Natural Gas Infrastructure and Efficiency Improvement Project (RRP BAN 38164)

Initial Environmental Examination

Document Stage: Final Project Number: P38164 (BAN) April 2011

BAN: Natural Gas Access Improvement Project (Compression Stations at Ashuganj & )

Prepared by Gas Transmission Company Limited for the Asian Development Bank.

Table of Contents Executive summary...... v Abbreviation...... viii Chapter 1 Introduction...... 1 1.1 Background of the Study ...... 1 1.2 Objectives of the IEE study...... 2 1.3 Scope of Work...... 2 1.4 Methodology...... 2 1.5 Limitations...... 3 1.6 The IEE Study Team ...... 3 1.7 Structure of the Report ...... 3 1.8 Acknowledgement...... 4 Chapter 2 Description of the Project...... 5 2.1 Type and Category of Project...... 5 2.2 Need for project...... 5 2.3 Location of the Proejct ...... 5 2.4 Major Components of the Project...... 9 2.5 Proposed schedule for approval and implementation...... 10 2.6 Overview of Gas Compressor Station ...... 10 2.6.1 Site description of proposed compressors stations ...... 12 2.6.2 Features of Proposed Compressor Stations...... 14 2.7 Installation of Proposed Compressor Station ...... 14 2.8 Phases ...... 16 2.8.1 Pre-construction phase...... 16 2.8.2 Construction phase...... 16 2.8.3 Post-Construction/ Operation phase ...... 18 2.9 Waste/emissions from the Proposed Compressor Stations...... 18 Chapter 3 Description of the Environment ...... 21 3.1 Introduction ...... 21 3.2 Physical Resources ...... 21 3.2.1 Geology...... 21 3.2.2 Atmosphere...... 24 3.2.3 Ambient Air Quality...... 25 3.2.4 Ambient Water Quality...... 26 3.2.5 Ambient noise...... 27 3.2.6 Land Resources...... 28 3.2.7 Water resources...... 28 3.3 Land Resources...... 30 3.4 Ecological Resources...... 30 3.4.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystem ...... 30

i 3.5 Economic Development ...... 36 3.5.1 Employment, poverty reduction and social benefit ...... 36 3.5.2 Agriculture Sector...... 36 3.5.3 Transportation Sector...... 36 3.5.4 Infrastructure facilities...... 37 3.5.5 Power supply system ...... 37 3.6 Social and Cultural Resources...... 37 3.6.1 Ashuganj Compressor Station...... 37 3.6.2 Elenga Compressor Station...... 38 Chapter 4 Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts ...... 41 4.1 Introduction ...... 41 4.2 Environmental Impacts...... 41 4.2.1 Water, air and noise ...... 41 4.2.2 Land use...... 41 4.2.3 Soil pollution...... 42 4.2.4 Crop production ...... 42 4.2.5 Terrestrial Ecosystems...... 42 4.2.6 Aquatic ecosystem ...... 42 4.2.7 Interference with the existing infrastructures...... 43 4.2.8 Radioactive wastes...... 43 4.2.9 Pipeline on Jamuna Bridge ...... 43 4.2.10 Accidental gas leakage and explosion ...... 43 Chapter 5 Environmental Management Plan for Installation of Compressor Stations at Ashuganj & Elenga...... 45 Chapter 6 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements...... 53 6.1 Environmental Monitoring...... 53 6.2 EMP Cost Matrix...... 54 Chapter 7 Public Consultation and Information Disclosure...... 59 7.1 Public Consultation...... 59 7.2 Methodology...... 59 7.3 Results of Public Consultation ...... 59 7.4 Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan...... 60 Chapter 8 Findings and Recommendations...... 61 8.1 Ashuganj Compressor Station ...... 61 8.2 Elenga Compressor Station ...... 61 Chapter 9 Conclusion ...... 63 References ...... 65

Appendix A: Layout Plan of Two Compressor Stations Appendix B: Process Flow Diagram of Two Compressor Stations Appendix C: Conceptual General Arrangement of Two Compressor Stations

ii List of tables

Table 2.1: Major Components of the Project...... 9 Table 2.2: Features and characteristics of the proposed compressor stations...... 14 Table 2.3: Waste / emission from the proposed compressor stations ...... 18 Table 3.1: Stratigraphy of Deep Geosyncline Basin...... 22 Table 3.2: Earthquake history ...... 23 Table 3.3: Air quality standard ...... 26 Table 3.4: Standards for inland surface water...... 26 Table 3.5: Season wise average surface water quality status...... 27 Table 3.6: Standards for Sound...... 27 Table 3.8: List of flora and fauna species ...... 31 Table 3.9 List of flora and fauna species ...... 34 Table 5.1: Mitigation/enhancement measures for impacts at Ashuganj site...... 45 Table 5.2: Mitigation measures for impacts at Elenga site ...... 48

List of figures

Figure 2.1: Location of the two compressor stations (Ashuganj and Elenga) in the context of ...... 6 Figure 2.2: Location of the compressor station at Ashuganj, Brahmanbaria...... 7 Figure 2.3: Location of the compressor station at Elenga, ...... 8 Figure 2.4: Cross section view of a centrifugal compressor ...... 11 Figure 2.5: Cylinder assembly in a reciprocating compressor...... 12 Figure 2.6: Ashuganj site for compressor station ...... 13 Figure 2.7: Elenga site for compressor station...... 13 Figure 2.8: Layout plan of proposed Ashuganj compressor station...... 15 Figure 2.9: Layout plan of proposed Elenga compressor station...... 16 Figure 3.1: Stratigraphic division of Bangladesh...... 21 Figure 3.2: Cross-section of structure from Northwest to Southeast...... 22 Figure 3.3: Seismic zones of Bangladesh...... 23 Figure 3.4: Fault lines ...... 23 Figure 3.5: Climatic Sub-region...... 24 Figure 3.6: Mean monthly maximum temperature ...... 25 Figure 3.7: Mean monthly minimum temperature ...... 25 Figure 3.8: Mean monthly rainfall ...... 25 Figure 3.9: Mean annual potential recharge...... 29 Figure 3.10: Monthly average ground water depth...... 30 Figure 7.1: Discussion with GTCL officials at Ashuganj site ...... 59 Figure 7.2: Discussion with local people of adjacent areas and GTCL officials at Elenga site...... 59

iii

Executive summary

Gas Transmission Company Limited (GTCL), a company under Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Corporation (Petrobangla), is assigned to transmit gas from gas fields to distribution systems in Bangladesh. In recent years, the gas distribution systems are facing inadequate gas supply due to low pressure in the transmission lines. Installation of compressor stations in the transmission system of GTCL is required to increase gas flow and pressure in the transmission lines to an extent which will be required to meet present and future demand in the distribution systems and also to increase access of people to natural gas. In this circumstances, this IEE study has been conducted and the report has been prepared for consideration of ADB with reference to the requirements of the Aide Memoire presented by the ADB’s Fact Finding Mission which visited during 11-20 May 2009 in connection with the proposed Natural Gas Access Improvement Project. The Project includes among other components a Gas Transmission Capacity Expansion component comprising the construction of 61 km 30-inch OD Ashuganj-Bakhrabad Gas Transmission Pipeline together with Gas Interface Metering Stations at some major selected locations. The Project also envisages financing of the installation of two compressor stations in the GTCL pipeline system as a sub-component To increase the gas transmission capacity, to achieve better operational flexibility, for better line pack management and for meeting the increasing gas demand and expansion of gas supply facilities in the north-west and south-east region of the country, GTCL envisages installation of Compressor Stations at Ashuganj and Elenga to be financed by Asian Development Bank (ADB) under its proposed Natural Gas Access Improvement Project. The Ashuganj compressor station will increase gas transmission capacity at downstream of Ashuganj Gas Manifold Station (AGMS) i.e. Ashuganj South through A-B pipeline and Ashuganj West through B-B and Monohordi – Dhanua – Elenga pipeline. The Elenga compressor station will increase gas transmission from Ashuganj West (B-B and Ashuganj-Monohordi-Dhanua-Elenga) pipelines to the North-western and south-western region through 24” Western Zone and 30” Elenga – Jamuna Bridge – Hatikumrul pipelines. According to ADB Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003, the project falls under Category – B, which requires IEE study. EIA study depends on the recommendation of IEE. The proposed site at Ashuganj is already under the possession of GTCL (24 acres) out of which about 10 acres will be used for the compressor station. The proposed site at Elenga is also under the possession of GTCL (Total 5.52 acres) out of which about 3 acres of land will be used for the compressor station. No fresh acquisition of land is required for both the Ashuganj and Elenga sites. Under the present scope and spare of the present IEE study, impacts to various IESCs during the pre- construction, constrcution and postconstruction phases has been identified. The initial environmental and social impacts were identified and the respective mitigation measures are described below.

v Executive Summary

Ashuganj Compressor Station Ashuganj site is a fully urbanized and industrial area having air pollution due to industrial and urban activities. However more air and noise pollution will be created during construction and post construction phases. Regular watering of the site should be done to reduce pollution of the air by dust. Boundary wall with sufficient height and use of sound and noise absorbing materials is recommended to mitigate the problem of noise pollution. The water quality will be impacted during construction and post-construction phases if the solid as well as the liquid wastes are dumped without proper management and treatment. Similarly ground water potential will also be impacted unless balanced use of surface and ground water are properly planned and implemented. The soils and ground water of the project site may be contaminated with the solid and liquid wastages of the Compressor machineries. This should be averted by preserving the contaminated wastes and treating them before safe disposal. Impact of terrestrial ecosystem is expected to be minimum as the construction site has already been developed long ago for this purpose. The site possesses no important vegetation cover and hence no significant wildlife is inhibiting the spot. Nearest homestead is about 100 m from the site and therefore, no serious impact is expected on its vegetation and wildlife communities. Minor impact is expected for local wildlife especially avi-fauna due to noise and increased human activities which may be avoided by installing barriers both physically as well as biologically by developing green belt of local trees around the installations. There would be no significant impact on wetland ecosystem, as the project is not expected to discharge pollutants in the river system or nearby wetlands. Minor impact might be associated with the construction of landing stage and connecting roads during the construction phase of the work. Encroachment of public and private properties will happen here while mobilizing heavy vehicles and transports before and during construction. Loss to public and private properties and land due to these is envisaged. However, it should be possible to mitigate this through negotiations with Zia fertilizer factory for using their jetty and widening of the roads.

Elenga Compressor Station

Elenga site is a semi urbanized area having noise pollution due to massive movement of vehicles to Northern zone from eastern zone and vise versa and more air and noise pollution will be created during construction. Construction of boundary with wall sufficient height and using sound and noise absorbing materials in the installations would reduce the noise pollution significantly. The water quality will be impacted during post construction if the wastes are dumped without proper management and treatment. Similarly ground water potential will also be impacted which may be mitigated by properly planning and implementing surface and ground water resources. Water logging problem may be created due to improper drainage surrounding to this site under present land use if proper drainage system is not being constructed. Crop damage will take place if the excavated earth materials are dumped in nearby agricultural fields to the south and east. Special care should be taken not to encroach on the surrounding agricultural fields.

vi Executive Summary

Impact of terrestrial ecosystem is expected to be minimum as the construction site has already been developed for this purpose. The site itself possesses no important natural vegetation cover as it is already prepared for the construction and hence no significant wildlife is inhibiting the spot. Impact on adjoining homestead garden based ecosystem might be important as the project site is bounded by homestead gardens in the south and east. Due to increase in noise level and disturbance from the human activities could cause negative consequences on the vegetation and especially on wildlife communities in these nearby homestead. This may be avoided by installing barriers both physically (boundary wall with sufficient height) as well as biologically by developing green belt of local trees around the installations. There would be no significant impact on wetland ecosystem, although the existing small natural ditch is expected to be filled up during the time of construction. However, as the project is not expected to discharge pollutants in the river system or nearby floodplain it would not cause any major impact during operation. Minor impact might be associated with the construction of connecting roads during the construction phase of the work. The proposed site is under administrative control of GTCL. No crops are cultivated there. So, there is no loss involved as project impact According to the IEE study, it is observed that the proposed compressor station project might have temporary impacts and would be overcome with mitigation and enhancement measures. There is no ecologically sensitive area, reserve forest, national park in the two compressor station sites. There is no significant irreversible adverse impact. Because of the isolated nature of the compressor stations, there would be no cumulative impact as well. However, some detail investigations have been required for air, water, noise quality, traffic load, solid and liquid waste management options. To address these issues, comprehensive environmental management plan and environmental monitoring plan are required. Based on the outcome of the IEE study, it is concluded that the two compressor stations will contribute substantially to the overall development of the gas sector with no adverse environmental and social impact.

vii

Abbreviation

ADB Asian Development Bank ACM Asbestos Containing Materials ANSI American National Standard Institute ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics BP Bank Procedure BS British Standard BWDB Bangladesh Water Development Board DC Deputy Commissioner dB Decible DG Director General DOE Department of Environment DOF Department of Fisheries DPP Development Project Proposal ECA Environmental Conservation Act EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMF Electro Magnetic Field EMP Environmental Management Plan FD Flow Diagram FGD Focused Group Discussion FIDC Forest Industries Development Corporation FP Flash Point

