compliance issues, and corrective actions. A sample Table of Contents that can be adapted as necessary is provided below.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I – Introduction • Project description, including organogram of relationships with Contractors, owner, lender, etc. • Design, pre-construction, construction, and operational activities and project progress during previous 6 months • Confirm if any changes in design and construction (e.g. alignment, construction methods) during previous 6 months • Confirm if any changes in project organization and Environmental, Health and Safety management team during previous 6 months

Part II – Loan Covenants • Status of compliance with environment safeguard loan covenants and further action to ensure ongoing compliance; if there is partial or no compliance recommendations for corrective action are required. Clause Covenant Status of compliance to date Comment/further (full, partial, none, ongoing) action required including timeline

Part III – PAM • Status of compliance with environment safeguard/monitoring section of PAM and further action to ensure ongoing compliance; if there is partial or no compliance recommendations for corrective action are required. Para Details Status of compliance to date Comment/further (full, partial, none, ongoing) action required including timeline

Part IV – Contract • Status of compliance with environment safeguard section of Contracts and further action to ensure ongoing compliance; if there is partial or no compliance recommendations for corrective action are required. Clause Details Status of compliance to date Comment/further (full, partial, none, ongoing) action required including timeline

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Part V – EMP and CAP • Site inspections and audits completed – summarize the number and type of site visits, persons involved, and checklists/reporting format used (sample of checklists and reports to be included as an appendix) • Status of compliance with EMP and CAP measures and further action to ensure ongoing compliance; if there is partial or no compliance recommendations for corrective action are required. • Copies of clearances, CEMP, construction method statements, and other documentation produced in accordance with EMP and CAP during the previous 6 months should be included as an appendix. • Copies of training records related to EMP and CAP during the previous 6 months should be included as an appendix. Item Measure Status of compliance to date Comment/further (full, partial, none, ongoing) action required including timeline

Part VI - Environmental Monitoring • Environmental monitoring results – summarize the previous six months quantitative monitoring activities and data obtained in accordance with the EMoP and provide explanations of any instances where performance standards were exceeded along with details of responses taken to rectify the exceedance once identified. Typically, this section will include the results of: − Noise and vibration surveys − Water quality surveys − Air quality surveys − Flora and fauna surveys − Health and safety incident records

• Corrective actions are required to ensure any exceedances will be prevented in the future. • Graphs can be used in this section to show trends; however, large tables of data or multiple graphs should be attached as an appendix. Calibration and QA certifications of monitoring equipment and laboratories analyzing samples should be included as an appendix.

Part VII – Consultation and Grievances • Consultation – report on any ongoing consultation undertaken, and main issues raised by consultees; detailed consultation records should be included as an appendix.

Date Format/Venue Participants Main Issues Raised (Occupation, M/F)

• Grievances - list any complaints received, however minor, and responses taken to them; detailed grievance records and response reports should be included as an appendix.

Part VIII - Environmental Management 354

• Report on any unanticipated impacts and updates to IEE/EMP that were required during the previous 6 months, status of delivery of documents, required amendments, consultation and disclosure undertaken etc. • Environment, health and safety incidents – summarize details of the responses taken to incidents that arose; detailed response reports should be included as an appendix. • Non-compliance notices – summarize details on the number of notices given out, the issues covered, and status of compliance with them. • Corrective action plans – summarize non-compliances identified and if non-compliance, report on timeliness for the preparation and completion of corrective action plan if not already included in above.

Annexes • Sample checklists and reports • Clearances and documentation • Training records • Photographs • Detailed monitoring data • Calibration and QA certificates • Consultation records • Grievance records • Environment, health and safety reports