F0 Land goes under water up to 30 cm depth during monsoon GOB Government of Bangladesh GTCL Gas Transmission Company Limited HA Hazard Analysis HH House Hold HES Health, Environment and Safety HR Hazard Review Hz Hertz IAEC International Atomic Energy Commission ICTP International Conventions, Treaties and Protocols IESC Important Environmental and Social Component IEE Initial Environmental Examination KV Kilo Volt

viii

LEL Lower Explosive Limit LFL Lower Flammable Level MOEF Ministry of Environment and Forest MSD Material Selection Diagram NCS National Conservation Strategy NEMAP National Environmental Management Action Plan NGO Non-Governmental Organization NOC No Objection Certificate OMS Operation and Management System OP Operational Policy PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls P&ID Piping and Instrument Flow Diagram PRA Participatory Rural Appraisal RAP Resettlement Action Plan RMPP Risk Management and Prevention Program RRA Rapid Rural Appraisal SIA Social Impact Assessment SOP Standard Work Operating Practice TEL Upper Explosive Limit TOR Terms of Reference TWA Time Weighted Average UFL Upper Flammable Level UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development USPHS United States Public Health Service A-B 30” dia Ashuganj-Bakhrabad pipeline B-B 24” dia Bramaputra Basin pipeline

ix

Chapter 1 Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Gas Transmission Company Limited (GTCL), a company under Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Corporation (Petrobangla), is assigned to transmit gas from gas fields to distribution systems in Bangladesh. In recent years, the gas distribution systems are facing inadequate gas supply due to low pressure in the transmission lines. Installation of compressor stations in the transmission system of GTCL is required to increase gas flow and pressure in the transmission lines to an extent which will be required to meet present and future demand in the distribution systems and also to increase access of people to natural gas. In this circumstances, this IEE study made and the report has been prepared for consideration of ADB with reference to the requirements of the Aide Memoire presented by the ADB’s Fact Finding Mission which visited Dhaka during 11-20 May 2009 in connection with the proposed Natural Gas Access Improvement Project. The Project includes among other components a Gas Transmission Capacity Expansion component comprising the construction of 61 km 30-inch OD Ashuganj-Bakhrabad Gas Transmission Pipeline together with Gas Interface Metering Stations at some major selected locations. The Project also envisages financing of the installation of two compressor stations in the GTCL pipeline system as a sub-component To increase the gas transmission capacity, to achieve better operational flexibility, for better line pack management and for meeting the increasing gas demand and expansion of gas supply facilities in the north-west and south-east region of the country, GTCL envisages installation of Compressor Stations at Ashuganj and Elenga to be financed by Asian Development Bank (ADB) under its proposed Natural Gas Access Improvement Project. The Ashuganj compressor station will increase gas transmission capacity at downstream of Ashuganj Gas Manifold Station (AGMS) i.e. Ashuganj South through A-B pipeline and Ashuganj West through B-B and Monohordi – Dhanua – Elenga pipeline. The Elenga compressor station will increase gas transmission from Ashuganj West (B-B and Ashuganj-Monohordi-Dhanua-Elenga) pipelines to the North-western and south-western region through 24” Western Zone and 30” Elenga – Jamuna Bridge – Hatikumrul pipelines. This project is very much important to facilitate industrial development in the north western and south western region of Bangladesh as well as to mitigate the ever-increasing gas demand of southern region and greater Dhaka through increased gas supply. It will ultimately benefit the national economic growth and employment. Also from environmental point of view, natural gas utilization in industries will reduce green house gas emission and facilitate clean fuel technology in the country. This study is concerned about the installation of Compressor Stations and ancillary facilities at Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District and Elenga in . Because of the fact the project will be financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the ADB Environment Policy 2002 and ADB Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003 would be followed. As per Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003 of ADB, the project falls under Category – B, which requires IEE study. EIA study depends on the recommendation of IEE study. In this context, this IEE study has been conducted for the proposed two compressor stations at Ashuganj and Elenga.

1 Introduction

1.2 Objectives of the IEE study

The main objectives of the IEE study are:  Describing the existing environmental condition of the two proposed compressor station locations at Ashuganj and Elenga.  Collection of detailed information of the installations at the compressor stations in Ashuganj and Elenga from GTCL.  Assessment of the potential environmental impacts of the two compressor stations.  Preparing an indicative Environmental Management Plan (EMP) including mitigation measures for minimizing the effects of the negative impacts.  Preparation of the IEE report on the two proposed compressor stations.

1.3 Scope of Work

The IEE report provides baseline environmental condition (physical and biological environment) of the two locations. It contains a description of the installations at the two proposed compressor stations and identifies potential impacts of the proposed project activity in the project area on environment, following DoE and ADB Guidelines. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to render or offset adverse impacts is included for DOE and ADB’s clearance. The EMP also includes the Environmental Monitoring Plan and institutional arrangement for future monitoring.

1.4 Methodology

The IEE study has been conducted using conventional method of environmental study following ADB and DOE guidelines. Detailed information on the proposed interventions of the compressor stations was collected from GTCL. The study team made reconnaissance field visits to these areas at the IEE level of the study for obtaining first hand information on specific locations where the stations would be established. The team also visited the gas compressor station at the well head of Bakhrabad Gas Field at Muradnagar, Comilla to observe the types of installations with particular reference to effluents and emissions. Secondary data on climate, water resources, land resources, and soil properties were collected from secondary sources. Primary data on environmental components were collected through Rapid Rural Appraisals (RRA), Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRA), and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). During the field visits, the multidisciplinary team members made professional observations pertaining to their individual areas of expertise. All qualitative and quantitative data and information gathered from different surveys and secondary sources have been used appropriately in preparing the environmental baseline of the project and are presented in this report. Important Environmental Components (IECs) that are likely to be impacted by the proposed gas compressor stations has been identified. The impacts of the proposed interventions on the IECs, assessed in the previous stage, were quantified to the extent possible. But all the IECs specially some of the ecological IEC could not be quantified. Qualitative assessments were made in cases where quantification was not possible. The institutional requirements and environmental monitoring plan has been prepared suggesting mitigation measures for minimizing the effect of the negative impacts, enhancement plan for increasing the benefit of the positive impacts, compensation plan for compensating the negative

2 Introduction impacts that can not be mitigated and an environmental monitoring plan for monitoring changes taking place through implementation of the gas compressor stations. Cost estimate for implementing the EMP has been suggested for inclusion in the project cost estimate. The IEE Report on the two proposed gas compressor stations has been prepared incorporating all the findings according to the table of contents suggested in the ADB and DOE guideline.

1.5 Limitations

Since these are the first installation of high-technical compressor station on transmission pipelines in Bangladesh and as there is no large compressor station used in gas sector in Bangladesh, practical operation and environmental consequences could not be observed. The multidisciplinary IEE team visited the compressor station at Bakhrabad Gas Field, Muradnagar, Comilla and obtained information on different aspects of the compressor station from the experts engaged for operating and maintaining the station. Also, the detail design of the project is yet to be done. Thus the project interventions are assumed as similar to available standard technology.

1.6 The IEE Study Team

The IEE study team of the proposed project comprises the following Professional Experts: 1. Mr. Mujibul Huq, IEE Study Team Leader and Environmentalist 2. Mr. Nityananda Chakraborty, Resettlement Specialist 3. Mr. Abu Mohammed Ibrahim, Soil and Agriculture Specialist 4. Mr. Md. Waji Ullah, Engineer 5. Mr. Md. Istiak Sobhan, Ecologist 6. Mr. Subrata Kumar Mondal, Socio-Economist 7. Mr. S. M. Shazzadul Haq, Remote Sensing Specialist 8. Mr. Md. Aminur Rahman Shah, Junior Environmental Specialist

1.7 Structure of the Report

The report has been structured in compliance with the requirement of TOR. Chapter 1: Introduction: The introduction chapter presents a brief overview of the assignment along with its background, objectives, scope of works, methodology etc. Chapter 2: Description of the Project: Chapter Two describes proposed interventions including alternative options of the project, background, Project category, need of the project, location, size and magnitude of operation Chapter 3: Description of the Environment: Chapter Three presents the description of environmental baseline (Socioeconomic, physical and biological) of the project area. Chapter 4: Screening of the Potential Environmental Impacts: Environmental and social impacts of the compressor stations are assessed in chapter Four.

3 Introduction

Chapter 5: Environmental Management Plan: The chapter presents the environmental management plan including mitigation and enhancement measures for negative and positive impacts. Chapter 6: Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements: The Chapter mainly comprises of monitoring arrangements and institutional arrangements to take care of the environmental and social impacts of the compressor stations. Chapter 7: Public Consultation and Information Disclosure: This chapter gives results of public consultation and disclosure plan. Chapter 8: Findings and Recommendation: This chapter gives the major findings, evaluation and recommendation for the project. Chapter 9: Conclusion: This chapter gives the concluding remarks for the project.

1.8 Acknowledgement

The Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS), a public trust under the Ministry of Water Resources, is extremely grateful to the Gas Transmission Company Ltd. (GTCL) for entrusting it with the responsibility of conducting the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), study of the proposed Compressor Stations at Ashuganj & Elenga. The high level of interest shown and the support extended by GTCL, Dhaka, especially from Mr. Md. Aminur Rahman, Managing Director, GTCL, and Mr. Amjad Hossain Majumder, Project Director, Compressor Station Project, GTCL is appreciated. The project manager and other officials of his office were supportive and responsive throughout the study. Especially recognized are the efforts of Mr. Md. Ainul Kabir, Manager, Compressor Station Project, GTCL, Mr. Bishwajit Nandi, Deputy Manager, Compressor Station Project, GTCL and other officials of the office of the Project Director, GTCL, Dhaka and GTCL officials of Ashuganj and Elenga station. Besides GTCL, contribution of numerous organizations, like Sylhet Gas Fields Ltd. Authority, Titas T & D Co. Ltd. authority and Department of Environment (DoE) are acknowledged. Local people in the project area are gratefully appreciated. Along with the core study team members, contribution of CEGIS’s professionals – Mr. Ruknul Ferdouse, Mr. Amanat Ullah, Biologist, Mr. Shahadat Hossain Chowdhury, Environmental Engineer, Mr. Md. Shahadat Hossain Manik, Sociologist, Mr. Md. Saiful Kabir, Sociologist in data collection and analysis for this study is highly acknowledged. At last but not least, Ms. Asifa Rahman and Mr. Sayeefur Rahman Rizvi is acknowledged for linguistic editing and formatting of the document.

4

Chapter 2 Description of the Project

2.1 Type and Category of Project

According to ADB Environment Policy 2002 and ADB Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003, the project falls under Category – B, which requires IEE study. EIA study depends on the recommendation of IEE.

2.2 Need for project

Exploration of gas fields and transportation of the same to the locations where this is used has become very important as natural gas is the significant source of commercial energy in Bangladesh and it is the prime mover of national economy. Sufficient pressure in the transmission lines is required to meet present and future demand in the distribution systems. But in recent years, the gas distribution systems are facing inadequate gas supply due to low pressure in the transmission lines. The gas compressor stations have become essential to augment the gas transmission capacity in meeting the increasing gas demand and expansion of gas supply facilities in the north-west and south-east region of the country.

2.3 Location of the Proejct

The proposed two compressor station sites are located at Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District and Elenga in Tangail District (Fig. 2.1) for installation of Compressor Stations and ancillary facilities including surrounding areas and existing facilities likely to be environmentally and socially impacted. The proposed Ashuganj compressor station will be installed at GTCL’s own premises beside the existing Ashuganj Gas Manifold Station (AGMS) of GTCL at Ashuganj in Brahman Baria District. The proposed site is located at the east bank of River Upper Meghna and 1 km NE from the existing Zia Firtilizer Company Ltd. (ZFCL). About 10 acres of land will be used here, which is currently remaining fallow (Fig. 2.2). Scraper Trap Station of Ashuganj-Monohordi Gas Transmission Pipeline of GTCL and two (2) oil storage tanks of Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Company Ltd (RPGCL) are situated adjacent to the proposed location. The proposed Elenga compressor station will also be installed at GTCL’s premises beside the existing GTCL and Titas Gas District Regulatory Station (DRS) at Elenga in Tangail District. About 3.00 acres of land will be used here (Fig. 2.3). None of the above compressor station sites are situated on or near any national parks, historical & archaeological sites or environmentally sensitive areas.

5 Description of the Project

Figure 2.1: Location of the two compressor stations (Ashuganj and Elenga) in the context of Bangladesh

6 Zia Fertilizer

Figure: 2.2 Location of the compressor station at Ashuganj, Brahmanbaria

Description of the Project

2.4 Major Components of the Project

The project includes mainly construction of two gas compressor stations (C/S) and associated office and residential complexes in the project sites at Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District and Elenga in Tangail District. The main components under each sub-project are given in Table- 2.1.

Table 2.1: Major Components of the Project

Sl. Sub-Project Location Connecting Gas Pipe Line Major Components No. 1 Ashuganj Ashuganj, Ashuganj to Western zone Approx. 30,000HP Compressor B Baria downstream of Ashuganj compressor with driver, Stataion District Gas Manifold Station cooler and ancillary facilities, Office buildings, workshop & residential complex etc. Required horsepower to be finalized upon actual gas flow and pressure parameters.

2 Elenga Compressor Elenga, Monohordi to East Bank of 15,000 HP compressor Stataion Tangail Jamuna Bridge with driver, cooler and District ancillary facilities, Office buildings, workshop & residential complex etc. Required horsepower to be finalized upon actual gas flow and pressure parameters.

The compressor stations will comprise of four major components such as compressor and driver units with ancillary facilities and controls; pipelines with associated valves and fittings; office buildings for operation & controls; and residential complex for employees. The major equipment packages and installations are: (i) compressor & driver units; (ii) inlet scrubber; (iii) filter separator; (iv) air cooler; (v) lube oil cooler; (vi) liquid waste storage tank; (vii) fuel gas skid; (viii) vent stack; (ix) station isolation valves; (x) main line bypass valves; (xi) flow meters; (xii) MCC/switch gear; (xiii) suction strainer; (xiv) anti-surge system; (xv) cold recycle valve; (xvi) gas generator; (xvii) fuel gas system; (xviii) transformer; (xix) instrument air package; (xx) utility air package (xxi) fire hydrant system, fire water pumps and tank; (xxii) submersible pump; (xxiii) water tank and purifier unit; (xxiv) septic system and tank; (xxv) security house; (xxvi) control room with the facilities of PLC; (xxvii) workshop and (xxviii) warehouse. The residential complex for employees will be at outside the main compressor station and associated facilities & pipelines.

9 Description of the Project

2.5 Proposed schedule for approval and implementation

The implementation of the project needs 630 days from the effective date of the contract following 730 days Operation and Maintanance by the EPC contractor. Major deadlines of the project is as follows: Activities Deadline Floating of the BD 22-Apr-10 (First Stage) Technical Bid closing 21-Jul-10 ADB’s approval on (First Stage) Technical Bid Evaluation 14-Nov-10 Price bid Opening (Second stage) 24-Dec-10 ADB’s approval on (Second stage) Price bid Evaluation report 22-Feb-11 Issue of NoA /PG Submission/ Contract signing 24-Mar-11 Effectiveness of Contract / Commitment of works 10-Apr-11 Completion of the works 31-Dec-12 O & M by EPC Contractor 1-Jan-13 to 31-Dec-14

2.6 Overview of Gas Compressor Station

A gas compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of gas by reducing its volume. Compressors are similar to pumps which can increase the pressure on a fluid and can transport the fluid through a pipe. Generally different types of compressors are used in gas compressor stations such as reciprocating, centrifugal etc. The type of compressor that will be used in the proposed compressor stations is not decided yet. This is under the scope of turnkey contractor. Technical feasibility study will be carried out by design contractor. Therefore, overview of both type of compressors are given below. It is to be mentioned here that a compressor station is composed of both civil infrastructures as well as mechanical and electrical installations. The main station components are prime mover (driver), Separation/Filtration System, Compressor, After-cooler, Fuel Gas Skids and other station support system including Fire Hydrant, Gas Detector etc. a) Centrifugal compressors This compressors (sometimes referred to as radial compressors) are a special class of radial-flow work-absorbing turbo machinery (Figure 2.4).

10 Description of the Project

Figure 2.4: Cross section view of a centrifugal compressor Centrifugal compressors are used throughout the industry because of their fewer rubbing parts, are relatively energy efficient, and give higher airflow than a similarly sized reciprocating compressor (i.e. positive-displacement). The primary drawback is that this type of compressor cannot achieve the high compression ratio of reciprocating compressors without multiple stages. Centrifugal fan/blowers are more suited to continuous-duty applications such as ventilation fans, air movers, cooling units, and other uses that require high volume with little or no pressure increase. In contrast, multi-stage centrifugal compressors often achieve discharge pressures of 8,000 to 10,000 psi (59 MPa to 69MPa) re-injecting natural gas back into oil fields to increase oil production. b) Reciprocating compressor A reciprocating compressor consists of a crankshaft (driven by either a gas engine, electric motor, or turbine) attached to a connecting rod, which transfers the rotary motion of the crankshaft to a crosshead (Fig. 2.5). The crosshead travels back and forth in a crosshead guide. The crosshead converts the rotating motion to a reciprocating motion. The piston rod is attached to the crosshead and the piston (which is contained in a cylinder) is attached to the piston rod. The piston acting within the cylinder then compresses the gas contained within that cylinder. Gas enters the cylinder through a suction valve at suction pressure and is compressed to reach desired discharge pressure. When the gas reaches desired pressure, it is then discharged through a discharge valve. Desired discharge pressure can be reached through utilization of either a single or double acting cylinder. In a double acting cylinder, compression takes place at both the head end and crank end of the cylinder. The cylinder can be designed to accommodate any pressure or capacity, thus making the reciprocating compressor the most popular in the gas industry. Small reciprocating compressors from 5 to 30 horsepower (hp) are commonly seen in automotive applications and are typically for intermittent duty. Larger reciprocating compressors up to 1000 hp are still commonly found in large industrial applications, but their numbers are declining as they are replaced by various other types of compressors. Discharge pressures can range from low pressure to very high pressure (>5000 psi or 35 MPa). In certain applications, such as air compression, multi-

11 Description of the Project stage double-acting compressors are said to be the most efficient compressors available, and are typically larger, noisier, and more costly than comparable rotary units.

Figure 2.5: Cylinder assembly in a reciprocating compressor

2.6.1 Site description of proposed compressors stations The two compressors will be constructed at two different locations in two districts. The location, suitability, topography and hydrological status, land use, material carrying scopes and obstruction, availability of labors, flexibility of construction, land acquisition status, safety measures requirements and the existing infrastructural status of the two sites are described below. Depending on the above mentioned factors environmental and social measures will be framed.

Ashuganj site

Ashuganj site is situated in the urbanized and industrial areas. The site is accessible both by road, railway and water way. Therefore it is most flexible site from material carrying point of view. However, in road communication there is a Railway Bridge below which the road passes and can not allow heavy vehicle with large height trolley. This site is already acquisitioned and developed to a high elevation free from flooding and water logging problem. There is side drain which can serve the purpose of storm swear. There is also a scope of using the jetty of Zia Fertilizer Company. As the site is within the GTCL Key Point Installation (KPI) area (Fig. 2.6) and a number of installations are already there so there is a risk of accident due to construction impact of compressor stations and therefore sufficient safety and care are to be taken. The site has enough space encircled by boundary wall with high flexibility of constructing the stations and its appurtenant structures without facing any difficulties of space shortage. Mobilization of labors will not be a problem, only road communication some time will be problem.

12 Description of the Project

Existing pipeline near Ashuganj C/S Site Site for compressor station at Ashuganj Figure 2.6: Ashuganj site for compressor station

Elanga site

Elanga site is situated in the semi urbanized areas besides Jamuna Bridge road (Fig. 2.7). The site is accessible only by road. This road is national highway N3 and sufficiently wide and big lorry and truck can easily carry the construction material at site provide the access has to be sufficiently wide. This site already been acquisitioned and 90% of its area developed to a high elevation free from flooding and water logging problem. There is natural khals and borrow pit can serve the purpose of storm swear. Like Ashuganj, this site is also near the existing campus and a number of installations are already there so there may a risk of accident due to construction impact of compressor stations and therefore sufficient safety and care are to be taken. The site has relatively less space encircled by boundary wall with flexibility and the stations and its appurtenant structures can be constructed without facing any difficulties due to space shortage. Mobilization of labors will not be a problem. It is to be mentioned here that the existing pipe line and arrangement for junctions and their inter connection is under ground and covered by earth.

Figure 2.7: Elenga site for compressor station

13 Description of the Project

2.6.2 Features of Proposed Compressor Stations The major features of the proposed compressor stations are given in Table 2.2. All the two stations are almost similar type with variations in capacity of compressor and its driver units.

Table 2.2: Features and characteristics of the proposed compressor stations

Sl. Attribute Features No. Ashuganj C/S Elenga C/S 1 Type of Compressor Centrifugal/ Reciprocating/ Centrifugal/ Reciprocating/Other Other type type 2 Total Capacity of Turbine in Operation Approx. 30000 HP. Required Approx. 15000 HP. Required horsepower to be finalized upon horsepower to be finalized upon actual gas flow and pressure actual gas flow and pressure parameters. parameters.

3 Number of Unit in 2 (Number of unit may vary 1 (Number of unit may vary Operation at a time depending upon design) depending upon design) 4 Number of Unit in 1 (Number of unit may vary 1 (Number of unit may vary stand by position depending upon design) depending upon design) 5 Source of Natural Natural gas coming from the gas Natural gas coming through 24-inch Gas fields of north-eastern regions B-B pipeline from Ashuganj and (viz. Kailashtila, Beanibazar, through 30-inch Dhanua – Elenga Fenchuganj, Jalalabad, pipelines Bibiyana, Moulvibazar and Rashidpur gas fields) and Habiganj and Khatihata/ Titas Gas Fields. 6 Output Product Compressed natural gas Compressed natural gas 7 Daily Output Rate 1437-2297 MMSCF (approx.) 343-500 MMSCF (approx.) 8 Water Consumption 15 Tons/ day 8 Tons/ day 9 Source of Water Borehole Borehole 10 Type of fuel to be Natural gas Natural gas used 11 Quantity of fuel 6.4 MMSCF (approx.) 2.2 MMSCF (approx.) required daily 12 Source of fuel Part of the natural gas coming to Part of the natural gas coming to the the station station 13 Duration of Project Apprx. 630 days Apprx. Implementation 630 days

2.7 Installation of Proposed Compressor Station

The compressor stations will comprise of four major units, such as compressor and driver units with ancillary facilities; pipelines and associated valves; office buildings for control unit; and residential complex for employees. The equipment packages and installations are: a) Compressor & Driver unit; b) Inlet scrubber; c) Inlet filter separator; d) Air cooler; e) Lube oil cooler; f) Liquid/ waste storage tank; g) Fuel gas skid; h) Vent stack; i) Station isolation valves; j) Main line bypass valves; k) Flow

14 Description of the Project meters; l) MCC/ Switch gear; m) Suction strainer; n) Anti surge system; o) Cold recycle valve; p) Gas alternator; q)Fuel gas system and tank; r) Transformer; s) Instrument and utility air package; t) Fire water pumps and tank; u) Borehole and borehole pump; v) Water tank and purifier unit; w) Septic system; x) Security house; y) Fire hydrant ; z) Control room; and aa) Workshop and warehouse. The residential complex for employees will be outside the main compressor unit and associated office and pipelines. The layout plan of the proposed two compressor station is shown in Figure 2.8 and 2.9. Also the detail layout plan of two compressor stations in large scale is given in Appendix B. The process flow diagram and conceptual general arrangement are presented in Appendix C and D respectively.

Figure 2.8: Layout plan of proposed Ashuganj compressor station

15 Description of the Project

Figure 2.9: Layout plan of proposed Elenga compressor station

2.8 Phases

The installation activities of the proposed compressor station are divided into two phases: pre- construction, during construction and post-construction/ operation phase. The associated activities in all stages are described in the following sections:

2.8.1 Pre-construction phase Before construction of a compressor station, designing and planning the proposed compressor station have to be completed. In this stage the following activities are undertaken: a) Technical and financial feasibility study; b) Suitable site selection; c) Environmental and Social impact assessment d) Detail design of the compressor station; e) Land acquisition and payment of compensation ( if any); f) Clearance from respective authorities; g) Appointment of contractor for physical installation

2.8.2 Construction phase During construction phase, various works including material procurement & mobilization; earth work, civil works installation of equipment packages, electrical works are implemented. Detail descriptions of major activities are given as follows: a. Transportation and handling of construction materials and equipment Civil construction material and equipments, mechanical equipments will be transported using large trailers, lorries, trucks and river crafts. After obtaining required permission, the existing roads and rivers will be used for the transports. The transportation of these equipments may require grading of river

16 Description of the Project embankment and skidding through open field. The landowners may be required to be paid compensation. b. Civil works (i) Site Development The site for Ashuganj compressor station is well developed. The Elenga compressor station has also being developed by GTCL. The provision of civil works would be the same for installation of standard Gas Turbine & Compressor (GTC) packages and ancillary facilities in two compressor stations, except site development and foundations at Elenga, which may vary upon the conditions of locations. The bidding document advised the bidders to develop the land if further development is required. (ii) Drainage Each facility shall be graded and sloped to provide positive drainage. Minimum slope shall be 1.0% and maximum slope at operational and maintenance areas shall be limited to 5%. Finished grade shall be sloped away from buildings, equipment or structures. Storm runoff shall be carried in open ditches and discharged into the natural drainage channels. Culverts shall be provided to carry the flow under roads, walks etc. Runoff calculations shall be based upon the quantity of runoff from a 10-year interval storm recurrence. (iii) Roads, Parking Areas and Access & Clearances Station access roads shall tie into the public road system or other established roads where possible. Access roads shall be designed as non-paved (100 - 150 mm top surface of gravel or crushed stone), built-up roads with a 20-year design life. Road base shall have approximately 200 mm compacted fill with sub grade of 95% of maximum density compaction. Geotextile under lays shall be evaluated for use in areas of exceptionally poor sub grade such as swamp or unstable soil conditions. Means of access shall be provided to operating equipment and facilities. All valves used in equipment operation/isolation shall also be equipped with a means of access. (iv) Foundations Foundations may be soil-bearing or piling types. Selection of foundation type shall be based on recommendations from the soil investigation report. Concrete shall be placed against undisturbed soil where possible. Bottom of concrete shall extend 600 mm below finished grade, except for slabs on grade and minor mat supported equipment. Bottom of foundations shall be a minimum of 150 mm below adjacent piping to prevent undermining. This does not apply to slabs on grade. Top of concrete (TOC) or top of grout (TOG) shall be 200 mm above finished grade, except where otherwise dictated by special equipment requirements. Skid mounted equipment shall be supported on stub piers (whenever structurally acceptable). Minimum edge distance where equipment is supported on slabs shall be 300 mm from equipment edge to concrete slab edge. (v) Operational Building and Other Civil Works The design package shall include the following civil works but not necessarily be limited to: equipment foundation design; control buildings; compression package/equipment shelter with maintenance facilities. open sheds with one or two closed sides and a single or double pitched roof above the station if indicated on the layout drawings. Angle of the roof approximately 15°; drainage system; roads and access paving; fences and entrance gates inside the boundary walls as shown on the layout drawings.

17 Description of the Project

c. Installation of compressor equipment and auxiliaries After completion of building, all equipment will be installed at the station (outdoor and indoor) as per design drawing specification and standard. During installation of equipments, solid waste, liquid waste or noise may be created. Accidental failure of equipment may occur.

d. Safety Measures The proposed projects have the following security measures: Fire fighting Equipment: As the compressor stations are vital installations, fire-fighting equipment of appropriate specification will be procured and installed. First aid Materials: First aid boxes are to be kept in the installation. Boundary Wall and Security: A reasonable height of boundary will be constructed and protection wire will be provided on the walls. Also trained security guards will be provided. Personnel Protection Equipment (PPE): All workers and officers shall be equipped with required PPE during construction and operation & maintenance phase as well. e. Testing and Commissioning of Equipment After installation of (outdoor and indoor), each and every equipment will be tested as per specification and standard. If all the tests are successful the compressor station will be commissioned accordingly after getting permission from explosive department of Bangladesh.

2.8.3 Post-Construction/ Operation phase During operation phase, the compressor station will run with regular maintenance activities. Solid/ liquid wastes and gaseous emission will be generated from the operation activities.

2.9 Waste/emissions from the Proposed Compressor Stations

Some liquid waste, solid waste, gaseous pollutants and noise may be generated as a by product from the proposed compressor stations. The liquid waste is mainly the wastewater discharged from the station and the gaseous pollutant (Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) emission) is mainly from fuel gas burning, blow down or leakage. The estimated amount of waste to be generated from the compressor stations and the emission/ discharge standards of DOE is given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3: Waste / emission from the proposed compressor stations

Sl. Estimated amount Waste / emission DOE standard * No. Ashuganj C/S Elenga C/S 1 Waste water Daily discharge 15 Tons 8 Tons Standards for waste water discharge is given in chapter 3. Oil content 10 ppm 10 ppm 10 ppm

18 Description of the Project

Sl. Estimated amount Waste / emission DOE standard * No. Ashuganj C/S Elenga C/S Discharge Zone Septic tank system / Septic tank system / close close drain system/ drain system/ sump pit sump pit 2 Gaseous emission (HAPs emission) Mode of gaseous emissions: Exhaust flow rate/ fuel gas burning and Leakage from piping and equipment. Emission of Pollutants:

SOx As inlet gas does not contain any Sulfur, therefore, No specific emission of Sulfur Oxides is not envisaged. standard for C/S

NOx 15-25 ppm per Gas Turbine Unit No specific (The emission limit is expected within a load range standard for C/S. 42% -100% of base load. The proposed Gas But similar to gas Turbine can work at a load lower than 42% fuel based power particularly at Elenga Station.Therefore emmision plant of 500 MW for Elenga may be higher than the above or above, for approximation) which NOx emission limit is 50 ppm CO 10-50 ppm per Gas Turbine Unit No specific (The emission limit is expected within a load range standard for C/S 42% -100% of base load. The proposed Gas Turbine can work at a load lower than 42% particularly at Elenga Station.Therefore emmision for Elenga may be higher than the above approximation) UHC (Unburned 10-25 ppm per Gas Turbine Unit No specific Hydrocarbon) (The emission limit is expected within a load range standard for C/S 42% -100% of base load. The proposed Gas Turbine can work at a load lower than 42% particularly at Elenga Station.Therefore emmision for Elenga may be higher than the above approximation)

Total HAPs emission No specific 2.15-5.18 Tons per year 6.44-16.55 standard for C/S Daily HAPs No specific 5.88-14.2 emission (kg) 17.64-45.33 standard for C/S 3 Noise Noise level at one meter distance to the control valves should not exceed: During normal No specific 80 dB(A) operation 80 dB(A) standard for C/S During blowdown No specific 110 dB(A) operation 110 dB(A) standard for C/S

* Standard limit specified in Environment Conservation Rules 1997. * Emission will be as per DOE standard as the bidder proposed Low NOx (DLE) Gas Turbine.

19 Description of the Project

20

Chapter 3 Description of the Environment

3.1 Introduction

A multidisciplinary team from CEGIS visited the two sites of compressor stations at Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District and Elenga in Tangail district. The visit was framed in this way: a) Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District has been covered in one trip from 3-4, Januray 2008, while b) Elanga in Tangail has been covered by a separate trip on 6, Januray, 2008. It is to be mentioned here that before going to visit the two proposed sites, the team visited one compressor station functioning at the Bakhrabad gas field with a capacity of 1200 HP. The two proposed compressor stations with much higher capacity of 13000 HP, 20000 HP and 4000 HP will be installed at Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria District and Elanga in Tangail District respectively. This visit was very much necessary to understand the functionality of compressor station, to see the physical appurtenant features and installed arrangement, existing station in totality, drainage system, operation and maintenance status and finally to have clear conception on compressor station and its function. This knowledge would be very much useful in developing baseline of IEE study. The team visited the two sites and observed that land development was already done for Ashuganj in Brahmanbaria and Elanga in Tangail to make the land free from flooding. This baseline has been developed based on discussions with local stakeholders, implementing agency and visualizing the physical and natural features, collecting and analyzing the secondary data and information.

3.2 Physical Resources

The geological resources baseline describes below information include stratigraphy, structure, and seismic history.

3.2.1 Geology Stratigraphy Stratigraphic subdivision of the rock sequences in Bangladesh (Figure 3.1) follows the broad tectonic divisions. There are two stratigraphic subdivisions in practice: 1) Stable Shelf and 2) Deep Geosynclinal Basin. The study area (Elenga of Tangail and Ashuganj of Brahmanbaria) lies in the deep geosynclinal part. It is characterized by a huge sedimentary sequence of mostly tertiary age testified high tectonic instability or mobility. The stratigraphy of the deep basin including fore deep and fold belt to the southeast is characterized by an enormous thickness of tertiary sedimentary succession. Figure 3.1: Stratigraphic division of Bangladesh.

21 Description of the Environment

The rocks encountered here are much younger in geologic age and ranges between Oligocene and Recent time. The basin has got the record of rapid subsidence and sedimentation. Stratigraphy of deep geosynclinal basin can be summarized as follows (Table 3.1)

Table 3.1: Stratigraphy of Deep Geosyncline Basin

Age Group Formation Max. thickness (m) Pleistocene Modhupur Clay 30 Plio-Pleistocene Dupi Tila 2500 Tipam Girujan Clay 1000 Pliocene Tipam Sandstone 2500 Mio-Pliocene Bokabil 1500 Surma Miocene Bhuban 3500 Renji 700 Oligocene Barail Jenum Base not encountered 240+ Source: Energy resources of Bangladesh (June 2005), Badrul Imam. Structure Geological structure in Ashuganj is delineated mainly based on geophysical survey named as Titas structure. This is an anticlinal fold, which has no surface geomorphic expression and is covered by Titas-Meghna river floodplain deposits. Titas anticline is a north-south elongated semi-domal structure influenced by tectonically positive element from the deep subsurface. Titas anticlinal closure is one of the largest (168 km) in Bangladesh. The structure is asymmetric in nature with steeper dip in the eastern flank and gentler slope in the western flank. There has been indication of faulting in the deeper level in the eastern flank, as shown by seismic reflection discontinuities.

Figure 3.2: Cross-section of structure from Northwest to Southeast. Seismic history Depending on the geological structure, Bangladesh has been classified into three seismic zones (Figure 3.3). According to that, Elenga and Ashuganj fall under the Zone-II, which is characterized by medium to high earthquake prone area. Available geological faults in and around the country shown in the figure 3.4, suggest that Ashuganj fall on L2 fault line where the maximum magnitude of earthquake is within the range of 50M<6 in Richter scale. Elenga is in influence of L3 fault line with probable magnitude range of 60M<7 Richter scale. History of seismic events of the study areas are briefly described in the table 3.2

22 Description of the Environment

Figure 3.3: Seismic zones of Bangladesh. Figure 3.4: Fault lines (Source: Banglapedia) (Source: Banglapedia)

Table 3.2: Earthquake history Year Description of the seismic event 1548 The first recorded earthquake was a terrible one. Sylhet and Chittagong were violently shaken, the earth was opened in many places and threw up water and mud of a sulphurous smell. 1642 More severe damage occurred in Sylhet district. Buildings were cracked but there was no loss of life. 1663 Severe earthquake in Assam, which continued for half an hour and Sylhet district was not free from its shock. 1812 Severe earthquake in many places of Bangladesh around May 11. The earthquake proved violent in Sylhet 1865 Terrible shock was felt, during the second earthquake which occurred in the winter of 1865, although no serious damage occurred. 1869 Known as Cachar Earthquake. Severely felt in Sylhet but no loss of life. The steeple of the church was shattered, the walls of the courthouse and the circuit bungalow cracked and in the eastern part of the district the banks of many rivers caved in. 1885 Known as the Bengal Earthquake. Occurred on 14 July with magnitude of 7.0 Richter scale and the epicentre was at Manikganj. This event was associated with the deep-seated Jamuna Fault. 1889 Occurred on 10 January with magnitude of 7.5 Richter scale and the epicentre was at Jaintia Hills. It affected Sylhet town and surrounding areas. 1897 Known as the Great India Earthquake with a magnitude of 8.7 Richter scale and epicentre was at Shillong Plateau. The great earthquake occurred on 12 June at 5.15 pm, caused serious damage to masonry buildings in Sylhet town where the death toll rose to 545. This was due to the collapse of the masonry buildings. 1918 Known as the Srimangal Earthquake. Occurred on 18 July with a magnitude of 7.6 Richter scale and epicentre was at Srimangal, Maulvi Bazar. Intense damage occurred in Srimangal, but in Dhaka only minor effects were observed. Source: Banglapedia

23 Description of the Environment

3.2.2 Atmosphere The climatic parameters data has been accumulated from different secondary sources (NWRD; WARPO, 2001) and synchronized at district level namely – Elenga, and Ashuganj. All the two study areas fall in the South-central climatic zone of Bangladesh. (Figure 3.5).

Figure 3.5: Climatic Sub-region (Source: Banglapedia) The climate of the study areas is tropical in nature, where three out of six seasons are found prominent. The extent of rainy season is from May to October and almost 90% of total rainfall occurs in this season. Mean monthly maximum rainfall for wet season has been observed as 395 mm and 270mm for Brahmanbaria and respectively. Mean monthly maximum rainfall for dry season has been observed as low as 6.5 mm for Kalihati followed by 6.6 mm for Brahmanbaria. November to February is termed as winter season characterized by dry and cold weather; rainfall is very rare in this period. Monthly average minimum temperatures have been found 11.30C at Tangail in January followed by 11.990C and 11.990C at Comilla and Brahmanbaria respectively (Figure3.7 shows monthly average minimum temperature). Summer season consists of April and May when air becomes much hot with minimum humidity. Dreadful storm (locally called Kal Boishakhi) occurs in this time with heavy rainfall; some times it is accompanied by hails. Monthly average maximum temperature of Elenga and Ashuganj are 340C and 320C respectively. Figure 3.6 shows monthly average maximum temperature. Monthly average relative humidity of the study areas varies up to 14% between dry and wet seasons due to temperature and rainfall variation. Annual average relative humidity of Elenga and Ashuganj are 78.3% and 79.2% respectively. Average sunshine hours for Elenga and Ashuganj for dry seasons are 7.2 hours and 7.5

24 Description of the Environment hours respectively and for wet seasons these values are 5.3 hours and 5.7 hours respectively. Average monthly wind speed for Elenga and Ashuganj for dry seasons are 60.5 km/day and 50.6 km/day respectively and for wet seasons the average values increase upto 143.8 km/day and 169.6 km/day respectively.

Figure 3.6: Mean monthly maximum Figure 3.7: Mean monthly minimum temperature temperature

Figure 3.8: Mean monthly rainfall

3.2.3 Ambient Air Quality Air pollution has recently been gaining priority among environmental issues. Exposure to air pollution is the main environmental threat to human health in towns, cities and also for important structural development works. There are two major sources of air pollution in Bangladesh, vehicular emissions and industrial emissions and these are mainly concentrated in the cities. Apart from that there are also numerous brick-making kilns working in dry season are another source of air pollution by emitting of oxides of sulfur and volatile organic compounds. Gas compressor stations may be considered as industry and the category of the area should be consider as “Industrial and mixed” area. Air quality standards according to the Department of Environment (DoE) for Suspended particulate maters (SPM), Sulphur-dioxide, Carbon monoxide and Oxides of nitrogen (NOx) are 500 microgram per cusec meter, 120 microgram per cusec meter, 5000 microgram per cusec meter and 100 microgram per cusec meter respectively. Table 3.3 shows the air quality standards for different categories of area. No existing record of ambient air quality has been found for the project sites.

25 Description of the Environment

Table 3.3: Air quality standard Sl Categories of Area Suspended Particulate Sulphur- Carbon Oxides No. Maters (SPM)* dioxide* Monoxide* Nitrogen* 1 Industrial and mixed 500 120 5000 100 2 Commercial and mixed 400 100 5000 100 3 Residential and rural 200 80 2000 80 4 Sensitive 100 30 1000 30

*Density in microgram per cusec meter Source: Environmental Conservation Rule (ECR)’97 Notes: 1. At national level, sensitive area includes monuments, health center, hospital, archeological site, educational institution, and government designated areas (if any). 2. Industrial units located in areas not designated, as industrial areas shall not discharge pollutants, which may contribute to exceeding the standard for air surrounding the areas, specified at Sl. nos. 3 and 4 above. 3. Suspended Particulate Matter means airborne particles of a diameter of 10 micron or less.

3.2.4 Ambient Water Quality Ambient water quality is represented by some selected parameters, which are crucial for drinking purpose, agricultural activities and to maintain optimum aquatic environment. All the values are justified against the standards set by the Environmental Conservation Rule (ECR) ’97 (Table 3.4). Seasonal average minimum values of DO for thetwo sites are in acceptable limit and found as 6.2 mg/l for Elenga of Tangail and 5.8 mg/l. for Ashuganj. BOD values are also found in acceptable limit, where the maximum values are found as 1.4 mg/l for Elenga and 3.0 mg/l for Ashuganj. pH values are also found in the acceptable range of 6.78 to 8.7 for the study areas. EC values are found 75 microS/cm to 85 microS/cm for Jamuna river, and 2.0 microS/cm to 450 microS/cm for Meghna river. EC in Ashuganj is much higher because of the saline water. Table 3.5 shows the ambient water quality of the study area.

Table 3.4: Standards for inland surface water

Sl. Best Practice based Parameters No. Classification pH BOD (mg/l) DO (mg/l) Total coliform (number /100) 1 Source of drinking water for 6.5–8.5 2 or less 6 or above 50 or less supply only after disinfecting 2 Water usable for 6.5 – 8.5 3 or less 5 or more 200 or less recreational activity 3 Source of drinking water 6.5 – 8.5 6 or less 6 or more 5000 or less for supply after conventional treatment 4 Water usable by fisheries 6.5 – 8.5 6 or less 5 or more - 5 Water usable by various 6.5 – 8.5 10 or less 5 or more 5000 or less process and cooling industries 6 Water usable for irrigation 6.5 – 8.5 10 or less 5 or more 1000 or less

Source: Environmental Conservation Rule (ECR)’97

26 Description of the Environment

Notes: 1. In water used for pisiculture, maximum limit of presence of ammonia as Nitrogen is 1.2 mg/l. 2. Electrical conductivity for irrigation water – 2250 mhos/cm (at a temperature of 25 C); Sodium less than 26%; boron less than 0.2%.

Table 3.5: Season wise average surface water quality status

Location PH EC Chloride DO (mg/l) BOD (mg/l) (micro S/cm) (mg/l)

Wet season Wet season Dry season Wet season Dry season Wet season Dry season Wet season Dry season Wet season Dry season Jamuna river Jamuna bridge 7.7 8.7 87 75 90 54 6.2 7.1 1.4 1.2 Meghna river NearChandpur 6.0 6.5 245 450 18 42 7.6 6.6 1.4 1.8 Near Ashugange 6.1 6.8 254 368 18 26 8.5 7.00 1.00 1.8 Meghna Ghat 6.95 7.18 116 136 2 8 6.2 5.8 3.0 2.8 Near Zia Fertilizer 6.9 7.15 2.0 7.18 3 12 6.0 3.0 2.8

Source: Department of Environment, 2006.

3.2.5 Ambient noise Gas compressor stations are considered as industry. According to Department of Environment (DoE), the category of the intervention area is “ Industrial area”. Standards determined for “ industrial area” is 75 dBa for day and 70 dBa for night. Table 3.6 delineates the standards for noise of different categories of areas. No existing record of noise quality has been found for the project sites.

Table 3.6: Standards for Sound

Sl Standards determined at dBa unit Category of areas No. Day Night 1 Silent zone 45 35 2 Residential area 50 40 3 Mixed area (mainly residential area, simultaneously 60 50 used for commercial and industrial purposes) 4 Commercial area 70 60 5 Industrial area 75 70 Source: E.C.R. ’97 Notes: 1. The time from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. is counted as day time. 2. The time from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. is counted as night time.

27 Description of the Environment

3. Area up to a radius of 100 meters around hospitals or educational institutions or special institutions/ establishments identified/to be identified by the Government is designated as Silent Zones where use of horns of vehicles or other audio signals, and loudspeakers are prohibited.

3.2.6 Land Resources Ashuganj site is under Agro ecological Region 16: Middle Meghna Floodplain. The study area comprises the levees of Meghna river. The area was part of low levee along the Meghna river. But the area was developed in the year 1992. The land was filled up by the river sands. At present the land is very flat and covered by grassland. This site is surrounded by canals, settlements and agricultural fields to the east, Meghna river to the west, Ashuganj fertilizer factory, settlements and rice fields to the south and GTCL Gas metering office to the north. The Elenga station has been included within Agro ecological region 8: Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Floodplain. The study site was part of deeply flooded basin. The soils were silty clay loams to clays. But the land was filled up by the river sands. At present this land is flat, developed and above flood level. The study area is surrounded by settlements, ponds and rice fields to the south and east, BPC area to the north and Titas office and road to the west

3.2.7 Water resources Topography and Drainage pattern Geographically the two proposed compressor station sites fall in two different topographical and flooded areas. There are clear differences in their topography as well as their drainage pattern. Ashuganj site at Brambaria falls in the medium to deeply flooded areas of Meghna river having very gentle slope. The Meghna river is the source of flooding and also acts as the main drainage route of all the interconnected rivers and surrounding areas. This site has already been developed and made free from normal flood and connected with the urban area. This site has both urban and natural drainage system. The urban drainage is the structural drain besides metallic road coming from Ashuganj town to Zia Fertilizer. The natural drainage pass through the low-lying floodplain connected with Meghna river. Elanga site is located in the semi-urbanized area besides Dhaka-Tangai highway and falls in the sand witched area of two rivers such as the Jamuna and Pungli (Dhaleswari). This is also located in the medium to deeply flooded areas of Jamuna river. The floodwater comes from Jamuna river and drained through Pungli river and ultimately passes to the Meghna river. Topographically the slope is gentle towards south. The existing drainage is through low laying agricultural land and water bodies of homestead surrounding the site. Similar to Ashuganj, it is also developed area free from natural flood. Surface water hydrology River, canal, beel and pond are main sources of surface water of Brahmanbaria sadar thana. Titas river and its braches forms river net in and around the district of Brahmanbaria and ultimately meet with the Meghna and flows in the west. The Meghna flows through out the year and passes besides the site at Ashuganj. All these rivers are tidal in natutre. Mean monthly maximum water level of Meghna river at Bhairab Bazar for dry and wet seasons are 7.95 m and 11.23 m respectively, whereas mean monthly minimum water level for dry and wet seasons varies between 6.7 m and 9.77 m respectively. River, canal, beel and pond are main sources of surface water of Kalihati thana. The Jamuna river is flowing in the west of , Dhalesshwari river passes through the thana from north to south and one branch of it passes through Durgapur, Salla, Elenga and Mohadev thana in the name of Lawhojong river and reach Tangail thana. Bankshi river flows through the eastern border. A big

28 Description of the Environment cannal passes through the Narayandia union in the middle and meets the Bankshi river in the east. Another canal named Nangail and Chabdi passed it from the north. Palima and Nagni are other mentionable canals. In the dry season, only the Jamuna remains navigable but Dhaleswari, Lowhojong and Bankshi rivers dry out in places. The canals completely dry out in the dry season. Mean monthly maximum water level of Jamuna river at the Jamuna bridge site for dry and wet seasons are 7.95 m and 11.23 m and mean monthly minimum water level for dry and wet seasons are 6.7 m and 9.77 m respectively.

Figure 3.9: Mean annual potential recharge

Ground water table condition Ground water table condition depends on the annual withdrawal, potential recharge as well as on the individual aquifer characteristics. Mean annual potential recharge of Elenga, and Brahmanbaria sadar are 700 mm and 600 mm respectively. Figure 3.9 summarizes the distribution of mean annual potential recharge. Ground water level data of BWDB were used to delineate ground water table condition. According to the data, monthly maximum average depth of ground water for Brahmanbaria Sadar and Elenga are 5.80 in mid April and 5.85 m in mid May respectively (Fig. 3.10).

29 Description of the Environment

Figure 3.10: Monthly average ground water depth

3.3 Land Resources

Ashuganj site is under Agro ecological Region 16: Middle Meghna Floodplain. The study area comprises the levees of Meghna river. The area was part of low levee along the Meghna river. But the area was developed in the year 1992. The land was filled up by the river sands. At present the land is very flat and covered by grassland. This site is surrounded by canals, settlements and agricultural fields to the east, Meghna river to the west, Ashuganj fertilizer factory, settlements and rice fields to the south and GTCL Gas metering office to the north. The Elenga station has been included within Agro ecological region 8: Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Floodplain. The study site was part of deeply flooded basin. The soils were silty clay loams to clays. But the land was filled up by the river sands. At present this land is flat, developed and above flood level. The study area is surrounded by settlements, ponds and rice fields to the south and east, BPC area to the north and Titas office and road to the west.

3.4 Ecological Resources

3.4.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystem Ashuganj site Bio-ecological zone The Ashuganj site is situated within the “Meghna Floodplain” bio-ecological zone of the country. Meghna Floodplains is created by the deposition of sediments brought by the old Brahmaputra as well as the Meghna river. The floodplain occupies a low lying landscapes of chars and meandering rivers. Most of the areas are deeply flooded during monsoon, while vast tracts of paddy field is the main land use for the dry season. Homesteads are constructed mostly on the high earth platform to avoid yearly flooding. Because of the variable land types and flooding depth the species richness is high for the zone. Ecosystems The project site and the adjoining areas of the proposed compressor station occupy both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Terrestrial ecosystem The project site is a land filled rive bank devoid of any significant floral and faunal species. Even in the neighborhood there is no important vegetated area. Major divisions of terrestrial ecosystems found

30 Description of the Environment adjacent to the project area are i) Mud flat, ii) Homesteads, iii) Agricultural land, and iv) Urban area. Mud flat bank of the river Meghna bordered the southern edge of the site. Nearest homesteads are about 100m away from the construction site. Agricultural lands are fragmented around the homesteads and are used for producing one or two rice crop and some vegetables. Homestead gardens are well vegetated with timber and fruit yielding trees and vegetable species. Many species of wild plants also referable in homesteads and village grooves. Urban and semi-urban areas do exist with low density of vegetation. Because of serious disturbance due to urbanization and presence of heavy industry, wildlife population and distribution are poor, but still some small mammals and birds can be observed. Aquatic ecosystem Only major aquatic ecosystem close to the project location is the Meghna River, which is about 500m from the southern boundary of the site. Other representing wetlands are ponds and ditches around the homesteads. However, all these ditches and back water pools are linked with the river flow. These seasonal wetlands are mostly used for both capture and culture fisheries in the monsoon but converted into paddy field in the dry season. The Meghna River supports a host of important aquatic species. Moreover, nearby seasonal aquatic ecosystems are abounded not only with numerous aquatic flora but also with many aquatic wildlife species including birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Biodiversity The project area and its neighborhood support the habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. Some important species are mentioned in Table 3.8.

Table 3.8: List of flora and fauna species

Flora Scientific Name Local Name Habit Areca catechu Supari T Erythrina indica Mandar T Cocos nucifea Narikel T Borassus flabellifer Tal T Polyalthia longifolia Debdaru T Phonix sylvestris Khejur T Albizia procera Koroi T Crotolaria anagyroids Haldaphu H Duabanga grandiflora Bandarhulla H Spilanthes iabadicensis Banganda H Lippia geminata Bakkan H Crataeva nurvala Barun T Holarrhena antidysenterica, Kurchi T Musa paradisiacal Kola H Cucuma zeodaria Shoti H Alternanthera sessilis Helencha H Cynodon dactylon Durba H Erythrina variegata Mandar T Lagerstromis speciosa Jarul T Argemone mexicana Shialkanta H Serratula pallida Jhurjhur H Hygrophila auriculata Kulekada H

31 Description of the Environment

Scientific Name Local Name Habit Saccharum spontaneum kash H Gelonium multiflorum Ban naranga H Imperata cylindrical Ulu H Calycopteris floribunda Gaichha lata Cle Syzygium cumini Jam T Bambusa arundinacea Kantabansh T Leea alata Kukura S Buddleia asiatica Neemada T Calamus sp. Bet S Cassia fistula Sonali Cle Clerodendrum viscossum Bhant S Scoparia dulcis Bondhoney Cle Sida cordifolia Berela S Smilax macrophylla Kumari lata Cle Monochoria hastata Bara nukha H Zizyphus mauritiana Boroi T Vitex glabarata Arsol S Polygonum glabrum Bishkatali H Vetiveria zizaniodes Ghagra H Clinogyne dichotoma Patipata S Hygroryza aristata Phutki F Habit: T: Tree, S: Shrub; H: Herb; Cle: Climber; F: Floating Fauna Scientific Name Local Name Status Mammals Eptesicus pachyotis Thick-yeard bat N/A Tupaia glis Common tree shrew P Viverricula indica Small Indian civet VU Capricornis sumatraensis Mainland shrew N/A Aonyx cinerea Clawless otter EN Manis crassicaudata Indian pangolin EN Reptiles Xenocrophis cerasogaster Dark-bellied marsh snake VU Typhlops porrectus, Slender worm snake N/A Bungarus fasciatus Banded krait EN Varanus bengalensis Guishap VU Boiga ochraceus Tawny cat snake N/A Coluber nigromarginatus Green rat snake VU Boiga multomaculata Large spotted cat snake N/A Amphibians Rana cyanophlyctis Kotkoti beng C Hoplobactrachus tigerinus Bull frog C Occidozyga lima Puddle frog N/A Birds Corvus splendens House Crow C Vanellus davaucelii River lapwing EN

32 Description of the Environment

Scientific Name Local Name Status Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite N/A Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret C Gyps bengalensis White-rumped vulture R Hemixos flavala Ashy bulbul N/A Spilornis cheela Crested serpent eagle R Pellorneum albiventre Spot-throated babbler CR Aplonis panayensis Asian glossy starling N/A Eudynamys scolopacea Asian Cuckoo N/A Sturnus contra Asian pied starling N/A Acridotheres ginginianus Bank Myna C Tyto alba Brown owl VU Lonchura malacca Black Munia N/A Haliastur indus Brahmini Kite VU Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret C Passer domesticus House sparrow C Phalacrocorax niger Little cormorant C Pycnonotus cafer Red vented Bulbul C Pericrocotus sinamomeus Small minivet N/A

Status: VU: Vulnerable; EN: Endangered; C: Common; R: Rare; CR: Critically Endangered N/A: Not Available

Elenga site Bio-ecological zone The Elenga site is situated within the “Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain” bio-ecological zone of the country. Brahmaputra-Jamuna floodplain comprises the active channel of the Brahmaputra River and the young adjoining areas formed after the Brahmaputra River shifted to its present course. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna floodplain possesses a unique variety of plants and wildlife species, might be due to its proximity to Madhupur Sal tract. Ecosystems The project site and the adjoining areas of the proposed compressor station occupy both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Terrestrial ecosystem This project site is a road side land filled area devoid of any significant floral or faunal species. At present it is used for some low level agriculture. The site also includes a small partly filled natural ditch. The neighborhood areas are mostly elevated homestead platform with good vegetation cover. The area is crisscrossed by the dense network of roads and the “National Highway 4” which connects Dhaka with Jamuna bridge is about 200m from the project site. In the project area major divisions found within the terrestrial ecosystems are: i) Agricultural land, ii) Homesteads, and iii) Built up areas. The agricultural lands are mostly used for paddy cultivation and or vegetables production. Homestead gardens are abounded by timber tree, fruit yielding and vegetable species. Homestead platforms are also producing different kinds of bamboo and cane species. Many species of wild plant species can also be observed in homesteads and village grooves. Urban and built up areas exist with low density of vegetation. Because of serious disturbance due to urbanization and dense road network

33 Description of the Environment with heavy traffic load, the wildlife population and distribution are poor, but still some small mammals and birds can be observed. Aquatic ecosystem There is no wetland ecosystem in the project area. Most of the adjoining areas are above the average flood level and only flooded during the high flood. The project is located about 5 kilometers from the left bank of The Jamuna River. Few other small ponds and ditches are scattered nearby around the homestead platform and most of them are used for household purposes and small scale fish culture. Nearby seasonal aquatic ecosystems are not very rich with aquatic flora faunal species. Biodiversity The project area and its neighborhood support the habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. Some important species are mentioned in Table 3.9.

Table 3.9 List of flora and fauna species Flora Scientific Name Local Name Habit Erythrina indica Mandar T Cocos nucifea Narikel T Anthocephalus chinensis Kadam T Acacia nilotica Babla T Phonix sylvestris Khejur T Albizia procera Koroi T Calotropis gigantea Akand H Aphanamixis polystachya Pitraj T Spilanthes iabadicensis Banganda H Lippia geminata Bakkan H Crataeva nurvala Barun T Holarrhena antidysenterica, Kurchi T Musa paradisiacal Kola H Cucuma zeodaria Shoti H Alternanthera sessilis Helencha H Cynodon dactylon Durba H Erythrina variegata Mandar T Lagerstromis speciosa Jarul T Argemone mexicana Shialkanta H Serratula pallida Jhurjhur H Hygrophila auriculata Kulekada H Saccharum spontaneum kash H Gelonium multiflorum Ban naranga H Imperata cylindrical Ulu H Calycopteris floribunda Gaichha lata Cle Syzygium cumini Jam T Bambusa arundinacea Kantabansh T Leea alata Kukura S Buddleia asiatica Neemada T Calamus sp. Bet S Cassia fistula Sonali Cle

34 Description of the Environment

Scientific Name Local Name Habit Clerodendrum viscossum Bhant S Scoparia dulcis Bondhoney Cle Sida cordifolia Berela S Smilax macrophylla Kumari lata Cle Monochoria hastata Bara nukha H Zizyphus mauritiana Boroi T Vitex glabarata Arsol S Polygonum glabrum Bishkatali H Vetiveria zizaniodes Ghagra H Clinogyne dichotoma Patipata S Hygroryza aristata Phutki F Habit: T: Tree, S: Shrub; H: Herb; Cle: Climber; F: Floating Fauna Scientific Name Local Name Status Mammals Eptesicus pachyotis Thick-yeard bat N/A Tupaia glis Common tree shrew P Viverricula indica Small Indian civet VU Capricornis sumatraensis Mainland shrew N/A Manis crassicaudata Indian pangolin EN Reptiles Bungarus fasciatus Banded krait EN Varanus bengalensis Guishap VU Boiga ochraceus Tawny cat snake N/A Coluber nigromarginatus Green rat snake VU Boiga multomaculata Large spotted cat snake N/A Amphibians Rana cyanophlyctis Kotkoti beng C Hoplobactrachus tigerinus Bull frog C Occidozyga lima Puddle frog N/A Birds Corvus splendens House Crow C Vanellus davaucelii River lapwing EN Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite N/A Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret C Gyps bengalensis White-rumped vulture R Hemixos flavala Ashy bulbul N/A Spilornis cheela Crested serpent eagle R Pellorneum albiventre Spot-throated babbler CR Aplonis panayensis Asian glossy starling N/A Eudynamys scolopacea Asian Cuckoo N/A Sturnus contra Asian pied starling N/A Acridotheres ginginianus Bank Myna C Tyto alba Brown owl VU Lonchura malacca Black Munia N/A Haliastur indus Brahmini Kite VU

35 Description of the Environment

Scientific Name Local Name Status Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret C Passer domesticus House sparrow C Phalacrocorax niger Little cormorant C Pycnonotus cafer Red vented Bulbul C Pericrocotus sinamomeus Small minivet N/A

Status: VU: Vulnerable; EN: Endangered; C: Common; R: Rare; CR: Critically Endangered N/A: Not Available

3.5 Economic Development

3.5.1 Employment, poverty reduction and social benefit Installation of compressor stations with other pipeline sub-projects will create an efficient and viable gas infrastructure for expanding access to gas to less developed western region of the country to help balanced regional development. This will not only save foreign exchange currently spent on fuel imports but also will have a positive impact on the environment. During construction and operation of the project local labor will be employed temporarily which will improve the overall socio-economic condition as well as poverty status. Besides installation of Compressor Stations will contribute significantly in establishment of gas based power plants, industrial and commercial unit by supplying adequate gas. In addition, with the installation of compressor station facilities will be created for supplying adequate gas. Use of natural gas as fuel will replace fossil and bio-fuels thus improve the ambient air quality in urban centers and indoor air quality in many households, which will have a positive impact on the environment and health, particularly of the woman and children who are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of biomass and fuel wood.

3.5.2 Agriculture Sector The study area in Ashuganj and Elenga are remaining fallow. No agricultural crops are grown on this land.

3.5.3 Transportation Sector

Ashuganj Compressor Station Site

Ashuganj compressor station site is located beside Meghna river and Dhaka – Sylhet highway. But the access road to the site from the highway is not wide enough for large vehicles. So temporary jetty beside the jetty of Zia Fertilizer Factory at the Meghna river can be used for handling of equipments. The Zia Fertilizer Factory use this jetty for shipment of fertilizer by truck through ferry/ barges during peak season demand of fertilizer mainly in Boro rice cultivation period. Rest of the time in a year, the jetty remains unused by the factory. So the jetty can be used by GTCL for shipment of the large equipments.

Elenga Compressor Station Site

Elenga site is accessibly by road only. The Dhaka - Tangail – Sirajganj road is about 50 ft wide, which is on the west side of GTCL station. There is about 15 ft wide road connect the existing GTCL office to the Dhaka - Tangail - Sirajganj road. During construction period, traffic jam may occur due to transport and handling of equipments and construction material for several times. Although the

36 Description of the Environment duration of traffic jam may be for few minutes, a baseline survey need to be conducted to analyze the traffic volume and type of vehicle movement on the road.

3.5.4 Infrastructure facilities Water supply system in the two compressor station sites is based on ground water. Shallow and Deep Tube Wells are used for abstraction of ground water. There is no municipal sewerage system in those sites. Only septic methods are used for domestic sewages.

3.5.5 Power supply system The two sites of compressor station are located near existing power distribution lines of local power distribution and supply authorities. Already power is used in existing stations of GTCL at Ashuganj and Elenga site. So existing power supply system can be used with due permission from respective authority for proposed compressor stations.

3.6 Social and Cultural Resources

Baseline social environment involves present demographic and socio-economic status, educational and cultural properties of the area, area vulnerabilities and development activities. Demographic and socio-economic status refer to a wide variety of parameters. This study particularly refers to population, community structures, employment and labor market, income and expenditure patterns of households, public health, education, vulnerabilities, values and customs. Baseline social environment of the two sites is described below:

3.6.1 Ashuganj Compressor Station The proposed AshuganjCompressor Station is located at Char Chartala in Ashuganj under the district of Brahmanbaria. The Upazila is bounded on the north by Sarail Upazila, on the east and south by Brahmanbaria sadar Upazila and on the west by the river Meghna. The Charchartala village is 6.36 Km2 in area. The proposed compressor station site is just near the ZIA Fertilizer Factory.

Population

Total population of the mauza is 23,555, according to 2001 census. The distribution of population with number and size of households, literacy rate and sex ratio is given below:

Mauza Population House holds Literacy Rate Sex Ratio M F T No. Size M F Total (Number) Char Chartala 12484 11071 23555 4061 5.8 51.1 48.77 49.93 113:100

Source: Population Census-2001, Community Series, Zila: Brahmanbaria, BBS

Community structures

The community structure of the location of Charchartala site is predominantly featured as semi-urban, if the structure is defined to be constituted by source of income and main occupation of majority of

37 Description of the Environment the community. The majority of dwelling households (54%) depend on business, construction, services and foreign remittance, while non-agricultural labor and agricultural labor involve 6.8%. But a reasonable percentage of households (38.6%) own agricultural lands.

Employment and labor market

The major sources of income of the households under the project area are service (42.2%), business (18.5%), industry (5.1%), agricultural labor (4.6%), transport (3.9%), agriculture/forestry/livestock (3.1%), and remittance (2.1%). About 32% of the population in the project area, however, are not working and 3.5% looking for work. A remarkable portion (26.4%) engage with household work. A reasonable percentage of households (41.1%) own agricultural lands, although only 3.1% mainly depends on agriculture. As for labor market, hotel and restaurants, business, services, construction, water, electricity and gas sectors are growing with modest demand for labor. Agricultural demand for labor is relatively increasing at a lower rate, because of a negative attitude to such labor in an urbanizing context of the society.

Income and expenditure patterns of households

Main source of income of the majority of earners is non-agricultural occupation. The village is situated just by the side of the National highway, quite near to Ashuganj town. So, pattern of consumption is semi-urban. Average household size is 5.8, high in comparison to average national size. Their main sources of income are business and household work. Expenditure pattern, as reported by the local people, is increasing due to more propensity to consume urban services and goods. Very limited households have large income and their expenditure pattern is also high.

Drinking water, Housing and sanitation

Most of the households (78%) have kacha house while 10% have semi pucca and about 9% have pucca houses in the village. Remaining 3% have Jhupri houses having the lowest or no safety of living. All such 97% households have tube well as the source of drinking water. About 66% households have sanitary and 29% have unhygienic latrine facilities, and the remaining 5% have none. This reflects a not so good situation of health and hygiene for the dwelling households. About 77% households enjoy electricity power for consumption.

Education

Around 47% of population of the village constitute the school going age population (5 – 24 years). Out of that, 55% attend schools. Female attendance is more than male ones, as per 2001 statistics of BBS.

Religion and Cultural Diversity

People from different types of religion live in the project area. Most of the people are Muslim (97.6%) and the remaining are Hindu (2.2%) and Buddhist (0.1%). There is no other religious and tribal people in the area.

3.6.2 Elenga Compressor Station The proposed Elenga Compressor Station is located at Elenga mauza of Elenga Union and Rajabari of Bangra Union within under Tangail district. Kalihati is the 3rd largest Upazila in Tangail district in respect of population. The Upazila is bounded on the north by Ghatail and Bhuapur

38 Description of the Environment

Upazila, on the east by Shakhipur Upazila, on the south by and on the west by Sirajganj sadar and Belkuchi Upazila of Sirajganj district. Elenga village is only 1.38 Km2 in area. The station site is just near the Bangladesh National Highway # 7. The Jamuna bridge is just adjacent to the site.

Population

Total population of the village is 6514 according to 2001 census. The distribution of population with number and size of households, literacy rate and sex ratio is given below:

Mauza Population House holds Literacy Rate Sex Ratio M F T No. Size M F Elenga+Rajabari 3405 3109 6514 1448 4.5 57.46 42.14 106:100 Source: Population Census-2001, Community Series, Zila-Tangail, BBS

Community structures

The community structure of the location of Elenga site is predominantly featured as non- agricultural, if the structure is defined to be constituted by source of income and main occupation of majority of the community. The majority of households of Elenga (54%) depend on business and services, while non-agricultural labor, construction and agricultural labor involve 7.8%, 7.2% and 6.7% respectively. But a reasonable percentage of households (38.1%) own agricultural lands. Besides, about half (48.4%) of the households of Rajabari is occupied in business, service and transport related work, though a good percentage (60%) of them are owning agriculture land for cultivation.

Employment and labor market

Typical of Kalihati Upazila of Tangail district, Elenga village has about 20% of its population below 10 years of age. On average, 34% population of active age bracket are not working while 27% are engaged in household works. The remaining 39% people of active age bracket are effectively employed. As for labor market, hotel and restaurants, business, services, construction, water, electricity and gas sectors are growing with modest demand for labor. Agricultural demand for labor is relatively increasing at a lower rate, because of a negative attitude to such labor in an urbanizing context of the society.

Income and expenditure patterns of households

Main source of income of the majority of earners is non-agricultural occupation. The village is situated just by the side of the highway and quite near to Tangail district town. So, pattern of consumption is semi-urban. Majority of households have 4 members each and main source of income is business. Expenditure pattern, as reported by the local people, is inclining towards higher figures due to more propensity to consume urban services and goods. Very limited households have large income and their expenditure pattern is also high.

Drinking water, Housing and sanitation

Tube well water is the main source of drinking water of the study area. About 92% households of Elenga and 97% of Rajabari are using tube well water for drinking purpose. Tap, well, and pond are the other source of drinking water. About 68% households of the study mouzas enjoy electricity

39 Description of the Environment power for consumption. About 68% households of Elenga and 69% of Rajabari have sanitary latrines. This reflects a good situation of health and hygiene for the dwelling households. Most of the people are Muslim (71.5%) and the remaining are Hindu (28.5%). There is no other religious and tribal people in the area.

Education

Around 39% of population of the village constitute the school going age population (5 – 24 years). Out of that, 53% attend schools where male and female distribution is about 50:50. Religion and Cultural Diversity Most of the people are Muslim (71.5%) and the remaining are Hindu (28.5%). There is no other religious and tribal people in the area.

40

Chapter 4 Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts

4.1 Introduction

Under the present scope and sphare of the present IEE study, impacts to various IECs during the pre- construction, construction and post-construction have been identified qualitatively. Quantitative impact analysis needs more time and in depth analysis of data based on structured and more detail primary data and secondary information collection. The potential environmental impacts were identified and the respective measures are described in the table given below.

4.2 Environmental Impacts

4.2.1 Water, air and noise Since the water, air and noise quality has not been tested at the sites, impact analysis for these components has not been carried out with extensive evaluation of quantitative and qualitative aspects in the IEE stage. The impact assessment for the water, air and noise quality of the proposed sites, based on the initial field visit, has been presented in the following sections. Ashuganj site This site is now in fully urbanized and industrial area having air pollution due to industrial and urban activities. However more air and noise pollution will be created during and post construction. The water quality will be impacted during and post construction if wastes are dumped without proper management and treatment. Similarly ground water potential will also be impacted. Elanga site Presently this site is a semi urbanized area having noise pollution due to massive movement of vehicles to Northern zone from eastern zone and vice versa and more air and noise pollution will be created during construction. The water quality will be impacted during post construction if wastes are dumped without proper management and treatment. Similarly ground water potential will also be impacted. Water logging problem may be created due to improper drainage surrounding to this site under present land use if proper drainage system is not constructed.

4.2.2 Land use Ashuganj station At present the study area is under grassland. But all this grassland after the completion of the project will be changed for the location of buildings, sheds, and compressor establishments. Elenga Station Present land is remaining fallow which has been developed for accommodating the Compressor establishments, Office buildings and sheds etc.

41 Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts

4.2.3 Soil pollution Ashuganj station The soils and ground water of the project site may be contaminated with the solid and liquid wastages of the Compressor machineries. Elanga station The liquid and solid wastes as produced by the compressor machineries not only pollute the soils of the project site but also pollute the soils of the adjacent agricultural lands.

4.2.4 Crop production Ashuganj station At present, there is no agriculture production. So there is no impact on this IEC. Elanga station At present, there is no agriculture production. So there is no impact on this IEC.

4.2.5 Terrestrial Ecosystems Ashuganj Station Impact of terrestrial ecosystem is expected to minimum as the construction site is already been developed long ago for this purpose. The site possesses no important vegetation cover and hence no significant wildlife inhibiting the spot. Nearest homestead is about 100 m from the site and therefore, no serious impact is expected on its vegetation and wildlife communities. Minor impact is expected for local wildlife especially avi-fauna due to noise and increased human activities. Elenga Station Impact of terrestrial ecosystem is expected to be minimum as the construction site has already been developed for this purpose. The site itself possesses no vegetation cover as it is already prepared for the construction and hence no wildlife inhibiting the spot. Impact on adjoining homestead garden based ecosystem might be important as the project site is bounded by homestead gardens in the south and east.

4.2.6 Aquatic ecosystem Ashuganj station There would be no significant impact on wetland ecosystem, as the project is not expected to discharge pollutants in the river system or nearby wetlands. Minor impact might be associated with the construction of landing stage and connecting roads during the construction phase of the work. Elenga site There would be no significant impact on wetland ecosystem. As the project is not expected to discharge pollutants in the river system or nearby floodplain it would not cause any major impact during operation. Minor impact might be associated with the construction of connecting roads during the construction phase of the work.

42 Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts

4.2.7 Interference with the existing infrastructures Ashuganj C/S The existing underground cables, SCADA cables, utilities and pipelines in the Ashuganj site may be affected by the project activities during construction period. Elenga C/S The existing underground cables, SCADA cables and pipelines in the Elenga site may be affected by the project activities during construction period.

4.2.8 Radioactive wastes Radioactive materials that may be encountered at a site can emit three types of harmful radiation: alpha particles (), beta particles (!), and gamma waves ("). All three forms harm living organisms by imparting energy which ionizes molecules in the cells. Hence, the three are referred to as ionizing radiation. Ionization may upset the normal cellular function causing cell dysfunction or death. Alpha particles are hazardous primarily when introduced internally through ingestion or inhalation to the body. Various types of alpha emitters can be damaging to the structure of the bone and concentrate in various body organs such as the liver, lungs and spleen. Since they transfer so much energy in a short distance, their ionization potential is very high making an Alpha emitter the most dangerous of the naturally occurring RADMAT. Beta particles can penetrate the outer layer of the epidermis from 0.1 to 0.5 inches in depth. Skin burns may result from excessive doses of beta radiation. Beta emitters are hazardous when introduced internally to the body. Gamma radiation is wave-like and commonly results in deep penetration of body tissue. Gamma waves pass through all materials to some degree. Clothing, including protective gear, will not prevent gamma radiation from interacting with body tissues. The result is severe damage to the skin and internal body organs. The gamma waves can travel over 7,000 centimetres in air.

4.2.9 Pipeline on Jamuna Bridge Due to the increased pressure in the pipeline produced by Elenga C/S, the pipeline on Jamuna bridge connecting east and west zone may be affected. So this issue should be taken care off in designing the C/S at Elenga.

4.2.10 Accidental gas leakage and explosion

Possiblity of accidental gas leakage and explosion is verry common hazards in compressor station where high pressure system is involved. Accident might be occurred at any pressure vaults and parts that might cause huge damage to environment and surrounding properties.

43

Environmental Management Plan

Chapter 5 Environmental Management Plan for Installation of Compressor Stations at Ashuganj & Elenga

The environmental management plan (EMP) is the end-product of the IEE study and should be integrated into the project design for sustainable development of the project. Integration of the EMP into the project design would minimize the effect of the negative impacts and increase the benefits of the positive impacts in addition to creating an opportunity of monitoring changes taking place in the environmental and social components at the pre-construction, construction and post-construction phases. The benefit of the IEE study would not be derived and would remain a theoretical exercise if the EMP is not integrated into the project design. The environmental management plan (EMP) include the following: i) Mitigation measures aimed at minimizing the effect of the negative impacts; ii) Enhancement measures aimed at increasing the benefits of the positive impacts; iii) Compensation measures required for paying compensation for negative impacts which can not be mitigated; iv) Contingency measures required for taking care of accidental events; and v) Environmental monitoring plan for detecting changes taking place due to the proposed interventions at Ashuganj and Elenga. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared wherein mitigation measures for minimizing the effect of negative impacts and enhancement measures for increasing the benefits of the positive impacts have been suggested in Tables 5.1 and 5.2.

Table 5.1: Mitigation/enhancement measures for impacts at Ashuganj site

Impact Mitigation/Enhancement measures Responsible Agencies A. Pre-construction Phase Labor employment Employment of local laborers should be prioritized. GTCL & EPC contractor Encroachment of public/private Compensation for crop loss and damage to properties GTCL and EPC properties during mobilization contractor

Underground cables and pipelines Designing of compressor station should be compatible GTCL and EPC in the Ashuganj C/S sites with the existing infrastructures contractor B. Construction Phase Air pollution  Water spraying during construction works to GTCL and EPC control the dust. contractor Noise pollution  Compressor station shall be sufficiently covered GTCL and EPC using sound and noise absorbing materials to contractor absorb sound, noise and vibration.

45 Environmental Management Plan

Impact Mitigation/Enhancement measures Responsible Agencies  All stationary noise generating equipment shall be enclosed.  Boundary wall with sufficient height (8-10 ft) shall be constructed. Soil pollution  Solid and liquid waste shall not be spread over A surveillance the project site. team formed by  Oil Storage area should be paved with the catch implementing drain with line pit. agency (GTCL) and EPC  Any spillage on the ground should be scraped and contractor stored in a container for safe disposal.  Finally the spillage should be burried in a pit lined with geo-composite and HDPE liner. Encroachment/ Obstruction to To compensate for the loss of crops or properties to GTCL existing public and private land and the owners of land and structures to prepare the right properties of way from river point to the site Labor employment Employment of local laborers should be prioritized. GTCL and EPC contractor

Encroachment/ Obstruction to Provide alternative access road to the highway for the GTCL existing public passage to highway nearby inhabitants. Underground cables and pipelines Avoid or rearrange the underground cables and GTCL and EPC in the Ashuganj C/S sites pipelines during construction. contractor Emitting radioactive material [X-  Radioactive source/materials will be used during GTCL and EPC rays and gamma waves ()] NDT (Non Destructive Testing) operations of contractor welding joints.  NDT operation should be performed in a controlled and restricted area with proper notification and safety pre-cautions.  The workers must wear the proper Pb shielding for protecting X-ray. Shielding includes Pb apron, Pb grooves etc. Experienced technicians in a controlled setting also helps to minimize the emission of X-rays.  Common materials which are used to shield against Gamma Rays () are usually steel or lead.  Rules and Regulation of Atomic Energy Commission of Bangladesh should be followed.

46 Environmental Management Plan

Impact Mitigation/Enhancement measures Responsible Agencies Health and Safety of workers and  Necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) GTCL and EPC surrounding people: must be used by the personnel working inside the contractor station as measure of safety.  Fire fighting equipment including fire hydrant should be kept in the project site.  The workers should be trained in health, safety and environment (HSE).  Proper manpower scheduling is required to ensure health & safety of workers.  Building awareness for surrounding people about the project activities, probable impacts and mitigation measures.  Proper sanitation facilities must be maintained inside the plant area and as well as inside the workers colony. Accidental fire and gas leakage  Safety monitoring system including highly GTCL and EPC during commissioning the station reliable gas detectors to monitor leaks and the contractor lower explosive limit.  Install triple redundant fire and gas detection system including alarms and automated shutdown at all the pressure controlling vault  Depressurization system for entire plant C. Post Construction Phase Air pollution Emission from compressor station (NOx, CO & PM) GTCL and EPC should comply with the DoE standard. contractor Noise pollution  Noise level of the compressor station including GTCL and EPC metering runs should be maintained as per DoE contractor standard.  The people who are living in the existing building adjacent to the metering runs presently in operation in the premises of Ashuganj Gas Manifold Staion should be relocated to safe distance and the building may be used as store house Or, The existing metering runs should be abandoned after installation of new metering runs under Ashuganj Compressor Station facilities. Surface water quality may  Sewage from plant and residential area should be GTCL and EPC deteriorate due to sewage/ liquid kept in septic tank. No sewage should be dumped contractor waste disposal to Meghna river in the river or flood plain lands. near Ashuganj site only  Liquid waste and engine oils should be kept in tanks / drums to avoid contamination with water and soil. Soil pollution  Solid and liquid waste shall not be spread over A surveillance the project site. team formed by  Oil Storage area should be paved with the catch implementing dEPC

47 Environmental Management Plan

Impact Mitigation/Enhancement measures Responsible Agencies drain with line pit. agency and EPC  Any spillage on the ground should be scraped and contractor stored in a container for safe disposal.  Finally the spillage should be burried in a pit lined with geo-composite and HDPE liner. Health and Safety of workers and  Necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) GTCL and EPC surrounding people. must be used by the personnel working inside the contractor station as measure of safety.  Fire fighting equipment including fire hydrant should be kept in the project site.  The workers should be trained in health, safety and environment (HSE).  Proper manpower scheduling is required to ensure health & safety of workers.  Building awareness for surrounding people about the project activities, probable impacts and mitigation measures.  Proper sanitation facilities must be maintained inside the plant area and as well as inside the workers colony. Accidental gas leakage and  Safety monitoring system including highly GTCL and EPC explosion reliable gas detectors to monitor leaks and the contractor lower explosive limit.  Triple redundant fire and gas detection system including alarms and automated shutdown at all the pressure controlling vault should be installed with depressurization system for entire plant  Computerized remote monitoring of the pressure system for entire plant

Table 5.2: Mitigation measures for impacts at Elenga site

Responsible Impact Mitigation measures Agencies A. Pre-Construction Phase Labor employment Employment of local laborers should be prioritized. GTCL & EPC contractor Encroachment of public/private Compensation for crop loss and damage to properties GTCL and EPC properties during mobilization contractor

Underground cables and pipelines Designing of compressor station should be GTCL and EPC in the Elenga C/S sites compatible with the existing infrastructures contractor

48 Environmental Management Plan

Responsible Impact Mitigation measures Agencies Existing pipeline on Bangabandhu  During designing the Elenga compressor station, GTCL and EPC Bridge (Jamuna Bridge) assessment (hydraulic uriedg, vibration contractor analysis etc.) shall be performed for the impact on existing pipeline (30” dia) on Bangabandhu Bridge (Jamuna Bridge) for increased pressure after installation of compressor station.  HAZOP study should be carried out. B. Construction Phase Air pollution  Water spraying during construction works to GTCL and EPC control the dust. contractor Noise pollution  Compressor station shall be sufficiently covered GTCL and EPC using sound and noise absorbing materials to contractor absorb sound, noise and vibration.  All stationary noise generating equipment shall be enclosed.  Boundary wall with sufficient height (8-10 ft) shall be constructed. Soil pollution  Solid and liquid waste shall not be spread over A surveillance the project site. team formed by  Oil Storage area should be paved with the catch implementing drain with line pit. agency (GTCL) and EPC  Any spillage on the ground should be scraped contractor and stored in a container for safe disposal.  Finally the spillage should be uried in a pit lined with geo-composite and HDPE liner. Crop damage Excavated earth material should not be dumped over EPC contractor the adjacent agricultural land Labor employment Employment of local laborers should be prioritized. GTCL and EPC contractor Underground cables and pipelines Avoid or rearrange the underground cables and GTCL and EPC in the Elenga C/S sites pipelines during construction. contractor Emitting radioactive material [X-  Radioactive source/materials will be used during GTCL and EPC rays and gamma waves ()] NDT (Non Destructive Testing) operations of contractor welding joints.  NDT operation should be performed in a controlled and restricted area with proper notification and safety pre-cautions.  The workers must wear the proper Pb shielding for protecting X-ray. Shielding includes Pb apron, Pb grooves etc. Experienced technicians in a controlled setting also helps to minimize the emission of X-rays.  Common materials which are used to shield against Gamma Rays () are usually steel or lead.  Rules and Regulation of Atomic Energy Commission of Bangladesh should be followed.

49 Environmental Management Plan

Responsible Impact Mitigation measures Agencies Health and Safety of workers and  Necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) GTCL and EPC surrounding people. must be used by the personnel working inside the contractor station as measure of safety.  Fire fighting equipment including fire hydrant should be kept in the project site.  The workers should be trained in health, safety and environment (HSE).  Proper manpower scheduling is required to ensure health & safety of workers.  Building awareness for surrounding people about the project activities, probable impacts and mitigation measures.  Proper sanitation facilities must be maintained inside the plant area and as well as inside the workers colony. Accidental fire and gas leakage  Safety monitoring system including highly GTCL and EPC during commissioning the station reliable gas detectors to monitor leaks and the contractor lower explosive limit.  Install triple redundant fire and gas detection system including alarms and automated shutdown at all the pressure controlling vault  Depressurization system for entire plant C. Post-Construction Phase Air pollution Emission from compressor station (NOx, CO & PM) GTCL and EPC should comply with the DoE standard. contractor Noise pollution Noise level of the compressor station including metering GTCL and EPC runs should be maintained as per DoE standard. contractor Drainage of surrounding areas Pipe culvert under approach road and surface drain pipes GTCL and EPC are to be constructed at surrounding points. contractor Surface water quality may deteriorate  Sewage from plant and residential area should be GTCL and EPC due to sewage/ liquid waste disposal kept in septic tank. No sewage should be dumped in contractor to Meghna river near Ashuganj site the river or flood plain lands. only  Liquid waste and engine oils should be kept in tanks / drums to avoid contamination with water and soil. Soil pollution  Solid and liquid waste shall not be spread over the A surveillance project site. team formed by  Oil Storage area should be paved with the catch implementing drain with line pit. agency and EPC contractor  Any spillage on the ground should be scraped and stored in a container for safe disposal.  Finally the spillage should be burried in a pit lined with geo-composite and HDPE liner. Health and Safety of workers and  Necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) GTCL and EPC surrounding people. must be used by the personnel working inside the contractor station as measure of safety.  Fire fighting equipment including fire hydrant should be kept in the project site.

50 Environmental Management Plan

Responsible Impact Mitigation measures Agencies  The workers should be trained in health, safety and environment (HSE).  Proper manpower scheduling is required to ensure health & safety of workers.  Building awareness for surrounding people about the project activities, probable impacts and mitigation measures.  Proper sanitation facilities must be maintained inside the plant area and as well as inside the workers colony. Accidental gas leakage and  Safety monitoring system including highly GTCL and EPC explosion reliable gas detectors to monitor leaks and the contractor lower explosive limit.  Triple redundant fire and gas detection system including alarms and automated shutdown at all the pressure controlling vault should be installed with depressurization system for entire plant  Computerized remote monitoring of the pressure system for entire plant

51 Environmental Management Plan

52

Chapter 6 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

6.1 Environmental Monitoring

For implementation of the proposed project and environmental management plan (EMP), environmental monitoring is required. Specific moniroting paprameters will help to achieve the monitoring objective and ensure environmental quality. Quality of ambient air, noise, soil, water, waste water, ground water, drainage system and health & safety of officers & labourers involved in the project and emplyoment of labourers etc. should be monitored periodically to ensure pollution free environment in the project site and performance of the compressor stations. A monitoring plan have been prepared wherein the important environmental and social components likely to be impacted by the project interventions have been considered, especially - - Gas emission (Parameters and frequency) - Noise/Vibration (Parameters and frequency) - Treatment and discharge of emissions & effluents (location, parameters and frequency) - Control of waste materials (Quality and composition of each type of waste and frequency) - Storage and handling of material and equipment

The monitoring plan includes suggestions on data to be collected, processed, analyzed and interpreted to detect changes taking place in the impacted area. Location and frequency of data collection on each indicator along with institutional arrangement of environmental monitoring have been suggested in the monitoring plan. The following environmental parameters should be monitored in the proposed sites during construction and operation period. Parameter Sampling site/ Frequency Laboratory/ Responsible study area Method agency Ambient air quality At each site Once in a month DOE GTCL & EPC (SOx, NOx, SPM) during contrctor construction and operation period Noise quality At the project Day and night DOE GTCL & EPC premises, nearest time; once in a contractor residential area month during and 100 m away construction and from the station operation period Soil quality Near the waste Once a year DOE GTCL & EPC dumping sites contractor Water Quality Meghna river at Once a year DOE GTCL & EPC Ashuganj and contractor Ponds at Elenga.

53 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

Parameter Sampling site/ Frequency Laboratory/ Responsible study area Method agency Drainage of Water level Twice in DOE GTCL & EPC surrounding areas monitoring at monsoon period contrctor peripheral canals (June - and low lying September) ditches. Ground water Ground water Once a year Observing water GTCL & EPC potential level level in nearby contrctor tubewells. Labor employment At each station During Checking daily GTCL & EPC construction logbook of contrctor period workers Health and Safety Health check-up GTCL & EPC of workers and At each station of workers -twice contrctor surrounding people a year. (emergency Check up of facilities and emergency workers health) facilities - twice a year. Monitoring of gas Pressure vaults Continuous Automated GTCL & EPC leakage and monitoring contrctor explosive limit methods Beside the physical testing of environmental quality, rigorous monitoring of the project implementation should be conducted by special institutional setup.

6.2 EMP Cost Matrix

The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) cost of the two compressor stations are estimated tentatively based on the previous experiences. This is assessed for consideration during preparation of the Development Project Proposal (DPP). However, based on the market price this assessment may be changed at the time when it is implemented. The EMP including tentative cost has been explained in the matrix given below.

Yearly Cost (in Taka) Sl Impact Measures No Mitigation Enhancement Compen- Monitoring sation A. Ashuganj site During Construction a. Air Water spraying 30,000 Pollution Plantation 50,000 Air quality test 50,000

54 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

Yearly Cost (in Taka) Sl Impact Measures No Mitigation Enhancement Compen- Monitoring sation b. Noise Noise absorbing 2,00,000 pollution materials Noise quality test 10.000 c. Soil Container 25,000 pollution Carrying cost 50,000 Surveillance Team 25,000 d. Solid waste Dumping, 100,000 management transport/ handling e. Sewage Pit latrins 100,000 disposal f Gas leakage Triple redundant fire This cost should be considered in plant construction and and gas detection explosion system including alarms and automated shutdown Post Construction a. Water Natural treatment 1,50,000 Quality plant Water quality test 25,000 b. Ground Ground water level 25,000 water potential c. Soil Container 50,000 pollution Annual Carrying 3,00,000 cost Surveillance Team 1,20,000 d. Noise Noise absorbing 5,00,000 Pollution materials Noise quality test 10,000 e. Solid waste Dumping, 50,000 management transport/ handling f. Domestic Septic tank 100,000 Sewage disposal g.. Wildlife Plantation of local Cost for plantation is included in air-pollution reduction part habitat tree species, if possible more fruit bearing trees h Gas leakage Triple redundant fire This cost should be considered in plant construction and and gas detection explosion system including alarms and automated shutdown Sub-Total: A 1,770,000 80,000 0 120,000

55 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

Yearly Cost (in Taka) Sl Impact Measures No Mitigation Enhancement Compen- Monitoring sation B. Elenga site During Construction a. Air Water Spraying 30,000 Pollution Plantation 50,000 Air quality test 50,000 b. Noise Noise absorbing 2,00,000 pollution materials Noise quality test 10,000 c. Soil Container 25,000 pollution Carrying cost 50,000 Surveillance Team 25,000 d. Solid waste Dumping, 100,000 management transport/ handling e. Sewage Pit latrins 100,000 disposal g Gas leakage Triple redundant fire This cost should be considered in plant construction and and gas detection explosion system including alarms and automated shutdown Post Construction a. Noise Noise absorbing 5,00,000 pollution materials Noise quality test 10,000 b. Drainage of Drainage system 2,00,000 surrounding construction work areas c. Water Water quality test 25,000 quality Natural treatment 1,50,000 plant d. Ground Ground water level 25,000 water potential e. Soil Container 50,000 pollution Annual Carrying 3,00,000 cost Surveillance Team 1,50,000 f. Solid waste Dumping, 50,000 management transport/ handling g. Domestic Septic tank 100,000 Sewage disposal

56 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

Yearly Cost (in Taka) Sl Impact Measures No Mitigation Enhancement Compen- Monitoring sation h. Vegetation Plantation of local Cost for plantation is included in air-pollution reduction part cover and tree species, if wildlife possible more fruit habitat bearing trees i Gas leakage Triple redundant fire This cost should be considered in plant construction and and gas detection explosion system including alarms and automated shutdown Sub-Total: B 1,900,000 80,000 0 120,000 Total (A+B) 3,670,000 160,000 0 240,000

57 Environmental Monitoring Plan and Institutional Requirements

58

Chapter 7 Public Consultation and Information Disclosure

7.1 Public Consultation

The installation of the compressor stations will involve huge construction works, but no land acquisition. People/entities living around the project area should be made aware of the project activities so that they may take protective measures or be compensated for the loss of structures. People’s participation in project planning and implementation will facilitate in preparing a good plan for the project. According to the guidelines of ADB and DOE, people’s participation in the project planning and implementation phases is essential to take necessary measures for any social/ political conflicts and environmental issues. The main reason for ensuring people’s participation in project implementation is conflict resolution and for making them aware about what is going on in their surroundings. They need to be informed about the positive and negative impacts of the proposed project. From this point of view, public consultation have been conducted at the proposed project sites. A public disclosure plan has been prepared which will be followed by GTCL and CEGIS.

7.2 Methodology

Informal discussion was made with the local people and GTCL officials at Ashugonj and Elenga sites about the proposed project (Figs. 7.1 and 7.2).

Figure 7.1: Discussion with GTCL officials at Figure 7.2: Discussion with local people of Ashuganj site adjacent areas and GTCL officials at Elenga site

7.3 Results of Public Consultation

The following findings are observed during field visits by teams:  People have no clear idea about the project interventions. They want clear description and activities from the proponent;

59 Public Consultation and Information DIsclosure

 The tenants should be compensated accordingly;  Additional precautionary measures should be taken to avoid accidents during construction and operation of the C/S; and  Local people should be employed during construction and operation of the C/S

7.4 Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan

The study team members have collected information from affected parties and also disclosed the overall findings to affected parties. Local people, Local government authorities, CEGIS, GTCL Officials and ADB Official will be engaged in the public consultation and disclosure. Focus Group Discussion (FGD), Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA), Key Informant Interview (KII) techniques will be used for information collection and disclosure at the local level. Also the summary findings of the study will be published at GTCL and ADB websites to disclose to the national and international level. The feedback of all affected parties have been incorporated in the environmental management plan (EMP).

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Chapter 8 Findings and Recommendations

The findings and recommendations of the IEE study for the proposed compressor stations at Ashuganj and Elenga are presented in the following sections.

8.1 Ashuganj Compressor Station

Ashuganj site, located within the compound of Ashuganj Gas manifold Station, is a fully urbanized and industrial area. Air pollution will be created due to movement of heavy equipments during construction phase. Regular watering of the site should be done to reduce pollution of the air by dust. Construction activities including movement of heavy machineries will create noise pollution. Boundary wall with sufficient height and use of sound and noise absorbing materials is recommended to mitigate the problem of noise pollution. However, ambient air and noise quality should be tested to find out better solution in future. The water will be polluted during construction as well as in the post-construction phase if the solid as well as the liquid wastes are dumped into the river. It should made mandatory that treatment plants be established to treat liquid wastes before releasing the water into the river. Likewise solid wastes should not be dumped into the river and treament plants should be established to ensure environmentally sound disposal of solid wastes. The soils and ground water of the project site may be contaminated with the solid and liquid wastages of the Compressor machineries during operation and maintenance phase. This should be averted by preserving the contaminated wastes and treating them before environmentally safe disposal. Furhter detail water quality analysis and investigating waste management options will be helpful for environmental management in future. The Ashuganj Compressor Station site site possesses no important vegetation cover and hence no significant wildlife is inhibiting the spot. As such, there would be virtually minimum impact on the terrestrial ecosystem. Nearest homestead is about 100 m from the site and therefore, no serious impact is expected on its vegetation and wildlife communities. However, installation of barriers both physically as well as biologically by developing green belt of local trees around the installations would make the site environtally friendly for the avi-fauna. Since the jetty of Zia fertilizer factory in Meghna river may be used for unloading of heavy equipments, river traffic survey is required to avoid congestion or disturbance to other river crafts in the river.

8.2 Elenga Compressor Station

Elenga site, located within the compound of GTCL and Titas Gas DRS Station, is a semi urbanized area having noise pollution due to massive movement of vehicles to Northern zone from eastern zone and vise versa. Construction of boundary with wall sufficient height and using sound and noise absorbing materials in the installations would help in reducing noise pollution during construction and post-construction phases. Dust generated during construction phase will pollute the air. Soil and ground water will be polluted by solid as well as liquid wastes during construction and post- construction phases. It is essential to treat such solid and liquid wastes before disposing these in an

61 Findings and Recommendations environment friendly manner. Water logging problem may be created due to improper drainage in and around the compressor station. Proper drainage system must be developed to remove all types of drainage congestion. Futher detail investigation of water quality and waste management options is required to improve the environmental management plan. The site itself possesses no natural vegetation cover as it is already prepared for the construction and hence no significant wildlife is inhibiting the spot. Impact on adjoining homestead garden based ecosystem might be important as the project site is bounded by homestead gardens in the south and east. This may be avoided by installing barriers both physically (boundary wall with sufficient height) as well as biologically by developing green belt of local trees around the installations. Since the Elenga staiton site is located beside very busy highway of Dhaka – Tangail, a traffic survey is requuired for planning vehicle movement from/to the site. There would be no significant impact on wetland ecosystem. As the project is not expected to discharge pollutants in the river system or nearby floodplain it would not cause any major impact during operation. Minor impact might be associated with the construction of connecting roads during the construction phase of the work. The proposed site is under administrative control of GTCL. No crops are cultivated there. So, there is no loss involved as project impact

62

Chapter 9 Conclusion

According to the IEE study, it is observed that the proposed compressor station project might have temporary impacts on the environment and would be overcome with mitigation and enhancement measures. There is no ecologically sensitive area, reserve forest, national park in the two compressor station sites. There is no significant irreversible adverse impact. Because of the isolated nature of the compressor stations, there would be no cumulative impact as well. Based on the outcome of the IEE study, it is concluded that the two compressor stations will contribute substantially to the overall development of the gas sector as well as the national economic growth of the country with no adverse environmental and social impact. There is no need for an EIA study and implementation of the project may go ahead considering the findings of the IEE study as conclusive.

63

References

1. ADB, 1990. Environmental Guidelines for Selected Industrial and Power Development Projects, Asian Development Bank (ADB). 2. ADB, 2002. Environment Policy, Asian Development Bank (ADB). 3. ADB, 2003. Environmental Assessment Guidelines, Asian Development Bank (ADB). 4. Banglapedia: www.banglapedia.org 5. Department of Environment (DoE), 1997. EIA Guidelines for Industries, Department of Environment (DoE), Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of Bangladesh. 6. Imam, B., 2005. Energy Resources of Bangladesh, University grants commission of Bangladesh, Dhaka. 7. Government of Bangladesh, 1995. Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act 1995, Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of Bangladesh. 8. Government of Bangladesh, 1997. Environmental Conservation Rule 1997 (Amendment 2002 and 2003), Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of Bangladesh. 9. WARPO, 2001. National Water Resources Database, Water Resources Planning Organization (WARPO), Dhaka.

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Appendix-A Layout Plan of Two Compressor Stations

Appendix-B Process Flow Diagram of Two Compressor Stations

Appendix-C Conceptual General Arrangement of Two Compressor Stations

Conceptual General Arrangement Drawing for Ashuganj (South & West) Compressor Station

GTCL Building NORTH To 14-INCH VS 3 Pipeline (TP 6) SCADA Tower GTCL existing property

Existing road To 24-INCH B-B1 Pipeline (TP 4) To (TP 3) 30-INCH A-B line From 24-INCH (TP 1) N-S pipeline To (TP 5) 30-INCH A-M offtake M M M MM 11 From (TP 2) 30-INCH A-M offtake

10 Legend: 1 Compressor Package/Equipment Unit 2 Inlet Scrubber 8 9 3 Inlet Filter Separator 2 4 Air cooler 6 5 Lube oil cooler 7 6 Liquid/waste storage tank 3 7 Fuel gas skid 13 8 Vent stack 5 9 Station isolation valves Entrance 10 Main line bypass valve 14 11 Flow meters 12 12 Suction strainer 13 Anti surge system Work 1 14 Cold recycle valve shop 15 Gas Alternator E 4 16 Fuel gas system and tank 17 Transformer 18 Instrument and utility air package Ware house 19 Fire water pumps and tank 20 Borehole and borehole pump 21 Water tank and purifier unit 22 Septic system Security Fence MCC/ Security house 18 Switch CONTROL 19 15 CPE Unit Shelter 16 17 gear ROOM 22 Office Fire Hydrant 20 21 1 Emergency Exit

Dwg. No. GTCL/CSP/EPC/001(Re)/D-4, Rev. 00 Not To Scale

Conceptual General Arrangement Drawing for Elenga Compressor Station

FROM DHAKA (DHAKA-TANGAIL HIGHWAY)

ENTRANCE NORTH

Legend: 1 Compressor Package/Equipment Unit 2 Inlet Scrubber Office 3 Inlet Filter Separator 22 4 Air cooler 5 Lube oil cooler OFFICE 6 Liquid/waste storage tank BUILDING Elenga Scrapper Station 71 Fuel gas skid 21 (See Hook-up Drawing) 28 Vent stack 39 Station isolation valves 17 MCC/ 15 18 Inlet hook up Switch CONTROL Work 104 Main line bypass valve ROOM area gear shop 115 Flow meters TP 4 (to E-JB) 126 Suction strainer 16 Ware TP 3 (to B-B) house 137 Anti surge system . TP 2 (from D-E) 148 Cold recycle valve TP 1 (from B-B) 19 159 Gas Alternator 2 3 6 1016 Fuel gas system and tank 7 TP 5/5' (to W-Z) 1711 Transformer M M M 9 1218 Instrument and utility air package 5 14 11 1319 Fire water pumps and tank 10 4 20 1420 Borehole and borehole pump 1521 Water tank and purifier unit 1 24-INCH B-B Pipeline U/G 2216 Septic system 12 13 CPE Unit Shelter Fire Hydrant Emergency exit 8 Security fence Security house Existing Facilities

DWG. No. GTCL/CSP/GA/D-3, Rev. 00, Not to Scale.